Your trusted source for local Minneapolis, MN news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
An extreme heat warning affected the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota as temperatures soared to a record 96 degrees on Saturday. Officials urged residents, especially vulnerable populations, to take precautions against the heat. Vendors and community centers braced for increased demand as families sought relief from the sweltering conditions.
Minneapolis police recruitment is increasing, with applications rising by 133% by the end of 2024. The department, still below pre-2020 staffing levels, has welcomed new officers, including several from "legacy families" of law enforcement. Chief Brian O'Hara reports improved morale among officers as they recover from the aftermath of George Floyd's death.
Vance Boelter, a 57-year-old Minnesota man, allegedly attempted to assassinate state politicians on June 14, using a tactical rifle disguised as a police officer. The attack resulted in the deaths of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, while Senator John Hoffman sustained serious injuries. This unprecedented act of political violence has sparked discussions on public official security and the need to address inflammatory national discourse.
A shooting in downtown Minneapolis early Friday left one man dead and another wounded. The incident occurred shortly after midnight near 14th Street and Nicollet Avenue, following a fireworks display attended by a gathering. Police have not yet made any arrests or established a motive.
Toxic political environments discourage public participation, particularly among women and marginalized voices. Readers shared personal experiences of harassment and fear, citing these issues as barriers to engaging in governance and local politics. The assassination of Melissa Hortman highlighted the urgent need for a collective response to this crisis.
Minneapolis City Council candidate Becka Thompson's complaint against Wedge Live, a satirical news outlet, was dismissed for lack of evidence. Thompson had accused the site of creating a fake campaign website to mislead voters, but the state board found no probable cause. The actual domain holder was revealed to be a local volunteer, Naomi Wilson.
A 22-year-old woman, Kayli Grace Arseth, was found shot to death in her Richfield apartment during a welfare check by police. Authorities ruled her death a homicide, and there are no arrests yet in the case. Signs of a struggle were evident at the scene.
The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents approved a $5.1 billion budget that includes a 6.5% tuition increase for in-state undergraduates. Students express concerns that the hike will exacerbate student loan debt and make college less affordable. University leaders assert that financial aid programs will mitigate the impact on low-income students.
Minnesota State officials approved the largest tuition increase in nearly two decades, ranging from 4% to 8%, amid a $52 million budget gap. The decision came after a vote by the Board of Trustees, who expressed concerns over the financial uncertainties facing higher education in the state. Students at certain colleges, including Minnesota State University, Mankato, will face the highest increases.
The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents will vote on a contentious budget that proposes 7% cuts to academic programs and a 6.5% tuition increase for in-state undergraduates. Faculty and alumni criticize the plan, citing excessive administrative costs amid the cuts, with President Dr. Rebecca Cunningham acknowledging the need for budget adjustments due to flat state funding and declining federal support.