The committee’s discussion on the compensation for elected officials was a focal point, as it could impact the city’s ability to attract and retain qualified leaders. The City Clerk presented a comprehensive analysis, reflecting that the Minneapolis Mayor’s salary ranks among the lowest compared to peer cities, trailing behind even nearby St. Paul. In contrast, council members earn more than the average for comparable jurisdictions, placing them in the upper tier of compensation. It was proposed that the mayor’s salary be adjusted to $187,000 for the next term, acknowledging the increased responsibilities under the executive mayor structure. Council members’ salaries were suggested to remain unchanged initially, with a potential increase tied to cost of living adjustments in later years.

The debate was not without controversy, as concerns were raised regarding a letter from Mayor Jacob Frey suggesting the possible transfer of salary setting authority from the council to the charter commission. Some members expressed confusion over this suggestion, advocating for the council’s continued role in these decisions to maintain transparency and accountability.

Shifting to the city’s broader financial situation, Minneapolis faces a challenging fiscal landscape with projected declines in fund balances and significant overspending in public safety, particularly within the MPD. The City Controller reported a $60 million anticipated decline in the general fund and highlighted a worrying trend of property tax shortfalls. Public safety budgets, especially for the police and fire departments, were overextended by approximately $25 million, driven by increased overtime and staffing costs.

The MPD’s budget overspend was a concern, with overtime costs and back pay exceeding initial projections. Despite efforts to control expenses, the department’s financial management came under scrutiny, prompting calls for better oversight and strategic planning. An attempt was made to introduce an off-duty fee to mitigate taxpayer burdens, although its implementation faced technical delays. The MPD’s financial practices, particularly regarding overtime and staffing, were identified as critical areas needing reform to prevent future budget overruns.

In addressing these financial challenges, the committee also considered amendments to support community initiatives. A notable proposal focused on the 38th Street Thrive implementation, aimed at revitalizing the area with investments in infrastructure and community development.