In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, several significant developments and challenges are currently in the spotlight. In Minneapolis, the city's violence prevention programs are under intense scrutiny. Allegations of mismanagement, fraud, and abuse have led to a series of investigations and reforms. The Neighborhood Safety Department, which oversees these programs, has been directed to provide regular updates on its funding, staffing, and oversight after a series of allegations last year. Lea Lakes, the deputy director of the department, is set to deliver an update on the status of these efforts during a city council committee hearing, marking the first update since the department's director, Luana Nelson-Brown, resigned in January. Interim Director Toddrick Barnette has emphasized the importance of financial accountability and transparency, highlighting that the city has agreed to audit past invoices for violence prevention contracts by February 2025 as part of a legal settlement[1].

In addition to these administrative changes, the city has implemented new requirements for organizations receiving violence prevention contracts, including the submission of canceled checks for personnel expenses and receipts for non-personnel expenses. This move aims to address concerns over the lack of documentation and potential misuse of funds by contracted organizations[1].

Across the Mississippi River, Saint Paul is experiencing its own set of news and events. Mayor Melvin Carter, the first African-American mayor of Saint Paul, continues to lead with an equity-focused agenda. Since taking office in 2018, he has achieved several notable milestones, including raising the city's minimum wage to $15/hour, tripling free programs in recreation centers, and launching the CollegeBound Saint Paul initiative, which provides every child born in the city with a $50 college savings account[4].

Saint Paul is also gearing up for its annual Winter Carnival, now in its 139th year and recognized as the oldest winter festival in the U.S. The event, which includes various festivities and activities, is a significant cultural and community event for the city[3].

In other local news, Saint Paul City Council President Mitra Jalali has announced her resignation, effective next month. This transition follows other leadership changes within the city council, which has recently announced its 2025 leadership following a period of transition[4][5].

The city is also focusing on youth employment and development programs. The Right Track Youth Employment program, which provides first-time work experiences and higher-level internships for young people ages 14-21, has opened its application process for the summer of 2025. Additionally, the Sprockets Youth Program has launched a new map to help connect young people with organizations working with them across Saint Paul[4].

These developments highlight the ongoing efforts in both Minneapolis and Saint Paul to address community needs, ensure accountability, and foster growth and engagement within their respective communities.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, several significant developments and transitions are underway, particularly in the city of Saint Paul. One of the most notable changes is the upcoming leadership transition within the Saint Paul City Council. As of February 12th, Councilmember Rebecca Noecker from Ward 2 will assume the role of Council President, succeeding Mitra Jalali who is stepping down to focus on her health. Councilmember Hwa Jeong Kim from Ward 5 will continue as Council Vice President, while Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson from Ward 7 will take on the role of chair for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), becoming the first Black woman to hold this position[1].

This transition highlights the council's commitment to maintaining strong leadership and continuity. Outgoing Council President Mitra Jalali has been a driving force for positive change, and her colleagues are poised to carry on her work. The new leadership structure includes various committee assignments, such as Councilmember Nelsie Yang from Ward 6 chairing the Budget Committee and Councilmember Noecker also chairing the Organizational and Policy Committee. Additionally, a new Public Safety Committee will be established, with Councilmembers Anika Bowie and Nelsie Yang serving as chair and vice-chair, respectively[1].

Saint Paul, known as the capital of Minnesota and the second most populous city in the state, continues to thrive with a strong sense of community and cultural vitality. The city is home to a diverse population, with over 80 languages spoken in its public schools and a rich cultural heritage evident in its neighborhoods and landmarks. The city's commitment to preserving and growing its urban village character is reflected in the ongoing development of its downtown area and the revitalization of its riverfront along the Mississippi River[2].

In response to broader national issues, Saint Paul has also been at the forefront of supporting its immigrant communities. The city has maintained an ordinance since 2004 that limits city employees' cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, ensuring that residents feel safe and have access to basic city services. This stance has been reinforced by local officials, including Deputy Mayor Jamie Tincher, who emphasized the city's long-standing position on this matter[3].

On the community front, Saint Paul is gearing up for several events and activities. The St. Paul Winter Carnival, one of the oldest winter festivals in the U.S., is set to kick off, promising a festive atmosphere despite the variable winter weather. Additionally, events like the Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo at the Xcel Energy Center and the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival are scheduled, showcasing the city's vibrant cultural and recreational scene[5].

In terms of local governance and community engagement, Saint Paul is also focusing on reimagining how power is held and shared among its council members. This includes creating more opportunities for council members to gain leadership experience and crafting better legislation to serve the community effectively. This approach reflects the city's dedication to inclusive and resilient governance[1].

Overall, Saint Paul is navigating significant leadership changes while maintaining its strong community spirit, cultural richness, and commitment to inclusive governance. These developments underscore the city's role as a vibrant and resilient part of the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, several significant developments and events are shaping the region's landscape. One of the most notable recent announcements comes from the Minnesota state legislature, where DFL Senator Matt Klein of Mendota Heights is introducing legislation to allow and regulate sports wagering in Minnesota. This bill, which has garnered support from key stakeholders including all 11 tribal nations, the state’s two horse racing tracks, professional sports teams, and bipartisan legislators, aims to establish a regulated sports betting framework. The legislation includes protections against problem and underage gambling and prohibits advertisements targeting minors. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Jeremy Miller of Winona is also sponsoring a sports betting bill that proposes a 20-percent tax on license holders, expected to generate $80 million annually[1].

In the Minnesota House, a power-sharing stalemate continues, with the GOP holding a temporary 67-66 majority but lacking the quorum needed to conduct official business due to a Minnesota Supreme Court ruling. Despite this, Republican leader Lisa Demuth has extended an invitation to any Democrat willing to join the Republicans on the House floor, though Democratic leaders have remained silent on the matter[1].

On the economic front, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) has seen a significant increase in passenger numbers, marking the fourth consecutive year of growth. In 2024, over 37 million passengers passed through the airport, a 6.9 percent increase from the previous year. International travelers also saw a notable rise, with nearly a 20-percent increase from 2023[1].

Saint Paul, the state's capital and second most populous city, is experiencing its own set of developments. City Council President Mitra Jalali has announced her resignation, effective next month. This change comes as the city continues to evolve, with ongoing projects like the Central Corridor development aiming to integrate neighborhood interests and enhance the city's role in the metro region[3][5].

The city is also known for its rich cultural and historical significance, hosting events like the St. Paul Winter Carnival, which is set to kick off for its 139th year. This festival, the oldest winter festival in the U.S., promises to bring back the winter spirit after a milder previous year[3].

In terms of public health, Minnesota received mixed grades in the American Lung Association's “State of Tobacco Control” report. While the state's smoke-free air law and access to smoking cessation services earned high marks, it received failing grades for funding state tobacco prevention programs and ending the sale of flavored tobacco products[1].

Additionally, there have been significant updates in local law enforcement and justice. Dominic Burris, one of the suspects in the 2023 Nudieland shooting in Minneapolis, has pleaded guilty to charges including aiding and abetting second-degree intentional murder and first-degree assault. He is set to face over 23 years in prison[1].

Saint Paul's community is also engaging in various initiatives, such as the new snow operations pilot in the Payne-Phalen and Highland Park neighborhoods, which will implement a weekly alternating one-sided parking cycle starting February 2. The city is also hosting informational sessions on immigration and preparing for winter special events through its Parks and Recreation department[4].

These developments highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, from legislative changes and economic growth to cultural events and community initiatives.

In the Twin Cities, significant changes and events are shaping the landscape of Minneapolis-Saint Paul. One of the most notable developments is the transition in the Saint Paul City Council leadership. As of February 12, 2025, Councilmember Rebecca Noecker from Ward 2 will assume the role of Council President, succeeding Mitra Jalali who is stepping down to focus on her health. Councilmember Hwa Jeong Kim from Ward 5 will continue to serve as Council Vice President[1].

This leadership shift also brings other changes, with Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson from Ward 7 becoming the first Black woman to chair the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), and Councilmember Saura Jost from Ward 3 serving as the HRA's Vice Chair. Additionally, the Council will be creating a new Public Safety Committee, chaired by Councilmember Anika Bowie from Ward 1 and vice-chaired by Councilmember Nelsie Yang from Ward 6[1].

Apart from the City Council transitions, the region is also preparing for the 139th St. Paul Winter Carnival, one of the oldest winter festivals in the U.S. This year's event promises to bring back the traditional winter feel, a welcome change from the previous year's milder weather. The festival, which includes various festivities and events at Rice Park, is a beloved annual tradition in St. Paul[3].

In other local news, the University of Minnesota and Essentia Health are proposing to form a nonprofit that would invest up to $1 billion over five years to improve statewide health care access. This initiative aims to address healthcare disparities and enhance services across Minnesota[3].

The culinary scene in St. Paul is also experiencing significant changes, with several popular restaurants announcing their imminent closures after years of service. Despite these closures, the region's culinary community remains vibrant, as evidenced by the inclusion of many Minnesotan chefs and eateries among the semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards[3].

Public safety remains a concern, with recent incidents including a shooting in St. Paul's Payne-Phalen neighborhood and a deadly crash early Sunday morning. Authorities are actively investigating these incidents to ensure community safety[3].

Furthermore, the community is engaging in various public forums and discussions, such as the upcoming opportunity for public input on potential changes to Interstate 94 between the Twin Cities. This engagement highlights the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and community services in the region[3].

In summary, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area is witnessing a mix of leadership transitions, cultural events, and community initiatives, all of which are shaping the future of the Twin Cities. From new City Council leadership to significant healthcare investments and community engagement, the region continues to evolve and address the needs of its residents.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, several significant developments have been unfolding, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of the region.

In Saint Paul, a notable change in leadership is on the horizon. City Council President Mitra Jalali, representing Ward 4, has announced her decision to step down next month to focus on her health. This transition will see Councilmember Rebecca Noecker from Ward 2 take over as the new Council President, while Councilmember Hwa Jeong Kim from Ward 5 will continue to serve as Council Vice President. Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson from Ward 7 will chair the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), marking her as the first Black woman to hold this position. These changes are set to take effect on February 12th and aim to ensure continued focused leadership across the Council[1].

The Saint Paul City Council is also restructuring its committee leadership. Councilmember Noecker will chair the Organizational and Policy Committee, with Councilmember Johnson as Vice Chair. The Budget Committee will be led by Councilmember Nelsie Yang from Ward 6, with Councilmember Kim as Vice Chair. Additionally, a new Public Safety Committee is being established, with Councilmembers Anika Bowie and Nelsie Yang serving as chair and vice-chair, respectively. This expanded leadership structure is designed to maximize the expertise of both new and returning Council members[1].

On a community level, the St. Paul Winter Carnival, the oldest winter festival in the U.S., is set to kick off for its 139th year. This event, which began on a recent Thursday, brings together residents and visitors to celebrate winter with various festivities, including activities at Rice Park[3].

In other local news, the Twin Cities area is experiencing significant developments in real estate and infrastructure. State money has been allocated to clean up two sites in St. Paul for redevelopment, including a bouldering gym on Harriet Island and a YMCA health center. This initiative is part of broader efforts to revitalize and develop key areas within the city[5].

The region is also grappling with various social and economic issues. Recent incidents, such as the death of a missing Apple Valley pizza delivery driver and a fatal car crash on I-94, highlight ongoing concerns about safety and well-being. Additionally, local businesses, including some popular restaurants in St. Paul, have announced their imminent closures, reflecting broader economic challenges[3][5].

In the realm of politics, Minnesota immigrant communities and advocates are preparing for potential changes in immigration policies, particularly in light of recent national developments. This includes bracing for the impact of new policies on local 'sanctuaries' for immigrants[5].

Overall, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area is navigating a mix of leadership transitions, community events, economic shifts, and social challenges, all of which shape the vibrant and complex landscape of the region.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, several significant events and developments have been making headlines recently. In St. Paul, a tragic incident occurred on Christmas Day when a toddler died from a fentanyl overdose, leading to the parents being charged by the police[1].

On the civic front, St. Paul continues to evolve under the leadership of Mayor Melvin Carter, the city's first African-American mayor. Since taking office in 2018, Mayor Carter has implemented several key initiatives, including raising the city’s minimum wage to $15/hour, tripling free programs in recreation centers, and launching the CollegeBound Saint Paul program, which starts every child born in the city with a $50 College Savings Account[4].

The city is also addressing immigration concerns with a recent information session on how to prepare for the second Trump administration. This session included an overview of current immigration court procedures and preparation tips, presented in both English and Spanish[4].

In terms of public safety, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been conducting targeted arrests of known criminal aliens, including a St. Paul resident, Cristofer Alexander Ramirez-Olivia, who was arrested for a conviction of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor in 2018. This is part of President Trump's promise of mass deportation, which has sparked concerns and rumors of widespread raids in the community[5].

The region is also dealing with various social and legal issues. A Twin Cities school worker has been charged with multiple counts of child pornography possession, highlighting ongoing concerns about child safety and the need for vigilant monitoring[3].

Economically, the Twin Cities area is seeing mixed trends. Office building owners are facing declining property values, but this downturn is also presenting opportunities for buyers. Meanwhile, local businesses are finding ways to thrive, such as a local business that started during the pandemic and is now celebrating two years at a physical location[1][3].

Culturally, St. Paul remains vibrant with its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city is home to many cultural landmarks, including the elegant Summit Avenue, the longest preserved Victorian avenue in the country, and the Rondo Days celebration, which commemorates the heart of the African American community in St. Paul[2].

In sports, the University of Minnesota men's basketball team recently secured a victory against Iowa, with Dawson Garcia scoring 20 points and Femi Odukale adding 18, highlighting the region's active sports scene[3].

As the area navigates through the challenges and opportunities of the new year, it is clear that Minneapolis-Saint Paul continues to be a dynamic and diverse metropolitan region, marked by significant social, economic, and cultural activities.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, several significant events and developments have been making headlines recently. In St. Paul, a tragic incident occurred on Christmas Day when a toddler died from a fentanyl overdose, leading to the parents being charged by the police[1].

On a different note, the community is mourning the loss of St. Paul police officer Shawn Filiowich, who passed away at 52 due to pancreatic cancer. Officer Filiowich was known for his dedication and resilience, having never given up on life despite his health challenges[1].

The city of St. Paul is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. Professional musicians have been joining the Catholic Chorale for Sunday Masses at a local church, adding a touch of heavenly music to the community's spiritual gatherings[1].

In terms of governance, St. Paul is led by Mayor Melvin Carter, the first African-American mayor of the city. Since taking office in 2018, Mayor Carter has implemented several initiatives, including raising the minimum wage to $15/hour, tripling free programs in recreation centers, and launching the CollegeBound Saint Paul program, which provides every child born in the city with a $50 College Savings Account[4].

The city's commitment to community development is evident in its innovative approaches to urban planning. For instance, St. Paul has been developing its riverfront, which now hosts various concerts and commercial activities, enhancing the city's livability and economic vitality[2].

Immigration issues have also been a point of focus in the region. With President Trump's administration enforcing stricter immigration policies, there have been targeted arrests of undocumented immigrants, including a St. Paul resident who was convicted of a criminal offense in 2018. This crackdown has raised concerns and rumors of widespread raids, prompting immigration advocates to emphasize the importance of knowing one's rights regardless of immigration status[5].

In addition to these developments, the Twin Cities area is experiencing economic shifts. Office building owners are facing declining property values, but this downturn is seen as an opportunity by potential buyers. The region's dynamic business environment, including the presence of Fortune 500 companies and numerous small businesses, continues to drive economic growth[1].

The cultural diversity of St. Paul is another notable aspect, with over 80 languages spoken in the city's public schools. The city celebrates its diverse heritage through events like Rondo Days, which commemorates the historic African American community of Rondo that was displaced by the construction of Interstate 94 in the 1960s[2].

As the region navigates through various challenges and changes, it remains a hub of cultural, economic, and historical significance, reflecting the resilience and diversity of its communities.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area, known as the Twin Cities, several significant events and developments have been making headlines recently. One of the most notable is the extreme cold snap that has gripped Minnesota, with this week likely being the coldest 24 hours of the winter. Temperatures plummeted to as low as -14 degrees at MSP Airport, and wind chill readings in northern Minnesota dropped to the 40s below zero. This cold spell has been particularly harsh, with Tuesday morning expected to be the coldest night, potentially reaching -17 to -18 degrees in the Twin Cities, a temperature not seen since January 2022[3].

In Saint Paul, the city is preparing for various cultural and entertainment events. Trent Reznor, the founder of Nine Inch Nails, is set to return to the Xcel Energy Center as part of the Peel It Back Tour, marking a return to live performances after focusing on film and TV scoring in recent years[1].

Saint Paul continues to thrive as a commercial and cultural hub. The city is home to many Fortune 500 company headquarters and a diverse array of small businesses and professional firms. It is also known for its rich historical and cultural significance, being the capital of Minnesota and the state's historical and cultural heart. The city's commitment to preserving its urban village character is evident in its ongoing development of the Downtown area and the riverfront, which now hosts concerts and commercial activities[2].

The Twin Cities area is also experiencing significant economic and real estate shifts. Office building owners are facing declining property values, but this downturn is seen as an opportunity by potential buyers. The region remains a vital economic center, with Minneapolis and Saint Paul collectively hosting numerous major corporate headquarters, including Target Corporation, U.S. Bancorp, and Xcel Energy[2][4].

In terms of community and social issues, Minnesota's immigrant communities are bracing for potential changes with the return of former President Trump, who has announced plans for a crackdown on immigration. This has raised concerns among advocates and community leaders in the Twin Cities, which have historically been welcoming to immigrant populations[1].

The cities' diverse cultural landscape is further highlighted by events such as the Rondo Days celebration in Saint Paul, which commemorates the historic Rondo neighborhood, a significant part of the African American community before it was disbanded due to the construction of Interstate 94 in the 1960s. Additionally, professional musicians are joining the Catholic Chorale for Sunday Masses at a church in Saint Paul, reflecting the city's vibrant musical and religious heritage[1][2].

Overall, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area continues to be a dynamic and diverse region, marked by significant cultural, economic, and social developments that shape the lives of its residents.

Minneapolis and Saint Paul, collectively known as the Twin Cities, are currently experiencing one of the coldest periods of the winter season. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the region saw temperatures that were likely the coldest 24 hours of the winter, with subzero air temperatures and wind chill readings plummeting to as low as 40 degrees below zero in northern Minnesota[3].

The extreme cold led to multiple school districts in Minnesota reporting delays, closings, and e-learning days. The Twin Cities, in particular, faced temperatures that made Monday the coldest calendar day in six years, with actual air temperatures subzero and feels-like temperatures ranging from 25 to 45 degrees below zero. This prompted a cold weather advisory or extreme cold warning across much of the state[1].

In terms of specific temperatures, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport recorded a low of -14 degrees on Monday, with Tuesday's low expected to be around -17 to -18 degrees, which would be the coldest temperature in the Twin Cities in three years[3].

Despite the harsh weather, the Twin Cities are known for their resilience and vibrant cultural scene. Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota, boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with more city shoreline on the Mississippi River than any other city. It is home to many commercial, manufacturing, transportation, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. The city's public schools reflect its diversity, with over 80 languages spoken[2].

Minneapolis, the state's most populous city, is renowned for its "City of Lakes" moniker, with thirteen lakes, wetlands, and the Mississippi River contributing to its scenic landscape. The city is also a hub for arts and culture, with major institutions like the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, and the Guthrie Theater. Minneapolis is home to the University of Minnesota's main campus and has a diverse population adhering to more than fifty religions[4].

As the cold snap begins to ease, temperatures are expected to rise slowly, with highs reaching the 20s by Wednesday and further warming up to the 30s by Thursday. However, residents are advised to remain cautious, especially when engaging in winter activities, as fluctuating temperatures have made the ice on many lakes very brittle[5].

In other news, public schools in Fridley were closed on Wednesday due to a reported threat to school safety, highlighting the ongoing concerns about safety in educational institutions. The Minnesota Legislature has also begun its 2025 session, though it has been marked by a boycott from many DFL members who argue that a special election needs to take place before the body can fairly move forward[5].

The Twin Cities continue to navigate the challenges of extreme weather and political dynamics, but their strong sense of community and cultural vitality remain unwavering. As the region transitions into warmer days, residents are looking forward to a more stable and comfortable climate, while still appreciating the unique character and resilience that define Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

In the Minneapolis-Saint Paul region, several significant developments have been making headlines recently. One of the most notable is the rollout of the 2025 budget proposal by Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. Following the latest economic forecast, which revealed a projected $616-million surplus for the state, the governor expressed optimism about crafting a "measured, responsible bi-partisan budget" that will continue to advance Minnesota. However, the forecast also warned of a potential $5-billion budget deficit in fiscal years 2028 and 2029, highlighting the need for prudent financial planning[1].

In other news, the Federal Trade Commission, along with the attorneys general of Minnesota and Illinois, has filed a lawsuit against John Deere over its equipment repair policies. The lawsuit alleges that John Deere has created an "unlawful repair monopoly" by not providing customers with adequate options to repair their farm equipment, making the process slower and more expensive than necessary[1].

On the security front, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported a slight decrease in the number of guns detected at airport security checkpoints, including those at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. In 2024, TSA agents stopped 52 guns at MSP, down from 53 in 2023 and 58 in 2022. This decrease comes despite an 8.3 percent increase in passenger traffic[1].

In St. Paul, there have been several local incidents and developments. A former Rochester police officer, Timothy Morgenstern, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl, highlighting ongoing issues with law enforcement misconduct. Additionally, a St. Paul man is facing charges for attempting to kill an officer during a police chase, involving a stolen gun and cocaine possession[1][5].

The city of St. Paul is also celebrating its rich cultural heritage. The city is marking 100 years since the publication of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," a nod to its historical significance as the home of notable authors like Fitzgerald and Sinclair Lewis. St. Paul's vibrant neighborhoods, such as those along the Mississippi River, continue to thrive with new developments and community events[2][3].

In terms of community services, the Mayo Clinic in Rochester has introduced an online scheduling system for its blood donor program. This new system allows donors to track their previous donations and schedule new appointments, making the process more convenient and accessible[1].

The region's educational and safety concerns are also being addressed. Public schools in Fridley were closed temporarily due to a reported threat to school safety, and there is ongoing discussion about the makeup of the Minnesota Legislature as it begins its 2025 session, with some DFL members boycotting the start of the session over calls for a special election[5].

Overall, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area is navigating a mix of economic, legal, and community-focused issues, reflecting the dynamic and complex nature of the region.