March 29, 2002 - MPR’s Tom Scheck reports that Governor Ventura has renewed his threats to veto any proposed tax increases by the Minnesota Legislature and hinted he may call lawmakers back for a special session. Ventura said he was unhappy that only a few lawmakers are negotiating their budget balancing, transportation, and bonding proposals behind closed doors.
April 2, 2002 - MPR’s Cathy Wurzer interviews Steve Minn, former Minneapolis City Council member, about R.T. Rybak’s upcoming first State of the City address. It’s been three months since Rybak took office. After campaigning on issues like affordable housing, and restoring trust in City Hall, Rybak has had to handle a series of high-profile events, in addition to focusing on his stated agenda.
April 2, 2002 - Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak delivered his first State of the City speech, exactly ninety days after taking the political helm at City Hall. Rybak emphasized four issues that he says need special attention in the months ahead. He says Minneapolis needs to manage its money better, build more affordable housing and protect the environment. He also wants the city to be more welcoming to its various cultural groups. William Wilcoxen’s report also includes commentary about mayor’s speech from community activists and Minneapolis police chief.
April 16, 2002 - MPR’s Art Hughes reports on mayor of Minneapolis view on police chief. R.T. Rybak, mayor of Minneapolis, says any public discussion right now about Robert Olson's future as police chief is inappropriate. Rybak's statement came amid reports he has told Olson to find another job. Rybak makes it clear Olson is not living up to the new administration's expectations in terms of what Rybak calls community relations. Report also includes comments from City Council members Scott Benson, Paul Ostrow, and Joe Biernat.
April 16, 2002 - MPR’s Steven John interviews Paul Ostrow, president of the Minneapolis City Council, about status of Minneapolis police chief. There are reports this morning that Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak is planning to replace Police Chief Robert Olson. Rybak and Olson have not confirmed those reports, but Rybak has said he is concerned about the relationship between the police department and the community. The police have been criticized in recent weeks for shooting a mentally ill Somali man, and using aggressive tactics against people celebrating the University of Minnesota's men's hockey championship. If Olson does not leave voluntarily, the City Council would have to buy out the remaining two years of his contract.
April 18, 2002 - MPR’s Brandt Williams reports on Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak’s statements that it is time for Police Chief Robert Olson to go. Mayor Rybak says the chief hasn't done enough to foster public trust in the Minneapolis Police Department. Rybak will need the City Council's approval to buy out the remainder of the chief's contract. However, the council appears split on the issue, with some council members saying constituents don't believe a new chief will necessarily bring better relations between police and the community. Reports includes comments from Keith Ellison, attorney and community activist; Mathea Little-Smith, DFL activist; and Robert Lilligren, Minneapolis city council member.
April 18, 2002 - MPR’s Cathy Wurzer interviews Tony Bouza, former Minneapolis Police Chief, about possible leadership change in Minneapolis Police department. Last night, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak confirmed that he has asked Police Chief Robert Olson to resign. Rybak says he asked the chief to step down two weeks ago in his words "for the good of the community." Olson has not commented on those reports. Fifth Precinct Inspector Lucy Gerold is reportedly being considered for the job of interim chief.
April 19, 2002 - MPR’s Brandt Williams reports on Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak upcoming plans. Report includes subject of campaign promise of mixed income housing to the city, and on getting a new Minneapolis police chief.
April 24, 2002 - MPR’s Laura McCallum reports that Governor Ventura says he does not want to close the governor's mansion on Summit Avenue. He had considered closing the mansion since he has chosen not to move in there and the costs to keep it open were problematic due to legislative budget cuts.
April 25, 2002 - MPR’s Tasha Rosenfeld interviews Paul Ostrow, president of Minneapolis City Council, on lack of support on council to buy out of police chief’s contract. Minneapolis Police Chief Robert Olson will keep his job for now. City Council President Paul Ostrow says there isn't enough support on the council to buy out the two years remaining on the chief's contract. Last week, Mayor R.T. Rybak said he had lost confidence in Olson. Now, he says he will work with the chief if he needs to. Ostrow says dozens of Minneapolis residents have called the city to voice support for the chief. Ostrow also states that cost of buying out the contract was a big issue.