In a recent Minneapolis City Council meeting, Chief Operating Officer Margaret Anderson Kelleher presented a new labor contract for the city's police officers, covering the period from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2025. The contract, which has been pending for some time, aims to restore compliance with union agreements and includes significant reforms and pay increases designed to attract and retain officers.

Kelleher, who stepped in for absent key leaders in labor relations and human resources, emphasized the collaborative effort that shaped the contract, highlighting extensive community input through public sessions and an online feedback portal. She noted that the contract reflects the priorities of the city council and the community, with input gathered from various stakeholders, including a mayor's work group.

City Attorney Kristen Anderson elaborated on the procedural aspects of the contract, explaining that the council's role is to approve or disapprove the negotiated terms without altering them. If approved, the contract will be sent to the mayor for signature and will take effect retroactively to the beginning of the year.

One of the notable features of the new contract is the consolidation of previously separate letters of agreement into a single document, which aims to enhance transparency and clarity regarding the terms of police operations and management rights. This move is intended to eliminate confusion surrounding the city's authority and the police department's operational guidelines.

Additionally, the contract introduces staffing flexibilities, referred to as \"7030,\" which are expected to address current staffing challenges within the police department. The council's decision on the contract is anticipated to have significant implications for the future of policing in Minneapolis, as it seeks to balance community safety with the needs of law enforcement personnel.