Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board hosting public Learning Sessions to discuss park safety and policing
Posted on 19 September, 2018Community invited to sessions – Oct. 1 at Phillips Community Center, Oct. 2 at North Commons Recreation Center
Join the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board as it listens, learns, acknowledges, educates and gathers public input on the desired level of park police service needed to serve the community.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is committed to providing safe places for children and adults to gather and play. Since the July 10 incident at Minnehaha Falls, there has been an internal work group comprised of the superintendent, commissioners, staff and consultants who have been discussing short and long-term strategies related to safety and park policing. In mid-September, the MPRB started a series of Learning Sessions with a focus group of community leaders and sessions for youth. The MPRB is encouraging the public to attend one of the two community sessions being held in early October. Interpreters, children’s activities, light food and refreshments will be provided at each session.
• 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Monday, October 1, Phillips Community Center, 2323 11th Ave. S., Minneapolis
• 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Tuesday, October 2, North Commons Recreation Center, 1801 James Ave. N., Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is committed to working with the community to identify ways to improve park safety. Findings from these Learning Sessions will be reported to the Board and shared with the community before the end of the year and will inform development of recommendations in a Park Police Service Level Plan to be drafted in 2019.
Other initiatives being developed related to park safety and park policing include expanded youth programming, formation of a park police advisory council, and development of legislative agenda language to build awareness and strengthen laws and/or penalties related to reporting inaccurate information to law enforcement. All of these strategies will include community engagement and discussions. The strategies are being approached, and will be evaluated, through a lens of equity.
Accessibility and Interpretation
Somali, Hmong and Latinx interpreters will be at the Oct. 1 and 2 Learning Sessions. For reasonable modification because of a disability or other language interpretation, please contact the MPRB Community Outreach Department in advance of the listening session so arrangements can be made prior to the meeting. Contact Radious Guess at (612) 230-6419, rguess@minneapolisparks.org or use the Minnesota Relay System at 711. Providing at least 72 hours advance notice will help to ensure availability.
Click the links below to view translated flyers.
Learning Session Flyer (English)- [PDF]
Learning Session Flyer (Spanish)- [PDF]
Learning Session Flyer (Somali)- [PDF]
Learning Session Flyer (Hmong)- [PDF]