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<br /> <br />Mayor Heineman emphasized that action-oriented measures with enforceable impact are more <br />effective than statements alone and stated that, in his view, some signatories signed the letter <br />without follow-through. He indicated that the City is pursuing processes and actions he believes <br />are more substantive, and that public statements should accompany real action rather than replace <br />it. <br /> <br />Mayor Heineman concluded by acknowledging that his response may not satisfy everyone and <br />reiterated his willingness to discuss the issue further with the speaker after the meeting. <br /> <br />st <br />Suzanne Richards, 8241 161 Avenue NW, referenced a prior interaction with the City Council in <br />2024 in which she received a timely written response to a request for clarification on vendor rules, <br />and stated she expects a similar written response regarding current concerns about U.S. <br />Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity within Ramsey city limits. <br /> <br />Ms. Richards expressed respect for the Ramsey Police Department and appreciation for past <br />assistance. She emphasized that her request is for clarity, transparency, and written communication <br />that can be shared publicly, such as on the city website or in city publications, so residents who do <br />not attend council meetings can understand city policy and actions. <br /> <br />Ms. Richards requested written answers to the following questions: <br />1. Whether Ramsey has local sanctuary policies or ordinances that limit cooperation with <br />federal immigration authorities. <br /> <br />2. How sensitive locations (including schools, hospitals, and places of worship) are protected <br />from ICE enforcement activities <br /> <br />3. What resources (such as legal aid or rapid response teams) are available to support families <br />affected by detention or raids? <br /> <br />Ms. Richards stated that ongoing ICE activity is harming the community and local economy, citing <br />the closure of a local restaurant following the presence of armed, masked individuals she identified <br />as ICE agents. She questioned how such activity aligns with the City’s goal of supporting small <br />businesses and economic development. She concluded by urging city leadership to publicly <br />address the questions raised and issue a formal proclamation condemning what she described as <br />intimidating behavior within city limits, noting that clear communication and leadership are <br />needed to restore confidence and address community fear. <br /> <br />th <br />Eric Zaetsch., 6521 154 Lane NW, expressed appreciation for the professionalism and discipline <br />of local law enforcement leadership present at the meeting. He contrasted the conduct and <br />appearance of the Ramsey Police Department with what he described as concerning practices by <br />U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including the use of masks and aggressive <br />enforcement tactics. <br /> <br />Mr. Zaetsch. stated that he believes entering homes without judicial warrants and relying on <br />administrative warrants is improper and troubling. He emphasized that such practices undermine <br />City Council /February 10, 2026 <br />Page 9 of 20 <br /> <br />