Minneapolis launches community safety ambassador pilot to enhance neighborhood trust

In the heart of Minneapolis, city officials gathered on March 5, 2025, to discuss innovative strategies aimed at enhancing public safety and community well-being. The Public Health & Safety Committee meeting showcased a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including the Office of Community Safety and local organizations, to address pressing safety concerns in the city.

Bethlehem Holliwork, a program manager with Performance Management and Innovation, presented updates on several key initiatives designed to foster a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. One of the standout programs discussed was the Community Safety Ambassador pilot. This initiative aims to deploy teams of ambassadors to patrol cultural districts, such as East Lake Street and Franklin Avenue, focusing on building trust within the community and addressing livability issues. The ambassadors will engage in street-level outreach, providing safety services and connecting individuals with social services, particularly prioritizing support for youth commuting to school.

Holliwork emphasized the importance of data collection and transparency in evaluating the program's effectiveness. A public-facing dashboard will track ambassador activities, including the number of referrals made and issues resolved, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement throughout the pilot period.

Another significant initiative is the Embedded Social Worker pilot, which seeks to enhance emergency response for individuals experiencing mental health crises. By integrating a social worker into the 911 response system, the city aims to provide timely support and resources for those in need. This pilot, developed in collaboration with Hennepin County Behavioral Health, is set to begin operations in August 2025, with a focus on peak crisis times.

Additionally, the committee discussed a Traffic Control Response pilot, which would shift the handling of non-injury collisions from the Minneapolis Police Department to civilian traffic control agents. This approach aims to streamline responses to non-emergency incidents, allowing police resources to focus on more critical matters while providing a customer-focused service to the community.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed optimism about these initiatives, which reflect a broader commitment to creating a safe and thriving Minneapolis. With these programs set to roll out in the coming months, residents can look forward to a more responsive and community-oriented approach to public safety.