Minneapolis mayor to propose revised 2020 budget in June

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey announced on Friday during his regular update to the Minneapolis City Council that he will bring forward a revised 2020 budget proposal in June.

Frey is taking the rare step to effectively address the economic downturn created by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a news release. 

The revised budget is expected to feature cost containment and reduction measures to account for a projected revenue shortfall of up to $200 million this year. The mayor is expected to make his final recommendations public on Friday, June 12, during a regularly scheduled meeting with the City Council. 

“As the economic picture in Minneapolis comes into clearer focus, we will need to make difficult decisions,” said Frey in a statement. “I will communicate honestly and directly with residents about how these decisions are made and continue working with city leadership to ensure our core services are delivered with excellence.”

Frey began the decision-making process this week, convening a series of meetings with department leadership throughout the City Enterprise. 

Starting this month, the mayor will review department recommendations that outline cost containment measures, including hiring and wage freezes, contractual obligations and furloughs.