A major portion of the meeting concentrated on the comprehensive renovation project at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This initiative, now in its final phase, is part of a multi-year effort to upgrade the facility, which has been a cornerstone of the city’s event hosting capabilities for 35 years. The project includes extensive updates to meeting rooms, encompassing 37,000 square feet, and involves improvements to fire protection systems, electrical and data systems, as well as cosmetic upgrades like new carpeting and ceilings. Despite the scale of the undertaking, the project remains under budget, with the current phase costing less than $10 million, compared to the initial estimate of over $10.5 million.

The general manager of the convention center presented the bid from Sheehy Construction Company and emphasized the importance of the renovations in maintaining the center’s competitiveness and ensuring client satisfaction. The committee was informed about the deteriorating conditions of certain parts of the building, such as worn carpets and malfunctioning ceilings, which have detracted from the overall appeal and functionality of the space. The renovation project addresses these issues to meet the expectations of national and international clients who use the facility for significant events.

Council members inquired about the financial aspects related to the Downtown Assets Fund, which finances the renovation. The fund, sustained by revenue from events hosted in Minneapolis, has seen fluctuations, especially when comparing pre-pandemic figures to the present. While 2024 showed a positive trajectory, the current year appears to be softer, necessitating close monitoring. The speaker assured the council that detailed financial records could be provided to offer a clearer picture of the fund’s health over time.

The value of investing in such infrastructure was highlighted, with a committee member noting the necessity of spending to attract and retain business. The feedback from clients who have experienced the renovated spaces has been encouraging, strengthening the case for continued investment.

Subsequent to the convention center discussion, the committee shifted focus to the Metamorphosis Leadership Development Program, initiated in 2022. This program was developed in response to the need for robust leadership support following pivotal events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the murder of George Floyd. The program is designed to cultivate a workplace culture committed to antiracism and racial repair.

The Deputy City Operations Officer presented an update on the program’s progress, noting its expansion from top leadership to director and deputy-level positions across 29 departments. The program has engaged 107 leaders in a seven-month curriculum that includes in-person and virtual sessions, as well as peer-to-peer coaching. The goal is to equip city leaders with the skills necessary to foster a sustainable antiracist workplace culture.

In addition to the program’s initiatives, the My Minneapolis survey was highlighted as a tool for measuring employee engagement and the effectiveness of workplace initiatives. The survey’s inclusion of new questions on workplace racial equity underscores the program’s impact, with over half of the respondents expressing satisfaction with their levels of engagement.

Questions from committee members focused on the identification of engagement gaps and the role of consultants in the early stages of the program. The presentation concluded with assurances that gaps and needs are being continually assessed to enhance leadership development efforts.

The meeting concluded with the committee addressing the presented agenda, encompassing the approval of several consent agenda items related to construction bids, legal services, and joint powers agreements. A notable mention was the joint powers agreement with Minneapolis Public Education, praised for its positive impact on student well-being through dance education programs.