July 30, 2026 Minneapolis City Council

The July 30, 2026, Minneapolis City Council meeting included significant procurement and contract discussions. The council approved multiple contract amendments and funding authorizations, including a contract amendment with McFale Music Center, acceptance of a state grant for employment services, and a bid acceptance for replacing floor boxes at the convention center. They also authorized program changes to affordable housing funds and approved a contract with Saba Software for enterprise-wide performance management system support and maintenance. Additionally, the council discussed and approved a cooperative agreement with Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority for a bridge project and a contract amendment with CS McCroen Construction for a bridge project. The council voted to refer the SkyO drone program contract back to staff for further review. A contentious discussion occurred over a $300,000 federal grant application related to the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN), with some council members opposing due to concerns about federal immigration enforcement language, while others supported accepting the grant to aid gun violence investigations. The council also approved the appointment of Enrique Velasquez as Director of Regulatory Services and Dr. Freeman as Fire Chief, with some dissenting votes and concerns raised about leadership and departmental challenges. Several ordinances were introduced related to fire and police protection codes, liquor and beer codes, noise regulations, event licensing, and animal care. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a resolution recognizing the 2026 Minneapolis Aquentennial and the approval of the Democracy Center project with conditions to support local businesses.