Public Meetings - Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Climate and Infrastructure Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 3:31 PM CT. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Robin Wansley. The committee approved a consent agenda, conducted three public hearings, and discussed several items including a resolution on Highway 280, annual reports from the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committees, and postponed a presentation on the Climate Equity Action Plan. Key outcomes included the reappointment of Tim Sexton as Public Works Director and approval of special assessments for street projects. Consent Calendar - Items 4–22 were approved as a consent agenda, with the following modifications: - Item 6.11 (Bicycle Advisory Committee appointments) was referred back to staff due to a nominee moving out of the city. - Item 8 (Master utility agreement with MnDOT for University Avenue SE and 4th Street SE) was revised per staff. - Councilmember Rainville praised staff for community outreach on Item 11 (First Avenue North Reconstruction Project). - The consent agenda was approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Van White Memorial Boulevard Resurfacing Project (Public Hearing): No public testimony was offered. Councilmember Warren expressed support for the project and ADA improvements. The committee approved the resolution adopting special assessments of $70,125.60 and authorizing assessment bonds. - West Fulton Neighborhood Improvements Phase 1 (Public Hearing): No public testimony was offered. Councilmember Palmasano thanked staff for the project, noting it had been long-awaited. The committee approved the resolution ordering work, adopting special assessments of $65,108, and authorizing assessment bonds. - Mayor's Nomination of Tim Sexton as Public Works Director (Public Hearing): - Mayor Jacob Frey spoke in support, highlighting Sexton's leadership in drinking water quality, stormwater projects, traffic safety, and national recognition. - Senator Scott Dibble testified in support, praising Sexton's collaborative approach and understanding of transportation as a public investment. - Robin Hutcheson, Chair of the Metropolitan Council and former Minneapolis Public Works Director, testified in support, emphasizing Sexton's collaborative style and national leadership. - Kevin Pramas, representing LiUNA Minnesota and North Dakota, testified in support, noting Sexton's partnership on lead service line replacement and apprenticeship programs. - No other public testimony was offered. Discussion Items - Item 23: Resolution on Highway 280 Redesign – The committee heard from MnDOT Deputy District Engineer Ryan Wilson and Minneapolis Park Board Project Manager Julie Aldrich. MnDOT outlined plans to close the northbound 280 to westbound Broadway ramp and improve the Broadway/Industrial intersection in partnership with multiple agencies. The Park Board noted the project supports the Grand Rounds Missing Link trail. Councilmember Rainville, co-author of the resolution, expressed support for increased community engagement. The resolution passed unanimously. - Item 24: Pedestrian Advisory Committee (PAC) 2025 Annual Report – PAC Chair Lisa Maywist Wisterman presented key concerns: sidewalk accessibility and condition, winter maintenance, construction detours, and temporary asphalt patches. She emphasized the need for better communication with renters and interdepartmental coordination. Councilmembers asked about project opposition criteria; the PAC noted opposition arises when projects prioritize private vehicle storage over pedestrians and transit. The report was received and filed. - Item 25: Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC) 2025 Annual Report – BAC Chair Alyssa Shuffman presented the committee's work, including review of over 40 projects. She used the 35th Avenue North Flood Mitigation Project as a case study, noting that BAC input led to removal of parking on one side to allow for green stormwater infrastructure, but the corridor still lacks a dedicated bikeway. She highlighted the value of the Complete Streets checklist for transparency. Councilmember Vita thanked the BAC for their engagement. The report was received and filed. - Item 26: Climate Equity Action Plan – This item was postponed to the next committee meeting due to timing. The presentation will be given by Deputy Commissioner Patrick Helen and Director Megan Hoy. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (unanimous voice vote) with modifications. - Van White Memorial Boulevard Resurfacing Project – Resolution adopted approving special assessments of $70,125.60 and authorizing assessment bonds (unanimous voice vote). - West Fulton Neighborhood Improvements Phase 1 – Resolution adopted ordering work, approving special assessments of $65,108, and authorizing assessment bonds (unanimous voice vote). - Reappointment of Tim Sexton as Public Works Director – Approved by roll call vote: 6 ayes (Vita, Warren, Chowjury, Palmasano, Stevenson, Wansley), 1 absent (Shakti). Motion carried. - Resolution on Highway 280 Redesign – Approved unanimously (voice vote). - PAC and BAC Annual Reports – Received and filed. - Climate Equity Action Plan Presentation – Postponed to the next Climate and Infrastructure Committee meeting.

The Public Health Safety and Equity Committee, chaired by Councilmember Jason Chavez, met on June 17, 2026, at 6:31 PM. The meeting included a consent calendar, three public hearings, multiple policy items, and reports. Key outcomes included the unanimous approval of the Emergency Management Director nomination, a 6-1 vote to advance technical amendments on adult bathhouses, and approval of the Welcoming and Affirming Minneapolis and Recognizing All Genders ordinances. Consent Calendar - Items 4 through 15 and 17 through 24 were approved without discussion. These included a revenue contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves for bomb detection, acceptance of grants (National Environmental Health Association, Bloomberg Philanthropic), appointments to advisory committees, and setting a public hearing for a civil rights director nomination. Item 16 (legislative directive on data practices) was received and filed, Item 21 was postponed, and Items 22-23 were referred to staff. Public Hearing: Nomination of Rachel Sayer as Emergency Management Director - Mayor Jacob Frey introduced the nomination, praising Sayer's leadership during the Annunciation school shooting (August 27, 2025) and Operation Metro Surge. He highlighted her experience with USAID, including incident command during the 2023 Haiti disaster and leading humanitarian strategy for Ukraine in 2022. - Public Testimony: Three speakers supported the nomination: - Eric Waggie (Adams County Emergency Management Director) praised Sayer's ability to coordinate complex responses. - Michelle Sullivan (Resiliency and Recovery Director, Annunciation School) emphasized Sayer's compassionate support after the shooting. - Michelle Tram Marens (President, Minnesota Council Foundation) noted Sayer's coordination during Operation Metro Surge, including needs assessments for food, rental assistance, and mental health. - Nominee Statement: Rachel Sayer outlined her goals to make Minneapolis the most disaster-ready city in the country, focusing on training, community engagement, and trauma-informed response. - Council Questions: Councilmember Vita asked about reaching historically marginalized communities; Sayer highlighted the Father Project and resilience hubs. She identified elections, severe weather, and cyber attacks as top threats. Councilmember Rainville commended Sayer's report on $700 million in damages from federal actions and noted her department's cost-effectiveness. - Vote: The nomination was approved unanimously. Public Hearing: Adult Bathhouses (Technical Amendments) - Background: Council President Payne summarized the discriminatory history of the 1988 ban, including a 1979 raid where 125 people were ticketed and 9 charged with sodomy. He noted that the amendments remove stigmatizing language and move building standards from the high-risk sexual conduct ordinance to the adult entertainment code, creating a pathway for future regulation but not immediately legalizing bathhouses. - Public Testimony: Twenty-six speakers registered; most spoke in favor: - Stacy Gurion Sherman (Ward 9) highlighted the community-led efforts of the Safer Sex Spaces Coalition. - Araceli Casasola (Ward 10) cited peer-reviewed research showing bathhouses reduce HIV transmission. - Dee (sex worker advocate) clarified that bathhouses are not brothels and are separate from sex work. - Several speakers (Grace, Reese Gray, Dr. Jay Orne) emphasized the need for safe, regulated spaces and the role of PrEP and U=U in public health. - Dylan Boyer (Aliveness Project) shared his personal experience of getting HIV tested at a bathhouse. - Patrick Scully (72-year-old gay man) recounted organizing the first safe sex parties after the ban. - Amber O'Neill (Ward 3) opposed, arguing that encouraging bathhouses is like promoting an unhealthy diet after raising a child healthily. - Council Discussion: Councilmember Whiting expressed support after community conversations, noting that regulated spaces are safer than underground ones. Councilmember Vita highlighted the need for public education on the step-by-step process. Councilmember Rainville voted no, citing confusion and wanting more conversations with authors. - Vote: The motion passed 6-1, with Councilmember Rainville opposed. Public Hearing: Welcoming and Affirming Minneapolis Ordinance - Presentation: Councilmember Chavez explained that the ordinance codifies protections for the 2S LGBTQIA+ community, including gender-affirming care, all-gender restrooms, data privacy, and anti-discrimination measures. It establishes the city as a safe haven for gender-affirming and intersex care, prohibits city personnel from interfering with such care, and requires annual reporting on outreach efforts. - Public Testimony: Eight speakers testified in support: - Stacy Gurion Sherman referenced the poem "First They Came" and urged the council to speak up. - Araceli Casasola (trans teacher from Texas) shared her experience fleeing for safety. - Susan Herder (Minneapolis Commission on Civil Rights) requested more time for the commission to review and provide feedback. - Nell and Chris (from Tigers) highlighted specific protections for intersex people, noting that intersex individuals make up about 1.5-2% of the population. - Kat Roan (Outfront Minnesota) emphasized that codification sends a lasting signal of support. - Becca (Transforming Families) noted that families are fleeing to Minneapolis for safety and that data privacy protections are critical. - Council Discussion: Councilmember Vita suggested delaying to allow the Civil Rights Commission more input. Chair Chavez agreed to meet but refused to remove protections for the LGBTQ+ community. The ordinance passed with no opposition. - Vote: 5 ayes (Payne, Vita, Whiting, Stevenson, Chavez); Wandsley and Rainville absent. Public Hearing: Recognizing All Genders Ordinance - Presentation: Chair Chavez explained that the ordinance updates the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances to use gender-neutral language, replacing masculine/feminine/neuter references with language that recognizes all genders. - Public Testimony: Kat Roan spoke in support, noting that outdated gendered pronouns in city code, like referring to the CFO as "him," do not reflect current leadership or community. - Vote: Approved unanimously. Discussion Items & Other Actions - Items 25-27 (Gender-Neutral Code, Restroom Access, Legislative Directive): Approved together without separate debate. - Item 28 - ShotSpotter Contract Amendment: Approved after discussion. Staff requested a one-year extension through March 21, 2027, to allow time for an audit report due in August. Councilmember Whiting confirmed the three-year language in the contract was a typo; the extension is for one year. - Item 29 - After-Action Services Contract: Approved without discussion, though Councilmember Chavez noted there was no funding for a prior after-action review. - Item 30 - Youth Coordinating Board Executive Director Report: Anna Grid, Mark Woods, and Salim Ali presented on the Minneapolis Youth Congress, highlighting youth needs for safety, third spaces, and meaningful engagement. They called for consistent and authentic youth involvement in policy-making. The report was received and filed. - Item 31 - Environmental Services Annual Report: Kelly Mulman presented on the inspections team, covering erosion control, noise permits, tank and well inspections, and service requests. Noise pollution was the largest complaint category. She noted a planned reduction from four to three inspectors by 2027. The report was received and filed. - Item 32 - Senior Resident Housing Stability Report: Received and filed without objection. Key Outcomes - Rachel Sayer confirmed as Emergency Management Director. - Adult bathhouse ban technical amendments advanced to full council with a 6-1 vote. - Welcoming and Affirming Minneapolis Ordinance passed committee, heading to full council. - Recognizing All Genders Ordinance passed committee. - ShotSpotter contract extended one year pending audit. - Youth Coordinating Board and Environmental Services annual reports received and filed.

The Business Housing and Zoning (BHZ) Committee met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 18:32 UTC, chaired by Councilmember Jamal Osman. The meeting covered a consent calendar, several public hearings, and substantive discussions on data centers and adult bathhouse regulations. Key actions included approving a data center moratorium, moving an adult bathhouse ordinance without recommendation, and advancing the reappointment of CPED Director Eric Hansen. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items 8-29) included liquor license approvals, business license conditions, appointments to boards and commissions, grant agreements, and zoning matters. Councilmember Rainville pulled items 16 (Minnesota Ballpark Authority appointment) and 29 (data center use regulations). All other consent items were approved unanimously. - Item 16 – Ballpark Authority Appointment: After Councilmember Chavez explained the appointment of former state representative Jim Dabney, Councilmember Rainville moved the item without recommendation. That motion passed (6-0). - Item 29 – Data Center Use Regulations: Councilmembers Rainville, Chowdhury, Schaefer, Chavez, and Warren discussed the scope of the ordinance and the need for public engagement. The item was referred to staff to begin a five-month process through the Planning Commission. Motion passed (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Hansen CPED Director Nomination: Mayor Jacob Frey introduced Hansen, citing his leadership during crises, affordable housing production, and economic recovery. Seven public speakers (including James Trice, Bill English, David Wellington, and Abbe Demeth) voiced strong support, emphasizing Hansen’s engagement with communities of color and small businesses. No opposition testimony was given. - Indeed Brewing Entertainment Upgrade: No public comments. - Millennium Event Center Extended Hours: Maria Alvarado read a statement on behalf of the owner, Eugenio Rivera, describing 15 years of management experience and commitment to the community. - Land Sale 3726 Logan Avenue North: No public comments. - Tailgate Zone Ordinance Amendment: Will Buzek, a third-generation parking lot manager, thanked the committee for the amendment, noting its positive impact on downtown and the upcoming 2028 NFL draft. - Adult Bathhouse Ordinance: Four public speakers (Dee, Josh, Epiphany, Amy) testified in favor, arguing that the ban was rooted in anti-LGBTQ+ bigotry and that repeal would create safe spaces and economic opportunities. No opposition testimony was given. - Data Center Moratorium: Over 25 speakers testified, with a split of opinions. Supporters (e.g., Alejandro Richardson, Margaret Sullivan, Leslie Mint, Chris Popowski, Natasha Villanueva) cited environmental justice, water and energy consumption, and risks to marginalized communities. Opponents (e.g., Kyle O’Neill, Jake Petit, Lucas Franco, Dan McConnell, Kevin Premnis) highlighted union jobs, tax revenue, and responsible state-level regulations. Business leaders like Adam Dunnock (Minneapolis Downtown Council) opposed the moratorium but supported a regulatory framework. Discussion Items - Data Center Moratorium (Item 30): Vice Chair Chowdhury presented a six-month moratorium with a downtown exemption (projects ≤350,000 sq ft). Councilmembers debated the economic and environmental trade-offs. Councilmember Chavez stressed that the exemption already allows downtown development, while Councilmember Schaefer argued that a moratorium signals instability. Chair Osman defended the compromise as balancing business interests and community protection. A motion to approve with recommendation passed 5-1 (Warren absent, Schaefer opposed). - Adult Bathhouse Ordinance: Councilmember Chavez described the ordinance as a technical step to move existing adult entertainment venue rules into the appropriate code section, paving the way for future licensing. Councilmember Warren expressed concerns about public health and referenced earlier councilmember Brian Cole’s role in the original ban. Councilmember Chavez emphasized her perspective as the only openly LGBTQ+ council member, stating the ban was rooted in homophobia. A motion to approve with recommendation failed 3-3-1 (Osman abstained). A subsequent motion to move without recommendation passed 4-3 (Rainville, Warren, Schaefer opposed). - Eric Hansen Reappointment: Councilmember Warren questioned Hansen about persistent disparities and conditions at Heritage Park. Hansen acknowledged failures and committed to a new approach focused on consequential outcomes. Councilmembers Schaefer and Chowdhury praised his leadership. A vote to recommend appointment passed 6-1 (Warren opposed). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved with items 16 and 29 pulled and separately handled. - Item 16 (Ballpark Authority Appointment): Moved without recommendation to full council (6-0). - Item 29 (Data Center Regulations): Referred to staff (6-0). - Eric Hansen Reappointment: Recommended to full council (6-1). - Indeed Brewing Entertainment Upgrade: Approved. - Millennium Event Center Extended Hours: Approved. - Land Sale 3726 Logan: Approved. - Tailgate Zone Amendment: Approved. - Adult Bathhouse Ordinance: Moved without recommendation to full council (4-3). - Data Center Moratorium: Approved with recommendation (5-1). - Remaining Agenda Item (Impervious Surfaces): Deferred to the next meeting without objection. The meeting adjourned at approximately 20:30 local time.

The Enterprise and Labor Relations Committee met on June 15, 2026, at 6:31 PM CT, chaired by Councilmember Linne Palmasano. Six members were present (Vita, Schaefer, Stevenson, Chavez, Whiting, Palmasano), with Councilmember Shoktai absent, constituting a quorum. The committee approved six consent items, a contract for ERP implementation, and filed the 2025 annual report of the Ethical Practices Board. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Legal settlement with Federal Insurance Company versus Foreign A Network Solutions. - Item 2: Resolution for legal settlement John Clausen versus the City of Minneapolis. - Item 3: Resolution approving election judge and deputy city clerk appointments for the primary election on August 11, 2026. - Item 4: Set a hearing for July 6, 2026, on the mayor's nomination of Rebecca Walmquist as city assessor. - Item 5: Two gift acceptance resolutions from Local Progress for Council President Payne and Councilmember Chavez. - Item 6: Resolution approving various Workplace Advisory Committee appointments. All consent items were approved unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Contract Authorization with Guide House for ERP System Implementation (Project Evolve): CIO Paul Cameron presented the third and final contract for replacing disconnected HR, finance, and payroll systems with a single Workday platform across the city enterprise, including the Park Board. He noted the project would address long-standing data reporting issues (e.g., vacancy reports). Councilmember Schaefer asked about the background of implementation work; Chair Palmasano praised the project as a long-needed modernization. Councilmember Chugtai joined during discussion. The motion to approve carried unanimously. - Receive and File Annual Report of the Minneapolis Ethical Practices Board for 2025: Ethics Officer Kima Blake presented the report, summarizing the ethics program (code, training, advisory opinions, accountability). Key data: 93.4% employee training compliance as of December 31, 2025 (down from 94.4% in 2024, but up from 92.6% in 2023); 13 departments at 100% compliance; 19 departments at 95%+; 166 ethics inquiries (down from 179 in 2024 and 244 in 2023); and 16 complaints reviewed (up from 9 in 2024 and 10 in 2023), none resulting in sanctions. Chair Palmasano asked about training compliance recourse and typical complaint category breakdown; Blake responded that newly hired employees within six months are not counted as non-compliant and that categories are comparable to prior years. The report was filed without objection. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of all six consent items. - Unanimous approval of contract authorization with Guide House for ERP system implementation services. - Filed the Minneapolis Ethical Practices Board 2025 annual report. - Meeting adjourned after conclusion of all business.

The Minneapolis City Council convened on June 11, 2026, at approximately 9:30 AM. The meeting began with five honorary resolutions: Gun Violence Awareness Month, Pride Month, Juneteenth, Special Olympics Week, and Immigrant Heritage Month/World Refugee Day/Caribbean American Heritage Month. Following these ceremonies, the council addressed a full agenda including committee reports, several contentious items related to the redevelopment of George Floyd Square, special assessments for the 38th & Chicago street reconstruction, and the nomination of Brian O'Hara as police chief. The meeting concluded with a closed session for litigation briefings and an MCDA meeting. Consent Calendar - The council approved numerous routine items from committee reports with unanimous or near-unanimous votes. Notable approvals included liquor license renewals, land sales, affordable housing finance, contract amendments, and grant acceptances. Specific items pulled for separate discussion are noted below. Public Comments & Testimony - During the honorary resolutions, several community leaders spoke in support of gun violence awareness (Molly Chase from Moms Demand Action, Christina from Protect Minnesota, and an unnamed speaker representing the African American community). During the Pride resolution, Kat from Outfront Minnesota and Rox (founder of Twin Cities Pride) spoke. During the Juneteenth resolution, Al from the NAACP spoke about the United Black Legislative Agenda and the need for community healing and city support for Heritage Park and George Floyd Square. No public comment was taken during the regular business portion of the meeting. Discussion Items 1. Honorary Resolutions: Six resolutions were presented and adopted unanimously, recognizing June 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness Month, Pride Month, Juneteenth (National African American Independence Holiday), Special Olympics Week (June 20–26), and Immigrant Heritage Month/World Refugee Day/Caribbean American Heritage Month. Multiple council members and community leaders made remarks. 2. Amendment to Agenda – Walk-On Items: Councilmember Chugtai moved to add an item related to the Uptown Art Fair and Meet Minneapolis contract. Councilmember Chavez moved to add three items: a FEMA grant application, a resolution condemning ICE funding, and a legislative directive for the 38th Street Thrive Plan. Councilmember Palmasano objected to the number of walk-ons, citing process concerns. The amendments were approved 13-0. 3. Business Housing & Zoning Committee Report – Item 17 (George Floyd Square Development Rights): The committee recommended denying exclusive development rights to Minnesota Agape Movement for the People's Way at George Floyd Square. Extensive debate followed. Councilmembers Stevenson, Chavez, Wandsley, Vita, and others argued that the process lacked transparency, ignored community input, and that the proposal was not fiscally or legally viable. Councilmembers Palmasano and others expressed concern about further delays. The motion to deny passed 10-2-1 (Councilmember Vita and Rainville voted no; Warren abstained). 4. Climate & Infrastructure Committee Report – Item 2 (38th & Chicago Street Reconstruction Special Assessments): Councilmember Stevenson moved to deny items 2.1 and 2.2 (the special assessments against property owners), citing the unique circumstances of George Floyd Square. The motion passed 12-0 (Vice President Osman initially absent but later recorded as aye). The remaining item 2.3 (areaway abandonment) was approved 13-0. Councilmember Stevenson noted the remaining 4% of project cost would be covered by MSA funds in the 2027 mayor's budget. 5. Public Health, Safety & Equity Committee Report – Item 2 (Police Chief Nomination): The item was to delete the nomination of Brian O'Hara from the agenda following his resignation. Councilmember Chugtai moved to deny the nomination instead, arguing that a formal denial would count as one of the mayor's three allowed attempts under the charter. After a lengthy procedural discussion and a failed motion to deny (6-7), the council voted 13-0 to delete the item from the agenda. Councilmembers debated the need for a national search and collaboration with the mayor. 6. New Business – Additional Items: The council approved legislative directives related to the 38th Street Thrive Plan, a FEMA grant for firefighter hiring (up to $2.2 million), a resolution condemning $70 billion in federal ICE funding, and a $100,000 allocation from Meet Minneapolis funds for the Uptown Art Fair. All passed unanimously. 7. Notice of Intent – Autonomous Vehicles Ordinance: Councilmember Wandsley introduced a notice of intent to regulate autonomous vehicles for commercial purposes, along with a staff directive. Approved 13-0. Key Outcomes - George Floyd Square Development: The council denied exclusive development rights to Minnesota Agape Movement, ending the current RFQ process. Councilmembers Chavez and Stevenson committed to meeting with Mayor Fry to chart a new path forward, with an update expected next week. - 38th & Chicago Assessments: The council waived special assessments for property owners at George Floyd Square (items 2.1 and 2.2), with the cost to be covered by leftover MSA funds. The areaway abandonment was approved to allow construction to proceed. - Police Chief Nomination: The council voted to delete former Chief Brian O'Hara's nomination from the agenda, rather than formally deny it. The vacancy clock is running; the mayor has 30 days to nominate a new candidate or risk triggering a council-led slate of nominees. - Uptown Art Fair: The council allocated $100,000 in one-time seed money from remaining Meet Minneapolis funds to support the return of the Uptown Art Fair. - Other Actions: The council approved two mayoral nominations (Civil Rights Director Caleb McKinnon Diara and City Assessor Rebecca Baumquist) to be sent to committee for public hearings. A legislative directive was adopted to update the 38th Street Thrive strategic development plan and track budget amendments from December 2025.

The Committee of the Whole met on June 9, 2026, at 6:33 PM (UTC) with Chair Orreen Chowdry presiding. The meeting included reports from six standing committees, a subcommittee session on consent decree and settlement agreement items, and a presentation on the Minneapolis 2050 comprehensive plan. The council adopted an honorary resolution for Gun Violence Awareness Month and approved three contract amendments from the Settlement Agreement and Consent Decree Subcommittee. One item was postponed to July 14, 2026. Consent Calendar - The council adopted an honorary resolution recognizing Gun Violence Awareness Month, added to the agenda by motion without objection. The motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items Standing Committee Reports: - Enterprise and Labor Relations (Chair Palmasano): Reported 12 items for full council, including a gift acceptance, AmeriCorps program application, Hiawatha Public Works Maintenance Facility expansion, contracts for benefits consulting, temporary staffing, custodial banking, GIS, and City Hall Restack Phase III, legal settlements, 2026 Open Street events, and the local Board of Appeal and Equalization report. - Business, Housing and Zoning (Chair Osman): Reported 18 items, including liquor license approvals, land sale for housing, affordable housing financing for Northview project, a Great Streets gap loan for Mercado Central, denial of exclusive development rights to Minnesota Agabe Movement, and a legislative directive related to Heritage Park. Councilmember Warren requested the Heritage Park directive be amended to include referrals to relevant committees. - Climate and Infrastructure (Chair Wandsley): Reported 17 items, including street reconstruction projects, grants, event permits, and a lease amendment for storage program. Councilmember Stevenson spoke against the special assessment for the 38th Street and Chicago Avenue reconstruction project, citing the unique circumstances of George Floyd Square. Councilmember Wandsley supported denying the assessment, noting community hardship. - Public Health, Safety and Equity (Chair Chavez): Reported 10 items, including an ordinance on law enforcement agreements, and deletion of the Mayor's nomination of Brian O'Hara for police chief (to be fully deleted at council). Other items included contracts for violence prevention and strategic outreach, grants for emergency management, and amplified sound permit extensions. - Budget (Vice Chair Schaefer): Reported two items: staff direction to research a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program, and acceptance of a donation for a staff member to attend a policy summit. - Intergovernmental Relations (Vice Chair Rainville): Reported one item on a special law for PERA employee, plus an update on state and federal actions. Settlement Agreement and Consent Decree Subcommittee (Chair Whiting): - Chair Whiting provided an overview of the subcommittee's purpose, rooted in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder and the resulting DOJ consent decree and MDHR settlement agreement. Three contract amendments were presented: 1. Contract amendment with Exceptional Edge Consulting for MPD training on stop, search, citation, arrest, and non-discriminatory policing. No additional funding; extension to December 2027. Approved unanimously. 2. Contract amendment with First Response Actors for MPD role-playing scenario training. Cost of $103,300 for extension through 2026 to support academies. Approved unanimously. 3. Contract amendment with DLG Consulting for investigatory services in the Force Investigation Team (FIT). Commander Markstrom explained the need due to staffing shortages and increased workload from takedowns becoming level two uses of force. Councilmember Wandsley and President Payne questioned about internal affairs staffing and procurement planning. The contract has a remaining balance of about $650,000. Approved unanimously. Receive and File – Minneapolis 2050 Comprehensive Plan Presentation: - CPED staff (Joe Bernard, Mailing Smith, Shanna Sether) presented the engagement framework and timeline for the Minneapolis 2050 comprehensive plan update, required by state law every 10 years. The plan must accommodate growth to over 500,000 residents by 2050 and meet affordable housing targets. The process will run through 2029, with phases for vision/goals, draft concepts, public draft, and Met Council review. Engagement will include community events, targeted outreach, and a project website. Councilmembers expressed support and raised concerns about learning from the 2040 process, implementation clarity, and ensuring community input shapes the plan. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Agenda amended and adopted (unanimous). - Honorary resolution for Gun Violence Awareness Month adopted (unanimous). - Contract amendment with Exceptional Edge Consulting approved (unanimous). - Contract amendment with First Response Actors approved (unanimous). - Contract amendment with DLG Consulting approved (unanimous). - Motion to postpone item five (MPD spending legislative directive) to July 14, 2026, carried. - Referrals and Next Steps: - The 2050 comprehensive plan presentation was received and filed; engagement activities to begin in summer 2026. - Staff to provide one-on-one briefings with councilmembers on the 2050 plan. - Administrative follow-up requested on procurement and workload forecasting for the DLG contract. - The committee reports and items will be forwarded to the full City Council meeting on June 11, 2026, for action.

The Intergovernmental Relations Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 3:04 PM CT. Chair Areen Chowdhury presided. Eight members were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting covered a consent item approving a special law for a PERA pension correction and a detailed presentation on state and federal legislative updates. Consent Calendar - Resolution Approving Special Law for PERA: The committee unanimously approved a resolution granting local approval of a special law related to the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA). The law corrects a reporting error for a former seasonal public works employee hired from 2016 to 2022, ensuring the employee receives pension credit for 2016–2018. Director Topinka explained that the city and PERA resolved the issue administratively for later years, but special legislation was needed for the earlier period. The resolution passed by voice vote with no opposition. Discussion Items - Federal Legislative Update (presented by Lauren Olson): - Reconciliation Bill: The Senate passed a version funding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for 3.5 years; the House is expected to act this week. The proposed $1.8 million IRS settlement fund (anti-weaponization fund) was not included, and lawsuits are ongoing. - FY2027 Appropriations: The House has passed 2 of 12 appropriations bills; the Senate is focused on reconciliation. Key proposals include increased funding for CBP, ICE, and FEMA; TSA privatization efforts; $40 million for body cameras; cuts to Department of Education (10%) and ACA marketplace funding ($2 billion); and prohibitions on spending for DEI, abortion, and Second Amendment limitations. - Earmarks: Minneapolis has submitted requests for $3 million for police records management, police recruitment internships, forensic lab funds, and pedestrian access/safety improvements. - Other Federal Actions: The House passed a war powers resolution on Iran (non-binding), approved Russia sanctions and Ukraine aid via discharge petition (Rep. Omar voted no), and confirmed a permanent Attorney General. The acting Director of National Intelligence was named, raising concerns about potential misuse of data. - State Legislative Update (presented by Steve Huser, Indiria Falana, and Director Topinka): - Session Overview: The 2026 legislative session ended May 18. Over 10,400 bills were introduced; 91 chapters of law passed. Key topics included Operation Metro Surge impacts, gun safety, HCMC funding, and a bonding bill. - Operation Metro Surge Relief: Proposals for $100 million in small business relief, rental assistance, and $10 million in city aid did not pass due to gridlock in the House. - Tax and Economic Growth: $125 million in one-time property tax relief (15% increase to homestead credit refunds for homeowners earning under $143,000) was approved. Bills to add the North Loop to downtown liquor/restaurant tax boundaries and to repeal the two-thirds signature requirement for rezoning in first-class cities did not pass. - Housing and Homelessness: $100 million for housing infrastructure bonds, $40 million for family homelessness prevention (using $38 million from a tax forfeiture settlement), and $13 million for supportive housing to fill a federal funding gap were approved. - Zoning and Land Use: The Starter Homes Act (preempting local zoning) and a bill limiting private equity ownership of single-family homes did not pass. - Energy and Environment: No omnibus energy bill passed; a nuclear energy study was funded. Data center bills (including a moratorium and NDA ban) did not pass. Battery recycling legislation failed again. - Hennepin County Medical Center: $205 million was approved to stabilize HCMC, plus $500 million over five years for a hospital stabilization program. - Other State Actions: A statewide massage therapy regulatory framework was created (preempts local ordinances effective July 2028). Group home licensing changes allow local inspection authority. Medicaid changes include work requirements for adults without children and reduced retroactive coverage. - Capital Investment: Minneapolis received $24.475 million in bonding: $12.36 million for a 36-inch water main, $8 million for 13th Avenue NE stormwater improvements, $4 million for the Water Yard project (East Phillips Urban Farm), and $115,000 for ADA infrastructure. KMOJ radio station received $1 million. - Pensions: The omnibus pensions bill created a retirement plan for public safety telecommunicators (911), established a work group on duty disability, and expanded line-of-duty death benefits retroactive to February 2020 for certain cancers and communicable illnesses. - Transportation: No transportation omnibus bill passed. Autonomous vehicle legislation was debated but not enacted. A bus camera enforcement bill for bus/bike lanes did not pass. Electric bicycle definition updates failed. - Community Safety: A supplemental safety spending bill passed, including $905,000 for non-fatal shooting case clearance grants and $2 million for the Philando Castile training grant program. A radio task force for the ARMER system was created; the city will have a seat. Comprehensive gun safety legislation (assault weapons ban, high-capacity magazine restrictions, ghost gun ban) passed the Senate but stalled in the House after a DFL sit-in. A statewide threat reporting system was included in the education omnibus bill. - Cannabis: An omnibus cannabis bill made technical changes to licensing, local certification, population caps, and compliance reporting. - Next Steps – 2027 Policy Liaison Team (PLT) Process: The PLT process begins June 2026. Departments will submit proposals; draft proposals will be presented to the committee in late October 2026, with adoption of the 2027 legislative agenda expected in early December. The next legislative session starts January 12, 2027. Key Outcomes - Resolution Approved: The special law for PERA pension correction was approved unanimously. - Presentation Filed: The state and federal updates were received and filed by the clerk. - Committee Adjourned: All business concluded; meeting adjourned without objection. - Future Engagement: Chair Chowdhury announced one-on-one meetings with council members to discuss legislative priorities ahead of the PLT process.

The Budget Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on Monday, June 8, 2026, to approve a staff direction to research a potential Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program and to receive a detailed presentation on the estimated revenues and expenditures for the 2027-2028 biennial budget. The meeting was chaired by Councilmember Aisha Chugtai. Consent Calendar - Approval of a walk-on agenda item to accept a gift for Interim Deputy City Operations Officer Katie Topinka to attend the Strive Together 2026 Policy Summit and City Accelerator Cohort Meetings. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Research into a Potential PILOT Program: Councilmember Wandsley introduced a staff direction to research a voluntary Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program, citing a report from the Guy House that estimated the city could generate between $10 million and $19 million annually from entities such as higher education, healthcare, and cultural institutions that do not pay property taxes but receive city services. Councilmember Warren raised concerns about potential cost impacts on families paying tuition to these institutions. Wandsley clarified the program would be voluntary and not a new tax. The motion passed unanimously. - 2027-2028 Current Service Level (CSL) Budget Presentation: Budget Manager Justin Carlson, Deputy CFO Jane DeSenza, and Principal Analyst Ben Zimmerman presented the CSL calculations. Key points included: - General fund expenses are projected to increase by 5.1% while revenues increase only 1.9%, creating an estimated gap of $28–33 million. - Personnel costs are increasing by nearly $36 million, driven by COLA, step increases, and rising health insurance premiums. - Internal service charges are up $9.2 million due to inflation and new facilities. - The property tax levy was planned to increase by 5.4%, but the gap may require a larger levy or other measures. - Local option sales tax (LOST) revenues are plateauing, and the downtown assets fund transfer to the general fund is becoming less sustainable. - Non-levy revenues are forecast to contract modestly, with interest earnings down $5 million due to lower fund balances. - Council Questions and Discussion: - Council President Payne noted the gap is substantial and requested historical comparison data. She also questioned the allocation models for internal service charges and the forecasting of overtime, particularly for police and fire. - Councilmember Wandsley pressed for an update on the fee study passed two years ago; staff indicated the study is still underway with results expected in two months. - Councilmember Rainville asked about a drop in sales tax revenues; staff offered to provide written clarification. - Vice Chair Schaefer asked about the leverage points for closing the gap; staff highlighted concerns about fund balance and overtime management. - Councilmember Stevenson inquired about budget deviation authorities; staff and council members discussed the role of the mayor and recent financial policy changes to strengthen council oversight of budget amendments. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Staff direction to research a PILOT program. - Approved (unanimous): Consent calendar item for gift acceptance. - The committee received and filed the 2027-2028 CSL budget presentation. The budget process will continue with the mayor's recommended budget in August, followed by formal transmission to the council in September.

The Climate Infrastructure Committee of the Minneapolis City Council met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at approximately 1:30 PM. Vice Chair Soren Stevenson called the meeting to order, and Chair Robin Wandsley later presided. The committee addressed a consent agenda, two public hearings, and several discussion items. Key topics included community opposition to special assessments for the 38th Street and Chicago Avenue Reconstruction Project (George Floyd Square), a lease renewal for a community storage program, and progress on railroad crossing elimination in the Camden neighborhood. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items 3–17) was approved with the exception of items 15, 16, and 17. - Items 15 and 16 (Big Honking Truck Parade event permit and 612 Days block event permit) were pulled by Councilmember Chowdhury for discussion. After staff answered questions about deviations, transit impacts, and fiscal notes, both items were approved unanimously. - Item 17 (Highway 280 resolution) was postponed to the June 18, 2026 meeting after Councilmember Chowdhury moved to allow MnDOT to present directly. Public Comments & Testimony - Loring Park Resurfacing Project (Item 1): No members of the public signed up to testify. The public hearing was closed, and the item was approved. - 38th Street and Chicago Avenue Reconstruction Project (Item 2): Over a dozen community members testified against the proposed special assessments. Key points: - Julia Johnson (Ward 8 resident) stated the assessment would harm the neighborhood, raise rents, and cause displacement. She called for a "special tax freeze" instead. - Michaela Ziegler (Central neighborhood resident and CANDU board member) argued that the project is a direct result of a city employee killing George Floyd and that normal assessments are inappropriate. She urged creative solutions. - Lane Brown submitted a formal group objection, stating residents have "already paid several times over" through extraordinary circumstances and requested immediate abatement, dismissal, and forgiveness of assessments. - MyLisa Smith criticized the city's characterization of George Floyd Square as "abandoned," highlighting resident and caretaker efforts. - Patrick Roadie (resident on 38th for over 30 years) said he cannot afford $600,000 in assessment, which would exceed his mortgage. - Geraldine Michael (senior, homeowner since 1993) noted fixed incomes and asked what would happen to seniors. - Bridget Stewart (business owner) expressed emotional and financial exhaustion, pleading to "stop playing with us." - Ellen Huffschmidt (community vision council member) insisted the city listen to neighbors. - Michael Olson (resident) argued the need for reconstruction is due to the memorial presence, not infrastructure deterioration, and asked that assessments be deducted from the MPD budget instead. - Erica Thorne (owner of duplex since 1998) cited concerns about the selection of Agape over Ryzen Remember and liability issues regarding the central fist sculpture. - Linda Schatzel (resident for 50 years) questioned why the special assessment was not mentioned in previous community meetings and declared the city should pay for harm caused by police. - Vance Gullard (resident on 38th and Elliott) expressed concern about losing parking and property devaluation. - PJ Hill (property and business owner) opposed the assessment, saying the community has carried an extraordinary burden and that he may have to give back his building. - Bill Graves (financing partner) noted he purchased the property to return it to community ownership and asked the city to partner by removing the assessment. - Lawrence Williamson (resident) described the assessment as a "slap in the face" and noted many angry neighbors could not attend. - Katie Dillon (resident for 15 years) highlighted lack of snow removal in 2020-21 and no traffic calming measures, calling the assessment a conflict with the justice revolution resolution. - Michaela Rolfis (CANDU) reported that of 28 stakeholders door-knocked, only three were aware of the assessment; she cited institutional racism and asked how many times the community must pay for city harms. - Ken Bollinger (Bancroft resident for 38 years) said the assessment was never mentioned in six years of meetings and noted many retired neighbors on fixed incomes. - Chef Lachelle Cunningham (City Food Studio owner and Healthy Roots Institute founder) described the corridor as a place where immigrant and Black-owned businesses build, argued that assessment feels like another extraction, and urged the city to dismiss it. - Janelle Austin (organizer) reminded that community demanded a moratorium on property taxes after George Floyd's murder and called this an opportunity for the city to make good. Discussion Items - 38th Street and Chicago Avenue Reconstruction Project (continued): - Adam Hayo (Principal Professional Engineer) presented the project. Total cost: $15.1 million. Special assessments cover approximately 4% ($636,000). Assessments are based on uniform rates: $3.20/sq.ft. non-residential, $1.12/sq.ft. residential. Payment options: single payment before 2028 or 20-year installment. Deferment available for seniors 65+, disabled, and active military. Construction begins in two phases starting June 2026. - Vice Chair Stevenson expressed strong support for the community, stating the city's response to George Floyd's murder should not have been a street reconstruction and that the assessment is "kicking someone while they're down." He moved to forward the item without recommendation to full council, indicating he may vote no but will work with staff on an alternative. - Councilmember Chowdhury supported the motion, calling the circumstances "unique and exigent" and committed to finding another path. - Councilmember Chuck Tide clarified that the uniform assessment applies to all reconstruction projects. He noted that the 2026 budget included $1.2 million for the 38th Street Thrive Plan and emphasized alignment with community. - Councilmember Vita thanked seniors and community members, stating the city should relieve financial trauma. - Councilmember Chavez (not on committee but joined) supported the motion and reminded that the $1.2 million Thrive funding must be implemented. - Councilmember Palmisano acknowledged existing deferment programs for seniors. - Chair Wandsley echoed gratitude and called for a solution by the full council meeting on June 11 (next Thursday). The motion passed unanimously (7-0). - Lease Agreement at 516 2nd Avenue North (Item 18): - Shane Zahn (Senior Director, Downtown Improvement District) presented the free community storage program at Ramp B. The program has been operating since 2021, serving over 3,000 clients, currently storing over 12,000 pounds for 550+ clients. Clients can store a 50-gallon tote, check in every 14 days, and retrieve for reasons including housing. 65% learn by word of mouth. The lease with MnDOT has a net zero fiscal impact (MnDID covers rent). Councilmembers praised the program as a critical service for unsheltered individuals. The item was approved unanimously. - Railroad Crossing Elimination Grants (Item 19): - Ethan Fawley (Transportation Planning Manager) presented the Connecting Camden Railroad Grade Separation Project. The project addresses at-grade crossings at Humboldt Avenue, 45th Avenue, and Lindale Avenue North. Nearly 600 delay events of 15+ minutes annually, with 11 lasting over an hour. These delays impede emergency response (Fire Station 20 experiences two-thirds of train-related delays). The committee authorized acceptance of a grant for detailed planning and preliminary engineering. Councilmember Vita highlighted the public safety impact, collaboration with Canadian Pacific Railroad, and support from Senator Klobuchar. The item was approved unanimously. Chair Wandsley added Councilmembers Vita and Warren as co-authors. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with items 15-17 handled separately. - Items 15 and 16 (event permits) approved. - Item 17 (Highway 280 resolution) postponed to June 18, 2026. - Loring Park Resurfacing Project (Item 1) approved. - 38th Street and Chicago Avenue Reconstruction Project (Item 2) was forwarded without recommendation to the full City Council (7-0 vote). The committee directed staff to develop an alternative to the special assessments, with a solution or plan expected by the next full council meeting on June 11, 2026. - Lease agreement for downtown community storage (Item 18) approved. - Grant acceptance for railroad crossing elimination (Item 19) approved.