How does the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board fit into the City of Minneapolis governmental structure?
The MPRB is a semi-autonomous independent body of City Government founded in 1883 by legislative authority. It is responsible for maintaining and developing the Minneapolis Park system and providing a comprehensive set of services and recreation programs that meet the needs of all Minneapolis citizens. The MPRB also provides for the policing of park properties and maintenance of street trees. Just as the City of Minneapolis has elected officials (City Council Members), who direct the work of City Departments and staff, the MPRB has its own elected officials (Board of Commissioners) who direct the work of MPRB Divisions and staff. Commissioners are elected every four years (same schedule as the Mayor and City Council Members). The Board also levies taxes within the limits set by the Board of Estimate and Taxation, files appropriations and controls expenditures from several operating funds.
