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CC WS PACKET 02242026
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CC WS PACKET 02242026
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Councilmember Doolan commented that having a perspective does not mean they are negating the <br />thoughts and fears in the community. She asked herself which actions would be most effective in <br />protecting the community, how they balance their personal thoughts versus the position of the City, <br />what is government and what is activism, and what is performative versus what is effective. She stated <br />that a neighboring community has chosen not to do this because of the fear in that community that they <br />could be targeted. She wanted to be cautious of the legal frameworks of what could be adopted and <br />enforced. She stated that an outstate community City Council had a discussion the previous night about <br />being supportive of Minneapolis and St. Paul, recognizing that it is not just a city problem. She stated <br />that there was discussion about what was happening in that community and how they want to <br />welcome, protect, and engage, recognizing that there is value in more communities stepping forward. <br />She stated that those communities recognize that the city process takes time and asked the City <br />Manager and City Attorney to collaborate with other cities and counties. She supported that type of <br />action, where the City can sign on and partner with others to have a stronger position. She recognized <br />the concerns from community members and believed that it would be helpful if there was more <br />information available as to what can be expected if they call the police. She stated that other cities are <br />using this as an opportunity to strengthen the bond with the local police. <br />Police Chief Spiess stated that public safety response does not change; if people feel unsafe, they should <br />call 911, and there will be a response, although they will be limited in what they can do, and provided <br />examples. He did not want to give the impression that they can do something they cannot. <br />Councilmember Randle commented that they cannot act out of emotion and recognized that emotions <br />are running high right now. He stated that they need to leave emotions out of it and make sound <br />decisions. He recognized that is hard because these are hard times. <br />Councilmember Elnagdy stated that she is emotional but believed that you can feel strongly and still act <br />within the bounds of logic and reason. She asked the definition of effective in the context of <br />Councilmember Doolan’s statement, recognizing that there is not much they can do. She stated that <br />people are trying their best and changing very little. She was unsure there was anything they could do <br />to change ICE activity, but still wanted to respond to the stated needs of residents. She stated that the <br />position of Columbia Heights is not working. She liked the idea of authorizing staff to work in <br />partnership with other cities and supported anything they could do to expedite actions. She recognized <br />that there are already actions the City takes to make residents feel welcome, and they could be more <br />explicit about that through a sanctuary statement. She believed the City should take a stand, <br />recognizing that it may not have practical impact, but it could show support to residents. <br />Councilmember Doolan commented that another community already shared a similar position and <br />reaffirmed that support. She stated that the City can help residents find the support they need rather <br />than simply making statements. She believed that was more effective in assisting residents. She stated <br />that she has heard from people who have seen ICE in the community and who have had ICE show up at <br />their doors. She has also heard comments in other communities that ICE is showing up at bus stops, and <br />parents are organizing to provide assistance. She agreed that information is sometimes presented in <br />ways that are not accurate, which makes it hard to distinguish at times. <br />Councilmember Randle stated that he does not believe anything he hears at this point because there is <br />so much out there. He stated that he has not seen the activity as he is working during the day, but <br />noted that he can still relate, as he also has employees who do not feel safe showing up for work. He <br />commented that the City cannot fix this issue, and he does not support enacting ordinances. He stated <br />that he would support communication and directing residents to the resources they need.
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