a 'minimum security prison' [=a prison in which prisoners are allowed more freedom than in most other prisons because they are not considered dangerous or likely to escape]
Ten years is the 'minimum' needed. = We'll need 10 years 'at a/the minimum'. [=we'll need at least 10 years]
We need to keep expenses 'to a (bare) minimum'. [=we need to keep expenses as low as possible]
(..) against Dr. Thackery... ...will this sufficiently satisfy your understanding of the letter and the spirit of the law? Breaking and entering carries with it a minimum sentence of five years at Sing Sing. And something for the roundsmen who apprehended him. So I think this makes (..)2014 TvShow: The Knick Title: The Golden Lotus Season: 1 Episode 9