Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has raised concerns about the economic impact of recent federal immigration enforcement activity on local businesses across the city. He said the effects are being felt most strongly by small businesses located in cultural and commercial corridors, where customer traffic has declined significantly.
According to the mayor, many locally owned businesses have reported revenue losses of at least 50 percent in recent weeks. Frey noted that Somali-owned businesses have been among those experiencing the steepest declines, attributing the downturn to reduced foot traffic and community members limiting public activity amid enforcement concerns.
City officials say the issue extends beyond individual storefronts and is affecting broader neighborhood economies. Frey emphasized that small businesses play a critical role in maintaining economic stability and cultural identity in Minneapolis, particularly in immigrant communities.
The mayor has called attention to the situation as city leaders continue discussions about public safety, immigration policy, and economic recovery. Officials say they are monitoring the impact on local businesses while urging coordination between local and federal authorities to minimize unintended economic consequences.