Minneapolis Council Approves Upper Harbor Terminal Land Sale After Labor Debate
The Minneapolis City Council approved the sale of land for the Upper Harbor Terminal development project Wednesday after extensive debate over labor agreements that initially threatened to delay the $12.5 million project.
Councilmember Lisa Cashman initially moved to delay the vote for two weeks to ensure the Port of Minneapolis would sign a labor peace agreement with Unite Here Local 17, which represents hospitality workers. However, she withdrew the motion after developer Dana Frank of First Avenue Productions committed to negotiating in good faith with the union.
We responded saying absolutely, but I have to wait for the community representative to determine who they want to be at the table," Frank told the council. "I'm absolutely committed to negotiating in good faith with those partners with those neighbors at the table with me.
Councilmember Jason Ellison warned that any delay could jeopardize the project's timeline and state bonding money. The project must break ground before winter frost to maintain its construction schedule and preserve $12.5 million in state funding that expires if construction doesn't begin this year.
The council ultimately approved the land sale unanimously after Frank and Unite Here Political Director Wade confirmed their commitment to future negotiations. The Upper Harbor Terminal project has been in development for nearly a decade and includes plans for housing, jobs, and riverfront access in North Minneapolis.
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Areas of Interest (5)
- Controversy over the Upper Harbor Terminal site labor peace agreement stalls approval of land sale.
- Data indicates Minneapolis is a top metropolitan region for growth in Black-owned employer businesses.
- Council members debate denial of appeal for 4428 Edmund Boulevard; four members voted against.
- City of Minneapolis continues push for universal access and ADA compliance 35 years after federal legislation.
- Expansion of violence prevention services contract awarded at $3.1 million for 2025-2028.
Votes (5)
Add resolution honoring the life of Che Zong
Moved by Councilmember Vetaw · Seconded by Not explicitly stated (oral procedure)
Adopt agenda as amended
Moved by Councilmember · Seconded by Councilmember
Accept minutes from July 10 meeting
Moved by Councilmember · Seconded by Councilmember
Approve Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee report
Moved by Councilmember Wonsley · Seconded by N/A
Approve Business Housing and Zoning Committee report (minus item 6)
Moved by Councilmember Osman · Seconded by N/A
Notable Quotes (3)
This program is incredible. Completely changed my life and allowed me to build a resume like no other.
Research has shown that 40% of internships are unpaid. And studies have also shown that students that participate in an internship program often get higher starting salaries and better jobs.
We understand that many of you may not know what it's like to live with a disability, and we do, and we can marry those and provide a hand holding and assistance to help make sure that we have the best and most inclusive policies.
People (7)
Elliott PaynePresidentPresiding over the Minneapolis City Council meeting.
Presiding over the Minneapolis City Council meeting.
Jason ChavezCouncilmemberFormer Urban Scholar, advocate for internship programs.
1 quote
Former Urban Scholar, advocate for internship programs.
“This program is incredible. Completely changed my life and allowed me to build a resume like no other.”
Describing the personal impact of the Urban Scholars program.
OdomDirectorDirector of Urban Scholars program.
1 quote
Director of Urban Scholars program.
“We're not just offering you a meaningful work experience. We're offering you economic equity for the community.”
Explaining the value proposition of the Urban Scholars program.
Lisa MonerUrban ScholarIntern working with the Office of the Mayor.
Intern working with the Office of the Mayor.
Guthrie BuyerCommunity SpecialistCommunity Specialist with Community for Disabilities.
Community Specialist with Community for Disabilities.
Ken RogersChairChair of the Minneapolis Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities.
1 quote
Chair of the Minneapolis Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities.
“We serve to serve you all, and we are your resource in terms of disabilities.”
Defining the role of the advisory committee to the City Council.
Karen MowDirectorDirector of Neighborhood and Community Relations, Title II ADA Coordinator.
Director of Neighborhood and Community Relations, Title II ADA Coordinator.
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (3)
- July 24, 2025: Minneapolis City Council Regular Meeting
- July 24-31, 2025: Black Business Week
- July 30, 2025: Disability Pride Month Event at Public Service Building
Ordinances & Resolutions (4)
Recognizing National Intern Day and the Urban Scholars Program.
Commemorating the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Celebrating Black Business Week 2025 (July 24-31).
Honorary resolution for the life of Che Zong.
Source document
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Other Topics from This Document
National Intern Day recognition
Urban Scholars program achievements
Black Business Week 2025 commemoration
35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Honorary resolution for Che Zong
Administration and Enterprise Oversight Committee report
Business, Housing and Zoning Committee report
Labor Peace Agreement for Upper Harbor site
Public policy on disability access and universal design
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