|
Summer is in full swing, and Ward 4 is buzzing with energy, progress, and joy. From new investments in community safety to splashy family fun at Victory Park, there’s so much to celebrate on the Northside right now.
This past evening, I had the opportunity to visit the Owens Corning shingle facility right here in our community, a major local employer that’s working to be a better neighbor. Their new odor complaint line gives you a direct voice in making sure our air stays clean, and I’ll continue encouraging transparency and accountability from every business operating in our neighborhoods.
But this season isn’t just about work, it’s about coming together. Whether you're planning your National Night Out gathering, dancing at Live on the Northside, or watching fireworks light up the skyline, I hope you find a moment to feel proud of the vibrant, resilient community we share.
With gratitude and sunshine,
LaTrisha Vetaw
Minneapolis City Council Member, Ward 4
 Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw recently visited the Owens Corning shingle manufacturing facility to deepen the City’s partnership with one of North Minneapolis’ largest industrial neighbors. As a long-standing employer in the area, Owens Corning plays a significant role in the local economy providing stable jobs to many residents right here in our community.
Council Member Vetaw expressed her appreciation for the company’s efforts to be a responsive and respectful neighbor, particularly as it relates to community concerns about odor. Owens Corning has been actively working to improve transparency and communication, and effective early July, residents can now call a real-time odor complaint line (612-287-0118) to report strong smells as they occur. These reports help the company pinpoint which processes may be having unintended effects on the surrounding neighborhood.
"Owens Corning is taking steps in the right direction, We know that industrial activity comes with challenges, but I appreciate their willingness to listen, make improvements, and work with the community. This kind of open communication is exactly how we build trust and keep moving forward together." -Vetaw
In addition to launching the odor hotline, Owens Corning recently welcomed the EPA for a routine inspection and passed with flying colors. Zero leaks were detected in their systems, reinforcing the company’s commitment to operational safety and environmental responsibility.
Council Member Vetaw emphasized her goal to support good jobs and foster mutual respect between businesses and the neighborhoods they call home. Her visit underscores the importance of collaboration as Owens Corning continues to invest in its facilities and sustainability efforts.
As the company looks toward future growth, including a new production facility in the southeastern U.S. Vetaw made it clear: “We’re proud to have a global company rooted in our backyard, and I’ll continue working to make sure this relationship remains strong, accountable, and community-centered.”'
Real-time odor complaint line (612-287-0118)
 We can’t wait to see you this year at the Target Fireworks! Join us Saturday, July 26, 2025 and enjoy one of the top five annual fireworks displays in the country. The fireworks begin at 10 pm. The Target Fireworks are a fully choreographed pyro-musical that times each firework pop to the beat of its soundtrack all the way down to 1/100th of a second. Find the broadcast on KDWB! Enjoy this spectacular event along the Mississippi Riverfront on West River Parkway near Portland Avenue.
[Flashback Feature: In this 2016 interview, learn about how the Target Fireworks have a nostalgic twist for Zambelli designer Zach Taminosian, who credits a Minnesota tie with his love for designing fireworks displays and for enjoying working on this signature Aquatennial event each year]
Target Fireworks Fast Facts
- Typically uses more than 10,000 pounds of fireworks
- The Choreography process for the Target Fireworks takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours of design time per minute of total show duration
- One of the top five largest fireworks show in the country
- Draws around 250,000 spectators to Downtown Minneapolis
- Come early to find a spot along the river—bring sunscreen for the afternoon and bug spray for the evening. It’s worth it to see a fantastic show!
- One of the best vantage points to take in the show is on the west side of the Mississippi River, along West River Parkway near Portland Avenue.
- Zambelli Fireworks is a full service fireworks display and pyrotechnics company.
- Since 1893 Zambelli Fireworks has been shooting over 2,300 displays annually
 Summer fun is here for North Minneapolis! The Live on the Northside series at Victory Park (4414 Upton Ave N) offers community members a free, family-friendly evening combining live local music and movies under the stars—the perfect way to spend a Thursday night:
 Each event includes local talent, popcorn, and a relaxed, inclusive vibe—bring your blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a great night with neighbors.
➤ Why you'll love it: It’s a chance to support local artists, connect with your community, and enjoy a free summer evening under the Northside sky. Council Member Vetaw encourages everyone—families, friends, neighbors—to join in and make memories at Victory Park.
 The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board is thrilled to announce that the brand‑new splash pad at Victory Park officially opened to the public on June 7, just in time for sunny days and big smiles!
This vibrant water play area replaces the old wading pool and is part of a long‑term Northside parks enhancement plan. It features fun jets and nozzles for all ages, plus plenty of seating, shade structures, and an inclusive, family-friendly design.
Here’s what you should know:
 The City Council has approved a vendor for the upcoming traffic safety camera pilot program. Beginning in September, cameras in five locations will enforce speed limits. A public information campaign will cover the locations of the five cameras. It’ll explain how the cameras will work and what enforcement will look like.
The pilot program may expand up to 42 camera locations and may also include red lights. Read more about the traffic safety camera pilot on the City website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
 A long-talked-about amphitheater in north Minneapolis will be the topic of a public hearing July 15. Share your feedback at the meeting or online.
Public hearing 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 15 Business, Housing and Zoning Committee meeting Public Service Center, 250 Fourth St. S., Room 350 Watch for the agenda closer to the date on the City Council calendar. Or you could submit your comments in writing on the City website. Watch the meeting with closed captioning on Comcast channel 14 or 799, the City's YouTube channel, or City Council TV.
If approved, the item will advance to the full City Council and the mayor for final approval.
Show your support for Black business development in Minneapolis with the City’s annual Black Business Week July 24-31.
Events
· Black Business Week Kick-off - Legacy on the Block: A Black Business Showcase
· Ignite Business Conference: From Spark to Strategy
· Black Business Week Street Mall
· Webber Camden & Northside Epicenter Black Business Expo
· The Business of Self-Care: A Micro-Workshop for Entrepreneurs
· Black Business Week Summit
· The Black Business Exchange – Speed Mentoring with the Experts Find more details about Black Business Week events on the City website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
You can still register your event for the 2025 National Night Out, Aug. 5 this year. National Night Out is a time for City residents to come together and celebrate with neighbors. Many blocks in Minneapolis take this opportunity to reconnect, eat and build relationships while kids play and bike freely in the closed street.
Registration is open until July 29 and is free. Pro tips:
· Include neighbors in your organizing efforts.
· Register only one event per block (appoint one neighbor to register).
· Consider whether you want your street blocked off to traffic.
· Checking the box for 75% approval is fine if you plan to notify every household of the event.
· Call 311 to request a fire truck, MPD K9, and/or MPD Mounted Patrol.
· Confirmation emails are sent on Mondays. The confirmation will include the NNO pop-up calendar for picking up caution tape and other supplies for your event. · Contact a City crime prevention specialist with questions. Registration closes July 29. Read more about National Night Out and register your block’s event on the City website.
ClICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR BLOCK
 You can still request traffic calming in your area for 2026. Requests are due Aug. 1. Make your request online by Aug. 1. If you’re not able to use the online form, you can print the application and either email it or mail it (postmarked by Aug. 1) to: Traffic Calming, 300 Border Avenue, Minneapolis MN 55405. If you need help filling out the form, you can contact Minneapolis 311.
 The Minneapolis Police Department is dedicated to maintaining your trust and making sure you feel safe in your home and neighborhood. If you’re ever unsure whether someone is a real police officer – whether in a traffic stop or at your door – do not hesitate to call 911. 911 agents can tell you if an officer is there.
How to identify an officer
- Minneapolis police officers will say their name and agency when talking with you.
- Check their uniform and vehicle for badges, patches and insignia that show which agency they represent. A lack of markings may be a warning sign.
- Make sure the agency serves your area. Agencies serving Minneapolis include:
- Minneapolis Police Department
- Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office
- Metro Transit Police
- Minnesota State Patrol
- Always feel free to ask for their name, badge number and agency. Officers will provide this information.
If you didn’t call the police, be extra cautious.
Remember, the MPD is here to help you feel safe. You can call 911 or the non-emergency line at 612-673-5335 any time.
You now have more ways to manage your City utility bills. A new bill payment service has added Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal as options with easy signup and a mobile-friendly design.
The new features also include autopay, payment reminders and secure one-time payments.
Whether you prefer auto pays or one-time payments, the upgraded system makes it easier than ever to stay on top of your account. For more information, visit the City website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
Every year, the City publishes an annual report showing water quality test results, the steps we take to make our water safe, and tips for wise water use. The 2024 report is now out.
Minneapolis treats and delivers more than 57 million gallons of world class drinking water every day. To learn more, check out our new and improved drinking water report.
READ THE REPORT HERE
Community safety progress in 2025
Office of Community Safety leaders presented a second quarter progress report June 11. The report to a City Council committee highlighted:
· The addition of critical leadership positions.
· Milestones in police and community safety reform.
· Successes in officer and staff recruitment. Find the report presentation and video on the City website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
Operation Safe Summer: Dozens arrested to help keep streets safe
To help stop crime and keep people safe this summer, the Minneapolis Police Department worked with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies during Operation Safe Summer.
This weeklong effort led to:
· 92 people arrested.
· 12 stolen cars found.
· 25 illegal guns taken off the streets.
Many of the arrests were connected to serious crimes such as having illegal guns, selling drugs and stealing cars. Read more on the City website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
|
