Richfield City Council Welcomes SK Food LLC with New Liquor License Approval

Overview: During the Richfield City Council meeting on July 22, 2025, the council approved new on-sale wine and 3.2% malt liquor licenses for SK Food LLC, doing business as KGMAC. This approval, following a public hearing with no objections raised, marked a step in welcoming new business to the community. Other topics included a proclamation honoring the ADA anniversary, appointments to the Human Rights Commission, and updates on city policies.

Minneapolis Planning Commission Debates Uptown Development’s Impact and Community Needs

Overview: In the recent Minneapolis Planning Commission meeting, discussions primarily revolved around a proposed development in the Uptown neighborhood, a plan known as “Uptown Forward,” which aims to revitalize the area through a mixed-use project. The proposal sparked varied opinions, with some stakeholders highlighting the need for development to stimulate economic growth and others calling for revisions to better align with community expectations and city planning standards.

Minneapolis Zoning Board Denies Sign Variance for Aldrich Avenue Property

Overview: The Minneapolis Zoning Board recently convened to address various zoning requests, with the most significant being the denial of a variance application for a larger projecting sign on Aldrich Avenue South. This decision followed extensive discussion and public input. In another notable decision, the board approved a variance for a taller fence on Blaisdell Avenue South, acknowledging unique site conditions.

Minneapolis Council Tackles Food Insecurity and Police Accountability in Packed Meeting

Overview: The Minneapolis City Council’s Public Health and Safety Committee meeting on July 16, 2025, focused on issues including food insecurity, particularly among college students, and police accountability in light of recent controversies. Key discussions included the presentation of a detailed report on food access and the postponement of a public safety plan, highlighting the city’s ongoing efforts to address both systemic inequalities and community concerns.

Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission Advances Inclusion with National Register Nominations

Overview: During the recent meeting of the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, a focus was placed on advancing cultural inclusivity through the nomination of three historic properties for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. These properties, the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder Building, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, and the Harry Davis Senior House, were selected as part of the Underrepresented Communities Grant initiative by the National Park Service. The procurement process for the National Register nominations is underway, with proposals due by August 4. This marks a continuation of efforts to preserve and recognize sites significant to the African-American history of Minneapolis.