Council Member Jason Chavez Proposes Diverse Budget Amendments To Address Housing, Safety, And Economic Growth In Minneapolis

Council Member Jason Chavez Proposes Diverse Budget Amendments To Address Housing, Safety, And Economic Growth In Minneapolis

As Minneapolis gears up to finalize its budget for 2025, Council Member Jason Chavez has taken to informing the public about the raft of budget amendments he's put forth. With a keen focus on issues like housing and homelessness, public health, and community safety, Chavez is pushing for a series of financial injections aimed at boosting the welfare and prospects of Ward 9's residents. His efforts seem to be a reflection of the collective conversations had with the community, ensuring their priorities are mirrored in the fiscal planning.

In an online notification, Chavez laid out the details of the many initiatives he's backing. From stashing $1.6 million for the Avivo Village Stabilization and Shelter Operations Grant to earmark $830,500 for the expansion of the Stable Homes Stable Schools program, the council member's amendments are diverse, yet pointed. Notably, these amendments aim to reallocate existing budgeted dollars, rather than increase the city's levy—a balance of maintaining essential services without further financial burden on taxpayers.

Among the slated programs is an unconventional public safety measure that finds a dual purpose: providing low-barrier employment while also enhancing the cleanliness and livability of the Southside Green Zone. As per City of Minneapolis bulletin, this Public Safety Improvement Low-Barrier Employment Pilot Program comes with a funding request of $285,000.

With an eye to the future, Chavez supports piloting new community safety initiatives, including an unarmed response and investing in the growing Hispanic entrepreneurial sector in Minneapolis. But it´s not just public safety and economic development in his crosshairs; there's also focus on the smaller, yet impactful measures such as the Street Vendor Entrepreneur Grant and Compliance Program and the Electric Wheelchair, Scooter, and Mobility Aid and Phone Charging Stations Feasibility Study, showcasing the council member's attention to the nuances of city living.

The process for adopting these amendments is still underway. All council members' proposals were due by December 3, and residents will have the opportunity to voice their opinions during a public hearing on December 10. Should any of these amendments pass, the impacts could be significant for the communities involved. According to the bulletin, written testimony is also welcomed via email, serving as a vital conduit for the public to actively engage in the shaping of their city's budgetary future.

SOURCE: hoodline