One item at the meeting was the discussion on the expansion of the Open Streets Minneapolis events for 2025. Following last year’s success, which drew approximately 75,000 attendees across three locations, plans are in place to increase the number of events from three to four. Andrew Ballard from the Office of Public Service presented the proposal, noting that each event would be allocated $50,000 in funding, in addition to in-kind services from various city departments. The committee expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing the potential to foster community engagement and stimulate local economies.

Councilmember Cashman raised inquiries about the financial aspects of the events, specifically the combination of city funding and private fundraising efforts. Ballard clarified that the total cost per event, including in-kind services, would range between $60,000 and $75,000. This prompted further discussion about the overall expenses and the importance of a collaborative funding approach to ensure the events’ success. The committee appeared unified in their enthusiasm for the expanded initiative, with an understanding of its benefits for community engagement and economic revitalization.

A related topic of discussion was the introduction of a vibrant storefront initiative, which aims to address the issue of retail vacancies in downtown Minneapolis. Councilmember Cashman sought clarification on the contract with the Downtown Council, which is valued at $460,000. Director Meg McCann explained that the initiative builds on previous efforts to enhance economic development by providing training and resources to small businesses. Cashman referenced a neighborhood association report indicating 65 retail vacancies downtown. McCann assured the committee that a newly developed retail inventory tool would provide a clearer understanding of the situation. She offered to arrange a briefing to discuss downtown vacancies and investment goals, emphasizing the importance of filling these vacancies to bolster economic activity.

The committee also delved into the development of the Minneapolis Democracy Center, a project designed to consolidate the city’s Elections and Voter Services Division at a central location on Minnehaha Avenue. City Clerk Casey Karl and Property Services Director Barbara O’Brien outlined the $871,500 contract with LSE Architects, which will oversee the architectural and engineering design services for the new center. The project aims to enhance voter accessibility and streamline election-related functions, moving operations from leased spaces to a more centralized hub. The funding for the project has been secured through the reallocation of unspent budget savings from 2023.

O’Brien highlighted a unique aspect of the contract, which includes a design process with a built-in stopping point to ensure transparency and community feedback. This process will culminate in an August presentation, where the architectural firm will share the schematic design and solicit input from the council and community. The timeline anticipates finalizing construction documents by December, with bidding planned for January 2026.

The committee’s discussion also turned to improvements on Hennepin Avenue, notably the completion of Phase One and the commencement of Phase Two of its construction progress. The enhancements, which include bike lanes, widened sidewalks, trees, and planters, are intended to improve safety and the experience for residents and visitors alike. The committee acknowledged the challenges small businesses in the area have faced in recent years and expressed hope that these improvements would attract more visitors to the area during the summer months.

One member suggested that future presentations include such metrics to guide budget considerations and ensure event growth without fostering competition between different city events.