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The Hiawatha Neighborhood Clean-up was a huge success with over 60 volunteers joining us to clean up public spaces throughout the area of 46th and Hiawatha and beyond. Thank you to everyone who co-hosted and joined. We will be hosting another clean-up in the fall!
Here is a list of topics in this newsletter; choose your own adventure!
- Joint statement on 2sLGBTQIA+ Pride flag Vandalism and theft
- ICE Presence at Lake & Bloomington during Federal Raid
- Clarifying and Strengthening the City of Minneapolis Separation Ordinance
- Public Safety Updates- 46th & Hiawatha Station, Meeting with Nokomis East Businesses
- Meeting with 34th Ave S & Nokomis East Businesses
- Council Recap
- Latino Economic Development Center
- City accelerates streetlight repairs
- Recognizing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Two-Spirit, Intersex, and Asexual Pride Month
- Recognizing Immigrant Heritage Month, World Refugee Day, and Caribbean American Heritage Month
- Designating the Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic Memorial Bridge
- Thank you for coming to Community Office Hours!
- Thank you to the Roosevelt High School Community for The Safety Conversation
- Development underway at Minneapolis Democracy Center
- Joint Ward 11 + 12 Town Hall with Attorney General Ellison!
- County, Park and Recreation Board announce summer event lineups
- ELEFA public meeting July 30: Update on Minnesota Department of Human Rights settlement agreement
- Vendor chosen for traffic safety cameras
- First five traffic safety camera locations
- Black Business Week July 24-31
- Traffic calming requests due Aug. 1
- Register your event by July 29 for National Night Out Aug. 5
- Nokomis Days August 1-3
- 2025 arts and culture grants getting vital support to 65 creative projects
- Open Streets Minneapolis returns for 2025 season
- Trans Equity Summit Aug. 11: Registration open
- Naloxone vending machines dispensing free life-saving medication
- 2024 CPED Impact Report
- New event date: 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
- Household hazardous waste collection event
- How to identify a Minneapolis police officer
- New payment options for City utility bills
- Drinking water quality report
- Videos: When to call 311
- Community safety progress in 2025
- Find a doula in Minnesota
- File police reports in person at the Lake Street Safety Center
- Tips to keep our neighborhoods clean and beautiful
- Sign up for emergency alerts
- Keeping our air safe and clean
 Last month, neighbors in Ward 9 and Ward 12 were victims of hateful and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ actions in their home when their pride flags were stolen and vandalized. Our offices have been in contact with the Minneapolis Police Department, who are looking into these incidents.
Across the country, marginalized communities are under attack, starting at the top, with the Trump administration providing a permission structure for the hatred, bigotry, and harassment that persists throughout society. If we give in to fear and change our behavior based on the actions of those who hate us, we let them win.
But we aren’t changing because we refuse to let hate win. We will continue to lead with our values and stand up for our neighbors.
Let us be clear: Minneapolis is a welcoming city and these hateful actions will not be tolerated. We stand in solidarity with our 2SLGBTQIA+ neighbors.
In solidarity, Council Member Aurin Chowdhury & Council Member Jason Chavez
On June 3rd 2025, a heavy and unsettling federal presence descended on Lake Street. Agents from ICE, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, Hennepin County Sheriffs and other federal entities conducted a coordinated operation in the heart of Minneapolis’ Latino community. There was nothing publicly shared that was found at the Lake and Bloomington to further the criminal investigation-- there were a total of 8 locations were search warrants were executed-- yet only on Lake Street and Bloomington Ave we saw a heavily militarized force, armored vehicles, and federal law enforcement officials including ICE in mass covering their faces.
The intent was clear: to instill fear, create chaos, and intimidate. These are the tools of oppression, used to divide us. Standing up to these tactics must be a priority for our city’s leadership.
We’re living in a time when the federal government is using any excuse to expand ICE’s power. Across the country, people are being swept from their neighborhoods—snatched in unmarked vehicles by heavily armed agents operating without accountability. Families are left behind, desperate for answers, unsure if they’ll ever be reunited with their loved ones. The Trump administration has given directives to do collateral arrests-- that are not accidents—they are deliberate, quota-driven actions.
That’s why Minneapolis has made a clear commitment through our separation ordinance that we will not be doing the work of ICE. That is why many residents, community leaders, and myself and my colleagues were deeply concerned to see the Minneapolis Police Department on scene doing crowd control, assisting the operation by quartering off the perimeter, and showing a lack of communication to the public on what originated their presence and what was happening. We know for a fact that ICE was on the ground that day. An ICE spokesperson confirmed their agents were assisted by local law enforcement. That cannot be ignored.
In response, I joined Council Members Chavez, Chughtai, Osman, and Wonsley in passing a request to direct the City Auditor to conduct a full, independent review of the incident. This includes a detailed look at MPD’s and any other City employees involvement and to understand if the City's Separation ordinance was breeched. We expect this to come back to the City Council on July 31, 2025.
We’re also reviewing the ordinance itself to ensure it’s clear, strong, and leaves no room for misinterpretation. The City of Minneapolis should not be aiding federal agencies that violate the rights of our residents and we must do what we can to ensure that.
I will continue to keep you informed. We must demand accountability, stand up for our neighbors, and defend the values of justice and dignity that define who we are.
On August 5 at 1:30 PM at the Public Service Center 3rd Floor (250 S 4th S) we will be getting a presentation on the findings of the After Action Review and you are welcome to come and share your thoughts during the public comment period.
Minneapolis has a separation ordinance. When you come to the City for help, the ordinance says that City employees cannot ask about your citizenship or immigration status, ask you for documents to prove your immigration status, or use any knowledge of your status to enforce immigration laws. Further, the separation ordinance prohibits the Minneapolis Police Department from participating in any immigration enforcement actions that the federal government, such as ICE, undertakes in our city.
With those protections in place, however, there are still some grey areas when it comes to our separation ordinance. At our council meeting, I passed a notice of intent along with Council Vice-President Chughtai and Council Member Chavez on two ordinances that we will introduce. One is regarding employee authority in immigration matters, adding reporting requirements and clarifying protections. The other ordinance is regarding civil rights, adding protections for discrimination on perceived citizenship or immigration status.
As we move forward with the drafting process of these two ordinances, I will be sure to keep you updated on the progress we are making. We hope to work collaboratively with the City Council, Mayor’s Administration, and most importantly the community.
 Thank you to every neighbor who joined on July 16. We had an excellent turnout and neighbors got to share their questions and concerns to Inspector Gomez, Crime Prevention Specialist Shun Tillman, 911 and 311 representatives, Neighborhood Safety Director Amanda Harrington, and Metro Transit Outreach Director Sophia Ginis.
Thank you for the dialogue and uplifting the needs of our Ward to city leaders. It is my commitment to continue to advocate for the needs of the 12th Ward. There will be continued opportunities to engage. If you have any comments or questions you would like to share regarding public safety please email Ward12@minneapolismn.gov
Working Together for a Safer, More Vibrant 46th & Hiawatha Corridor
As your Council Member, I remain deeply committed to ensuring the 46th Street and Hiawatha Corridor and its Light Rail Station become a safer, more welcoming, and vibrant place for everyone. Whether you're a renter, a homeowner, a local business owner, or simply someone passing through this key transit hub, this corridor deserves to reflect the vitality of our community. We’ve heard and understood the challenges from neighbors over the past several years, and while there has been meaningful progress since 2020, we recognize there is more work ahead.
This area is not only a connection point across the metro but also a home and a gathering place, and it should feel that way to everyone who moves through it.
Since taking office, my team and I have worked across jurisdictions and alongside neighbors to advance efforts that improve livability and safety. Here's what we’ve accomplished together so far:
Improvements at the 46th & Hiawatha Light Rail Station
When I stepped into this role, one of the first things I noticed was the lack of coordination among agencies and stakeholders including Metro Transit, MnDOT, Hennepin County, the City of Minneapolis, residents, and local businesses. Over the past year and a half, my office has prioritized building those connections and forging a consistent path forward.
Key accomplishments include:
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Ward 12 Wellness Walk – I organized this event to bring attention to livability and safety concerns. City leadership, including the Public Health Commissioner, Metro Transit, and staff focused on opioid response, visited the area to see firsthand the challenges and begin joint problem-solving.
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Access to Public Restrooms – Responding to community concerns, I advocated for solutions to reduce public waste and improve dignity for all. Metro Transit has since installed two porta-potties at the station.
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Increased Safety Presence – After sustained advocacy, Metro Transit began deploying dedicated safety staff at the station from 12 to 8 p.m. daily as of June 23.
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Infrastructure Improvements – Metro Transit has committed to upgrading aged infrastructure, improving lighting, conducting a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment, and making changes to landscaping and building exteriors for enhanced visibility and safety.
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Transit Safety Outreach Program – I introduced and passed a budget action in 2023 to establish this initiative through the City’s Department of Neighborhood Safety. It will launch soon and focus on outreach, case management, and visible presence throughout the corridor.
Corridor-Wide Improvements and Community Building
Beyond the station itself, we’ve worked to uplift the entire 46th and Hiawatha Corridor:
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Lighting Repairs on Hiawatha Avenue – Lighting had been out for years, worsening safety concerns. I prioritized this issue with Public Works, and lights have now been restored. We also successfully lobbied for new state legislation, enacted in January, that curbs copper wire theft by regulating scrap metal sales.
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Improvements to Hiawatha Avenue – I met with MNDOT to advocate for safety improvements to Hiawatha and improvements for pedestrian crossing. As a result, we did a doorknock of neighbors, held an open house, and were able to include the addition of a signalized pedestrian crossing at 45th avenue and put up a barrier (with the ask, it does not look bad) on Hiawatha avenue median across from the light rail to deter unsafe crossings that have led to fatalities and severe injury.
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Working to Address Homelessness- Continuing to bring attention to Hennepin County and the city of Minneapolis to do dedicated work to help people get to housing and treatment.
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Formation of the 46th & Hiawatha Coalition – Stronger neighborhoods come from collaboration. I launched this cross-sector group in October 2024 to bring together businesses, property managers, government agencies, and residents. We've already held four productive meetings and are growing every month.
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Neighborhood Clean-Ups – The Coalition led our first major clean-up effort on July 10, with nearly 60 volunteers showing up to beautify the area and build community.
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Exploring a Special Service District (SSD) – We’ve started early discussions about forming an SSD to fund enhanced maintenance, amenities, and public realm improvements that would reflect a unique neighborhood identity.
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Funding for Opioid Response and Needle Pick-Up – I secured dedicated funding in the last city budget to address public health and safety concerns. We are currently awaiting implementation by the Mayor’s Administration.
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Targeted Neighborhood Safety Services – I moved and passed funding for new services tailored to the Hiawatha area. The Department of Neighborhood Safety is developing the contract, and neighbor feedback has been central in shaping its scope.
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Strengthening Identity and Positive Activation – We’re working to foster a sense of place through programming, partnerships, and design ideas that reflect and celebrate the people who live and work here.
This work is ongoing, and progress takes persistence. But through steady advocacy, deep partnerships, and the involvement of dedicated neighbors, we are building the momentum needed to make the 46th and Hiawatha Corridor the vibrant, safe, and connected place it’s meant to be.
 This month, our office deepened its commitment to public safety and livability by meeting directly with local businesses and residents to hear their experiences and identify solutions together. On Thursday, July 10, we convened a backyard meeting hosted by a neighbor in Nokomis East. The meeting brought together nearly 20 local business owners from the 34th Avenue corridor, alongside a crime prevention specialist, the Third Precinct’s embedded social worker, and the Hennepin County Streets to Housing team.
Business owners shared concerns about an increase in unsheltered homelessness, behavioral health crises, property crime, and other livability issues in the area. Many expressed confusion about how to respond or who to call when witnessing individuals in distress. In response, we discussed available support resources, including the City’s 24/7 Behavioral Crisis Response teams, Hennepin County's outreach services, and how to best utilize 311 and 911 when appropriate.
This conversation was part of a larger effort to bring attention to the challenges our neighborhoods are facing and to ensure a coordinated response. To continue the dialogue, we held a Public Safety Town Hall on July 16, allowing more community members to share their experiences and be part of the conversation.
It’s clear that the current approach to homelessness in Minneapolis, often marked by displacement rather than long-term solutions, isn’t working. What we heard from businesses reaffirmed the urgent need for a humane, comprehensive strategy that addresses housing, treatment, and support for those experiencing homelessness and addiction.
We’re taking steps to respond. Our office is working with City and County departments to ensure regular outreach presence in the area, improve communication around resources, and provide local businesses with a resource one-pager for quick reference. We've also elevated concerns to the Director of Regulatory Services and the Deputy City Operations Officer to ensure these issues are on the radar of decision-makers.
This is an ongoing effort, and we’re committed to staying engaged with businesses and residents as we push for long-term solutions. We’re grateful to our local business owners who contribute so much to the vibrancy of our neighborhood and who are stepping up to help improve safety and livability for all.
At our June 18th regular City Council meeting we took action on 55 items forwarded to us from our standing committees, received notice of 3 ordinance introductions, referred 2 ordinances to committee for consideration, and approved 3 honorary resolutions.
At our June 5th regular City Council meeting we took action on 66 items forwarded to us from our standing committees, received notice of 2 ordinance introductions, referred 2 ordinances to standing committees for consideration, and approved 6 honorary resolutions.
 Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19th, commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of Black Americans throughout history. Juneteenth is not only a celebration of freedom but also an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.
Recognizing Juneteenth helps us honor African American culture, history, and contributions to our society while acknowledging the work still needed to address systemic racism. It’s a time for communities to come together in education, remembrance, and action toward a more just and equitable future for all.
I spent Juneteenth at the Soul of The Southside Festival brought to you by the Legacy Building-- https://soulofthesouthside.com/
It was a beautiful celebration at Lake and Minnehaha, there were two concert stages with a lineup of talented Black musicians, a market made up of Black local business owners, food trucks, and art making. This was their third annual Soul of The Southside Festival, and I am looking forward to joining the festivities in years to come.
We approved $300,000 funding in the form of an interest-free loan over 20 years, with deferred payments, and forgiveness upon maturity for the Latino Center for Community Engagement (LCCE). This development project is located at 2905 E. Lake St. and led by Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Acción Latina (COPAL).
The LCCE aims to better accommodate the needs of the Latino/a/e immigrant community. The LCCE will have 16,000 square feet of new space in the heart of the Minneapolis Latino/a/e Community. It will be a community gathering place to make connections across cultures. It will house the operations of COPAL, a coffee shop, bookstore and space available to partner organizations from which they can meet or work.
COPAL leads social impact initiatives to improve the quality of life for Latino/a/e Families, by 1) influencing environmental justice policies, training the community in green jobs and offering education in energy efficiency practices, 2) health and wellness activities, including Community Health Promoters connecting individuals with resources leading to improved physical and mental health choices, 3) promoting spaces for community members to learn organizing and leadership skills, and 4) educating workers in employment rights and responsibilities and assisting with job and career exploration.
Since its founding in 2018, COPAL’s work has expanded quickly. Its 25 staff people currently work out of two locations on East Lake Street, totaling 3,500 square feet. Its network has grown to more than 42,000 people statewide.
The 24,000 square foot space at 2905 E. Lake St., a building damaged during the 2020 civil unrest in Minneapolis, signifies more than just physical reconstruction. This project represents a pivotal step in empowering community and building economic development on Lake Street. It is a return of land ownership to local residents and reinforces Latines’ historical presence along Lake Street. The LCCE will build power with and fulfill the ambitions of a young and diverse community, fostering pride and belonging. This center will be a vibrant hub of unity, celebration, and cultural exchange.
The City will direct $1 million from its contingency funds to address street lighting outages caused by copper wire theft. The funding will allow the City to hire more seasonal electricians, use more rental equipment and buy more material for repairs.
Public Works estimates 450 streetlights throughout the city are out because of wire theft.
Replacing copper wiring with aluminum has made progress in deterring theft. Aluminum wiring is about 75% less expensive to buy and resell.
Read more on the City website.
 Happy Pride to everyone! Supporting our LGBTQIA+ is something we will do every single day-- in actions in community and in policy.
 One of the Honorary resolutions at the June 5th City Council Meeting was designating the 10th Avenue Bridge over the Mississippi River as the "Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic Memorial Bridge," honoring my late mentor's contributions and advocacy for the city at the state capitol. I authored this resolution alongside Council Member Koski, Council Member Rainville and Council President Payne. We were proud to present this resolution to Senator Dziedzic's family and close friends during the council meeting.
Senator Dziedzic was a passionate advocate for infrastructure and environmental initiatives. She championed the restoration of the 10th Avenue Bridge, securing $7.6 million in bonding funds to ensure its preservation. Her efforts extended beyond infrastructure; she was a pragmatic and well respected leader, and to me, an incredible mentor and role model.
The renaming of the bridge serves as a tribute to Senator Dziedzic's dedication to public service and her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Minneapolis residents. The bridge will stand not only as a vital transportation link but also as a symbol of her enduring impact on the community.
 Thank you to everyone who has been joining the last few office hours. I'm always grateful for the opportunity to connect directly with Ward 12 neighbors-- your questions, stories, and ideas are what shape the work I do. This is honestly one of my favorite parts of being a Council Member.
From conversations about public safety, to questions about business support, redevelopment, and the role of federal agencies in our communities, immigrant rights, and basic services I appreciated the thoughtfulness and honesty each of you brought.
Thank you to Sisters' Sludge and Lynette for hosting us!
Development is underway at the future home of the Minneapolis Democracy Center. Crews have made significant progress this year in preparing the former 3rd Precinct building at 3000 Minnehaha Ave. to become the heart of early voting and engagement in Minneapolis.
The City’s community engagement efforts found 70% of respondents living within the 3rd Precinct support plans to create the Minneapolis Democracy Center. This facility will include the Early Vote Center, offices for election staff, and flexible space for election-related equipment and supplies.
Cleanup
Crews have continued working on cleanup and repair. This includes HVAC and electrical work continues on the interior, along with window, door, frame and skylight replacements. With the demolition of the vestibule, exterior improvements are more visible. Also on the exterior, bunker blocks have been removed from the building’s entry and new windows are being installed. New signage and fencing has also been placed around the site with more information about its future as the Minneapolis Democracy Center.
Barbara O'Brien, Director of Property Services, recently guided City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher and City Clerk Casey Carl on a tour of the site. We captured that tour on video so the community could also see the work being done inside the building and our vision for its future. Watch the video.
Community use space
In addition to Elections & Voter Services, the Minneapolis Democracy Center will house a large, 8,000 square foot, ground-floor space for community use. In December, the City issued an request for proposals for a tenant to program the community space in the building. Three proposals were received. Currently, staff are reviewing the applicants who submitted proposals.
Next steps
The design process for the Democracy Center will begin this summer and will incorporate community engagement that will be announced in the coming weeks. A conceptual design presentation will be made to the City Council later this year. The project is anticipated to move into construction in 2026.
To learn more, visit the City website.
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 On Monday June 2nd, I co-hosted a Town Hall with Council Member Koski and MN Attorney General Ellison. I will always begin by thanking you for showing up-- for yourselves and for our community. In my time as your council member, community meetings have become one of my favorite ways of connecting with neighbors. It allows for organic connection and helps build rapport since people are often hearing and sharing information that is deeply important and impactful in their day to day lives.
AG Ellison was able to share a high level overview of the work his office has been leading to ensure Minnesotans are winning across the board. He shared that there is likely a settlement coming with Kia/Hyundai that will require installation of a zinc sleeve over the steering column to prevent theft, he listened to concerns neighbors shared about ensuring a complete count for the 2030 census, and the importance of collectively coming together to work through adversity.
We were also joined by the Director of our Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA) who shared information on the purpose of our separation ordinance, the city's collaboration for free legal services and the community office hours at 777 East Lake Street every Monday, Wednesday and Friday!
Thank you again to everyone that joined us!
Hennepin County and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board have announced their 2025 summer event schedules.
Hennepin County’s free, family-friendly events include live music, Pianos on Parade, movie nights at Target Field Station, fitness classes and more. See the entire “Go Outside with Hennepin County” lineup.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board movies in the parks runs through Aug. 30 with 66 free outdoor movie screenings planned. Music in the parks runs through Labor Day with more than 200 free outdoor concerts in eight park venues. Read more about this year’s movies and music in the parks on the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board website.
Come to a public information session July 30. You’ll get updates about the City of Minneapolis and Minneapolis Police Department’s path to meet the requirements of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights settlement agreement.
Effective Law Enforcement For All (ELEFA), the independent evaluator of the settlement agreement, will present the updates. ELEFA will present an overview of its role in the settlement agreement, describe its requirements and how it checks compliance, and provide implementation updates from the second semi-annual evaluation report.
5:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30 5:30-6 p.m. Food and refreshments 6-8 p.m. Event presentation 3333 Penn Ave. N.
If you have questions or require accommodation to attend, please contact ELEFA.
Learn more about the July 30 information sessions on these flyers (PDFs) in English and in English, Oromo, Spanish, Hmong and Somali.
You can also learn more about the evaluator and its work on its website.
 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.
The City will deploy five traffic safety cameras to begin automated enforcement of speed limits this fall. The traffic camera safety pilot program is a key part of the City’s Vision Zero initiative. Vision Zero aims to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries on Minneapolis streets. It pursues a future where everyone can move through our city safely, efficiently and equitably.
Camera locations
- Third Street North near First Avenue North in Downtown
- Fremont Avenue North near West Broadway Avenue in Near North
- 18th Avenue Northeast near Central Avenue Northeast in Northeast
- Chicago Avenue near Franklin Avenue East in Ventura Village
- Nicollet Avenue near 46th Street West in King Field and Tangletown
Traffic cameras may only be used for traffic enforcement and capture a picture or video of the back of the vehicle. They’re not allowed to take pictures or video of people.
Traffic safety cameras are meant to shift driver behavior and save lives, not generate revenue. As required by state law, any revenue from fines will cover implementation costs and investments in other traffic safety and calming measures.
Read more about the traffic safety cameras on the City website.
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.
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.
Find more information about traffic calming projects on the City website.
 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.
Registration closes July 29. Read more about National Night Out and register your block’s event on the City website.
 Nokomis Days is a beloved tradition in the Nokomis East neighborhood that highlights the small and local businesses in the area. This is a three day long event that includes local vendors, live music, and food! Family fun activities are scheduled to take place throughout the entirety of the event.
Please visit the Nokomis Days event page for more information.
 The 2025 Cultural District Arts Fund will grant awards to 65 art projects across the city. The projects will support community engagement, artistic expression and cultural celebration across the seven Minneapolis cultural districts:
- Lowry Avenue North
- 38th Street
- Cedar Avenue South
- Central Avenue
- East Lake Street
- East Franklin Avenue
- West Broadway
Find highlights of the projects and a full list on the City website.
Open Streets Minneapolis, the City’s popular summer event series, will kick off this year’s series Saturday, Aug. 2. Open Streets Minneapolis events transform the street for a day. Without cars, people can gather and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the city while walking, biking and rolling. Mark your calendar for entertainment, music and food.
- Aug. 17 Cedar Avenue between 15th Avenue and Sixth Street, and Riverside Avenue between Cedar Avenue and 19th Avenue Hosted by the West Bank Business Association.
- Sept. 20 Hennepin Avenue between West 26th and 36th streets Hosted by the Uptown Association.
 Register now for the City of Minneapolis’ Trans Equity Summit Aug. 11. This year’s theme is Trans Equity and Intergenerational Power: Strengthening the Future by Honoring Our Past.
The Trans Equity Summit is a free event designed for trans and gender nonconforming community members. The day is meant to:
- Connect to resources.
- Connect with each other.
- Learn more about important issues.
2025 Trans Equity Summit 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11 McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak Street SE
Check back for more specific information about keynotes, workshops and more. The planning committee will also share up-to-date information about the schedule, speakers, workshops and accessibility on the Facebook event page.
Register now.
One year ago, the City installed its first free naloxone vending machine at a Minneapolis fire station. By today, two vending machines together have dispensed more than 2,200 boxes of the life-saving medication. Naloxone is a drug that reverses opioid overdoses.
The two Minneapolis vending machines were placed in neighborhoods with a high amount of substance misuse and overdoses. They’re free to community members with no questions asked.
Read more about the naloxone program on the City website.
 Elijah, Guadupe, and Marakah opened Odigo, a community-focused wellness center. Nawal’s company is constructing the first affordable housing building in the Twin Cities to center the needs of East African immigrants. Reeka finally found a home she could afford to buy for herself and her son.
Thanks to the City of Minneapolis, things like this are happening every day. The new 2024 CPED Impact Report from the Community Planning & Economic Development Department tells the stories of Elijah, Guadupe, Marakah, Nawal, Reeka and other real people whose lives have been impacted by the work of City staff and the programs they administer.
CPED Impact is an interactive storymap that combines videos, photos, charts and graphs, and the written word. Its 18 stories show how the City delivers on CPED’s mission to grow a vibrant, livable, equitable, sustainable and safely built city for everyone.
Explore the 2024 CPED Impact Report.
Join in a public event July 30 honoring 35 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Share your story, watch a documentary and panel, and see the disability pride flag unveiling.
Signed into law July 26, 1990, the ADA is a critical civil rights law for people with disabilities. The law bans discrimination in all aspects of public life. This includes discrimination in City programs, services and buildings.
This anniversary celebration honors the importance of this law and the local leaders who have improved countless lives in and around the city. The City recognizes the important role the ADA plays in making life more accessible for people in Minneapolis.
ADA 35th anniversary celebration Please note the new date and time: 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30 Public Service Building, Room 100 505 Fourth Ave. S.
Get more details and register for this free event on the City website.
If you have questions, email Guthrie Byard, community specialist – people with disabilities or call 612-554-3666.
 Hennepin County is hosting community collection events for county residents to safely and properly dispose of unwanted garden and household hazardous wastes.
Upcoming Minneapolis event
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, and Saturday, Aug. 9 South High School, 3131 19th Ave. S. (enter off 21st Avenue South)
Visit the Hennepin County website to learn what items will be accepted, to review safety guidelines, and to see all 2025 events.
 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.
 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.
 Do you know when to call 311 and when to call 911? Knowing who to call can help everyone get the right services at the right time. And that makes us safer together.
For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. Learn more with this video.
Test your knowledge with this short, fun quiz.
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.
The State of Minnesota offers a list of doulas in the state with search features that make it easier than ever to find a doula. Doulas provide physical, emotional and nonmedical support for parents before, during and after the birth of a baby.
The site includes a map for finding doulas with filter options such as for home birth services, cultural or religious practices, and payment options.
Doula support is especially important for people in communities facing disparities. A doula can help families feel safer, more empowered to make decisions about their body and baby, and more connected socially. Research shows that the support of a doula can:
- Reduce the length of labor.
- Reduce the likelihood of cesarean section birth.
- Provide nonmedical pain relief techniques.
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Support the partner or spouse.
- Result in babies often born with better heart rates and breathing.
Read more about finding a doula on the State of Minnesota website.
The Lake Street Safety Center now offers a new service. Residents and community members can file a non-emergency police report in person.
City staff are available to help file report incidents including:
You can file reports in person until one hour before the safety center closes.
You can also file non-emergency reports by calling 311 or filling out a form online.
Learn more about the services and resources at the safety center on the City’s website.
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With warmer temperatures and bright, sunny days, the City has tips for residents as your gardens grow:
- Mow grass that reaches 8 inches or taller.
- Trim or cut back vegetation that hangs over sidewalks or the edges of alleys to keep them clear for people and vehicles.
- Mow vegetation that hangs over the street. It should be trimmed to the curb line.
- Prune and maintain the health and integrity of trees. (Residents with hazardous trees may qualify for help through the condemned trees assistance.)
- Discard rubbish such as loose or overflowing trash, scrap wood, brush piles, animal feces, etc., to keep rodents from setting up residence in yards.
If you receive a notice from the City to correct an issue, make sure to address it by the due date on the letter. After that, either the City or a hired third-party takes care of the complaint at the property owner’s expense.
Find out more or report an issue on the City website.
The City uses Smart911 to send important information to residents during an emergency.
Get alerts
You can choose to receive Smart911 alerts by:
- Text messages
- Emails
- Phone calls
- Push notifications in the Smart911 mobile app
- Wireless emergency alerts*
Alert topics
The City of Minneapolis will use Smart911 to send alerts on topics including:
- Snow emergencies
- Severe weather
- Public safety incidents
- Major infrastructure issues
- Major special event impacts
Find out more and subscribe on the City website.
*Wireless emergency alerts come through the nationwide Integrated Public Alert and Warning System.
Air quality affects everyone, especially people with asthma or other breathing challenges. Follow the Minneapolis fire rules and recommendations to keep our air safe and clean:
- Limit fires.
- Let neighbors know when you’re planning a fire.
- Recreational fires are only allowed between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m.
- Keep fires small: Less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.
- Skip fires on windy days.
- Burn only untreated, unpainted, dry wood.
- Keep a hose or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Don’t burn during an air pollution advisory day. Sign up for air quality alerts from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Watch a video for safety tips about recreational fires.
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