State agencies, local subject matter experts, and League staff all shared their expertise on topics important to Minnesota cities, so we wanted to share some key takeaways from each of these sessions with you.
Legislative Update
- In 2020, the focus of the legislature was pandemic response and police reform. Little else was accomplished.
- Going in to 2021, with the help of municipal leaders, the League will be working to protect resources for cities at both the state and federal levels.
Police Accountability Act and Implications for Cities
- City leaders have an important role in police reform — like fostering good relationships with their police chiefs and understanding how their police departments operate.
- The need to look at use-of-force reforms is not specific to the metro area — in fact, 60% of officer-involved shootings happen in Greater Minnesota.
Economic Outlook for Cities
- Minnesota is projected to have a $4.7 billion deficit for the upcoming biennium. Although that forecast will be updated around Dec. 1, the governor and legislature will address it when they convene in January.
- Polling during the webinar indicated cities are fairly optimistic about the impact on employment in cities.
A Legislative Spotlight on Elections
- Minnesota has a great history of voter turnout — in 2016 and 2018, we led the U.S. and are poised to again this year.
- Election administration looks different in 2020, but (thanks to the Secretary of State’s office and city elections officials) Minnesotans will be able to vote in a safe and secure way.
Normalizing the Conversation About Public Safety Mental Health
- Due to the nature of their jobs, public safety personnel may be at greater risk for PTSD/mental health concerns.
- A culture of compassion and support, proactive mental health programs — along with treatment options — can help keep your public safety teams healthy.
A Briefing from Gov. Tim Walz
- It'll take a strong state and local partnership to stem the impacts of COVID-19 — both from a public health perspective and from an economic recovery perspective.
- To get anything done, you've got to reach across the divides you’re working around and compromise.
Prefer a print-friendly version of these key takeaways? Click here for a PDF of this handout.