Minneapolis rideshare drivers are set to see more cash in their pockets as state lawmakers have agreed to boost their pay. The legislative nod, a victory for gig workers, was part of a compromise to retain the presence of companies like Uber and Lyft in the Twin Cities and beyond. As reported by the Ward 8 newsletter, this move could "impact the wages for rideshare The drivers throughout the country."
In a push towards tackling the affordable housing drought, legislators exempted comprehensive plans from undergoing environmental scrutiny, a policy shift clearing the path for the Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Seen as a pivotal step towards a denser, more inclusive urban landscape, this initiative, according to the City of Minneapolis, is aimed at "building more diverse housing options" to meet the rising demand.
Meanwhile, Minneapolis basketball aficionados are rejoicing as the Timberwolves bound into the Western Conference finals, priming the city for what's being billed as raucous "Wolves Back" block parties. Anchoring the celebratory mood, the city has brought some fresh paint to First Avenue, tagging it with a giant "Go Wolves!" salute between Fifth and Sixth streets North. Street signs have also gotten a temporary makeover, now flaunting the Wolves logo and team colors to mark this historic advancement, the first in 20 years.
As we head into Memorial Day weekend, the shadow of May 25th, 2020 looms, marking four years since the death of George Floyd. His memory is honored through the “Rise and Remember” event at George Floyd Square, with this year's theme being "As Long As We Have Breath, Reset." The event details, accessible on www.georgefloydglobalmemorial.org, underscore an ongoing community-led conversation to reimagine public safety in Minneapolis. The Ward 8 bulletin reminds Minneapolitans that "transformational work" is underway in the sphere of policing and community safety.
The city is also looking towards the future with the proposed redevelopment of 3000 Minnehaha Ave. into a democracy center, inviting public input on June 10. Furthermore, the Hennepin County Attorney's Office is stepping up its community support, offering a "Second Look Review" event to delve into judicial reforms on May 30, while also preparing to open its doors for an Expungement Clinic come June 15, boasting a new "Pre-Registration" system aimed at easing wait times.
Residents engaged with the welfare and future of Minnehaha and adjoining neighborhoods have a last chance today to voice their concerns and ideas via an online survey for the South Minneapolis Community Safety Center and the Lake Street Safety Center. Details on this have been circulated on the city's community safety center page, welcoming final feedback on how these centers should operate and serve.
