Minutes - Council - 02/10/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Police Chief Bluml stated that Ramsey Police are prepared to manage peaceful protests and, if necessary, address situations that escalate beyond peaceful activity. He noted that the department must balance preventing harassment of residents with preventing vandalism and property damage, citing incidents in other communities in which hotel vehicles were damaged, often belonging to visitors. He added that Ramsey Police work closely with other law enforcement agencies in Anoka County, including neighboring departments and the sheriff’s office, to share resources and coordinate responses to complex situations. Police Chief Bluml concluded by offering to speak further with Ms. Gonzalez privately after the meeting to discuss concerns in more detail. Mayor Heineman thanked the Police Chief and reiterated that Ramsey Police leadership and officers are available to speak directly with residents who have questions or concerns. He acknowledged that raising issues during a public meeting is appropriate. Still, he noted that formal meetings governed by Robert’s Rules of Order are not always the best setting for detailed or nuanced discussions. Mayor Heineman encouraged residents who wish to continue the conversation to meet with the Police Department or City Council members outside the formal meeting environment, stating that he and other council members are willing to engage in face-to-face discussions. He emphasized that Ramsey police officers are members of the community, many of whom live locally, and have a vested interest in the city’s long-term success. He acknowledged that residents and officials may not always agree on individual cases. Still, he stressed that all parties share the same goal: ensuring residents feel safe and protected while upholding the law. He concluded by reaffirming the Police Department’s mission to protect lawful residents and foster community trust, encouraged respectful dialogue focused on actions rather than assumed motives, and invited the next speaker to come forward. Mitchell Manofsky, a Ramsey resident living near City Hall, expressed appreciation for city leadership, the City Council, and the Ramsey Police Department, stating that he has a high level of trust in local officials and law enforcement due to their training, experience, and commitment to humane, community-based policing. Mr. Manofsky contrasted that trust with deep concern about the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating that he does not trust ICE agents due to what he described as insufficient training and the fear their presence creates in the community. He emphasized that armed ICE activity is alarming to residents, particularly people of color, and referenced the distress experienced by families who feel targeted or unsafe in their own neighborhood. He stated that residents should feel secure in their community and asked how ICE operations are coordinated, including how individuals are identified and whether advance notice or mitigation measures are in place to prevent residents from feeling terrorized. He urged city leaders to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future and concluded by reiterating his trust in Ramsey city officials and police while pressing for stronger protections for community members. th Elliot Niven, 7541 147 Circle NW, expressed strong concern about what he described as racism and hostility toward community members, particularly immigrants and people of color. He stated City Council /February 10, 2026 Page 5 of 20