Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announces public learning sessions to discuss park safety and policing

minneapolis park and recreation

News 

Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announces public learning sessions to discuss park safety and policing

Sessions scheduled Oct. 1 at Phillips Community Center and Oct. 2 at North Commons Recreation Center


Please join the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) as it listens, learns, acknowledges, educates and gathers public input on the desired level of Park Police service needed to serve the community.

 

The MPRB is committed to providing safe places for children and adults to gather and play. Since the July 10 incident at Minnehaha Falls, there has been an internal work group comprised of the superintendent, commissioners, staff and consultants who have discussing short- and long-term strategies related to safety and park policing. 


In mid-September, the MPRB started a series of Listening Sessions with a focus group of community leaders and sessions for youth. The MPRB encourages the public to attend one of the two community sessions scheduled in early October. Interpreters, children's activities, light food and refreshments will be provided at each session.

 

  • October 1, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Phillips Community Center, 2323 11th Ave S
  • October 2, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, North Commons Recreation Center, 1801 James Ave


Accessibility and Interpretation

Somali, Hmong and Latinx interpreters will be at the Oct. 1 and 2 Learning Sessions. For reasonable modification because of a disability or other language interpretation, please contact the MPRB Community Outreach Department in advance of the listening session so arrangements can be made prior to the meeting. Contact Radious Guess at (612) 230-6419, rguess@minneapolisparks.org or use the Minnesota Relay System at 711. Providing at least 72 hours notice will help to ensure availability.


English Listening Sessions Flyer                  Hmong Listening Sessions Flyer
Spanish Listening Sessions Flyer                 Somali Listening Sessions Flyer


Park Safety Initiatives 

The MPRB is committed to working with the community to identify ways to improve park safety. Findings from these Learning Sessions will be reported to the Board of Commissioners and shared with the community before the end of the year. They will also inform recommendations for a Park Police Service Level Plan that will be drafted in 2019.   

 

Other initiatives being developed related to park safety and park policing include expanded youth programming, formation of a Park Police Advisory Council, and development of legislative agenda language to build awareness and strengthen laws and/or penalties related to reporting inaccurate information to law enforcement. All these strategies will include community engagement and discussions. The strategies are being approached, and will be evaluated, through a lens of equity.