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

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Lisa expressed concern that ICE activity appears to involve questioning, following, or intimidating individuals based on appearance rather than confirmed immigration violations, which she characterized as racial profiling and fear-based enforcement. She stated that this activity erodes civil rights, damages public trust, and disrupts daily life. Lisa posed three questions to city leadership: 1. Whether the City will publicly state that ICE activity targeting the community is not supported or tolerated. 2. What concrete steps will be taken to restore safety and trust for residents and business owners? 3. Whether the Ramsey Police Department will commit to protecting residents and workers whom she believes are being unjustly targeted or harassed. Lisa concluded by urging city leaders to consider how allowing such activity aligns with Ramsey’s stated community values and emphasized the importance of a public response and leadership on the issue. Will Boyle, 7037 139th Avenue NW, a current resident and an instructor at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, stated that while he respects the request made during the meeting to avoid assuming motives, residents are seeking clarity and action from city leadership. He emphasized that community members want a clear statement from the Mayor and City Council on their position on the issue. Mr. Boyle expressed concern that, in the absence of a public position or response, it becomes difficult for residents not to draw assumptions. He referenced recent deaths in Minnesota that he attributed to the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and noted that ICE agents are reportedly staying at a nearby hotel. He shared that his students are fearful and stated that this level of fear is unacceptable. He concluded by asking what actions the Mayor and City Council are taking in response to these concerns. Mayor Heineman acknowledged the difficulty of responding in real time during public comment, noting that he serves as both a representative of the City and an elected representative of residents. He stated that he intends to address the questions raised later in the meeting and asked for patience while additional public comments are heard. Mayor Heineman explained that his forthcoming remarks will reflect his perspective as an elected official and resident, and that he cannot guarantee his comments will satisfy all attendees. He emphasized his commitment to fairness and said he would be available after the meeting for further discussion. Mayor Heineman clarified that his responses will be his own and do not represent the views of city staff, the Police Department, or other members of the City Council. He encouraged residents to continue sharing their comments and questions, assuring the audience that he does intend to respond before the meeting concludes. City Council /February 10, 2026 Page 7 of 20