September 10, 2026 Budget Committee

The City of Minneapolis Budget Committee convened on September 10, 2026, to begin reviewing the mayor's recommended 2027 budget. Budget Director Shawn Green presented an overview highlighting a $753 million general fund, a $359 million capital program, and a $12 million technology improvement plan. The budget addresses a structural imbalance with a $60 million general fund gap, proposing $23.7 million in divestments and $33.5 million in investments, including targeted staffing changes such as adding police community service officers and community safety ambassadors while reducing violence interrupter contracts. The recommended property tax levy increase is 11.3%, aiming to preserve core services and restore financial stability amid rising costs and a negative bond rating outlook. The committee discussed department consolidations, particularly merging NCR and communications, and the need for greater transparency on position cuts and settlement agreement costs. The city auditor presented a benchmarking report comparing Minneapolis to peer cities, identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies, including consolidating call centers and improving contract oversight. Council members expressed concerns about police-related costs impacting other services, the need for clearer budget details, and the potential for shifting some health and human services responsibilities to the county. The meeting emphasized the importance of sustainable budgeting, transparency, and collaborative amendment development moving forward.