The most contentious topic was Amendment Number 29, which proposed installing public restrooms along Nicollet Avenue. The amendment, introduced by a council member, garnered support and skepticism. One council member expressed optimism about the initiative, praising the creative funding approach and expressing confidence in the city’s public works department to implement the project successfully. However, another council member raised concerns about the operational feasibility and financial implications, questioning whether the allocated $600,000 annually for installation and maintenance would suffice. The member suggested a pilot program to assess the initiative’s effectiveness before making a long-term commitment.

Despite concerns, the amendment received backing from several members who viewed it as a step towards modernizing the city and improving public access to facilities. Supporters emphasized the importance of clean, accessible bathrooms for enhancing livability in downtown Minneapolis and as a foundation for future expansion across the city. Nonetheless, dissenting voices continued to advocate for a cautious approach, proposing a 3 to 5-year pilot to accurately assess the financial investment required and potential community resistance to restroom placements.

Following the public restroom debate, the committee discussed Amendment Number 30, which introduced the concept of nighttime business license inspectors. This proposal aimed to support local businesses by addressing challenges in maintaining a vibrant nighttime economy. A council member emphasized the necessity of city management assistance in business districts like Dinky Town, Uptown, and Lake Street.

Another notable amendment, Number 31, addressed food insecurity by proposing funding for grocery store development in underserved areas. The amendment targeted communities lacking access to grocery stores and sought partnerships with local organizations. However, some members raised concerns about the potential exclusion of existing grocery stores struggling to survive. They argued for a more comprehensive approach that included supporting established businesses, not just new developments.

Additionally, the committee considered Amendment Number 32, which allocated a $125,000 one-time appropriation for a study on the adaptive reuse of underutilized commercial buildings. This initiative aimed to evaluate the potential of converting vacant office spaces into housing, a consideration driven by decreasing property values and reduced in-person work levels post-pandemic. The amendment passed with overwhelming support.

Amendment Number 33 introduced a cost-share program to activate vacant retail spaces, allowing property owners to make physical alterations to attract smaller tenants. This proposal aimed to leverage private investment alongside public funds to rejuvenate retail areas. However, concerns about resource allocation were raised, particularly regarding the $2.2 million draw from the Downtown Assets Fund for multiple amendments.

The committee also discussed Amendment Number 34, which focused on investing in childcare workers through a budget allocation intended to support a position enhancing pathways into early childhood education careers. This amendment aimed to address workforce shortages in the childcare sector, a factor contributing to escalating costs for families.

Towards the end of the meeting, the committee approved Amendment Number 35, which sought to streamline policy development and public access to city policies through a new policy management platform. This amendment received unanimous support.