July 28, 2026 Committee of the Whole

The City of Minneapolis Committee of the Whole convened on July 28, 2026, addressing multiple agenda items across various committees including Business Housing and Zoning, Climate and Infrastructure, Enterprise Labor Relations, and Public Health Safety and Equity. Key procurement-related discussions included authorization of contract amendments, acceptance of state and federal grants, and bid approvals for projects such as floor box replacement at the convention center and bridge improvements. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice for the 2026 National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) modernization program, which would fund upgrades to ballistic forensic equipment used by the Minneapolis Police Department. The grant raised concerns among council members regarding language in the federal funding notice that referenced immigration enforcement, prompting discussions about the city's legal review process and commitment to protecting immigrant residents. The city attorney confirmed that accepting the grant does not obligate the city to immigration enforcement actions. The meeting also included a detailed update on the implementation of police reform measures under the city's settlement agreement and consent decree, highlighting policy updates, training requirements, and oversight mechanisms. Additionally, progress on appointed boards and commissions reform was presented, focusing on process improvements and member recruitment. Several council members emphasized the importance of transparency, legal safeguards, and community trust in accepting federal funds and advancing police reforms. Motions included forwarding the NIBIN grant application without recommendation due to concerns, with final approval pending. The meeting concluded with plans for ongoing oversight and reporting on reform implementation.