City briefs - Sep 2025

MPD Off-Duty Fees
The city council has approved new fees for off-duty police work next year. Based on a 1990s court decision, they must allow police employees to take independent jobs with private businesses and nonprofits, but the city is allowed to collect fees to cover costs of the city equipment and supplies that are often used, including city-owned vehicles. The approved fees are $6.99 per hour for use of city-owned resources without a vehicle and $27.58 per hour with a vehicle.

Nicollet Greenway bridge
Construction of the Nicollet bridge over the Midtown Greenway is beginning in September with the removal of the bridge and ramp access to the greenway. The 1st Ave ramp to the greenway will be constructed after the new bridge is mostly completed and will be one of the last phases of the project. The greenway may be closed for 1 to 2 weeks periodically during the construction. https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/nicollet-ave-construction/ 

City coaching contract
The city council has authorized a three-year contract of up to $1,386,000 with a private consulting firm, Darcy Luoma Coaching & Consulting, LLC, for a “new elected official orientation program, strategic advance and planning sessions, and leadership development and executive coaching for the mayor, city council and cabinet.”

Open Streets Hennepin
On Sept. 20, from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. there will be an opens street event on Hennepin Ave. between 26th and 36th streets organized by the Uptown Association. The street will be closed to motor vehicles and open for people invited to stroll, bike, dance, and connect with each other, local businesses, and various vendors during the street festival.

City budget hearings
People are invited to comment on the 2026 city budget at one of the upcoming public hearings the city council is holding at 250 S 4th St Room 350 on Friday, Sept. 19 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 6 from 1:30-4 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 19 starting at 6:05 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 9 starting at 6:05 p.m.

Metro Transit Security
The Metropolitan Council has approved a $57 million, two-year contract that will add security guards and transit rider agents at more transit stations including the Uptown Transit Center.