Minneapolis Police Department outlines recruitment efforts and safety initiatives for 2023

The March 19, 2025, Public Health & Safety Committee meeting of the Minneapolis City Council focused on several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety and addressing public health concerns. The meeting began with updates from various department leaders, highlighting ongoing efforts and future plans.

The first speaker emphasized the importance of continuing work towards community safety, even in the absence of a finalized consent decree. Recruitment and hiring efforts within the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) were discussed, noting an increase in the hiring of interns, community service officers, and lateral transfers. The speaker acknowledged the challenges of maintaining staffing levels due to retirements and promotions but expressed optimism about improvements since 2020.

Looking ahead, the committee discussed the upcoming launch of an ambassador program along Lake Street and Franklin Avenue, aimed at enhancing safety in those areas. Plans for this pilot program include negotiating contracts with vendors, finalizing data collection methods, and training staff. The committee is excited about the potential impact of this initiative on the city's safety ecosystem.

Additionally, the search for a new director of neighborhood safety is underway, with interviews expected to conclude in the next month or two. This position is seen as crucial for advancing community safety initiatives.

Director Amanda Harrington provided updates on the collaboration with New York University's Policing Project, which is currently conducting ride-alongs and interviews with various emergency response teams. This partnership aims to address recommendations for alternative transport options for individuals in crisis and improve data reporting processes for first responders. Harrington reported that 46 recommendations from the Safe and Thriving Communities report have been completed, with ongoing efforts to form an advisory work group set to begin recruitment in mid-April.

The meeting concluded with a presentation from Assistant Chief Christopher Gaters, who shared highlights from the MPD's first-quarter activities. The committee plans to address questions from the departments following these presentations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic hiring, community programs, and collaborative efforts with external organizations. The next steps include the implementation of the ambassador program and the continued development of the Safe and Thriving Communities initiatives.