The ongoing search for a new site for the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct has taken another turn.
In a letter to the City Council, Mayor Jacob Frey says the building at 2633 Minnehaha Avenue is being sold by its owner, and the city should purchase it.
It's the same site the city was preparing to lease three years ago, but the deal fell through after opposition and threats to its owner.
"I've offered to give cover to the council, and just make the decision myself and take the heat," says Frey. "Or the credit, whatever comes with it. We're at the point now where it's time. It's time to bring the saga to a close. We've got a place that's just right."
In his letter, Frey says the existing building could be outfitted for about $14 million and be in operation within a year. The parcel also includes ample parking.
The proposal is the latest in over two dozen which have been contemplated by the council within the last few years.
"I'm hopeful that the dynamics have changed enough that people can recognize it for the right decision that it is," Frey said Friday. "I though it was the right decision then, it's still a good decision now. We're glad it was put back on the table. I think we should be moving forward with it."
Frey says he and councilmembers were elected to make decisions like this, and that there will always be disagreements. However, he says it is time to finalize this plan.
The original Third Precinct building was destroyed in the George Floyd riots in May of 2020.