Business & Economy

Minnesota paid leave on track for Jan. 1; early applications open and 0.88% payroll tax set

5h TC 4

Minnesota’s paid family and medical leave program is on track to begin Jan. 1, 2026, with early applications already being accepted for parental bonding and a payroll tax set at 0.88% (employers may pass roughly half — about 0.44% — to employees or cover the full amount). Eligibility requires at least $3,900 in prior-year earnings, benefits generally replace 55–90% of wages (capped at about $1,423/week) with up to 12 weeks per event and a 20-week annual maximum, job-restoration protections after 90 days, and the state says it will use layered fraud controls — LoginMN ID and live‑selfie verification, electronic health record certification, unemployment-insurance data, analytics and random audits — to administer an expected first-year caseload of about 130,000 at an estimated cost of $1.6 billion.

Business & Economy Technology Local Government

Minnesota sets new rest, meal break minimums Jan. 1

5h TC 1

Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, Minnesota law requires employers to provide at least a 15‑minute rest break (or enough time to reach the nearest restroom, whichever is longer) within each four consecutive hours worked, and a minimum 30‑minute meal break for every six consecutive hours. The change, part of several laws taking effect statewide, also coincides with other updates noted by officials, including higher watercraft surcharges and an end to shotgun‑only deer hunting zones.

Local Government Business & Economy

Walz appoints statewide fraud‑prevention director and launches program‑integrity push

2d Breaking TC 2

Gov. Tim Walz on Dec. 12, 2025, formally appointed a statewide fraud‑prevention director and announced a program‑integrity initiative. The effort is intended to strengthen anti‑fraud oversight and coordination across state agencies.

Legal Business & Economy Local Government

Judge OKs asset pursuit in Normandale debt case

2d Breaking TC 1

A judge ruled MidWestOne Bank can pursue the personal assets of a New York real‑estate executive who guaranteed $36 million in loans tied to a Normandale Lake office tower in Bloomington. The decision advances the bank’s recovery efforts in the high‑stakes commercial real‑estate dispute involving a prominent Twin Cities property.

Legal Business & Economy

Andersen to pay $52.2M in profit sharing

3d Breaking TC 2

Bayport-based Andersen Corp. will pay $52.2 million in profit-sharing payouts for 2025. The 2025 checks are smaller than in 2024, when Andersen paid an average of $3,923 per worker.

Employment Business & Economy

House votes to void Trump federal union order

3d Developing TC 1

The U.S. House on Dec. 11 voted to nullify a Trump executive order that curtailed collective‑bargaining rights for federal employees, a step that would restore bargaining rights if enacted. The measure now heads to the Senate and, if it becomes law, would directly affect thousands of federal workers in the Twin Cities at agencies operating in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro.

Legal Business & Economy

DOT: No hotel/meals owed for recall disruptions

3d Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Department of Transportation said Dec. 11 that airlines are not required to cover passenger expenses like hotels, meals, or ground transportation when flights are disrupted by manufacturer aircraft recalls or groundings. The clarification, following recent Airbus A320-family issues, still leaves passengers eligible for refunds on canceled flights under federal rules; Twin Cities travelers at MSP should expect airlines may offer goodwill aid but are not obligated to pay incidental costs in recall situations.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

SPDDC buys Empire & Endicott; tenant search set for 2026

3d Breaking TC 2

St. Paul Downtown Development Corp. has purchased the Empire Building and the Endicott Arcade in downtown St. Paul. The organization says it will reutilize the Empire Building as part of a downtown stabilization strategy and will begin work in 2026 to identify commercial and retail users for the Endicott Arcade.

Housing Business & Economy

Senate rejects ACA subsidy extension and GOP alternative; premium impacts loom

4d TC 6

The U.S. Senate voted down both a Democratic plan to extend enhanced ACA premium subsidies and a Republican alternative that did not include the extension, making a lapse for the 2026 plan year more likely. If subsidies end, up to 24 million exchange enrollees could face higher costs — including about 89,000 MNsure recipients who could see premiums rise roughly 50% — while the White House had circulated a competing two‑year extension draft that would cap eligibility at 700% of the federal poverty level and require a minimum premium (reported options include about 2% of income or $5/month).

Business & Economy Health Government

30‑year mortgage rate edges up to 6.22%

4d Breaking TC 1

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey shows the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate ticked up to 6.22% as of Dec. 11, 2025, while remaining close to this year’s lows. The move influences home affordability and refinancing for Minneapolis–Saint Paul households heading into the winter housing market.

Business & Economy Housing

Ramsey County sets 9.75% preliminary levy

4d Breaking TC 2

Ramsey County commissioners set a preliminary property tax levy increase of 9.75% while saying they may try to lower it. A truth-in-taxation hearing is scheduled Thursday to take public comment and provide residents with information on how to learn more and submit feedback on the proposal.

Local Government Business & Economy

Andersen to buy 1,000‑employee Bright Wood

4d Breaking TC 1

Bayport-based Andersen Corp. said Dec. 10 it will acquire Bright Wood Corp., a Pacific Northwest window‑component manufacturer with about 1,000 employees that has been family‑owned for more than six decades. Andersen also plans to bring in a former competitor’s CEO to lead the operation, signaling integration and leadership changes tied to the deal.

Business & Economy

Daikin Applied building $163M Twin Cities R&D facility

6d Breaking TC 1

Daikin Applied Americas announced plans to build a $163 million research-and-development facility in the Twin Cities, focusing on advanced cooling needs driven by the growth of artificial intelligence and cloud computing. The project adds a major corporate investment to the metro’s tech and manufacturing ecosystem; further details on site, timeline and hiring were not disclosed in the preview.

Business & Economy Technology

Boston Scientific buys Maple Grove facility for $188M

7d Breaking TC 1

Boston Scientific has purchased a newly built facility in Maple Grove for $188 million, further expanding its presence in the northwest Twin Cities metro. The deal underscores continued investment by the medtech giant in its local operations; additional details about the building and any staffing plans were not immediately available.

Business & Economy Real Estate

FAA eases nationwide flight cuts to 3%; MSP still under limits

Dec 06 Developing TC 32

The FAA has scaled back its mandated flight‑capacity reductions at 40 major U.S. airports from a planned 10% ramp (held at 6%) to 3% as controller attendance improved, but the order — in effect since Nov. 7 amid unpaid air traffic controllers, staffing shortages and missed paychecks — remains in place and continues to limit operations at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International (MSP). The cuts and earlier staffing shortfalls have caused widespread delays and thousands of cancellations nationwide (dozens at MSP), prompted airlines to offer refunds and waivers, and spurred an FAA probe into carriers’ handling of the reductions.

Government & Politics Transit & Infrastructure Government

AG Ellison to mediate UMN–M Physicians–Fairview talks; parties resume negotiations

Dec 05 Breaking TC 6

The University of Minnesota, Fairview Health Services and M Physicians agreed to resume talks over the medical school’s future funding and clinical partnership with Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison managing the negotiations and naming a team to assist and help select a mutually agreed mediator. The move follows a contentious standoff — Fairview and M Physicians had announced a roughly $1 billion, “foundational and binding” framework they aim to finalize by end of 2025, while UMN regents unanimously criticized the pact as an overreach (calling it a “hostile takeover”), passed a resolution directing negotiations with the university and prompted the removal of M Physicians leader Dr. Greg Beilman from a UMN vice president post.

Local Government Health Business & Economy

MMB forecast: $2.4B surplus now, nearly $3B 2028–29 shortfall

Dec 04 Breaking TC 2

Minnesota Management and Budget’s new forecast shows a near‑term surplus of about $2.4 billion — roughly $549 million higher than previously estimated — but predicts a nearly $3 billion shortfall in the 2028–29 biennium, driven largely by rising health‑care costs. Gov. Tim Walz cautioned that federal tariffs and health‑care changes add uncertainty while saying the budget remains on solid footing; the outlook has swung since March’s roughly $6 billion projected shortfall and the June special session that trimmed the biennial budget from $72 billion to $66 billion (post‑session estimates briefly cut the out‑year gap to about $1.1 billion before federal changes were factored in).

Local Government Business & Economy

$1,000 'Trump Accounts' for 2025–2028 newborns

Dec 04 Breaking TC 1

A new federal program will deposit $1,000 into investment accounts for all U.S. babies born 2025–2028 once parents open an account, with funds invested in low‑fee U.S. stock index funds and accessible at age 18 for restricted uses such as tuition, a home down payment or starting a business. Michael and Susan Dell also pledged $6.25 billion to add a $250 seed for some children age 10 and under in lower‑income ZIP codes who don’t qualify for the $1,000, changes that directly affect eligible Twin Cities families.

Business & Economy Education

30-year mortgage rate falls to 6.19%

Dec 04 Breaking TC 1

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey on Thursday, Dec. 4, reported the average U.S. 30-year fixed mortgage rate dipped to 6.19%, near its low for 2025. The move could modestly improve affordability for Minneapolis–Saint Paul buyers and refinancing prospects for some homeowners as the housing market heads into winter.

Business & Economy Housing

St. Paul sets hearing on 5.3% 2026 levy

Dec 03 Breaking TC 2

The St. Paul City Council scheduled a Truth in Taxation hearing on a proposed 5.3% increase to the 2026 property‑tax levy. On Dec. 3, 2025 the council voted to adopt that 5.3% levy and approved $6.7 million in budget changes.

Local Government Business & Economy

St. Paul approves 5.3% 2026 levy, $6.7M budget changes

Dec 03 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul City Council on Dec. 3, 2025 approved a 5.3% increase to the city’s 2026 property‑tax levy and adopted $6.7 million in changes to the municipal budget. The vote finalizes next year’s tax rate and spending plan, directly impacting city services and property‑tax bills for St. Paul residents.

Local Government Business & Economy

BAE wins $22M Navy deal; Twin Cities work

Dec 03 Breaking TC 1

BAE Systems secured a $22 million U.S. Navy contract that could grow to as much as $317 million, with engineering and program support to be performed in the Twin Cities. The award brings new defense-related work to the metro and could impact staffing and operations at BAE’s local facilities.

Business & Economy Technology

Trump student-loan overhaul: DOE drops IBR hardship test in December; caps grad borrowing next July

Dec 03 Developing TC 2

The Department of Education/Federal Student Aid will finish implementing changes in December that remove the “partial financial hardship” requirement to enroll in Income‑Based Repayment (IBR), a move that can let higher earners newly qualify, while also eliminating the SAVE plan and phasing out PAYE and ICR. IBR payments remain capped at the equivalent of the 10‑year standard plan with existing calculation percentages unchanged (generally 10% for new borrowers after July 1, 2014; 15% for older loans), and borrowers with eligible loans before July 1, 2026 can access IBR/ICR/PAYE on or after that date — FSA urges consolidations be completed at least three months prior.

Education Business & Economy Health

Wren Clair, KSTP seek dismissal of lawsuit

Dec 02 Developing TC 1

Meteorologist Wren Clair and KSTP-TV jointly asked a judge on Dec. 2, 2025 to dismiss her lawsuit against the station, according to a TwinCities.com report. The filing signals a potential end to the legal dispute pending the court’s decision; details of the request were not immediately disclosed.

Legal Business & Economy

GN Group adds 100 jobs in Shakopee

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1

Copenhagen-based GN Group has converted Shakopee’s former Shutterfly facility into an advanced medical-device manufacturing and distribution center and plans to add about 100 jobs, the company told the Business Journal. The project brings new production and logistics activity to Scott County after a year-long retrofit of the building.

Business & Economy Health

Costco sues to block emergency tariffs

Dec 02 Developing TC 1

Costco Wholesale Corporation filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade seeking to invalidate President Trump’s emergency tariff orders, block U.S. Customs and Border Protection from collecting such duties going forward, and recover tariffs already paid. The filing cites an imminent Dec. 15 deadline to “liquidate” import entries, after which duties become final, and argues the emergency‑powers statute used does not authorize creating or raising tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, Canada and other countries.

Legal Business & Economy

Metro Transit E Line BRT launches this weekend

Dec 02 Breaking TC 1

Metro Transit will debut the E Line bus rapid transit this weekend, replacing Route 6 and providing faster, more frequent service between Southdale and the University of Minnesota with upgraded stations and security features. The agency expects about 3,000 riders per day, and business groups at 50th & France and in Linden Hills—hit hard by construction—are cautiously optimistic the new service will boost foot traffic.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Ex-Mpls Chamber CEO Jonathan Weinhagen pleads guilty to mail fraud; faces nearly 3 years, >$200K restitution

Dec 02 Breaking TC 7

Jonathan Weinhagen, the former CEO of the Minneapolis Regional Chamber who had been a Mounds View school board member (he has resigned), pleaded guilty to mail fraud and could face nearly three years in prison and more than $200,000 in restitution. Prosecutors allege he diverted Chamber funds — including about $30,000 earmarked as Crime Stoppers rewards for unsolved 2021 Minneapolis child shootings — through a sham consulting firm called Synergy Partners and an alias “James Sullivan,” opened a Chamber line of credit and drew over $125,000, signed sham contracts generating more than $100,000 for himself, and attempted a fraudulent SoFi loan in a scheme said to have run from December 2019 to June 2024.

Local Government Education Legal

Associated Bank buying American National Bank

Dec 01 Breaking TC 1

Associated Bank announced a $604 million deal to acquire American National Bank, adding six Twin Cities branches and bringing its metro footprint to 24 locations. The merger will elevate Associated Bank’s ranking among the region’s largest banks and expands its presence across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul market.

Business & Economy

Dakota County proposes 9.9% levy increase

Dec 01 Breaking TC 2

Dakota County is proposing a 9.9% levy increase as part of its 2026 budget. A Tuesday meeting has been scheduled to take up the budget and will serve as the public hearing/Truth-in-Taxation on the proposed levy.

Business & Economy Local Government

December Social Security and SSI payment dates

Nov 30 TC 1

The Social Security Administration set December 2025 payment dates: SSA benefits will be paid Dec. 3 for those on rolls before May 1997 and on Dec. 10, 17, or 24 based on birthdate; SSI will be paid Dec. 1 and again Dec. 31 because Jan. 1 is a federal holiday. Twin Cities recipients who don’t see an expected direct deposit should contact their bank first, then call SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Rep. Morrison proposes Small Business tariff rebates

Nov 29 Breaking TC 1

U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison announced on Small Business Saturday that she has introduced the Small Business RELIEF Act to exempt small firms from Trump‑era tariffs and refund those that already paid them. Morrison, a member of the House Small Business Committee, made the announcement while touring local Minnesota shops to highlight tariff impacts on Twin Cities businesses.

Business & Economy Government/Policy

$3.6B federal heating aid released to states, tribes

Nov 29 Breaking TC 2

The Department of Health and Human Services released $3.6 billion in LIHEAP heating assistance to states and tribes to help families pay to heat their homes, a move NEADA executive director Mark Wolfe called "essential and long overdue." HHS had not yet issued a formal announcement when NEADA confirmed the release; a bipartisan group of House members had urged the funds be released by Nov. 30 amid NEADA projections that winter heating costs will rise about 10.5% (electricity +13.6%/~$1,208, propane +7.3%/~$1,442, natural gas +7.2%/~$644) and noting that roughly 68% of LIHEAP households also receive SNAP, with shutdown-related delays increasing hardship.

Business & Economy Utilities Economy

Dakota County to host 2031 horticultural expo

Nov 28 Breaking TC 1

Organizers announced that Dakota County will host Expo 2031 Minnesota USA, the first international horticultural exposition ever held in the United States. The 2031 event, set within the Twin Cities metro, is expected to drive significant tourism and regional planning activity; next steps include formal coordination with local and state agencies on site planning, transportation, and permitting.

Business & Economy Local Government

Shutdown ends: Feds back Thursday; back pay by Nov. 19 as LIHEAP restarts

Nov 28 Developing TC 25

President Trump signed a stopgap funding bill ending the 43‑day shutdown, OPM directed federal employees to return Thursday and agencies will issue back pay in four tranches beginning by Nov. 19 while the measure reverses shutdown‑era firings and bars new layoffs through January. The package restarts programs including SNAP, releases $3.6 billion in LIHEAP heating aid to states and tribes, and extends funding through Jan. 30, though SNAP and other benefits may take days or longer to reach recipients and a separate vote on ACA premium subsidies is expected in December.

Government/Regulatory Elections Government

Hennepin Healthcare plans $12M addiction center

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1

Hennepin Healthcare plans to solicit construction bids for a new $12 million addiction treatment center in downtown Minneapolis, according to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. The project would add dedicated substance‑use treatment capacity in the city’s core, with the health system moving into the bidding phase.

Health Business & Economy

Feds cut Medicare prices for 15 drugs

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1

On Nov. 26, 2025, the Trump administration announced that Medicare will pay lower prices for 15 prescription drugs, projecting 'billions' in taxpayer savings. The change would affect Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, though specific drugs and implementation details were not provided in the headline.

Health Business & Economy

Average 30‑year mortgage rate dips to 6.23%

Nov 26 Breaking TC 1

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey shows the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate fell to 6.23% as of Nov. 26, 2025, ending a three‑week climb. The move directly affects Minneapolis–Saint Paul borrowers and sellers by influencing monthly payments, refinancing decisions, and housing demand heading into the holiday season.

Business & Economy Housing

FHFA raises conforming loan limit to $832,750

Nov 25 Breaking TC 1

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced it is increasing the baseline conforming loan limit for single-family mortgages to $832,750, raising the maximum size of most loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can back. The change applies in the Twin Cities’ seven-county metro in the upcoming loan-limit year, meaning more buyers can use conforming financing instead of higher-cost jumbo loans; higher limits may apply in designated high-cost areas elsewhere.

Housing Business & Economy

MSP food-service strike averted with HMSHost deal

Nov 24 Breaking TC 1

The union representing hundreds of food-service workers at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport called off a threatened strike after reaching a labor agreement with HMSHost, avoiding disruptions during a busy travel week. The tentative deal means airport restaurants and concessions can continue operating without a walkout while details are finalized.

Business & Economy Transit & Infrastructure

Minnesota Chamber unveils growth plan as report shows GDP, tech, innovation lag

Nov 23 TC 3

At an Economic Summit in Eagan, the Minnesota Chamber released its 2026 Business Benchmarks report and unveiled an "Economic Imperative for Growth" multiyear campaign to unite lawmakers and business leaders after finding the state's economy has fallen behind on nearly every measure of growth. The report cites about 1% per‑capita GDP growth versus 1.8% nationally, a slide in state rankings into the 30s (as low as 38th since 2019), weak tech job growth (44th in 2024), high patents per capita but poor patent growth, and warns employers that taxes, regulations and new mandates — including a paid family and medical leave program starting Jan. 1 — are deepening competitiveness concerns.

Business & Economy

Palace Theatre sues Wrecktangle for $1.6M

Nov 22 Breaking TC 1

The Palace Theatre’s operators have sued Wrecktangle Pizza in Hennepin County District Court, alleging the company owes more than $1.6 million on a loan tied to their short‑lived joint venture, Wrestaurant at the Palace, which opened in 2023 and closed a year later amid water damage. Wrecktangle’s response admits no payments were made but counters that the Palace failed to dissolve the joint LLC, is using joint‑owned equipment for the new Palace Pub without crediting Wrecktangle, and disputes the claims; both sides tentatively agreed to a November 2026 trial if no settlement is reached.

Legal Business & Economy

Minnesota employers must send PFML notices Dec. 1

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program starts Jan. 1, 2026, but employers statewide—including in the Twin Cities—must individually notify workers of their benefits and rights by Dec. 1, 2025, in each employee’s primary language, with acknowledgment. New hires must be notified within 30 days, and workplaces must display required posters; the Minnesota State Council of SHRM warns missed deadlines can trigger complaints, investigations, and penalties.

Local Government Business & Economy

90-unit senior housing planned in Maple Grove

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

A developer plans a 90-unit senior housing building on a city-owned site in Maple Grove, Hennepin County, aiming to provide affordable options that help residents on fixed incomes age in place. The plan, reported Nov. 21, 2025, would add new senior housing capacity within the Twin Cities metro; further city reviews and approvals are expected as the project advances.

Housing Business & Economy

St. Paul OKs 2 a.m. service, unveils World Juniors fest

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul approved temporary ordinance changes allowing bars and restaurants with liquor licenses to apply for 2 a.m. service and noise variances during the Dec. 26–Jan. 5 World Junior Hockey Championship, while launching the free Bold North Breakaway fan festival around Rice Park and Grand Casino Arena. The 10‑day downtown festival adds ice bumper cars, ‘glice’ skating, street hockey, kids’ zones, 40 indoor vendors and New Year’s Eve fireworks as the 29‑game tournament is split between St. Paul and the University of Minnesota’s 3M Arena at Mariucci.

Local Government Business & Economy

Judge hears closing arguments on Google ad-tech remedies

Nov 21 Breaking TC 2

After an April ruling that parts of Google's ad‑tech business constitute an illegal monopoly, Judge Leonie Brinkema held an 11‑day remedies trial this fall and heard closing arguments Friday in Alexandria, Virginia, with a ruling expected early next year. The DOJ urged structural divestitures, calling Google a "recidivist monopolist," while Google called such remedies legally unprecedented and risky for a system that handles roughly 55 million ad requests per second, citing AI‑driven market changes as a reason for caution and DOJ witnesses warning about subtle algorithm manipulation; for context, a separate search case saw Judge Amit Mehta reject a proposed Chrome divestiture and order reforms seen as relatively lenient.

Business & Economy Legal Technology

Solventum to buy Acera Surgical for $725M

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Solventum, the 3M health-care spinoff, said Friday it agreed to acquire regenerative wound care maker Acera Surgical for more than $725 million. It is Solventum’s first major deal since separating from 3M last year and signals expansion in advanced wound‑care products with potential impacts on the company’s Twin Cities operations.

Business & Economy Health

PHS West leases 91,000 sq. ft. for new HQ

Nov 21 Breaking TC 1

Manufacturer PHS West signed a 91,000‑square‑foot lease at Brockton Business Park in Corcoran, where it will establish a new headquarters, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Nov. 21, 2025. The company said expansion needs, driven by growth in the data‑center industry, prompted the move within the Twin Cities metro.

Business & Economy Real Estate

SNAP work rules expand; USDA weighs mass ‘reapply’ review, cites standard recertification

Nov 21 TC 3

The USDA under Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is moving to expand SNAP work requirements to additional groups — including people ages 55–64 and some parents of 14–18‑year‑olds — and will fully enforce the three‑month time limit for adults who don’t meet work rules starting in December after a waiver was lifted in November. Rollins has said the agency plans to have all SNAP recipients reapply now that the government has reopened, citing “standard recertification processes” and further regulatory and state‑data reviews, but details for a mass reapplication of roughly 42 million beneficiaries are not yet formalized; analysts warn it could create backlogs and loss of benefits for eligible families (about 40% of recipients are children), while the CBO estimates expanded rules could reduce enrollment by about 2.4 million on average per month over 10 years.

Health Business & Economy

Home insurance costs spike across Minnesota

Nov 21 TC 1

FOX 9 reports Nov. 20 that Minnesota homeowners — including in the Twin Cities — are seeing hazard insurance premiums jump as much as 40% and significant increases to wind and hail deductibles (often from $1,500 to $5,000 or to a percentage of home value), driven by severe weather losses and claims. The Minnesota Department of Commerce urges consumers to shop policies and consider weatherproofing for discounts, while State Farm says it paid out $1.30 in claims/expenses per $1 in Minnesota premiums over the past five years.

Business & Economy Housing

White House expands tariff relief to Brazilian coffee, fruit and beef

Nov 20 Breaking TC 3

The White House said it will extend tariff relief to Brazilian imports by excluding certain products from both April’s global rollback under Executive Order 14257 and the punitive July tariffs on Brazil, covering coffee, fruit and beef as well as related items such as tea, tropical fruits and juices, cocoa, spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes and some fertilizers. The move — framed as easing grocery-price pressures (roasted coffee and ground beef have shown large year‑over‑year CPI gains) — resolves a gap Brazil had flagged, draws industry praise, and comes as President Trump and Brazil’s President Lula negotiate further trade steps.

Government & Policy Government/Regulatory National Policy

Ramsey County names deputy manager, reorganizes services

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Ramsey County appointed CFO Alex Kotze as deputy county manager and chief operating officer effective Dec. 1, 2025, and outlined an internal restructuring that creates an Operations Service Team and sunsets the Strategic Team and Information and Public Records Service Team as of Jan. 1. Kotze, who has overseen the county’s $870 million budget since 2020 and previously served as interim deputy for Health and Wellness, will lead strategy for property management, finance and information services as the county streamlines operations.

Local Government Business & Economy

Target cuts prices on 3,000 everyday items

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Target said it will reduce prices on 3,000 food and household items to boost value during the holidays and help reverse a sales slump. The company also narrowed its 2025 earnings outlook, cited continued traffic softness, and outlined a $5 billion 2026 investment plan for store remodels, new large-format locations, and supply chain/tech upgrades.

Business & Economy

Average 30-year mortgage rate ticks up to 6.22% after four-week slide

Nov 20 Breaking TC 3

Freddie Mac said the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.22% from 6.17%, the first uptick after a four-week slide, while the 15-year fixed rate climbed to about 5.50%. The rise coincided with a roughly 4.09%–4.10% 10-year Treasury yield midday Thursday and comes amid mixed Fed signals — recent rate cuts but Chair Powell’s caution that a December cut isn’t guaranteed and tariff-driven inflation risks — with traders pricing roughly a 44% chance of a December cut.

Housing Business & Economy

30-year mortgage rate edges up to 6.26%

Nov 20 Developing TC 1

Freddie Mac said Thursday, Nov. 20, that the average U.S. 30‑year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.26% from 6.24% a week earlier, the third straight weekly increase, while the 15‑year average rose to 5.54%. The update, which influences homebuying power in the Twin Cities, comes as the 10‑year Treasury hovered near 4.10% and markets trimmed expectations for a December Fed rate cut.

Housing Business & Economy

Officials cite federal reimbursement cuts, mandates behind 2026 levy hikes nearing $1B

Nov 20 TC 5

Preliminary data show Minnesota’s proposed 2026 property tax levies could rise by about $948 million statewide — up to roughly 6.9% in preliminary figures — with every county proposing increases (more than a dozen double‑digit hikes) and steep city proposals in places such as Otsego (~19%), Arden Hills (~18%) and Lino Lakes (~16%), while Hennepin County’s proposal is nearly 8%. Officials and local government groups say the pressure stems largely from federal reimbursement cuts and new mandates — including reduced SNAP and Medicaid administrative reimbursements and EMT reimbursement cuts — coupled with rising labor, materials and insurance costs; truth‑in‑taxation meetings are scheduled late November–December, final levies are due Dec. 29, and the Department of Revenue will release final totals after the February forecast.

Local Government Business & Economy

THC drink startup cofounder charged with theft

Nov 20 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota-based Crooked Beverage Company co-founder Richard Schenk has been charged with two felony theft counts, accused of taking tens of thousands of dollars from the THC beverage startup. Court documents and co-founder Ryan Winkler say Schenk spent company funds on personal expenses (including mortgage and luxury items), allegedly faked an email to dodge a $300,000 debt to his ex-wife, resigned when confronted, and then allegedly withdrew another $48,000; the company says it remains in operation with products in hundreds of Minnesota locations and 10 states.

Legal Business & Economy Cannabis

Starbucks Red Cup Day strike includes Minneapolis

Nov 19 Developing TC 3

A nationwide Starbucks strike that has indefinitely shuttered more than 65 stores in about 40 cities coincided with the company’s busy Red Cup Day after bargaining broke down in April. Two Twin Cities locations — the unionized St. Anthony store at 3704 Silverlake Rd (unionized 2022) and the unionized Chanhassen store at 190 Lake Dr (unionized 2024) — remained closed after Thursday’s walkout, and there are currently no remaining unionized St. Paul locations while employees at Seventh & Davern have petitioned the NLRB. At the St. Anthony site police arrested a man and woman after super glue and expanding foam were found in the locks and demonstrators later blocked the drive‑through; Starbucks said it was on track to meet or exceed same‑day sales, touts its wages and benefits, and accused the union of walking away from talks.

Public Safety Business & Economy Legal

Trump move extends acting CFPB chief, signals shutdown

Nov 19 Developing TC 1

President Donald Trump nominated OMB associate director Stuart Levenbach to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a step the White House acknowledges is intended to pause the vacancies clock and keep Budget Director Russell Vought as acting CFPB chief while pursuing plans to shut the agency. The administration also said it will not draw Federal Reserve funds to operate the CFPB beyond Dec. 31, relying on a disputed legal theory, a move that could curtail federal consumer‑finance oversight for Twin Cities residents and institutions.

Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

Target Q3 profit falls 19%, warns on holidays

Nov 19 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis-based Target reported third-quarter profit of $689 million, down 19% year over year, with adjusted EPS of $1.78 on $25.27 billion in sales (-1.5%). Comparable sales fell 2.7% and the company expects the sales slump to extend through the holiday season; Target also plans to invest an additional $1 billion next year to remodel and build stores (total makeover now $5 billion) and said Michael Fiddelke will succeed CEO Brian Cornell on Feb. 1.

Business & Economy

Medica to acquire UCare’s 2026 Medicaid and individual plans; ~300,000 members transition in MN/WI

Nov 18 Breaking TC 3

Medica, the Minnetonka-based insurer, will acquire all of UCare’s 2026 Medicaid and individual/family plans, absorbing roughly 300,000 members in Minnesota and western Wisconsin — the bulk of UCare’s business — in a transaction expected to close in Q1 2026 pending regulatory approvals, with financial terms undisclosed. Both CEOs say services will continue without interruption, MNsure says exchange coverage and costs won’t change for 2026 and is coordinating the transition, and Senate Commerce Chair Sen. Matt Klein will monitor impacts on consumer choice and access; UCare had earlier ended its Medicare Advantage contracts as its board explored options.

Health Business & Economy

Bird flu drives MN turkey losses, prices higher

Nov 17 TC 1

A Chicago Tribune/Pioneer Press report says Minnesota has accounted for over a third of recent U.S. bird‑flu turkey cases, with more than 716,000 commercial turkeys affected since August and over 1 million since the start of 2025, contributing to higher wholesale and fresh‑bird prices ahead of Thanksgiving. Experts note national turkey production is down nearly 10% year over year, labor costs are up, and fresh birds are most affected while frozen supplies are less impacted; officials expect the fall surge to ease but warn spring migration could renew risks and breeder‑hen losses may tighten supply into 2026.

Health Business & Economy

St. Paul foundations launch $23M housing initiative

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul & Minnesota Foundation, with the F.R. Bigelow and Mardag foundations, announced a five‑year, $20 million “Our Home State” initiative on Nov. 17 to expand access to safe, stable and affordable housing across Minnesota; St. Paul–based Ecolab added $3 million, bringing the total to $23 million. Early investments will focus on eviction prevention, shelter capacity, affordable housing production and policy/narrative work, with leaders emphasizing support for community‑led solutions that include the Twin Cities.

Housing Business & Economy

Novo cuts Wegovy list price to $349

Nov 17 Breaking TC 1

Novo Nordisk said Monday it reduced the list price for higher-dose Wegovy to $349/month (from $499) for cash‑paying patients and launched a temporary $199/month offer for the first two months of low‑dose Wegovy and Ozempic, aligning with a recent federal drug‑pricing framework. The price changes apply nationwide via pharmacies, home delivery and some telemedicine providers; clinicians and surveys still cite affordability challenges for patients without insurance.

Health Business & Economy

Congress passes shutdown bill with 0.4 mg hemp‑THC cap; 1‑year phase‑in alarms MN beverage industry

Nov 15 Developing TC 5

Congress has passed a stopgap funding bill that includes a national cap of 0.4 mg hemp‑derived THC per container, taking effect in one year and overriding higher state per‑serving limits (Minnesota currently allows ~5 mg), a measure pushed to close a 2018 Farm Bill looph and intended to block unregulated intoxicating hemp products. Minnesota brewers, retailers and hemp beverage makers warn the cap would effectively ban most THC edibles and drinks and devastate a roughly $140–200 million local market — though regulators say licensing and oversight remain unchanged until the cap’s effective date and industry groups urge business as usual in the interim.

Legal & Regulatory Local Government Business & Economy

Disney, YouTube TV end blackout, restore channels

Nov 15 Breaking TC 2

Disney and YouTube TV reached a new carriage agreement that ended a blackout that began the night of Oct. 30 and lasted just over two weeks, with ABC, ESPN and other Disney‑owned channels including NatGeo, FX, Freeform, the SEC Network and ACC Network restored over the course of Nov. 14, the companies said. The sides traded public accusations during negotiations — Disney executives Alan Bergman, Dana Walden and Jimmy Pitaro said YouTube TV refused fair rates and was leveraging its dominance, while YouTube TV said Disney's terms were costly and would reduce consumer choice — after a prior 2021 disruption that lasted less than two days.

Business & Economy Technology

MLS shifts to July–May season; Apple changes access

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

MLS owners voted Nov. 13 to move to a late‑summer‑to‑spring calendar starting in 2027, aligning with international leagues and adding a long winter break—changes that will affect Minnesota United’s home schedule at Allianz Field. Separately, Apple said all MLS matches will be available to Apple TV subscribers without the separate Season Pass starting in 2026, changing how Twin Cities fans access broadcasts.

Business & Economy Technology

IRS raises 401(k), IRA limits for 2026

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

The IRS announced on Nov. 13, 2025, that the maximum employee contribution to 401(k), 403(b) and most 457 plans will rise to $24,500 in 2026, with the age‑50 catch‑up increasing to $8,000. The agency also set the 2026 IRA limit at $7,500 and the IRA catch‑up at $1,100, while keeping the special age 60–63 catch‑up at $11,250. The nationwide changes directly affect Twin Cities workers and retirees saving in tax‑advantaged plans.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Hospitals join suit alleging insurer price fixing

Nov 13 Breaking TC 1

A coalition of hospitals and health systems has joined or expanded a federal lawsuit alleging a cartel-like scheme to depress out‑of‑network reimbursements, describing a third‑party repricing firm as a 'mafia enforcer' working for major insurers including Minnetonka‑based UnitedHealth Group. The case accuses the parties of antitrust violations that harmed providers and patients by fixing prices below competitive levels; Twin Cities impact stems from UHG’s role and potential effects on local health systems and consumers.

Legal Health Business & Economy

U.S. Mint strikes final penny Wednesday

Nov 12 Breaking TC 2

The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia will press the final penny Wednesday, and U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach said those last coins will be auctioned. Each penny costs roughly four cents to make, and the Treasury estimates ending production will save about $56 million a year in materials, even as tens of billions of pennies remain in circulation and banks and retailers may round cash transactions to the nearest five cents.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Visa, Mastercard propose card-acceptance changes

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Visa and Mastercard proposed a national class‑action settlement that would let merchants refuse higher‑tier rewards cards or add surcharges to cover their higher fees, a shift from the networks’ long‑standing “honor all cards” rule. The deal also includes a temporary 10‑basis‑point cut to swipe fees for five years and sets standard transactions at 1.25% for eight years; major retail groups oppose the proposal, which still requires court approval, meaning Twin Cities shoppers with premium rewards cards could eventually see declines or surcharges at checkout if it’s finalized.

Business & Economy Legal

Centerspace reviews options, sells Minneapolis portfolio for $76M

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

Minot-based apartment REIT Centerspace said Wednesday its board has begun a review of strategic alternatives that could include a sale or merger, and separately announced it sold its Minneapolis-area portfolio for $76 million, including properties in Minneapolis and New Hope. The moves signal a potential change in ownership and strategy affecting Twin Cities multifamily real estate.

Business & Economy Housing

MSP airport retail unit spins off, new CEO

Nov 12 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport retail operations of St. Paul-based Airport Retail Group are being split into a standalone business, with investor Megan Bender buying a stake and becoming CEO. The new entity plans to nearly double sales, including by opening a new travel convenience store in MSP’s Terminal 2.

Business & Economy Transit & Infrastructure

Sonder abruptly closes Twin Cities locations

Nov 12 Developing TC 1

Sonder, which operated extended‑stay hotels in downtown St. Paul and multiple Minneapolis sites, shut down operations Monday night after Marriott Bonvoy said its licensing agreement with Sonder was terminated for default. A sign at The Fitz (77 Ninth St. E., St. Paul) states operations ceased Nov. 10, 2025; Marriott directed customers to seek refunds through their credit‑card issuers and rebook within its portfolio as reports indicate Sonder plans a Chapter 7 filing.

Business & Economy

St. Paul keeps staff-led review for reparations study

Nov 12 Developing TC 1

The St. Paul City Council voted 6–1 on Nov. 5 to stick with a staff‑led procurement process for a reparations 'harm study' budgeted up to $250,000, rejecting a proposal from Council Member Anika Bowie to restart the evaluation with a community‑driven review panel. The RFP, extended in September and closed Oct. 3, drew three research firms; a preferred vendor has been identified but not yet finalized, and the contract will come back to the council for approval amid objections from some Black elders and split views among the council’s two Black members.

Local Government Business & Economy

IRS cancels Direct File for 2026 season

Nov 11 Breaking TC 2

The IRS has canceled its Direct File free online tax-filing system for the 2026 season and, per an IRS email from Cynthia Noe, there is no relaunch date set; the program had been piloted in 12 states and was slated to expand to 12 more before the cancellation. Treasury Secretary/IRS Commissioner Scott Bessent said the private sector can do a better job and that Direct File “wasn't used very much.” The 2026 filing season will still include higher standard deductions under OBBBA: $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married filing jointly, with brackets adjusted for inflation.

Government & Policy Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

Appeals court orders full SNAP funding; Supreme Court to decide whether 65% cap remains

Nov 11 Developing TC 71

After the federal shutdown prompted USDA to pause SNAP disbursements and initially push a roughly 65% partial‑payment plan, a coalition of states sued and district judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered USDA to use contingency and other funds to provide full November benefits. The 1st Circuit upheld the lower‑court order requiring full funding (after a brief Supreme Court stay), leaving some states that already issued full payments in limbo as the Supreme Court prepares to decide whether the administration may enforce the 65% cap.

Legal Government/Regulatory Politics

Graco plans Dayton headquarters, leaving NE Minneapolis

Nov 10 Breaking TC 1

Graco said Nov. 10 it plans to build a new headquarters in Dayton, Minnesota, and relocate from its current Northeast Minneapolis riverfront campus. The move would shift the company’s corporate base within the Twin Cities and could open Graco’s high‑profile riverfront site to future redevelopment; project details and approvals will follow local review.

Business & Economy Housing

Minneapolis teachers deal adds 2% raise this year; class-size and special-ed caseload limits set; ratification Thu–Fri

Nov 10 Developing TC 8

Minneapolis Public Schools and the Minneapolis Federation of Educators reached a tentative agreement late Saturday covering three contracts for more than 4,300 employees that includes a 2% pay increase this year and enforceable smaller class sizes and special-education caseload limits. The deal, which averts a planned Nov. 11 strike, goes to union ratification votes Thursday–Friday and then the School Board for approval amid district warnings of a roughly $75 million shortfall this year and further projected deficits.

Business & Economy Education

State awards $69M from MN Forward Fund, including $50M for Rosemount 'North Wind,' $5M for UST and $4M for Hennepin Tech

Nov 09 Breaking TC 4

The state’s Minnesota Forward Fund awarded $69 million across four projects — including a $50 million forgivable loan for North Wind’s $1 billion, 250,000‑sq.‑ft. Minnesota Aerospace Complex at the UMore site in Rosemount, $10 million for Niron Magnetics in Sartell, $5 million for the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul and $4 million for Hennepin Technical College (Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie). The Rosemount project, which UMN sold 60 acres for and will partner on, will house three hypersonic wind tunnels, is backed by an additional $99 million U.S. Army contract and $85 million in company investment, targets completion in 2030–31, and has drawn some campus protests over military ties.

Technology Business & Economy Local Government

M Health Fairview, UHC talks risk 125K patients

Nov 09 Developing TC 1

M Health Fairview warns it could go out-of-network for UnitedHealthcare and UMR members on Jan. 1, 2026 if no new commercial contract is reached, potentially affecting about 125,000 patients in the Twin Cities. Fairview says UHC’s demands would force service cuts and reduced access, while UnitedHealthcare says Fairview is seeking a more than 23% rate increase that would add roughly $121 million in employer costs; the current five‑year contract expires this year.

Health Business & Economy

United Way reports 150% surge in food requests; $105K in grants distributed

Nov 08 Developing TC 2

United Way says its 211 helpline has seen a 150% increase in food-related requests since mid-October as Minnesota food shelves feel pressure from the federal shutdown, and the organization has distributed approximately $105,000 in emergency grants to local nonprofits, including funding Route 1 produce pop-up events. 211 is available 24/7 for food access and other services, and United Way is inviting donations and volunteers.

Business & Economy Local Government Health

Minnesota to correct SNAP payout overcount

Nov 08 Developing TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families said Friday it mistakenly included and double‑counted Pandemic EBT in federal FNS‑46 reports, inflating reported SNAP payouts from about $725 million in 2020 to roughly $1.9 billion in 2021. The agency said the reporting errors did not reflect improper payments and it will submit corrected figures to USDA after the federal shutdown ends; the correct totals are not yet known.

Local Government Business & Economy

Nonprofit buys condemned St. Paul parking ramp

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul Downtown Development Corporation purchased the condemned Capital City Plaza parking ramp at 50 Fourth St. from Madison Equities and will begin work to address safety violations, aiming to reopen it by late 2026. The privately funded deal, near the Green Line’s Central Station, keeps the ramp and the adjacent Alliance Bank Center closed for now while skyway connections to Osborn370 and Treasure Island Center remain open.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Nicolet to rebrand 13 Twin Cities branches

Nov 07 Breaking TC 1

Nicolet Bank will acquire MidWestOne Bank in an $864 million merger and rebrand MidWestOne’s 13 Twin Cities branches, significantly expanding its presence beyond its current two metro locations. The combined entity’s CEO said Friday that the Minneapolis–Saint Paul region will be a primary growth market, with potential for additional acquisitions.

Business & Economy

CFPB says FCRA preempts state medical‑debt credit-report bans; Minnesota law at risk

Nov 07 Breaking TC 2

The CFPB has issued guidance interpreting the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act as preempting state bans on reporting medical debt to credit reports, putting Minnesota’s law — one of 14 states that bar such reporting (and five that restrict it) — at risk. Credit bureaus and credit unions sued to block a January CFPB rule advancing that view, the incoming administration declined to defend it and a federal judge blocked the rule, leaving uncertainty for states even as Americans carry at least $220 billion in medical debt and roughly 6% of adults owe more than $1,000.

Legal Health Business & Economy

Minnesota Rusco bankruptcy spurs at least 10 lawsuits; recovery fund capped at $550K per contractor

Nov 07 Breaking TC 6

Minnesota Rusco, a 70-year-old New Hope home‑improvement company, abruptly ceased operations after parent Renovo Home Partners filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy for itself and 19 subsidiaries, leaving employees — who received only three days of health insurance — and customers with unfinished work and large prepaid sums; court filings list $100–$500 million in liabilities against $1–$10 million in assets, and at least 10 lawsuits have been filed. Because Rusco was DLI‑licensed, affected homeowners must first sue and obtain a court judgment to seek reimbursement from Minnesota’s Contractor Recovery Fund, but recoveries are constrained by limits of up to $550,000 per licensed contractor (and $100,000 per consumer), and state officials are urging consumers to file complaints and dispute charges.

Consumer Business & Economy Housing

Trump announces Medicare coverage for obesity drugs

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump said Nov. 6 the administration reached deals with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to expand Medicare coverage for GLP-1 obesity drugs Zepbound and Wegovy starting next year, while phasing in lower prices for some uninsured patients. The plan also sets a $149/month price for starting doses of new pill versions if approved, though officials cautioned consumer savings will vary by insurance and market competition.

Health Business & Economy

Stillwater denies cannabis shop near rec center

Nov 06 Breaking TC 1

The Stillwater City Council on Nov. 5 denied permits for two adult‑use cannabis retailers — including one at 1754 Washington Ave. near the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center and another near Chesterton Academy — while approving a third location. Council debate focused on how Minnesota’s buffer rules apply, including whether the recreation center is a 'public park attraction' regularly used by minors and how to measure distance; the city attorney said Curio Dance does not meet the state definition of a school for the 1,000‑ft buffer.

Local Government Business & Economy

Allina clinic providers hold one-day metro strike

Nov 05 Breaking TC 2

Clinic providers employed by Allina Health staged a one-day strike across metro-area clinics — a historic first for Minnesota that the Doctors Council–SEIU called the largest strike of its kind — and did not include hospital providers. Bargaining, which began in February 2024, continues after the union said it offered multiple proposals on pay, leaves and PTO while Allina made a single offer the union says would reduce pay and benefits and fail to address staffing and burnout; Allina cited rising costs and expected government funding cuts, said contingency plans kept more than 25% of represented providers working, and further bargaining sessions begin Dec. 5 with union members set to return Thursday.

Health Business & Economy

Supreme Court hears challenge to Trump’s emergency tariffs; justices signal skepticism

Nov 05 TC 3

The Supreme Court on Nov. 5 heard nearly three hours of consolidated challenges to former President Trump’s unprecedented use of the 1977 IEEPA to impose two waves of emergency tariffs — February duties tied to a fentanyl/drug‑trafficking emergency on imports from Canada, China and Mexico and sweeping April “reciprocal” tariffs on most countries — measures estimated to raise roughly $3 trillion over a decade and amounting to 10–50% import taxes. Justices across the ideological spectrum, including Chief Justice John Roberts, pressed the government on whether IEEPA permits such sweeping trade authority as lower courts have struck down much of the program and challengers (Democratic states and small businesses) invoke the major‑questions and nondelegation doctrines while the government cites core foreign‑affairs power.

Legal Business & Economy

Plymouth industrial complex sells for $26M

Nov 05 Breaking TC 1

A California-based investment firm bought the seven-building Park Industrial Village in Plymouth for $26 million, more than triple what the seller paid in 2016. The deal expands the buyer’s Minnesota portfolio and marks a sizable industrial real-estate transaction in Hennepin County.

Business & Economy Housing

St. Louis Park Metropoint office headed to auction

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

A Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal report says one of the Metropoint office buildings in St. Louis Park is scheduled for auction. The Hennepin County property is part of the multi‑building Metropoint complex, and an auction would mark a notable development in the Twin Cities office market affecting local tenants and tax revenues.

Business & Economy Housing

Dependable Home Healthcare to close; 406 layoffs begin Jan. 3 in St. Paul

Nov 04 Breaking TC 2

Dependable Home Healthcare, a St. Paul company located at 23 Empire Drive and in business since 1991, will shut down and suspend services at the end of January, laying off all 406 employees in six phases beginning Jan. 3 and running through Mar. 13, 2026; the workforce includes 368 caregivers and the remainder administrative staff. CEO Katie Fleury cited business challenges and upcoming regulatory changes affecting Minnesota home care, and the closure follows a recent DHS order pausing payments/audits for Medicaid-funded programs (including PCA/CFSS) that could delay payments up to 90 days.

Business & Economy Health

St. Paul proposes cannabis business manager post

Nov 04 Breaking TC 1

St. Paul plans to add a cannabis oversight position in its proposed 2026 budget to guide entrepreneurs through registration, zoning and local compliance, with pay between $73,000 and $102,000 funded by cannabis registration fees. City officials say they hope to fill the role internally, mirroring Minneapolis’ existing specialist, as the Office of Cannabis Management notes cities are still shaping oversight in the evolving market.

Local Government Business & Economy

Allina Doctors Council sets Nov. 9 one-day strike with rally at HQ

Nov 04 Developing TC 3

Allina Doctors Council SEIU has scheduled a one-day strike for Nov. 9 with a large rally at Allina’s Minneapolis headquarters, calling it “the largest strike of its kind” to protect primary care after earlier reports of a 10-day strike notice and a previously reported Nov. 5 date. Allina says two bargaining sessions are set before the walkout, will maintain safe patient care, argues the union’s compensation and benefits demands are unsustainable, and is closing four clinics on Nov. 1, 2025 (Inver Grove Heights, Maplewood, Nicollet Mall and Oakdale).

Health Business & Economy

Developers propose 181 apartments in downtown Rogers

Nov 03 Breaking TC 1

Developers Bader and Ebert plan a 181‑unit market‑rate apartment project on a former semi‑truck site in downtown Rogers, according to a Nov. 3 report. The Hennepin County proposal would add substantial new housing to the northwest Twin Cities suburb; further city review and approvals were not detailed in the report.

Housing Business & Economy

Walz directs $4M to Minnesota food shelves as SNAP cutoff nears

Nov 02 Breaking TC 8

Gov. Tim Walz this week formally directed $4 million to Minnesota food shelves as an emergency stopgap ahead of an expected Nov. 1 interruption to SNAP and other federal food and preschool aid if the partial federal shutdown continues. The one‑time allocation — small compared with roughly $73 million in monthly SNAP benefits that reach more than 440,000 Minnesotans — supplements relief from United Way, local governments and food pantries preparing expanded distributions, but advocates warn food shelves alone cannot close the gap.

Health Local Government Business & Economy

St. Paul decertifies Westminster Junction TIF early

Nov 01 Breaking TC 1

The St. Paul Port Authority board voted Monday to decertify the 26-year Westminster Junction TIF redevelopment district five years early, returning the East Side business center to the full tax rolls after outperforming projections. The 25-acre site along Phalen Boulevard and Cayuga Street has grown from a blighted rail yard with about 50 jobs to 15 companies with 913 jobs, lifting annual property taxes from $138,000 to $2.6 million, which officials say will help reduce the city’s levy.

Local Government Business & Economy

Pioneer Acquisitions buys two Washington Square towers

Oct 31 Breaking TC 1

Pioneer Acquisitions has purchased the 100 and 111 Washington Square office buildings in downtown Minneapolis, marking the investor’s first acquisition in the Twin Cities. The Business Journal reports the deal signals the company’s entry into the local office market and suggests more acquisitions may follow.

Business & Economy

MSP starts weekly food aid for unpaid feds

Oct 31 Developing TC 2

Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport has launched a weekly food aid program for unpaid federal workers affected by the government shutdown. AFGE leader and MSP TSA agent Neal Gosman said TSA employees took home donated food boxes after their shifts, and AFGE representative Mark Johnson said many workers cannot pay rent due Nov. 1 and face $50/day late fees.

Health Public Safety Business & Economy

MN Senate hears shutdown’s toll on TSA, WIC

Oct 31 Developing TC 1

At an Oct. 30 hearing of the Minnesota Senate’s Subcommittee on Federal Impacts, union leaders said MSP TSA agents are missing rent and taking home donated food boxes, while advocates warned Minnesota’s WIC funds (about $9M/month) will last only through the third week of November. State officials cited diminished communication with USDA and Attorney General Keith Ellison said a judge is expected to rule soon in the 25‑state lawsuit seeking to restore SNAP during the shutdown.

Local Government Health Business & Economy

US penny mint halt triggers shortages

Oct 30 Developing TC 1

AP reports the U.S. stopped producing pennies in mid‑2025 under President Trump, and with the last coins minted in June and distributed by August, banks are now rationing pennies and retailers nationwide are running out as the holiday season approaches. The Treasury placed its last planchet order in May; 2024 saw 3.23 billion pennies minted even as each cost 3.7 cents to make, and merchants are asking for exact change or rounding to avoid legal exposure—operational shifts that will affect Twin Cities cash transactions.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

After Trump–Xi meeting, China says it will work with U.S. on TikTok; no ownership deal yet

Oct 30 Breaking TC 5

After the Trump–Xi meeting, China’s Commerce Ministry said it would work with the U.S. to resolve TikTok-related issues but provided no details and said no ownership agreement was reached. That statement contrasts with U.S. reports — including Trump saying Xi approved a proposed U.S. ownership deal, the White House suggesting the transaction could be finalized in South Korea, and earlier plans for Oracle to manage TikTok’s U.S. algorithm — as negotiations continue under U.S. divestiture requirements.

Business & Economy Technology Legal

Cargill cuts 80 jobs at Minnetonka headquarters

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

Cargill is laying off 80 employees at its Minnetonka headquarters, the company confirmed Oct. 30, 2025, citing a sales decline. The move affects corporate roles at the global agribusiness’s Twin Cities base and follows softer revenue performance.

Business & Economy

Trump, Xi deal trims China tariffs

Oct 30 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump said Thursday after a 100‑minute meeting with China’s Xi Jinping in Busan that the U.S. will reduce tariffs on Chinese goods, lowering one tranche tied to fentanyl-chemical sales from 20% to 10% and cutting the combined rate from 57% to 47%. China agreed to allow rare earth exports and resume U.S. soybean purchases, and Trump said Nvidia will hold talks on advanced chip exports as both sides work toward a trade deal.

Business & Economy Technology

Oak Park Heights OKs Mango Cannabis at Joseph’s

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The Oak Park Heights City Council unanimously approved a conditional-use permit Tuesday for Mango Cannabis to occupy the entire Joseph’s restaurant building at 14608 60th St. N. City officials said Joseph’s plans to relocate nearby, while applicants ABJKM Holdings and Boundary Waters Capital also seek a Stillwater site as both cities raise caps to four cannabis retailers. The Hwy. 36 corridor is drawing interest due to Wisconsin’s cannabis ban, and Oak Park Heights previously approved Oak Park Heights Canna for a 2026 opening.

Local Government Business & Economy

Senate votes to block Trump’s Canada tariffs

Oct 29 Developing TC 1

The U.S. Senate on Wednesday, Oct. 29, held a vote on a resolution to nullify President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian imports by terminating the national emergencies underpinning them. Led by Sen. Tim Kaine and joined by some Republicans including Sen. Rand Paul, the effort spotlights GOP divisions even as House GOP rules can block a vote there and the White House could veto. The action comes amid active U.S.–Asia trade talks and a tense U.S.–Canada dispute with potential consumer price impacts for Twin Cities residents.

Business & Economy Government & Politics

Fed cuts benchmark rate to about 3.9%

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

The Federal Reserve made its second rate cut of 2025, trimming the benchmark to about 3.9%. Consumers should expect top high‑yield savings rates to drift lower as banks pare offerings, mortgage rates—which recently fell to their lowest in over a year—may decline further while auto‑loan rates are likely to ease only slowly; the Fed projects another cut before year‑end and advisers say borrowers may want to consider refinancing or consolidating debt as rates fall.

Consumer Business & Economy Housing

FDA proposes streamlined biosimilar testing

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The FDA released draft guidance on Oct. 29, 2025 to simplify studies for biosimilar versions of biologic drugs, aiming to remove what it calls unnecessary, resource‑intensive clinical comparisons. The proposal opens a 60‑day public comment period, with non‑binding final guidance expected in three to six months, and federal officials say the change is intended to spur competition, lower prices, and speed access to treatments such as those for autoimmune disease and cancer.

Health Business & Economy

Sun Country adds MSP–Tulsa route for 2026

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis-based Sun Country Airlines will launch a new route between Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and increase frequencies to other coastal destinations as part of its summer 2026 schedule. The expansion adds a new nonstop option for Twin Cities travelers and boosts flights to popular coastal markets during the peak summer season.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

United Properties plans 36-acre Newport project

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

United Properties is proposing a 36-acre development in Newport, Washington County, that would include industrial buildings, apartments and a Kwik Trip, according to a report published Oct. 29, 2025. The project would add new housing and commercial uses in the east‑metro suburb, with city review and approvals expected as the plan advances.

Business & Economy Housing

Francisco Partners to acquire Jamf for $2.2B

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Private equity firm Francisco Partners will buy Minneapolis-based Apple device‑management software maker Jamf in a $2.2 billion deal announced Oct. 29, 2025. Jamf, which went public in 2020 at $26 per share, is a prominent Twin Cities tech employer; the transaction would transfer ownership of the company, with further details on closing and any local impacts not yet disclosed.

Business & Economy Technology

39 AGs urge Congress to ban intoxicating hemp

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison joined 38 other state attorneys general in a letter asking Congress to ban intoxicating hemp products such as delta‑8 and delta‑10 THC by closing federal loopholes. The AGs cite consumer‑safety concerns and urge changes to federal law that allowed psychoactive products to proliferate since the 2018 Farm Bill. Any ban would immediately affect Twin Cities retailers and consumers who buy hemp‑derived THC products.

Legal Health Business & Economy

Hennepin Ave in Uptown reopens Friday after $30M, 1.5‑year rebuild

Oct 29 Breaking TC 2

Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis reopens Friday after roughly 1.5 years of reconstruction between Lake Street and Douglas Avenue, a project that topped $30 million and added protected bike lanes, wider sidewalks and new bus shelters. Businesses along the corridor — some of which reported steep revenue losses (Autopia said a 60% drop) and closures such as Pizza Shark while the Uptown Art Fair relocated — received support from the city, which awarded grants to 36 businesses between Franklin and W. 36th Street through its business technical assistance program over the past two years.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Wayzata realtor charged in $397K tax case

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Revenue says Wayzata real estate owner Kevin Patrick Mullen, 42, has been charged in Hennepin County with five felony counts of failing to file individual tax returns and five felony counts of willfully failing to pay income tax for 2019–2023, alleging about $397,000 is owed. Court documents say Mullen acknowledged missing returns in Dec. 2024, filed some in Feb. 2025, and has a first court appearance set for Nov. 12; his income came through Ideal Properties and Investments LLC, and investigators cite prior contacts about tax debts and additional unfiled years back to 2008.

Legal Business & Economy

Senate rejects Trump tariffs on Brazil

Oct 29 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Senate voted in bipartisan fashion on Oct. 28, 2025, to reject the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs on Brazilian imports, a move that comes amid spiking coffee prices. The decision averts new duties that could have further increased consumer costs in the Twin Cities and nationwide; details of next steps now shift back to the administration and trade agencies.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Target to eliminate 1,800 corporate jobs (8%)

Oct 28 Breaking TC 4

Target will eliminate about 1,800 corporate jobs — roughly 8% of its corporate workforce — by laying off about 1,000 employees and closing about 800 open roles, with impacted staff to be notified Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, and told to work from home next week. The cuts, concentrated at Target’s Minneapolis headquarters and not affecting in‑store associates, are described as a restructuring to simplify decision‑making and move faster rather than primarily to cut costs; those laid off will receive pay and benefits through Jan. 3 plus severance and support services.

Employment Business & Economy

Eastside Food Co-op restores operations after rooftop copper theft

Oct 27 Breaking TC 2

A rooftop copper theft knocked out refrigeration at the Eastside Food Co-op, leaving shelves bare and causing a large loss of food that management called a “massive hit.” The co‑op says it has largely bounced back, with affected departments reopened and products restocked as normal operations are restored.

Business & Economy Public Safety

Cigna to drop drug rebates in many private plans

Oct 27 Breaking TC 1

Cigna said Oct. 27, 2025 it will end drug manufacturer rebates in many private health plans, altering pharmacy benefit design for employers and members nationwide, including in the Twin Cities. The move affects plans administered by its pharmacy benefit operations; the company did not immediately specify which plans or the effective date.

Health Business & Economy

USCIS details $100K H‑1B fee: applies to overseas applicants; renewals exempt

Oct 25 Breaking TC 3

USCIS says a $100,000 fee will apply to H‑1B petitions filed on or after Sept. 21, 2025 for beneficiaries outside the U.S. who do not already hold a valid H‑1B visa, while exemptions include amendments, changes of status, extensions of stay and petitions tied to existing valid H‑1Bs submitted before Sept. 21, 2025; F‑1 graduates changing status inside the U.S. and current H‑1B holders traveling abroad are likewise not subject to the fee. The agency has set up an online portal for paying the fee, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a major legal challenge, and employers—particularly Minnesota schools, retail and health‑care providers—warn of higher costs, potential hiring delays and adjusted recruiting plans.

Business & Economy Legal Government/Regulatory

Shutdown delays Social Security COLA announcement

Oct 24 Breaking TC 2

A government shutdown delayed the usual announcement of the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, leaving recipients uncertain about next year’s benefit increase. Officials have now set the 2026 COLA at 2.8%, which will raise average monthly benefits by about $56 and ends the uncertainty caused by the earlier delay.

Business & Economy Government Government/Regulatory

Social Security sets 2026 COLA at 2.8%

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment in 2026, translating to an average increase of about $56 per month, according to a report published Oct. 24, 2025. The nationwide change directly affects beneficiaries in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro as monthly payments adjust in the new year.

Business & Economy Government

Alaska Airlines resumes after IT outage grounds flights

Oct 24 Breaking TC 1

Alaska Airlines said Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, that it has resumed operations after an IT outage grounded its flights for hours, causing delays and cancellations across its network. The disruption affected flights serving Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) before service restarted.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Fridley man charged with two counts in Fletcher’s firebombings; community rallies

Oct 24 Breaking TC 4

Prosecutors have charged a Fridley man with two counts of first‑degree arson after two Molotov cocktail attacks on Fletcher’s Ice Cream in Minneapolis — one Sunday night that broke a window but was extinguished and a second in daylight Monday that failed to ignite when the wick fell out. A witness photo of a suspect in a minivan helped police make an arrest about a half‑mile away, and the community, joined by Mayor Jacob Frey and others, rallied at the shop Thursday while officials say motive — including whether it was related to the shop’s pride flag — remains undetermined.

Public Safety Legal Business & Economy

Secondary market emerges for MN cannabis licenses

Oct 23 TC 1

FOX 9 reports Minnesota recreational cannabis licenses are being listed and resold on secondary markets, with more than 80 licenses recently posted at combined asking prices once above $100 million. One local example is a former Wendy’s site in Roseville marketed with city approval and a lease, though any change in majority ownership would reset its place in the city’s queue for three retail licenses; all transfers require approval from the Office of Cannabis Management.

Business & Economy Local Government

US, EU sanctions lift oil; gas prices may rise

Oct 23 Breaking TC 1

The United States and European Union imposed new sanctions on Russian oil companies on Thursday, prompting a jump in global oil prices that could raise gasoline costs for Minneapolis–Saint Paul drivers in coming days. Analysts and industry watchers say higher crude and wholesale fuel prices typically flow through to the pump, with timing dependent on station inventories and supply contracts.

Energy Business & Economy

Legrand’s Minnetonka HQ building sells for $23M

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Buhl Investors has sold the Minnetonka office building that houses Legrand’s new headquarters for $23 million, marking a major markup on the asset. The transaction, reported Oct. 22, 2025, underscores investor demand for single-tenant, HQ‑anchored properties in the Twin Cities market.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Robins Kaplan downsizes, moves to Wells Fargo Center

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Robins Kaplan will reduce its Minneapolis office footprint and relocate to the Wells Fargo Center downtown, with a multimillion‑dollar build‑out planned, firm leaders said on Oct. 22, 2025. The move reflects a strategic shift in how the law firm uses office space in the Twin Cities’ core business district.

Business & Economy Real Estate

3M lifts outlook; shares jump nearly 8%

Oct 22 Breaking TC 1

Maplewood-based 3M raised its full-year earnings outlook on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, citing progress in its turnaround, and its shares climbed about 7.7% on the day. As one of the Twin Cities’ largest employers, the improved guidance and market reaction signal strengthening business conditions with potential implications for local operations and jobs.

Business & Economy

Funding secured for 600+ Twin Cities homes

Oct 21 Breaking TC 1

Emerging developers have secured financing to build more than 600 housing units in Minneapolis and St. Paul, according to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal on Oct. 21, 2025. The funding advances multiple projects that would add significant new apartments/homes in both cities, marking a notable boost to the metro’s housing pipeline.

Housing Business & Economy

Xcel names Bria Shea regional president

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

Xcel Energy has promoted Bria Shea to regional president overseeing its operations in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Shea brings more than 15 years of experience at Xcel Energy to the role.

Utilities Business & Economy

Walz, Prairie Island sign cannabis compact; wholesale to state dispensaries could begin in November

Oct 21 Breaking TC 2

Gov. Tim Walz and leaders of the Prairie Island Indian Community signed a tribal-state cannabis compact on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, establishing terms for the tribe to supply recreational cannabis to state dispensaries. If implementation proceeds as planned, wholesale deliveries to state-licensed retailers could begin as soon as November.

Local Government Business & Economy

Itasca Project leadership to end group

Oct 20 Breaking TC 1

The Itasca Project, a business-led regional development group in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area, is being ended by its leadership, the Star Tribune reports. The change affects a long‑running CEO and civic leader forum that has played a role in shaping metro economic strategy; details on timelines and how work may transition to other organizations were not immediately specified.

Business & Economy

Federal cuts slash Minnesota food aid

Oct 20 Developing TC 1

USDA funding reductions to The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) have removed roughly 1 million pounds of food from Minnesota’s supply, and state and nonprofit officials warn deeper cuts could follow. The shortfall affects food shelves statewide, including in the Twin Cities, forcing pantries to stretch resources as demand remains high.

Health Local Government Business & Economy

South St. Paul tannery strike ends with deal

Oct 18 Breaking TC 1

A weeklong strike at a tannery in South St. Paul ended after workers and management reached an agreement reported Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. Details of the pact were not immediately disclosed, but the resolution concludes a work stoppage affecting a Dakota County industrial employer.

Business & Economy

Census: Minnesota poverty rate second-lowest

Oct 17 TC 1

The U.S. Census Bureau’s latest figures show Minnesota has the nation’s second‑lowest poverty rate, though the rate has risen in recent measurements. Released this week, the new data provide a current snapshot of economic hardship that will inform policy and service planning for Minneapolis–Saint Paul and the rest of the state.

Business & Economy Health

Ford recalls 290,000 U.S. vehicles for camera issue

Oct 17 Breaking TC 1

Ford Motor Company announced a U.S. safety recall affecting more than 290,000 vehicles due to a rearview camera system issue that may impair the display of the rear image. The recall applies nationwide, including Twin Cities owners, with Ford indicating affected vehicles will be eligible for a no‑cost remedy at dealers and advising owners to check their VINs for recall status.

Public Safety Business & Economy

HistoSonics raises $250M for global expansion

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

Minneapolis‑based medtech HistoSonics raised $250 million to scale its noninvasive ultrasound tumor‑treatment platform globally, according to the Twin Cities Business Journal on Oct. 16, 2025. Investors include Bezos Expeditions and Thiel Capital, and the company says the financing will accelerate commercialization and expansion of its histotripsy technology, with implications for its Twin Cities operations.

Business & Economy Health Technology

Meta expands land holdings in Rosemount

Oct 16 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports that Meta Platforms, Facebook’s parent company, has purchased additional land near its prospective data center site in Rosemount, Minnesota. The acquisition expands Meta’s footprint in Dakota County and signals continued movement on the potential data center project.

Business & Economy Technology

Medicare open enrollment starts amid MA cuts

Oct 15 Breaking TC 1

Medicare open enrollment runs Oct. 15–Dec. 7, allowing Twin Cities Medicare members—especially those losing Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 due to insurer pullbacks—to join, drop, or switch plans. Enrollees in Medicare Advantage also have an additional Jan. 1–March 31 window to change MA plans, with coverage effective the month after enrollment; assistance is available via 1-800-MEDICARE and Minnesota Aging Pathways (800-333-2433).

Health Business & Economy

Report: Downtown St. Paul vacancies ease

Oct 15 TC 1

Greater Saint Paul BOMA’s 2025 Market Report, released Oct. 14, finds downtown St. Paul’s competitive office vacancy improved to about 31% from a peak above 32% last year, after rising from roughly 18% in 2020. BOMA president Tina Gassman says the district is stabilizing with public‑private efforts underway, while more than 1 million square feet left vacant by Madison Equities remains a major drag.

Business & Economy Housing

Commerce Dept. bans unlicensed insurer in Minnesota

Oct 14 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Commerce announced on Oct. 14, 2025, that it has barred an unlicensed insurance seller from operating in the state. The regulatory action applies statewide, protecting consumers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro and across Minnesota from unlawful insurance sales.

Legal Business & Economy

Downtown Council steps back from Holidazzle, Aquatennial

Oct 14 Breaking TC 1

The Minneapolis Downtown Council says it will stop directly producing the Holidazzle and Aquatennial festivals and is seeking another organization to take over, citing inconsistent sponsorship funding and evolving needs of downtown Minneapolis. MDC will continue to promote the events and says Holidazzle will evolve into “Winterapolis,” a season‑long campaign highlighting winter activities rather than a single festival.

Business & Economy

Target pilots THC beverages at select Minnesota liquor stores

Oct 14 Breaking TC 2

Target is piloting the sale of THC beverages at select Minnesota liquor stores, rather than in general store aisles. The move taps into what industry observers call the nation’s most competitive THC beverage market, with the pilot reported on Oct. 13, 2025.

Health Government/Regulatory Business & Economy

Nonprofit takes over Alliance Bank Center

Oct 13 Breaking TC 1

The Saint Paul Downtown Development Corporation has acquired the vacant Alliance Bank Center in downtown St. Paul from Madison Equities and will assume property management and security from the city, officials confirmed. The nonprofit, a subsidiary of the St. Paul Downtown Alliance, will keep the building and connected skyways closed while conducting a 12‑month redevelopment evaluation, with updated skyway maps coming before winter.

Business & Economy Local Government

UPS may destroy uncleared imports under new rules

Oct 12 Breaking TC 1

UPS told FOX Business Friday it has implemented procedures for imported packages that cannot clear U.S. Customs under newly tightened rules, saying parcels will either be returned to the shipper at their expense or, if customers don’t respond and clearance isn’t possible, disposed of in compliance with regulations. Citing Trump administration changes like suspended de minimis exemptions and stricter documentation, UPS said about 90% of shipments clear on day one and that it makes multiple contact attempts to obtain missing information, but a growing number of parcels are stranded at hubs nationwide.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

IRS shifts high-earner 401(k) catch-ups to Roth

Oct 12 TC 1

The IRS issued regulations implementing SECURE 2.0 that require workers who earned $145,000 or more in the prior year to make 401(k) catch-up contributions to after-tax Roth accounts starting with the 2026 tax year. For 2025, the standard 401(k) contribution limit is $23,500 with an additional $7,500 catch-up for ages 50+ (and $11,250 for ages 60–63), but high earners will lose the option to make pre-tax catch-ups in 2026; plans without a Roth option may need updates or affected workers could be unable to make catch-ups. This change affects Twin Cities employees and employers administering retirement plans.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Minnesota exports fall 19% in Q2 2025

Oct 12 TC 1

Minnesota DEED reported Friday that state exports of agricultural, mining, and manufactured goods totaled $5.8 billion in Q2 2025, a $1.3 billion (19%) drop from Q2 2024, led by a 96% plunge in mineral fuel and oil exports to Canada (-$703 million). Exports to Mexico and China also fell more than 20%, while shipments to Ireland, the UK, Germany and Switzerland increased; officials completed a business mission to Ireland and plan a November trade mission to Germany and Switzerland.

Business & Economy Government

UnitedHealth to cut MN Medicare Advantage counties from 72 to 27 in 2026; UCare exits; Blue Cross maintains statewide coverage via MA/Cost

Oct 11 Developing TC 3

UnitedHealth Group will sharply shrink its Minnesota Medicare Advantage footprint from 72 counties to 27 in 2026 (part of a national pullback from 109 counties affecting up to 180,000 members), a change that will affect roughly 20% of its Minnesota MA subscribers; UCare is exiting Medicare Advantage entirely while Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will offer MA in 66 counties and Medicare Cost plans in the other 21, preserving Blue Cross options across all 87 counties. Beneficiaries who lose MA plans will revert to Original Medicare Parts A and B and could lose supplemental benefits and drug coverage, with guarantee-issue Medigap enrollment and stand‑alone Part D plans (with widely varying premiums) cited as immediate replacement options.

Business & Economy Health

Mississippi Market, River Market co-ops to merge

Oct 10 Breaking TC 1

Member-owners of Mississippi Market Natural Foods Co-op in St. Paul and River Market Community Co-op in Stillwater voted to approve a merger on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, combining the two Twin Cities–area cooperatives. The vote paves the way for legal and operational integration affecting co-op members, shoppers, and staff in Ramsey and Washington counties; further details on timeline and branding were not immediately disclosed.

Business & Economy

UMN regents approve 9-2 transfer of Eastcliff to University Foundation

Oct 09 Breaking TC 2

The University of Minnesota Board of Regents voted 9-2 on Oct. 9, 2025, to transfer Eastcliff to the University of Minnesota Foundation. The approval clears a $2.2 million sale of the property to the Foundation.

Education Local Government Business & Economy

State settles sex-discrimination cases with two businesses

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced Oct. 2025 settlements with Lakes Concrete Plus of Bemidji and Key Lime Air of Thief River Falls after finding both violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act through gender stereotyping. Each company will pay $45,000 to an aggrieved job applicant or former employee and must revise workplace policies to prevent future sex discrimination.

Legal Business & Economy

Duos raises $130M to expand aging-at-home care

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

Duos, a Minnesota digital-health startup launched by a former Optum executive to help seniors age at home, announced Oct. 9, 2025 that it raised $130 million in a funding round led by investors including FTV and Forerunner. The infusion ranks among the largest investments for a Minnesota startup this year and positions the company to scale its senior-care technology and services from its Twin Cities base.

Business & Economy Health

Burnsville Meridian Pointe Apartments sold for $63M

Oct 09 Breaking TC 1

Meridian Pointe Apartments, a 339-unit complex in Burnsville (Dakota County), was sold in a $63 million transaction to a New York–based multifamily real-estate buyer, the Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal reported on Oct. 9, 2025. The deal transfers ownership of a large metro rental property and could affect management, rents, or operations for the hundreds of tenants who live there.

Business & Economy Housing

Largest Twin Cities credit unions, 2025 rankings

Oct 09 TC 1

The Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal published a ranked list of the region’s largest credit unions on Oct. 9, 2025, reporting June 30, 2025 balances and metrics. The list names Wings Financial Credit Union as the largest with $9.48 billion in assets and provides assets, year-over-year asset changes, net income, membership counts and local executive contacts for the top institutions in the metro.

Business & Economy Banking and Finance

Evereve doubling Edina headquarters, plans hiring surge

Oct 08 Breaking TC 1

Evereve, a women’s fashion retailer headquartered in Edina, announced on Oct. 8, 2025 a multiyear plan to double its Edina headquarters footprint, double its corporate workforce, and triple its digital revenue as it expands operations in the Twin Cities suburb. The move signals increased local hiring and investment in digital channels tied to the company’s Edina base.

Business & Economy Jobs/Employment

L.L. Bean to open Maple Grove Arbor Lakes store

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

L.L. Bean announced plans to open a new store at the Arbor Lakes retail complex in Maple Grove, Minnesota, scheduled for 2026. The store will consolidate space by replacing four former retail units at the development, marking the retailer’s expansion into the Twin Cities regional market and altering occupancy at a major suburban shopping hub.

Business & Economy Retail

Outdoor Retailer to move trade show to Minneapolis

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Outdoor Retailer announced it will relocate its major outdoor-industry expo to Minneapolis, scheduling a reimagined three-day trade show for Aug. 19–21, 2026 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Organizers say the move positions the show to focus on collaboration and innovation, and city leaders expect convention activity to bring measurable economic benefits to the metro.

Business & Economy Events

Tile Shop to Delist in $6.60 Cash-Out Deal

Oct 07 Developing TC 1

Minnesota-based retailer Tile Shop announced plans to exit public markets via a cash-out offer of $6.60 per share, a move the Business Journal reports is the company's second attempt to delist since 2019. The proposal would take the firm private, with the cash-per-share figure and the timing of the announcement provided by company filings and the Business Journal report.

Business & Economy Corporate

Wells Fargo raises checking fee 50%

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Wells Fargo announced Oct. 7, 2025 that it will increase the monthly fee on its common checking account by 50%, a change that will raise costs for customers in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro as well as nationwide. The change was reported by the Twin Cities Business Journal and stems from the bank’s pricing update communicated to customers.

Business & Economy

U.S. News ranks two Minnesota children's hospitals

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Children's Hospitals list (published Oct. 7, 2025) named Mayo Clinic and M Health Fairview among the top children's hospitals in the Midwest. The recognition highlights M Health Fairview's standing in the Twin Cities metro and Mayo Clinic's regional prominence in Rochester, information that may influence patient referrals and consumer choices.

Health Business & Economy

Loma Bonita Market to Open in Richfield

Oct 07 Breaking TC 1

Loma Bonita Market, a locally owned Mexican grocery chain, will occupy the long-vacant Rainbow Foods building at The Hub in Richfield and is set to open in the next few weeks. The store — the chain's largest at more than 50,000 square feet — will include a bakery, butcher shop, taqueria and tortilleria, and city officials say the project will revitalize the strip-mall area and expand grocery options for local residents.

Business & Economy Local Government

Toro buys Canadian vacuum truck maker Tornado

Oct 06 Breaking TC 1

The Toro Co., a Bloomington-based manufacturer, announced on Oct. 6, 2025 that it will acquire Tornado Infrastructure Equipment, a Canadian maker of vacuum excavation trucks, for $200 million to expand its construction product lineup and establish a manufacturing footprint in Canada. The deal aims to broaden Toro’s presence in construction markets and add specialized vacuum truck capabilities to its portfolio.

Business & Economy Manufacturing

Prep Network lands private equity investment in Plymouth

Oct 03 Developing TC 1

Plymouth-based sports-media company Prep Network announced its first private-equity investment Oct. 3, 2025, a deal the company says will fund expansion of its sports-media operations. The business, which began as a side hustle and now employs about 60 full-time staff, intends to use the capital to scale content, technology and distribution from its Twin Cities base.

Business & Economy Technology

North Loop building lands 50,000-s.f. Stagwell lease

Oct 03 Developing TC 1

A North Loop office building in Minneapolis has signed Stagwell to a 50,000-square-foot lease, the latest major tenant commitment downtown. The property, purchased last fall by Crowe Cos., has been rebranded and is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation that the owner says will reposition the asset for creative-office tenants.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Dunwoody College enrollment hits 17-year high

Oct 02 Developing TC 1

Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis reports enrollment reaching a 17-year high as of an Oct. 2, 2025 report, with college leaders attributing the surge to strengthened industry partnerships and demand for technical-skills programs. The growth is presented as bolstering the Twin Cities skilled-trades pipeline and meeting employer needs for machinists and other technicians.

Education Business & Economy

U.S. Bank Center in St. Paul set for auction

Oct 02 Breaking TC 1

The U.S. Bank Center, a 380,170-square-foot office tower in downtown St. Paul owned by Madison Equities, is going to auction with a $1 million starting bid, the BizJ reports. The building was part of a 10-building portfolio put up for sale last year and saw a major tenant contraction after U.S. Bank relinquished about 118,000 square feet last year.

Business & Economy Real Estate

Twin Cities suburbs face fierce apartment competition

Oct 02 TC 1

A RentCafe report cited by the Twin Cities Business Journal on Oct. 2, 2025, shows rental demand in Twin Cities suburbs has surged, with about 12 prospective renters competing for each apartment that hits the market—up from 10 a year earlier—outpacing competition in many large U.S. markets. The increase signals tightening supply and growing pressure on affordability for metro-area renters across the Minneapolis–Saint Paul suburbs.

Housing Business & Economy

Sylvan franchise owner files bankruptcy, closes multiple Twin Cities tutoring centers

Oct 02 TC 2

Paul Ripon, the franchise owner of multiple Sylvan Learning centers in the Twin Cities, filed for bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court and listed more than a dozen creditors after reporting debts exceeding $600,000 — including about $205,000 owed to Sylvan Corporation and an estimated $100,000 owed to individual customers. Sylvan revoked Ripon’s tutoring licenses, forcing closures of centers in Edina, Maple Grove, Roseville and Woodbury as the Minnesota school year begins; in an owner email he wrote, "There are no funds available at this moment."

Education Business & Economy

Weidner buys downtown Minneapolis apartments for $77M

Oct 01 Developing TC 1

Weidner Acquisitions purchased a 13-story apartment building in downtown Minneapolis for $77 million and has rebranded the property The Grand Mill District Apartments. The sale, reported Oct. 1, 2025, expands Weidner’s Twin Cities portfolio and follows the building’s recent summer listing.

Business & Economy Housing

U.S. Bank to spend $200M yearly renovating branches

Sep 30 Developing TC 1

U.S. Bancorp announced it will invest $200 million a year to renovate its retail-branch network, beginning with upgrades in five key markets and signaling a strategic reappraisal of physical locations as digital banking grows. The plan, announced Sept. 30, 2025, implicates branches in the Twin Cities—where U.S. Bank is headquartered—and could affect branch operations, customer access and local construction work.

Business & Economy Corporate

Nilfisk closing Brooklyn Park plant; 105 layoffs

Sep 29 Breaking TC 1

Nilfisk, a professional cleaning equipment manufacturer, will close its plant in Brooklyn Park, cutting 105 jobs. The shutdown affects Hennepin County workers in the Twin Cities metro; the company confirmed the closure and workforce reductions.

Business & Economy

Normandale 8500 Tower sells at steep discount

Sep 29 TC 1

The Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports that the 8500 Tower at Normandale Lake Office Park in Bloomington has been sold at a price nearly 94% below what the lender paid when it took the property at a 2024 foreclosure auction. The Sept. 29 report cites industry experts on factors contributing to the lower price, highlighting ongoing stress in the Twin Cities office market.

Business & Economy

Trump imposes 100% tariffs on foreign films

Sep 29 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump announced Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, that the U.S. will levy 100% tariffs on foreign-made films, a nationwide move that could affect how imported movies are distributed and priced in Minneapolis–Saint Paul. The White House framed the measure as part of its broader tariff policy; implementation details were not immediately available.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Spirit Airlines to exit MSP in December

Sep 29 Breaking TC 2

Spirit Airlines will end all flights and service at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, exiting the market in December. The move follows the carrier’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing earlier this year and comes after it had already scaled back most of its MSP flights.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

MSP Airport $600M renovation nears completion

Sep 27 Developing TC 1

A Sept. 27 report says a $600 million renovation program at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is nearing completion. The multi‑year capital project, overseen by the Metropolitan Airports Commission, modernizes facilities at the region’s primary airport and is entering its final phase.

Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy

Essentia leaves UMN–Fairview health talks

Sep 26 Developing TC 1

Essentia Health said Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, it has exited negotiations with the University of Minnesota and Fairview Health Services over an 'All‑Minnesota' health solution intended to reshape the state’s academic health system. The move forces UMN and Fairview—operators of major Twin Cities hospitals and clinics—to reassess next steps for a Minnesota‑based model and the future governance of university‑affiliated facilities.

Health Business & Economy

Wild owner vows team will stay in St. Paul

Sep 26 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold said Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, that the NHL franchise will remain in St. Paul, affirming the team’s long‑term home at Xcel Energy Center. The pledge, reported by the Pioneer Press, addresses questions about the club’s future location and signals continued commitment to downtown St. Paul.

Business & Economy Local Government

Trump imposes tariffs on cabinets, furniture, trucks

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

President Donald Trump announced new import taxes on kitchen cabinets, furniture, and heavy trucks that will take effect starting next week. The nationwide tariffs, announced Sept. 25, 2025, are poised to impact Twin Cities consumers, retailers, home contractors, and trucking-related businesses as prices and sourcing adjust.

Business & Economy Government/Regulatory

Minneapolis Fed orders full-time office return

Sep 25 Breaking TC 1

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, one of downtown Minneapolis’ largest employers, has mandated a full-time return to the office, reversing hybrid or remote arrangements. The policy goes further than other large organizations that have recently tightened remote-work rules, signaling a notable shift for the downtown workforce.

Business & Economy Local Government Technology

Amazon settles FTC Prime case for $2.5B, averting jury trial

Sep 25 Developing TC 2

Amazon agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s lawsuit alleging it used deceptive tactics to enroll customers in Prime and made cancellation onerous. The deal resolves a case that a judge had ruled would go before a jury, averting a federal jury trial.

Legal Business & Economy Technology

Edina’s Mark Erjavec indicted in $975K COVID-relief fraud

Sep 25 Breaking TC 2

Mark Erjavec, 49, of Edina, has been indicted in Minnesota on five counts of wire fraud for an alleged $975,000 scheme targeting COVID-19 relief programs, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors say he reactivated dormant business entities dissolved between 2008 and 2013, opened new bank accounts, and submitted false EIDL and PPP applications with nonexistent employees and inflated revenues; he has appeared in federal court.

Business & Economy Legal

MyPillow to sell Chaska HQ, shift offices

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

MyPillow has put its Chaska headquarters up for sale and will relocate office functions to Shakopee, according to a Star Tribune report. The move consolidates operations within the Twin Cities metro across Carver and Scott counties; details on timing and employment impacts were not immediately disclosed.

Business & Economy Housing

Oppidan sells Pillars of Prospect Park for $140M

Sep 24 Breaking TC 1

Oppidan sold the Pillars of Prospect Park senior living community near the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis to Ventas for $140 million, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Sept. 23, 2025. The deal is described as one of the Twin Cities’ largest real estate transactions of the year, with the property’s unique features and partnerships cited as drivers of the price.

Business & Economy Housing

Washington County sets 2026 levy cap at 6.95%

Sep 23 Breaking TC 1

The Washington County Board on Sept. 23, 2025, approved a preliminary 2026 property tax levy allowing an increase of up to 6.95%. The preliminary action sets the maximum levy that can be reduced before final adoption later this year, affecting homeowners and businesses countywide in the east Twin Cities metro.

Local Government Business & Economy

Minnesota adds 5,900 jobs in August

Sep 19 Breaking TC 1

Minnesota’s August 2025 jobs report shows a net gain of 5,900 jobs while the statewide unemployment rate ticked up to 3.6%, according to data released Sept. 18. The update, from the state’s employment agency, reflects current labor-market conditions that directly affect Twin Cities workers and employers.

Business & Economy

Toyota, Hyundai recall 1.1M vehicles for defects

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

On September 18, 2025, Toyota and Hyundai announced nationwide vehicle recalls totaling more than 1.1 million vehicles to address seat belt and panel display problems. The recalls affect owners in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro due to their national scope and will require affected vehicles to be serviced to remedy the defects.

Public Safety Business & Economy

FTC sues Ticketmaster over pricing practices

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

The Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit on Sept. 18, 2025, against Ticketmaster/Live Nation, alleging practices that force fans to pay more for concerts and events. The case seeks to curb alleged anticompetitive or unfair methods that raise ticket costs nationwide, which could affect Twin Cities consumers who buy tickets for metro venues.

Legal Business & Economy

Bluestem to close Eden Prairie HQ; 103 layoffs

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

Eden Prairie–based Bluestem Brands is closing its headquarters and laying off 103 employees, including its CEO, the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal reports on Sept. 18, 2025. The move follows prior layoffs and two bankruptcy filings; the company’s online shops reportedly have only a few items remaining.

Business & Economy Employment

Pentair acquires Hydra-Stop from Madison Industries

Sep 18 Breaking TC 1

Twin Cities–based Pentair announced on Sept. 18, 2025, that it acquired Illinois-based Hydra-Stop from Madison Industries. Pentair says the acquired business is expected to generate about $50 million in 2025 revenue with roughly a 30% return on sales, signaling strategic expansion of its water-related offerings.

Business & Economy Utilities

Amazon invests $1B to raise pay, cut health costs

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

Amazon announced on Sept. 17, 2025, that it will spend $1 billion to increase pay and lower health care costs for U.S. employees, a change that applies to workers nationwide, including those in the Twin Cities metro. The company said the investment is aimed at boosting compensation and reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Business & Economy Health

Illume Candles closing Maple Grove HQ, cutting 132 jobs

Sep 17 Breaking TC 1

Illume Candles will close its Maple Grove headquarters and manufacturing operations and lay off 132 workers, according to a Star Tribune report. The move affects employees at the Hennepin County facility and removes a local manufacturing and office footprint in the Twin Cities suburb.

Business & Economy

First metro recreational cannabis shops open

Sep 16 Breaking TC 1

Recreational cannabis sales began Tuesday at Green Goods locations statewide, including five shops in the Twin Cities, while RISE is opening five recreational dispensaries with 8 a.m. ribbon cuttings, three of them in the metro. Legacy Cannabis in Duluth is set to open at 4:20 p.m. Tuesday with flower grown by the White Earth Nation, after a tribal compact and new state licenses eased supply constraints that had delayed non-tribal openings.

Business & Economy Legal

Falcon Heights nets $49K from State Fair parking

Sep 15 Breaking TC 1

The City of Falcon Heights reports earning a $49,000 profit from on-street parking fees charged during the Minnesota State Fair in areas near the fairgrounds. The fees were enforced on city streets in Falcon Heights during the event, generating revenue beyond program costs.

Local Government Transit & Infrastructure Business & Economy