A primary focus of the meeting was the debate over compliance with the city’s financial gift acceptance policy. Council members expressed dissatisfaction with the submission of late items, stressing the importance of adhering to established procedures. A council member articulated frustration, stating, “If this happens again, I will not be supporting late submissions. That is not in compliance with what we’re supposed to be doing in the city.” This sentiment was echoed by others. Despite these concerns, the council proceeded to vote on the gift acceptance, which narrowly passed with nine votes in favor and one against.

The meeting further addressed a update to the city’s paid parental leave policy. The council approved an update to the policy that aligns with state law, extending coverage to include foster placements and eliminating a payback provision for those who used parental leave but did not return to work. This change was highlighted as a positive step towards supporting young parents and enhancing city services. Concerns were raised about gift acceptances for lodging and per diems for individuals whose events had already occurred, with several members deeming it inappropriate to accept gifts retroactively. This led to a separate discussion and vote on the items, with calls for stricter compliance with city policies in the future.

In the realm of city planning and infrastructure, the council approved a motion to delay a reconstruction project for 35th and 36th Streets to address constituent concerns. This decision was made after a council member requested more time for community input, highlighting the council’s responsiveness to public opinion and the complexities of urban development.

The meeting also saw the introduction of new business items, including a contract amendment with IDEA Analytics for supervisor leadership training. This training, required by a settlement agreement, was deemed necessary to ensure compliance with its provisions. The council approved the amendment unanimously, recognizing the need for additional training due to factors like limited class sizes and scheduling conflicts.

The council unanimously passed a resolution to extend the authority of the City Attorney’s office to join or initiate lawsuits related to federal actions, specifically concerning the Trump administration. This extension, set through January 2029, allows the city to maintain flexibility in protecting its legal interests, building on successful collaborations with other plaintiffs.

In other business, the council referred Mayor Jacob Frey’s nomination of Anthony Kelly to the City’s Civil Service Commission to the Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee for a hearing. This referral was approved unanimously.

Announcements during the meeting highlighted significant civic engagement in the recent municipal election, with a record 65% turnout of registered voters. The council acknowledged the upcoming canvassing board meeting to certify election returns, emphasizing the city’s dedication to maintaining high electoral standards. A ride-share zone was announced for the North Loop, aimed at improving pedestrian safety by reducing traffic conflicts. This pilot initiative represents a collaborative effort among various city departments and holds potential for expansion into downtown Minneapolis.