On Monday, Jacob Frey commenced his third term as the Mayor of Minneapolis after being sworn in amid a protest that interrupted his inaugural address. The ceremony, held at the Pantages Theatre, included various performances, such as an a cappella rendition of “God Bless America” and a presentation by the Somali Museum Dance Troupe.
Protests During Inauguration
As Frey prepared to address the audience, protesters disrupted the event, shouting from the crowd. One protester, displaying an “FTP” banner, was vocally challenging the mayor, prompting security to escort two individuals out to restore order.
Key Themes of Frey’s Address
Upon regaining focus, Frey spoke about the city’s resilience in overcoming challenges, mentioning the recent mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and the presence of federal immigration agents. He emphasized the impact of federal policies on local communities, stating, “The consequences of federal dysfunction do not stay in Washington.”
Focus on City Priorities
Frey outlined his administration’s priorities for the next four years, highlighting:
- Affordable housing initiatives
- Enhancements in public safety
- Economic development
“The motto for the next term must be opportunity,” he declared, envisioning a thriving downtown and a revitalized Uptown led by small businesses and cultural initiatives.
Public Safety Improvements
He noted promising trends in public safety with significant decreases in crime rates:
- Homicides down by 16%
- Robberies down by 33%
- Carjackings down by 36%
- Shots-fired incidents down by 21%
Frey announced plans to establish the first community safety center in the Southside and enhance the police force by increasing officer numbers beyond 600.
City Council Developments
Later in the day, the Minneapolis City Council, featuring four new members, voted on its leadership structure. Jamison Whiting, a new council member, echoed public sentiment around the fatigue with factionalism in local politics.
Leadership Appointments
The council leadership appointed included:
- President: Elliot Payne
- Vice President: Jamal Osman
- Majority Leader: Aisha Chughtai
- Minority Leader: Robin Wonsley
Payne highlighted the need for a unified approach to governance moving forward.
Calls for Action on Domestic Violence
Following the inaugural events, the Twin Cities Coalition for Justice claimed responsibility for the protests. They demanded accountability for the unsolved cases of Allison Lussier and Mariah Samuels, both victims of domestic violence. Protesters criticized the mayor and city police for their handling of these cases.
Demands from Protesters
The group requested the allocation of $5 million to create an independent unit dedicated to investigating domestic violence cases. They are calling for accountability and improvements in police practices to prevent further tragedies.
In light of these events, Frey’s third term as Mayor of Minneapolis began against a backdrop of significant community concerns and persistent calls for reform in public safety and domestic violence policies.
