MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minneapolis Park Board Warns Jobs and Services Could Be Cut in $3.1 Million Budget Dispute

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 20, 2026) A disagreement over Minneapolis’ proposed 2027 budget could affect recreation-center operations, park maintenance and approximately two dozen Park Board positions.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is seeking a 5.86 percent increase in its property-tax levy. Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed budget currently provides the independently elected Park Board with a 2.5 percent increase.

The difference between the two proposals is approximately $3.1 million.

Park Board officials say the mayor’s proposed allocation would not provide enough money to maintain current service levels. They have warned that the smaller increase could result in the elimination of approximately 26 positions, reduced recreation-center service and less maintenance across the city’s park system.

The Park Board is considering a total 2027 budget of approximately $160 million. About $94 million would come from property-tax revenue.

Proposed expenditures include nearly $88 million for employee wages and benefits, approximately $60 million for environmental stewardship, about $29 million for regular park maintenance and approximately $26 million for youth and recreation programs. Some expenditures would be offset by revenue generated through Park Board programs and operations.

Frey has argued that administrative consolidation could help close the funding gap without reducing public services. He has pointed to separate city and Park Board spending on human resources, finance, payroll, communications and information technology.

Park Board leaders have pushed back, saying the mayor’s administration has not provided enough detailed information to demonstrate that consolidation would produce the projected savings.

A spokesperson for Frey described the 2.5 percent increase as a placeholder and said the mayor remains willing to negotiate a higher amount. The administration maintains that any consolidation should focus on administrative functions rather than youth programs or public services.

The disagreement remains unresolved. Budget discussions will continue before Minneapolis adopts its final 2027 budget and property-tax levy.

Additional coverage of the competing proposals is available from KSTP and FOX 9.

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