City Committees Tackle Business Recovery and Preservation Efforts Today

Business, Housing & Zoning Committee Convenes at City Hall

The Minneapolis City Council’s Business, Housing & Zoning Committee is scheduled to meet today, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Room 380 of City Hall. This session comes at a critical juncture for the city as officials and local entrepreneurs grapple with the economic aftermath of the recent federal immigration enforcement actions known as Operation Metro Surge. Mayor Jacob Frey recently estimated that the city’s economy suffered a loss of approximately $203 million in January alone due to the disruption of local commerce and the shuttering of small businesses, particularly in south Minneapolis.

Today’s agenda is expected to focus on policy adjustments and support mechanisms intended to facilitate the "Minneapolis comeback" promised by city leadership. Key items for discussion include:

• Grant allocations for small businesses struggling to reopen after the recent federal occupation.
• Zoning amendments aimed at revitalizing commercial corridors that saw significant foot traffic declines over the last two months.
• Housing stability measures for residents impacted by recent displacement and economic insecurity.

Heritage Preservation Commission Session

Later this afternoon, the Heritage Preservation Commission will hold its session at 4:30 PM in Room 350 of the Public Service Center. While the commission typically focuses on the maintenance and designation of historic landmarks, today’s meeting takes on added significance as the city looks to restore its cultural districts. Members are expected to review applications for building modifications and discuss the preservation of neighborhood character in areas most affected by recent civil unrest and the federal surge.

Broader Political Context: The Road to Recovery

The meetings today occur against a backdrop of significant political shifts. Following the ouster of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem last week, Minneapolis officials have intensified their demands for federal financial assistance to repair the city's financial stability. Mayor Frey and other city leaders have emphasized that the city should not be required to foot the bill for a crisis created by federal intervention. In recent press conferences, officials have urged residents to return to local businesses and support entrepreneurs who are on the verge of permanent closure.

Public attendance is encouraged for both meetings, and live broadcasts will be available through the city’s standard legislative channels. As Minneapolis moves into this recovery phase, today’s committee actions will set the tone for how the city intends to rebuild trust and economic vitality throughout the spring.