Minneapolis City Council – Ward 4  May 21, 2025 

Five years ago, George Floyd’s murder shook our city and our world to its core. The pain and the urgency that followed sparked a movement for justice that forever changed Minneapolis. 

This week, as we mark that solemn anniversary, the work continues. 

Despite the U.S. Department of Justice’s unexpected motion to dismiss the federal consent decree, our commitment to police reform remains unshaken. As Mayor Frey said plainly: “We’re doing it anyway.” And I support that fully. Because here in Ward 4, we know that accountability and community safety go hand in hand. 

We’re already seeing the results of years of work:

 • Use-of-force and crisis response policies rewritten with community input 

• A major reduction in misconduct complaint backlogs 

• Stronger officer wellness programs

• Improved training models that can serve as national examples 

The City’s independent evaluator, ELEFA, has confirmed what we’ve known: Minneapolis is making more progress in a shorter time than nearly any other city under a similar agreement. We are proving that reform and effective public safety are not in conflict they are inseparable. 

And we’re not doing this alone. City leaders, residents, and our own officers are helping shape a future where public trust is rebuilt from the ground up. I’m grateful to City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher for her leadership and reflection this week, reminding us that this work is not just professional it’s personal. 

To the people of Ward 4: I promise to keep fighting for a system that protects your dignity, your safety, and your future. We owe nothing less to each other. 

  Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw 

          Minneapolis City Council, Ward 4