The Minnesota Metropolitan Council convened on April 11, 2025, to discuss ongoing projects and address recent criticisms regarding the Southwest Light Rail project. The meeting began with a review of the council's recent appearance before an oversight committee, where members faced questions about the project's progress and budget overruns.

A council member highlighted that the media coverage following the oversight hearing often focused on negative aspects, which did not fully represent the current state of the project. They emphasized that many concerns raised were rooted in decisions made four to five years ago, rather than reflecting the present efforts and achievements of the project team. The council member expressed pride in the team's work, noting that the project is now 85% complete and remains on track for a 2027 opening.

The discussion also touched on the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability to taxpayers. The council member reiterated their commitment to regional interests, regardless of whether members are elected or appointed. They acknowledged the challenges faced in the past but stressed the need to take a long-term view of the project's impact and success.

As the meeting progressed, the council noted a recent reduction in the number of committee meetings, attributing this to the significant workload associated with legislative activities and the approval of the regional development guide. The council plans to regroup and provide further updates in the coming weeks, indicating that more information items will be presented for consideration.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's dedication to the Southwest Light Rail project and its commitment to addressing public concerns while highlighting the progress made thus far. The council looks forward to continuing its work and engaging with the community as the project moves closer to completion.