Ward 7 video

Downtown data centers - July 2, 2026

Council Members Elizabeth Shaffer and Michael Rainville co-hosted a conversation on the future of data centers in downtown Minneapolis. The City is working on long-term zoning rules for data centers. This panel brought together people from business, environmental groups, utilities, and labor to talk about:

• Turning old buildings into data centers
• How these projects affect neighborhoods
• How much energy and infrastructure they need
• Key questions residents want the new law to address

City Hall and City Council - May 15, 2026

Minneapolis City Clerk Casey Carl gives an intimate and in-depth tour of City Hall and the City Council Chamber. He provides a rich history of the building and insight into how the legislative process works.

Uptown safety - May 7, 2026

This conversation focused on public safety in Uptown. Minneapolis Police gave updates on reduced crime, ongoing challenges, and recent incidents involving unauthorized parties in condo buildings. They described how directed patrols, relationship‑building, and clearer 911 reporting can improve response times.

Staff also discussed limited police staffing, overtime, and efforts to address recurring problem properties using coordinated tools like trespass enforcement and partnerships with Inspectors and City Attorneys.

Renters' rights & tenant protections - March 28, 2026

This conversation focused on renters’ rights and tenants protections. City staff explained:

• How to report issues by calling 311
• What inspectors can actually enforce
• How Housing Liaisons help by connecting renters with legal and nonprofit support to resolve conflicts

They encouraged people to keep records, use anonymous reporting if needed, and understand how the rent‑escrow process works.

Tenant leaders and community members dicussed building problems, lack of response from landlords, retaliation, and unsafe conditions. Council Member Shaffer said renter protection is a priority. She highlighted new rental‑assistance funding, and encouraged residents to reach out to City staff, legal resources, and tenant‑support organizations.

Minneapolis Schools and Operation Metro Surge - February 22, 2026

This conversation focused on how Ward 7 schools, teachers, and parents are supporting immigrant families affected by recent ICE actions. Speakers described families being detained, students too afraid to attend school, and the heavy emotional and practical burden on teachers and volunteers. Despite this, the community has built strong mutual‑aid networks, offering food, rent help, transportation, and personal support.

They said there was still an urgent need for rent assistance, groceries, safe rides for students, and long‑term volunteer involvement.

Steven's Square & Whittier - August 23, 2026

This community safety meeting was held in response to a series of recent mass shootings in Minneapolis. Law enforcement and local officials address resident concerns, discuss current safety measures, and explore long-term strategies to combat gun violence.

Gun violence in Southwest/Central corridor - July 21, 2026

A community safety meeting following shootings at an Uptown nightclub and on 1800 block of Nicollet Avenue. Participants include the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office, Minneapolis Police, and the Mayor's Office.

Uptown safety - September 9, 2026

Council Member Elizabeth Shaffer's remarks at a press conference highlighting the progress the City has made recently in Uptown as well as the work that lays ahead.