The election is behind us, and now is the time for us to come together stronger than ever. As your representative in Ward 4, I’ve had the honor of seeing firsthand the incredible power we hold when we unite around a shared vision for our future. This city is OURS to shape—and I’m more committed than ever to making that vision a reality.
No matter the outcome of the election, I am beyond inspired by the dedication, resilience, and passion of the people in this community. We are a city of fighters, dreamers, and doers—and it’s our collective energy, our unwavering drive for a better future, that fuels the work I do at City Hall each and every day.
But the work doesn’t stop here. Now is the time to take all of the momentum we've built and channel it into action. We must continue to rise up with hope and determination. We must push forward with even more energy, with even more commitment, to create a city where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.
Let’s be bold. Let’s be fearless in demanding the changes we need to make this city a place where justice, equity, and opportunity are not just ideals—but everyday realities. Let’s keep engaging with one another, keep pushing for progress, and make sure every single voice—whether in Ward 4 or across our entire city—has the chance to be heard.
The work ahead is bigger than any one of us—but together, there is nothing we cannot achieve. Let’s keep building on the foundation of community, passion, and hope that we’ve already laid. Together, we WILL make Minneapolis a place that reflects our values, our diversity, and our collective power.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in the future we are building together. Let’s continue this journey with even more energy, more action, and more commitment to a brighter tomorrow for all
 This month, we’re raising our glasses to Milly’s on Washington Ave, a delightful wine bar and bistro owned by one of our very own Ward 4 residents! Milly’s brings a warm, upscale vibe that’s perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine and some delicious bites after a long day.
Not only does Milly’s offer an impressive selection of wines, but their small plates and bites are also crafted with a love for flavor and quality you can truly taste. From charcuterie boards to unique seasonal dishes, there’s something on the menu for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself, Milly’s is the perfect place to gather, sip, and savor.
Let’s show Milly’s some love and keep our community’s businesses thriving. Next time you’re on Washington Ave, stop by, enjoy the welcoming ambiance, and toast to all things local!
Cheers to Milly’s!
Want to see your business featured in our next Ward 4 spotlight? If you’re a Ward 4 business owner or have strong ties to the community, we’d love to hear from you! Send us an email with “Ward 4 Business Spotlight” in the subject line to ward4@minneapolismn.gov.
Let’s keep building up our local gems!
 On October 24, 2023, the Hennepin County Board voted to close the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC) by 2028. HERC, located in downtown Minneapolis, burns waste to produce energy, but it has also been a source of pollution, particularly affecting nearby communities, many of which are low-income and people of color.
In response, the Minneapolis City Council has passed a resolution supporting the full closure of HERC by 2027, with the entire facility to be shut down by 2033. The city aims to reduce waste, increase recycling, and create a healthier environment for residents.
The Council is committed to:
- Expanding recycling and composting programs.
- Exploring new waste diversion strategies.
- Supporting communities impacted by HERC with reparative measures for future site development.
- Working with Hennepin County to ensure a smooth transition and secure funding for alternative climate and waste programs.
This action supports Minneapolis’ goals for a zero waste future and aligns with the city's commitments to environmental justice and climate action.
Next week, residents with a lead water service line will be getting a letter from the City. The water service line is the pipe that runs from the water main in the street to the meter inside a property and is owned by the property owner. The letter provides information about the water service line material, steps that can be taken to minimize lead exposure in drinking water, and an update on the City’s effort to replace lead water service lines. An interactive map of the water service line inventory can be viewed on the City’s website.
How we know our tap water is safe
Minneapolis takes steps to make sure our tap water is lead-free and safe to drink. The water is tested hundreds of times a day and is treated in a way that makes sure lead from pipes does not get into the water.
This year, using state and federal grant funds, we began proactively replacing lead service lines at no cost to the homeowner. In total, we will replace around 400 lead service lines using grant funds in 2024 with a plan to replace 1,000 in 2025. This effort will continue until we have replaced or attempted to replace every lead service line in the city (replacement requires the property owner’s consent). It is important to note this is not an opt-in program. The state legislation requires us to prioritize replacement based on:
- Focusing on areas with lower-income residents and other disadvantaged communities.
- Focusing on areas with children with elevated blood lead levels.
- Coordinating the replacement of lead service lines with other capital improvement projects for the most efficient use of grant funding.
You can find more information on the City website.
Protect your family from lead poisoning
The Minneapolis Health Department is committed to eliminating childhood lead poisoning. Lead poisoning is 100% preventable and is detected with a blood test. Contact your health care provider and test your child for lead poisoning if they:
- Are under 6 years old.
- Live in a home built before 1978.
- Live in a home with recent repairs to painted wood trim, walls or floors.
Or if you are concerned for your child’s health.
Read more on the City website about managing lead paint and how the City can help.
The Minneapolis City Council passed an ordinance amending the City’s zoning code to govern cannabis businesses. Mostly, it helps clarify where and how dispensaries and other licensed cannabis businesses can be located.
State department grants licenses
Minnesota law requires the City to allow a minimum of 34 licenses for dispensaries, based on a requirement of one cannabis retailer for every 12,500 people. State licenses cover the entire market from seed to sale. This includes cultivation, manufacturing and processing, distribution and sales. The State Office of Cannabis Management grants the licenses.
City staff worked with the City Council to vet the standards and make adjustments. The City is taking a safe and permissive approach to regulation and business support, focused on education and social equity. The City’s work addresses all facets of the industry including land use and zoning regulations, enforcement, small business assistance, business registration processes, and public health initiatives.
Read more about the ordinance on the City website.
 Leaving leaves in your landscaping and garden beds shelters pollinators for the winter. And mulching leaves on your lawn helps them break down faster and release those nutrients into your soil. Mulching leaves may have the same impact as applying fertilizer. You can do that by running over them with a lawnmower.
Winter market season begins this month in four farmers markets around the city.
Winter farmers markets offer delicious ingredients including local produce, meats and baked goods. You can also find gifts and other handmade goods such as soap, jewelry and pottery. Shop at the winter farmers markets to pick up grocery staples and artisan goods but also to provide critical support to local producers and makers.
Winter markets
- Mill City Winter Market: Nov. 16 plus select Saturdays December through April.
- Minneapolis Farmers Market: Nov. 16, 23 and 30 plus select Saturdays December through April.
- Neighborhood Roots: Nov. 9, Jan. 11, Feb. 8 and March 8.
- Northeast Farmers Market: Nov. 10 plus one Sunday a month through April.
Learn more about winter farmers markets on the City website.
The City's 311 Service Center Department will be closed Thursday, Nov. 21, for an all-day training. Use your City ID badge to get to and from the skyway level of the Public Service Building.
How residents can get information when 311 services are closed
Residents can get City information and make reports online whenever 311 is closed or leave a message for a call back.
- Residents can find information about City topics or departments on the City website.
- Residents can tell the City about issues from barking dogs to graffiti using an online form.
- Residents can dial 311 or 612-673-3000 and leave a message for a call back when business hours resume.
As always, call 911 for emergencies.
About the 311 Service Center
The 311 Service Center offers City information and services online on the City website; over the phone at 311 or 612-673-3000; and in person at 505 Fourth Ave. S., skyway level, and the East Lake Community Safety Center, 2228 E. Lake St.
City hosting renter rights & health resource fair this weekend
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WHAT:
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The City of Minneapolis is hosting a renter rights and health resource fair this weekend to educate residents about renting or owning in the city – as well as provide health resources as we head into the winter months. Interpreters will also be available.
Renter rights resources:
- Help overcoming common renting issues
- Roles as a property owner in the city
- Free legal help
Health resources:
- COVID and flu vaccinations (adults)
- All childhood vaccinations
- HIV testing
- Air Quality
- Green Careers Exploration program
- Lead and Healthy Homes
- Emergency Preparedness
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WHEN:
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9 a.m. to noon - Saturday, Nov. 9
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WHERE:
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Sabathani Community Center – 310 E. 38th St., Minneapolis
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OTHER INFO:
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- More than half of Minneapolis households rent their homes
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 We’re proud to announce that the City of Minneapolis has been officially recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Organization, becoming the first city in Minnesota to receive this honor. This recognition reflects our commitment to supporting service members, veterans, and their families who make tremendous sacrifices for our country.
Veterans make up approximately 10% of the city's workforce, and over 16,000 veterans and their families live in Minneapolis. In response to their needs, the city has developed the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network, a comprehensive support system that connects key resources and services to help veterans successfully transition back to civilian life.
This program addresses critical concerns such as employment, healthcare, and community support, ensuring that those who served are embraced and supported at home. Minneapolis is now the 86th organization in Minnesota to be recognized and is proud to lead the way in creating a compassionate community for military families.
We are excited to continue strengthening this network, offering veterans and their families the resources they deserve.
 The City of Minneapolis's first-ever Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) aims to bridge healthcare access gaps and reduce barriers in underserved communities. More than $1 million from opioid settlement funds covers the cost of the new MMU, equips the vehicle with medical supplies, and helps hire staff to address diverse needs across the city.
Dignifying access to healthcare
The MMU will offer dignified care in a private, closed space, providing treatment and resources to underserved communities. The Health Department’s Opioid Response Team will operate the unit, offering essential services such as:
- Basic health screenings such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
- Medication consultation
- Wound care
- Vaccinations
- Mental health counseling and referrals
- Youth health services including physical exams, dental care, and wellness checks
- Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
Services begin in early 2025
The Minneapolis Health Department is currently hiring and training staff to operate the vehicle and outfit the vehicle with medical supplies. The MMU can be used by anyone in the community but will be deployed to specific locations where access to care is challenging and needed most. The department anticipated the MMU to be fully operational and in the community by early 2025.
“For too long, certain communities have faced health disparities and gaps in care,” said Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw, Ward 4. “The Minneapolis MMU is a direct response to this, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of race, income, or ZIP code, have access to preventive care, vaccinations, and essential medical services. With the launch of the Minneapolis MMU in 2025, we are taking a bold step toward the future of healthcare in America and as always Minnesota is at the forefront.”
Resources
 On Monday, October 28th, we proudly celebrated a monumental achievement in our community safety efforts—our newest class of Community Safety Officers (CSOs). This milestone marks not only the dedication and hard work of these individuals but also a significant step forward in strengthening our community’s commitment to safety, service, and support.
To commemorate this accomplishment, the first-ever MPD Community Safety Officer Graduation Ceremony was held at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, a venue that reflects the strong partnership between our local institutions and the commitment to the betterment of our city.
The event was a heartfelt recognition of the rigorous training, dedication, and personal growth these officers have demonstrated throughout their journey. The CSO program is vital to fostering safer neighborhoods, as these officers work on the front lines, building trust and ensuring that our community members feel heard and supported.
A huge congratulations to the 2024 graduating class of CSOs! Your passion for service and commitment to keeping our city safe is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing the positive impact you'll have on the communities you serve in the years to come.
Thank you to all who have supported these graduates in reaching this momentous achievement. Together, we continue to build a safer, stronger, and more connected community for everyone.
City customers’ garbage day the week of Nov. 25-30 will be their last 2024 pickup of leaves, brush and other yard trimmings.
Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling customers can set properly prepared yard waste at their alleys or curb line next to their garbage carts by 6 a.m. on their pickup day. Set yard waste out in a reusable container, in compostable bags (paper or BPI-certified compostable plastic bags – look for the BPI logo) or bundled with string or twine (no wire or tape).
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Reusable containers must be 32-38 gallons in size and at least 26 inches high with sturdy handles. Reusable containers are lifted and emptied by hand; they must be easily managed. Yard waste is not allowed in City-provided containers.
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Any container, bag or bundle must weigh less than 40 pounds.
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Branches must be less than 3 inches in diameter and less than 3 feet long.
Bags marked “biodegradable” or “degradable” do not meet the State law and are not accepted. Raking leaves into the street is against the law and bad for our lakes, creeks and river. City customers are encouraged to set out properly prepared yard waste as soon as possible. There will be no additional 2024 yard waste service after the last scheduled pickup.
For questions about leaf and brush pickup, customers can check the City website or call Solid Waste & Recycling at 612-673-2917 Monday-Friday.
 Join us for a transformative day at the Hennepin County Expungement Clinic, hosted by the Hennepin County Attorney's office in partnership with the cities of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park. Together, we are committed to providing a crucial opportunity for individuals who have served their sentences to seal eligible records. Expungement plays a vital role in offering a fresh start, and we are here to guide you through the process.
We understand the significance of expungement in fostering rehabilitation and community reintegration. Our prosecutor-led expungement program, supported by our partners, is designed to expedite the process for individuals with adult felony convictions that were charged/prosecuted by the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. This unique collaborative effort ensures a more streamlined approach to help you move forward. Please help us spread the word for this free & transformative event!
Eligibility Criteria: Please note that only adult felony cases that were charged or prosecuted by the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office are eligible for review, and possible seal, at this event.
Community Fair: In addition to expungement services, we're excited to host a Community Fair with the support of our partners. Various community organizations will be present, providing valuable information and services to help connect our community to available resources and support.
PRE-REGISTER HERE for a 30-minute time slot with an attorney. By registering in advance, you are guaranteed a meeting with an attorney and will skip the line.
*Pre-Registration slots are designated for those with cases to be expunged. If you are a family member, loved one, or coming to support, please do not sign up for a pre-registration slot.
Walk-ins accepted on a first come, first served basis. Because the processing times for expungements vary and we've seen great interest in this free service, please come prepared to wait.
**Light refreshments will be provided**
On November 19, CPKC Railway personnel will begin the removal of the Lyndale Avenue railroad crossing, located just north of Webber Parkway, with the closure expected to last through November 21. This maintenance activity is part of the railway's routine upkeep to ensure safety and efficiency. CPKC is working closely with the City of Minneapolis to coordinate the closure, and marked detour routes will be in place to guide motorists during this period. To ensure the safety and awareness of drivers, advance warning signs will be posted ahead of the outage.
Tell us your wishes for the New Nicollet (former Kmart)
Please take a survey on the New Nicollet redevelopment. The City of Minneapolis will partner with developers and the community to transform the former Kmart site on south Nicollet Avenue into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood with housing and retail. What types of housing would you like to see in the area? What kinds of shops, restaurants, grocery options? Help shape the future of the New Nicollet with the survey.
Please take the survey in English, Spanish or Somali and share it with your networks. The survey closes at 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15.
Visit the City website for updated project information, project events and ways to get involved.
Please reach out by email with any questions.
The Cold Weather Rule is now in effect, this means that if you do not pay your bill, or set up a payment plan your heat can and will be turned off. If you get a notice about disconnecting your primary heat source, make sure to immediately contact the utility and set up a payment plan.
Avoid the hassle and expense of getting towed during a snow emergency this winter. Don't let the unpredictable weather catch you off guard. Sign up for Minneapolis alerts to stay ahead of the snow and know about parking rules.
Sign up for alerts today Text "MPLSAlerts" to 77295 or create a full Smart911 profile online to stay informed this winter.
The City’s Green Cost Share program continues to help Minneapolis residents reduce their home energy use. From better insulation to new heating and cooling systems, the City helped residents with more than 200 projects so far this year to improve Minneapolis homes.
Need funding for your next home energy-saving project? We are offering rebates up to $14,000 for homes in a Green Zone and $5,000 for homes outside a Green Zone.
Learn more about the program and apply now.
Hear from homeowners who received funding from the program
Under an earlier phase of the program, the City offered 0% interest loans for energy-efficient improvements to Minneapolis residents. Watch a video on how residents Vivian Johnson and Mike Rivard used their 0% interest loan.
The City of Minneapolis is working on replacing the system that handles requests and information about City services. We use this system when people contact 311 to report things like potholes or graffiti. You can contact 311 in many different ways, such as phone, email, a mobile app, texts and the City website.
We want your feedback to help us create a new system that’s easier to use and better meets your needs. Please take this brief five-question survey by Nov. 15 in English, Español, Soomaaliga or Hmoob.
If you want to schedule a meeting or phone call with me, reach out to Maggie Kohl via email maggie.kohl@minneapolismn.gov or leave a message at:
612-673-2204
You can also reach me directly at my email: latrisha.vetaw@minneapolismn.gov
Join us for open office hours with the council member every Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ward Office, located in the historic Camden Theater building at 4205 Webber Parkway. Whether you’d like to discuss concerns, share ideas, or simply stop by to say thank you, all are welcome!
Contact Ward 4
Visit: minneapolismn.gov/ward4
Email: ward4@minneapolismn.gov
Phone: 612-673-2204
We've moved while work is being done in City Hall. Our office is in:
Room 100, Public Service Center
250 South 4th St.
Get directions
For reasonable accommodations or alternative format please contact 311. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to call 311 at 612-673-3000. TTY users call 612-263-6850. Para ayuda, llame al 311. Rau kev pab, hu 311. Hadii aad caawimaad u baahantahay, wac 311.
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