Todd Barnette to Remain Minneapolis Community Safety Commissioner Following Mayor Frey’s Veto of Council’s Reappointment Decision

Minneapolis Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette will remain in his position after Mayor Jacob Frey vetoed the City Council’s decision not to reappoint him for a second term.

The City Council voted 7-6 against reappointing Barnette on April 10, 2026, falling short of the nine votes needed to override the mayor’s veto. Mayor Frey announced his intention to veto the council’s decision shortly after the vote, stating that Barnette had served the city with “great integrity” and that the council’s vote was not about qualifications but rather “vote trading” and “political gamesmanship.”

Barnette, who has served as Community Safety Commissioner since October 2023, oversees the city’s police, fire, 911, emergency management, and Office of Neighborhood Safety operations. Prior to this role, he served as chief judge of Hennepin County District Court.

In a statement released after the veto vote, Barnette said he remains “fully committed to serving the people of Minneapolis as Community Safety Commissioner.” He added that he is “thankful for the support I’ve received” and proud of the progress made in “strengthening public safety, building trust, and delivering real results to ensure every resident feels safe and supported in our city.”

Mayor Frey emphasized that the city cannot afford to restart a public safety search and risk losing progress made under Barnette’s leadership. He stated that he would “do everything in my power to keep Todd Barnette in this position.”

The council’s initial vote on April 10 was 6-7 against reappointment, with Council President Elliott Payne leading the effort to not renew Barnette’s term, citing a need for scrutiny of one of the city’s highest-paid employees. Some council members have raised concerns about budgeting in departments under Barnette’s oversight, alleging repeated overspending by tens of millions of dollars during federal surge periods.

Despite the council’s vote, Barnette will continue serving in his role while the veto stands. The mayor’s veto prevents the council from removing him from office unless they can secure nine votes to override it, which they failed to achieve in the subsequent vote.

Barnette indicated he would take time to consult with his family about his future before making any final decisions, though he expressed continued dedication to the role as long as he remains in office.