Minnesota’s top headlines this week include developments on gun control legislation, key criminal incidents, notable local government decisions, major business projects, and important updates in education and infrastructure. Governor Tim Walz’s efforts to enact stricter gun laws have met resistance. Despite recent shootings and the tragic loss of State Representative Melissa Hortman, Republican lawmakers remain opposed to banning assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines, making a special session unlikely unless a bipartisan deal arises, according to Minnesota News Network. The swearing-in of Xp Lee to the House of Representatives restores a 67–67 partisan split, which means all legislative progress now hinges on bipartisan cooperation. Lee’s victory in the District 34B special election reinforces DFL priorities, with a pledge to honor Hortman’s legacy and focus on education, health care, jobs, and public safety, as reported by Minneapolis Media.
On criminal justice, Minneapolis saw an 18-year-old man charged after a shooting at the University of Minnesota campus, although no injuries were reported. St. Cloud authorities identified Falus Ali as the victim in a fatal stabbing, with a suspect in custody and ongoing investigation. Minneapolis news also reported a deadly fire in the city’s northeast that claimed one life, with the American Red Cross assisting survivors.
In local government, the Hennepin County Board approved a 7.79% increase in property tax levy for its $1.13 billion budget, citing needs in climate action, equity, and public safety. Statewide, new audit and reporting thresholds are now in effect, raising the minimum for mandatory audits to $1 million beginning August 2025, as outlined by the Office of the State Auditor.
Major developments in the business sector include confirmation of plans for a substantial data center complex on 200 acres in Hermantown, as reported by the Star Tribune. The facility, called Project Loon, could break ground in 2026 and eventually employ up to 200 people, highlighting Minnesota’s emergence as a hub for data and AI infrastructure. Environmental impact reviews ongoing point to concerns about electricity and water consumption, but local officials are optimistic about public-private partnerships. In the retail sector, Blaine continues to focus on redevelopment of the Northtown Mall area, with a master plan to renew the site and address long-term economic growth.
Positive news comes from the education sector, where Kraus-Anderson has completed significant renovations at Dakota Meadows Middle School in Mankato and Irondale High School in New Brighton. Mankato’s $21.1 million project added a new gym, pool, and classroom upgrades, while Irondale’s $22.6 million maintenance overhaul shifted the school’s systems to geothermal, introduced energy efficiency improvements, and renovated key learning areas.
Recent weather events have been relatively calm, with no major storms or disasters reported this week. Law enforcement recapped their summer traffic enforcement campaign, which issued over 46,000 speeding citations and 1,400 DWIs, aiming to curb deaths during peak travel months.
Looking ahead, listeners can expect further debate on the gun control special session and updates on large-scale business projects such as the Hermantown data center. Xp Lee’s impact in the House is likely to shape legislative priorities, and infrastructure improvements at both county and school levels signal a continued investment in public services. Thanks for tuning in and remember to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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