Councilmember Osman secures $650K for Cedar Riverside safety services amid budget debates

In a pivotal meeting on March 27, 2025, the Minneapolis City Council gathered to address pressing public safety concerns, particularly focusing on the neighborhoods of Cedar Riverside and Elliott Park. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as council members debated the future of violence interruption services in these areas, which have seen a decline in crime due to previous investments.

Council Member Osman passionately advocated for the continuation of funding for violence interrupters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety in Cedar Riverside and Elliott Park. "We have invested in the past and funded these programs to be in this area, and we have seen the positive outcome and crime going down," Osman stated, questioning the rationale behind reallocating resources away from successful initiatives. He proposed a resolution to allocate $650,000 in one-time funding from the public safety aid balance to support these vital services.

The discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the allocation of resources. While some expressed support for Osman's motion, others raised concerns about the implications of diverting funds from other areas identified by the Cure Violence model, which recommended eight geographic zones for violence interruption services. Council Member Paul Musano voiced skepticism, questioning the decision to prioritize Cedar Riverside when it was not among the areas recommended by the model. He cautioned against a "scarcity mindset," urging the council to consider the overall health of the city rather than focusing solely on individual wards.

Council Member Chowdhury echoed the sentiment of urgency, highlighting the need for services as warmer months approach, a time when violence typically increases. "It is really a gamble to take away services from these areas, where relationships are needed," he warned, advocating for a proactive approach to community safety.

Despite the differing opinions, a consensus emerged around the necessity of maintaining services in Cedar Riverside and Elliott Park. Council members recognized the potential risks of removing support from areas that have shown improvement, with several expressing a commitment to ensuring that all neighborhoods receive adequate safety resources.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved forward with Osman's proposal, reflecting a collective understanding of the delicate balance between resource allocation and community safety. The decision marks a significant step in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by Minneapolis neighborhoods, with council members hopeful that continued investment in violence interruption services will foster a safer environment for all residents.