Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey delivered his State of the City Address, outlining a clear message that the city is on the right track even as national leadership falters. His remarks centered on the power of local government to meet the moment with competence, compassion, and commitment, especially in contrast to the chaos and uncertainty stemming from the Trump administration. As the federal government threatens community safety, education, affordable housing, climate action, and civil rights, Mayor Frey reiterated the City of Minneapolis’ commitment to each area.
Thanks to an expanding public-safety ecosystem, significant reforms in the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD), increased police officers, and a data-driven approach to tackling violent crime, Minneapolis is safer than it has been in years. The MPD is working tirelessly to rebuild, implement reforms, and engage with the community. In the last year, the city has seen a significant decrease in violent crime, including carjackings, assaults, and shootings. Mayor Frey also shared that the city had a 10% increase in 911 call answer times and made significant progress in clearing the backlog of police conduct review cases.
Since 2018, Minneapolis has produced 8.5 times the amount of affordable housing compared to previous years, and that work continues. This includes 4,700 new affordable housing units since 2018, more than four times the annual average from the seven years prior. Additionally, the Stable Homes Stable Schools program was expanded to every public elementary school in Minneapolis, which serves more than 6,200 students and their families. The city has also significantly reduced the number of homeless encampments since last year.
Through programs such as the Lake Street Lift initiative, the Downtown Action Plan, and the Vibrant Storefronts Initiative, the city is investing in its neighborhoods and entrepreneurs and has seen significant economic growth throughout the community. For the 14th year in a row, construction values topped $1 billion in 2024, and more than 25 entrepreneurs have been supported with almost $13 million through the city’s Ownership and Opportunity Fund.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
