Minneapolis city officials are taking steps to streamline operations and improve service delivery as they prepare for the 2026 budget. During a recent Budget Committee meeting, Director Nzimbi outlined several proposed reductions in the mayor's recommended budget, emphasizing that these changes will not impact service levels.

One significant adjustment involves a one-time reduction of $197,302 for two community safety center positions, which will now be delayed until January 2027. This decision allows current staff to continue their roles funded by public safety aid until the new center opens, ensuring that community safety services remain uninterrupted.

Additionally, the budget includes a one-time reduction of approximately $21,000 for professional services, which will scale back some outreach and staff training activities. However, essential cost services will remain unaffected. Another ongoing reduction of over $14,000 will come from reclassifying budgeted positions, aimed at improving clarity and efficiency without compromising access to services.

A notable shift in funding is the transfer of the Lagan contract to the IT department, resulting in an ongoing reduction of $80,000. This move consolidates resources while maintaining performance and service levels.

The meeting also highlighted a growing trend in service requests, with a significant increase in online form usage, indicating that residents are becoming more comfortable with digital services. In 2024, the city processed 19,619 reports, an 82% increase from previous years, while in-person transactions for police records accounted for 25% of all service center walk-up activity.

As the city moves forward with these budget adjustments, officials remain focused on enhancing efficiency and ensuring that community needs are met effectively. The committee's discussions set the stage for a budget that prioritizes both fiscal responsibility and service quality for Minneapolis residents.