Minneapolis City Council Debates Police Budget and Homelessness Amidst Rising Public Safety Concerns

Overview: During a comprehensive meeting of the Minneapolis City Council Budget Committee, members grappled with issues surrounding the police department’s budget and homelessness, amidst broader discussions on public safety and community resources. The session was marked by debates over the proposed $229 million budget for the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) in 2025 and concerns about a projected $20 million overspend for 2023. The discourse revealed a divide among council members, with some voicing strong opposition to any perceived defunding of the police, while others advocated for a reallocation of resources to address investigatory backlogs and nonfatal shooting clearance rates.

Minneapolis City Council Explores Changes to Election Timing and Voter Participation

Overview: In a detailed session, the Minneapolis City Council and Charter Commission deliberated on topics, including possible alterations to election timing to boost voter turnout and the intricacies of the city’s governance structure. These discussions are part of broader efforts to enhance civic engagement and refine the legislative processes of the city.

Minneapolis Commission Grapples with Historic Siding Regulations Amid Cost Concerns

Overview: The Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, during its meeting on December 2, 2025, addressed issues related to maintaining historical integrity while considering economic realities for property owners. Key discussions included applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for properties at 410 3rd Avenue North and Franklin Avenue East, with a focus on the implications of siding regulations within historic districts.

Minneapolis Committee Faces Scrutiny Over Community Safety Center and Human Trafficking Services

Overview: The Minneapolis City Council’s Administration & Enterprise Oversight Committee convened to address issues, including a new community safety center focused on human trafficking services, a contract for a 3-1-1 management system, and the handling of master contracts for the Health Department. The meeting featured discussions about funding allocations, service transparency, and the delegation of authority for large-scale event planning.

Minneapolis City Council Honors Child Safety and Remembrance Days Amid Complex Discussions on Community Projects

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Minneapolis City Council recognized National Child Health and Safety Month, World Children’s Day, and Transgender Day of Remembrance, while also tackling issues related to historical preservation, signage regulations, and community projects like George Floyd Square.