 Mayor Frey, Chief O'Hara, and Sheriff Witt take questions on June 3 investigation
The City Auditor has released findings from its review of the June 3 federal investigation near Lake Street and Bloomington Avenue. The audit confirmed what we have said from the start: the City of Minneapolis acted with integrity, provided accurate information, and did not violate the City’s Separation Ordinance, which prohibits MPD from participating in federal immigration enforcement.
“Facts matter. In moments of crisis, our residents deserve clear, accurate information,” said Mayor Frey. “This audit confirms that the City followed the law and acted responsibly, keeping public safety front and center. I’m grateful to our City staff and emergency management team for their professionalism, and I appreciate the auditor’s thorough work. Transparency and accountability are essential to public trust, and this report reinforces both.”
Key audit findings include:
- The City’s Separation Ordinance was not violated.
- MPD did not participate in immigration enforcement or question anyone about immigration status.
- The City and MPD were unaware of the federal investigation until 10 a.m. on June 3.
- Emergency plans were in place and executed effectively.
- Chief O’Hara remained calm, engaged, and focused on public safety on scene.
Since the incident, Mayor Frey and Chief O’Hara have continued meeting with immigration leaders and community groups to strengthen trust and ensure residents feel safe.
 The Minneapolis Fire Department is welcoming 18 new firefighters to the team! These cadets represent the next generation of first responders trained to protect lives and property in the most challenging emergencies.
The graduates bring a wide range of experiences—from military service and wildland firefighting to teaching, construction, and engineering—and several are following in the footsteps of their firefighter parents.
"Minneapolis doesn’t back down from a challenge — and neither do the 18 newest members of our fire department. From the Northside to Nokomis, our firefighters show up in life’s most urgent moments," said Mayor Frey. "These graduates are stepping up not just to wear the uniform, but to embody the values that make Minneapolis strong. We’re proud to have them as part of our team."
The graduation ceremony was held August 4 at Minneapolis Southwest High School and is available to watch on the City’s YouTube channel.
Starting this month, Minneapolis has strengthened its Civil Rights Ordinance—making it illegal to discriminate against someone because of their housing status, criminal record, height, or weight.
“Whether you’re housed or unhoused, justice-impacted or not, tall or short, big or small, you deserve dignity, opportunity, and protection under the law,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “Minneapolis now leads the country with some of the most comprehensive civil rights protections on the books.”
The updated law also:
- Expands the definitions of race, familial status, and disability
- Increases protections for pregnant workers and religious observances
- Simplifies the discrimination complaint process for residents
Anyone who believes they’ve experienced discrimination in Minneapolis can file a free complaint with the City’s Civil Rights Department online, by calling 311, or by visiting City Hall.
Learn more about your rights and how to file a complaint on the City's Civil Rights website.
 Looking for a furry friend? Minneapolis Animal Care & Control (MACC) is hosting free animal adoption events every Wednesday through September, thanks to a $13,300 grant from the ASPCA.
The grant covers adoption fees and pet licenses, making it easier than ever to give a dog or cat a loving home. MACC has seen a record number of animals in its care—averaging 400 each month—and is calling on the community to help pets find their forever families.
Adoptions are open to everyone, and Minneapolis residents get their City-required pet license covered, too. Stop by MACC at 212 17th Ave. N any Wednesday between 1 and 5:30 p.m. to meet adoptable pets. Every animal is spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and ready for a new home.
 Downtown Minneapolis roared to life on July 31 as thousands of families packed Nicollet Mall for the City’s first-ever “Minneapolis Moves: The Big Honking Truck Parade.” Fire engines, snowplows, semis, and other massive vehicles rolled through downtown, giving kids (and plenty of adults!) a close-up look at the machines that keep Minneapolis moving.
Mayor Jacob Frey and his daughter joined the parade, waving to residents along the route as the City celebrated a new, family-friendly tradition.
The parade is part of Mayor Frey’s Downtown Action Plan, aimed at bringing more energy and fun to the heart of the city. Along with the parade, visitors enjoyed a vendor market, local food, and live entertainment that turned Nicollet Mall into a summertime street festival.
 One of the best parts of summer in Minneapolis is officially underway: Open Streets Minneapolis! Mayor Jacob Frey joined neighbors on Central Avenue this past weekend to celebrate the first event of the season, turning the street into a car-free community festival filled with music, art, local food, and small businesses.
If you missed Central Avenue, there’s plenty more Open Streets fun ahead:
- Aug. 17 – Cedar & Riverside Aves | Hosted by West Bank Business Association
- Sept. 6 – West Broadway (Logan to Lyndale) | Hosted by West Broadway Business & Area Coalition
- Sept. 20 – Hennepin Ave (26th to 36th St) | Hosted by the Uptown Association
Open Streets is your chance to walk, bike, roll, and explore the unique character of each neighborhood. Come for the fun, stay for the community—and keep an eye out for Mayor Frey at an event near you!
 Last week, Mayor Frey and his wife, Sarah Clarke welcomed their second daughter into the world.
Estelle Bloom Frey arrived happy and healthy on July 31. The entire family is overjoyed and grateful for the outpouring of support they’ve received from friends, family, and the Minneapolis community.
"Sarah is a badass who handles it all with strength and grace, and giving birth early this morning was no exception,” said Mayor Frey. “Together we are over the moon. Estelle is a beaming light, and Frida is already stepping into her big sister role like a pro. We feel incredibly lucky and are grateful for all the love from our great Minneapolis family.”
Estelle joins Jacob and Sarah’s four-year-old daughter, Frida, and their two cats, Ronda and Stella.
Mark your calendar: On Wednesday, August 13, Mayor Frey will present his 2026 Proposed Budget at 11 a.m. His address will outline the City’s priorities and investments for the year ahead.
You can watch the full presentation live on the City’s YouTube page.
 Senior Helpers Grand Opening on West Lake
 Washburn High School: Celebrating 100 Years!
 Newgate School 50 Year Celebration
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