December 4, 2003 - An often-contentious year of negotiations has produced an agreement between Minneapolis police and community members that participants say could reduce tensions that now exist. The federally mediated deal calls for police to be more aware of race and mental health issues, and would create a new panel to oversee compliance of the agreement. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
November 27, 2003 - Shelter providers in the Twin Cities say demand for emergency shelters is high heading into the coldest part of the year. Emergency shelters for families are full in Ramsey County. Shelters for adults in Minneapolis are operating at maximum capacity. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
November 21, 2003 - An appointed panel today (FRI) discussed a range of options for improving security at the Hennepin County Government Center. The task force made no decisions, but is wrestling between those who want a new system of weapons screening and those wanting to preserve the building's public access. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
November 19, 2003 - Hennepin County Commissioners this week rejected an effort to dip into their contingiency fund to reduce the amount of Human Services cuts by five million dollars. The commissioners did leave open the possibility of restoring between two and four million dollars. Many community organizations whose futures are in doubt are eagerly watching the debate. One south Minneapolis agency helping developmentally disabled adults for more than 30 years is on the county's chopping block. Southside Services will shut down if the current spending proposal stands.Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
November 14, 2003 - Hennepin County officials expect another overflow crowd today (FRIDAY) for a hearing on funding cuts to many social service providers. It's the third such hearing as the county wrestles with budget cuts brought on by reductions from the state. The cuts in Hennepin's Human Services division is also taking it's toll on county employees. Officials have already eliminated hundreds of positions and expect to lay off up to 350 more employees in January. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes looks at one small group of Hennepin County social workers that have stopped taking new clients because of their work load.
October 29, 2003 -
October 16, 2003 - MPR’s Art Hughes reports on an alleged sexual assault by Minneapolis police officers. Report includes commentary from R.T. Rybak, Minneapolis Mayor; Keith Ellison, accuser’s attorney; John DelmoMPR’s Art Hughes reports on an alleged sexual assault by Minneapolis police officers. Report includes commentary from R.T. Rybak, Mayor of Minneapolis; Keith Ellison, accuser’s attorney; John Delmonico, President of Minneapolis Police Federation; and individuals in the community.nico, President of Minneapolis Police Federation; and individuals in the community.
October 16, 2003 -
October 15, 2003 - Federal officials are investigating allegations two Minneapolis police officers were involved in the assault of a suspect earlier this week while serving a search warrant. Police officials revealed late yesterday Tues the FBI is looking into the suspect's allegations. The two officers have been suspended with pay while the investigation proceeds. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
October 13, 2003 - The man who survived the shooting attack at the Hennepin County Government Center two weeks ago says luck and a series of helpful people kept him alive. Attorney Richard Hendrickson is out of the hospital, recovering from a gunshot wound to his neck. His client, Shelley Joseph-Kordell, died in the attack. Her cousin Susan Berkovitz faces murder and attempted murder charges in the shooting. Hendrickson spoke to reporters today (MONDAY) about the shooting. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes has more. BACKANNOUNCE: You can hear more from Richard Hendrickson as he spoke to reporters at Minnesota Public Radio dot org.