Weekly Update from Mayor Frey - August 7
Update from Mayor Jacob Frey | August 7, 2026
Next Week: Mayor Frey's 2027 Budget Address
On Wednesday, August 12, Mayor Frey will deliver his 2027 Budget Address at 11:00 a.m.
His address will focus on responsible steward ship, fiscal sustainability, and making difficult decisions to position Minneapolis for long-term success.
Due to limited capacity, we encourage all interested attendees to tune in via livestream.
Assessing, Civil Rights, and Regulatory Services Directors Confirmed
Today, Mayor Frey led a joint oath of office for three department directors recently confirmed by the City Council.
City Assessor Rebecca Anderson-Malmquist will continue leading the City's property assessments and valuations to ensure a fair and equitable property tax system while supporting its fiscal stability. Civil Rights Director Kaela McConnon Diarra will continue advancing the City's civil rights efforts by strengthening equity, enforcing anti-discrimination protections, improving accountability, and ensuring Minneapolis residents receive timely and effective civil rights services. Regulatory Services Director Enrique Velázquez will continue leading efforts to keep Minneapolis neighborhoods safe, healthy, and well-maintained through effective code enforcement, housing oversight, homelessness response, animal services, and more.
The renominations reflect the administration's commitment to experienced leadership and continuity as the City advances its priorities and delivers essential services to residents.
"I look forward to the work we as a City enterprise have left to do to keep safe streets, build affordable housing, and boost economic development opportunities throughout Minneapolis," said Mayor Frey.
National Night Out
This week, Mayor Frey joined neighbors across Minneapolis to celebrate National Night Out.
National Night Out is about more than a block party and gathers - though the food, games, and good conversations are always a highlight. It's an opportunity to build relationships, get to know the people who live around us, and strengthen the connections that make our neighborhoods safer and more welcoming.
"There's always something special about seeing a neighborhood come alive on a summer weekday evening," said Mayor Frey, "and I was grateful for the chance to connect with our neighbors across Minneapolis."
Thank you to all the residents, block captains, community leaders, and partners who helped bring neighbors together and celebrate the spirit of Minneapolis.
United Health Foundation Commits $1M to Support Health and Well-Being of Minneapolis Children and Families
Mayor Frey joined the United Health Foundation and Washburn Center for Children for a community event celebrating a $1 million investment to support the health and well-being of children and families across Minneapolis.
“The future of Minneapolis depends on the well-being of our children and families,” said Mayor Frey. “This $1 million investment from the United Health Foundation will expand access to critical mental health services, crisis support, and community resources for those who need them most. I’m grateful for the partnership of organizations across our city that are working every day to help our young people succeed, and for this important investment in the future of our city.”
The funding will expand access to critical mental health services, crisis support, and community resources through partnerships with Washburn Center for Children, Minneapolis Foundation, Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, and the Annunciation Hope and Healing Fund, who works directly with the families impacted by the Annunciation shooting last summer.
Following the announcement, Mayor Frey joined community leaders, nonprofit partners, and volunteers in packing backpacks with school supplies for local students, highlighting the importance of investing in young people and strengthening the support systems that help Minneapolis families succeed.
Second Neighborhood Narratives Spotlight: TAP IN Kitchen and Cocktails
Mayor Frey visited the 4th Ward with Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw for his second Neighborhood Narratives, spotlighting TAP IN Kitchen and Cocktails.
TAP IN Founder and Owner Chris Webley recently purchased the blighted gas station next door, which he will transform into an outdoor entertainment space through a $1M investment. The transformation plays into his event venue and community co-working space NEW RULES, a few blocks up the street, and hopes to see the outdoor space be utilized by neighborhood artists and creatives 365 days a year.
Watch the newest Neighborhood Narratives here.
City of Minneapolis Honored with Finance & Commerce Empowering Women Award
The City of Minneapolis has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Finance & Commerce Empowering Women Award.
Presented by Finance & Commerce, the award honors employers that have made meaningful investments in recruiting, developing, mentoring, and advancing women while fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
“We’re proud to be recognized for the work we’re doing to make City Hall a great place to work, and especially for our efforts to ensure women have the opportunity to grow, lead and succeed," said Mayor Frey. "This recognition belongs to the employees and leaders who are helping build a stronger, more inclusive City workforce every day.”
The City thanks the employees and leaders whose work continues to help create a workplace where women can thrive, lead, and build successful careers.
The award will be presented at the Finance & Commerce Empowering Women Awards celebration on September 23, 2026.
minneapolismn.gov/mayor
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