BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. — Mayor Hollies Winston delivered a powerful State of the City address highlighting resilience, recovery, and renewed growth, declaring that despite a year marked by tragedy and hardship, Brooklyn Park has emerged stronger and more united.
Reflecting on what he described as an “unprecedented” year, the mayor pointed to a series of devastating events that placed the city in the national spotlight. These included a fatal plane crash on March 29, 2025, that destroyed a home, the shocking killings of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their family dog in the Edinburgh neighborhood, and a federal immigration surge that left many residents fearful and local businesses suffering steep financial losses.
“And yet — Brooklyn Park did not break. We are united,” Winston said, emphasizing the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Crime Drops to Historic Low
Despite these challenges, Mayor Winston announced that crime in Brooklyn Park has fallen to a 35-year low — a milestone he attributed to strategic investments in community policing, alternative emergency response models, and strengthened trust between residents and law enforcement.
“This is not luck,” he stressed. “It is the result of intentional work and partnership.”
Investing in Youth and Opportunity
A major highlight of the address was the grand opening of “The Wood,” a $10 million investment aimed at supporting young people in underserved areas of the city. Winston described the project as a symbol of equity and forward-thinking development.
The mayor also celebrated the 10-year anniversary of BrookLynk, a workforce development initiative that connects youth to internships, jobs, and career pathways. Looking ahead, the program will expand in 2026 with the introduction of a BioTech and Manufacturing Training Program, designed to prepare residents for emerging industries.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth
Brooklyn Park continues to invest heavily in infrastructure and public safety. Construction is ongoing for the new Fire Station Two, which will improve emergency response times while enhancing health protections for firefighters.
The city has also secured nearly $27 million in state and private funding for infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and business development initiatives.
At the state level, city leaders are seeking legislative support for the Northwest Regional Athletic Facility and reforms to Minnesota’s congregate care system to ensure more consistent and equitable services statewide.
Long-Term Vision: Jobs, Housing, and Development
Mayor Winston outlined an ambitious economic vision centered on expanding the city’s commercial and industrial tax base, which currently lags behind comparable cities.
Key initiatives include the Northwest Area Growth Plan and the proposed BioTech Innovation District, which is projected to generate 10,000 jobs and 3,000 housing units over the next five years.
Redevelopment efforts are also underway along Brooklyn Boulevard, a major corridor the city aims to transform into a hub for housing, retail, and commercial investment.
Additionally, the city is prioritizing targeted investment in southern Brooklyn Park, focusing on infrastructure, housing, and economic revitalization to boost property values and attract private capital.
“The Jewel of the North”
Closing his address, Mayor Winston painted a vision of Brooklyn Park as a thriving, inclusive city for all generations.
“We are building Brooklyn Park — the Jewel of the North,” he said. “A city where families can put down roots, seniors can belong, and young people can thrive.”
He added, “Brooklyn Park is unique. Brooklyn Park is united. And Brooklyn Park is no longer undiscovered.”
Watch the full State of the City address:
