Is Toddrick Barnette's tenure as community safety commissioner improving Minneapolis?
- Toddrick Barnette was appointed as Minneapolis' community safety commissioner in October 2023.
- He emphasizes listening to community needs and fostering non-police responses where appropriate.
- Barnette is optimistic about the strides made in his first year, especially in partnerships aimed at neighborhood safety.
In October 2023, Toddrick Barnette was sworn in as the community safety commissioner for Minneapolis, bringing with him over 30 years of experience in public safety and legal affairs. Barnette is notable for being the first person of color to hold the position of chief judge in Hennepin County, a role he stepped down from to take on the commissioner position. Since joining the office, he has focused on establishing strong ties with the community, emphasizing the importance of listening to residents to effectively address their needs in public safety. His approach advocates for transparency and community engagement, recognizing distinct desires for non-police responses to certain situations. Under Barnette's leadership, he supervises five key agencies: police, fire, emergency medical services (EMS), 911, and neighborhood safety programs. Acknowledging the political challenges in these areas, Barnette is keen on developing solutions that not only maintain safety but also foster trust within the community. He recognizes that many residents are advocating for a shift towards alternatives to police intervention in specific scenarios, particularly where mental health and social services may be more appropriate responses than traditional law enforcement. Barnette has identified various pressing issues, including homelessness and juvenile crime. He emphasized the need to address the root causes of homelessness, particularly concerning encampments in the city. His focus is on targeting individuals who exploit and victimize vulnerable populations, such as those involved in sex trafficking. By partnering with over 70 organizations that contract with the city, Barnette aims to ensure their efforts in neighborhood safety are data-driven and effective in meeting contractual expectations. As he reflects on his first year in office, Barnette is encouraged by the progress made and the potential for meaningful change. He continues to engage with community members to understand their concerns better and to work collaboratively on shaping the future of public safety in Minneapolis. His commitment is to create responsive and adaptive services that truly reflect the needs of the community, indicating a possible transformation in the approach to community safety and justice in the city.