| Dear Neighbors,
It remains a volatile and difficult start to 2026 for Minneapolis, but I continue to be inspired by your response.
Since my last newsletter, I have been on the ground across the City, assisting our government response and being in community with you as we navigate this unprecedented moment. Our community continues to mourn Renee Good and Alex Pretti. I feel your fatigue, and I’m so proud of how you continue to show up for each other.
The City is working with partners citywide to identify specific needs for food, rental assistance, mental health and economic impacts for our residents (you can find links to these resources below). As we continue to connect residents with services, if there are resources your community needs that aren’t presently being met, please continue to let our office know so we can help.
My office is committed to keeping you informed, even when the news is difficult. This newsletter provides an update on the court ruling regarding the City's lawsuit, the updated Council schedule for this cycle, updates on traffic calming measures, event notices, and a full list of support resources available to you.
Please stay safe, Ward 11 family. We’re in this together.
All my love,
-Jamison
Mutual Aid for Rental Assistance
(Note: This initiative is organized by CM Jamison Whiting in his personal capacity and is not an official City of Minneapolis program.)
While we work through legislative and legal channels at City Hall to address the current crisis, the immediate need for housing stability remains urgent, and our neighbors are stepping up. Jamison, in his personal capacity, has started a GoFundMe to serve as a direct stop-gap for families in our wards who have lost income or face housing instability due to the ongoing federal occupation.
Progress Report:
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Total Raised: $74,569
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Individual Donors: 560
Working with our trusted community partners, these funds are being deployed to cover rent payments directly, keeping families housed and off the streets during this volatile period.
Here are a few notes from families who have already received funds:
“God bless you all – this will keep my family in our home and safe from fear.” - A Ward 11 family.
“Our school community is grateful beyond words for... the support with getting funds urgently into the hands of our neighbors who are so desperately in need of the safety of their homes during this occupation of our city. As our school community felt called to meet these urgent needs... the dollars, communication, kindness, and creativity buoyed us! With a strong foundation [from the donated funds] we were able to do a fundraising blast, securing $14,000 for rent assistance this month meeting each need, [of the 12 families] that came our way.” - A Ward 11 school mutual aid organization.
Thank you to the nearly 560 neighbors who have contributed! To view this fundraiser, you can do so here: https://gofund.me/5698b29b2
Want to donate elsewhere? You can find a non-exhaustive list of local foundations on the City website.
Council Meeting Scorecards
We have received a lot of positive reception about the Ward 11 Scorecards! These are documents drafted by our office after every council meeting which include agendas of the meeting, how I voted, explanations of why I voted the way I did, and the final outcome of those votes. You can find all of our Ward 11 council scorecards on our City Webpage.
Thank you to everyone who reached out -- your feedback guides how we best keep Ward 11 informed!
Our office is unfortunately behind on getting out this week's scorecard, but as I aim to offer complete transparency with all of my votes, here is a brief explanation of my thought process on the main vote Council considered on Thursday regarding emergency rental assistance. A longer explanation will be included in our full scorecard next week.
Rental Assistance Vote Explanation Summary:
I strongly support providing emergency rental assistance to our most impacted neighbors, evidenced by my votes in favor of the two resolutions, that did not pass, which proposed $1 million towards rental assistance through the City’s contingency fund and the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The resolution that was approved by City council pulled $1 million from the City’s General Fund Cash Reserve balance. Our City’s General Fund is the backbone of essential city services for larger capital projects like bridges and development, public safety, snow removal, and street maintenance. Diverting resources from this fund in the midst of an unprecedented, emergency economic crisis jeopardizes our ability to maintain core operations and respond to emergent needs both in the near term and the years to come.
Protecting the City’s financial health is even more critical in moments of crisis. Minneapolis is already facing multi-million-dollar deficits due to the economic fallout from Operation Metro Surge, and unlike COVID-19, there will be no federal relief package to stabilize our budget. Pulling additional dollars from the general fund cash reserves risks triggering a downgrade of our AAA bond rating (which was put on notice last year due to the dwindling balance of the City’s General Fund Cash Reserves), and would in turn increase borrowing costs, forcing the City to drastically cut services City wide, raise property taxes (for homeowners, renters, and businesses), or both. This result would ultimately harm the exact same residents we aim to help. By contrast, the resolution I brought forward would have reallocated those funds from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) which, while not ideal, would only impact a potential 30 future affordable housing units. Since these dollars have not yet been committed to projects, this approach would not require cuts to any existing work. A downgrade of our bond rating would have far more severe consequences for social services and increase unaffordability Citywide, much more so than a temporary reduction in future housing development.
Finally, I had concerns about the speed and effectiveness of the resolution that did end up passing, and I did not have those concerns for the resolution using the AHTF. The political reality of the passed resolution could delay implementation by weeks, meaning rental assistance would not reach renters in time to address immediate needs. For these reasons, while I remain committed to supporting our vulnerable neighbors, I could not support a version of this resolution that used the City’s General Fund Cash Reserves balance, further compromising the City’s long-term stability and ability to serve all residents with the least amount of harm.
Here’s what the City is doing in response to the federal government’s actions in Minneapolis.
- Suing the federal government: The lawsuit, filed with the State of Minnesota and City of Saint Paul, aims to restore order, accountability, and basic constitutional protections.
- Standing by City policy: The mayor and City leaders have clearly stated that Minneapolis will not take part in civil immigration enforcement.
- Protecting City spaces: ICE is not allowed inside secure areas of City buildings without a judicial warrant.
- Guiding City staff: City employees and first responders receive ongoing training on how to respond if ICE activity is reported, and how to protect residents’ rights and safety.
- Working with partners: The City is tracking reports of ICE activity and working with community groups to share accurate information and resources.
- Keeping residents informed: We are sharing regular updates so residents know their rights and where to get help.
What the City cannot do
ICE is a federal agency. Cities do not have the legal power to remove federal agents or stop federal operations. We know this limitation is frustrating and frightening. Even so, the City is using every legal tool available to protect residents and uphold local policy.
Resources for residents
We are keeping information on the City’s federal response page. It includes verified information about resident rights and trusted resources.
Also on that page, under “Get help,” you’ll find resources for legal help, shelter, healthcare and food assistance.
If you or someone you know encounters ICE activity:
- You have the right to remain silent.
- You can ask to see a warrant signed by a judge.
- You do not have to open your door without a valid judicial warrant.
- Write down what you see if it is safe to do so, and connect with trusted legal or community organizations listed on the City’s website.
Recent reports of ICE activity include detaining or arresting U.S. citizens. If this happens to you or someone you know, learn about your rights, how to report what happened, and where to get help.
As a reminder, under Minnesota law and City policy, Minneapolis employees, including police, do not assist ICE with civil immigration enforcement. City staff do not ask about immigration status, do not detain people for ICE, and do not provide access to City facilities without a valid judicial warrant.
Minneapolis is strongest when we look out for one another. The City remains committed to the safety and dignity of everyone who calls Minneapolis home.
Visit the Virtual Resource Center to find information including:
- Rent and eviction assistance
- Mental health resources
- Domestic violence resources
Below are some additional City updates about the ICE occupation.
News of ICE Drawdown
On February 4th, the Trump administration announced that it would immediately reduce the number of federal immigration law enforcement officers in Minnesota. The announcement from U.S. Border Czar Tom Homan comes days after U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said ICE agents will also start wearing cameras as part of their enforcement actions.
Despite this reduction, City Leaders remain concerned about the thousands of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol agents still in Minneapolis, the Twin Cities area and statewide.
“The drawdown and body-worn cameras are a step in the right direction, but 2,000 ICE officers still here is not de-escalation,” said Mayor Frey. “My message to the White House has been consistent – Operation Metro Surge has been catastrophic for our residents and businesses. It needs to end immediately.”
Council Calendar
The Minneapolis City Council amended its schedule over the last few weeks to allow Council Members and city staff to respond to the ongoing ICE occupation. Council members are prioritizing their constituents and the community, and they recognize the demand this ongoing situation has placed on the City’s administration and staff.
This week, we got back on track.
The consolidated (“super”) Committee of the Whole met Tues, Feb. 3rd, to consider all matters referred to standing committees in this first full cycle of the year. You can access that agenda in LIMS here. On Thursday, Feb 5th, we had a full council meeting, to vote on those referred matters. You can access that agenda here. You can watch recordings for both of those meetings here.
Update on City Legal Action Against Federal Metro Surge Operation
This week, the City of Minneapolis received a disappointing ruling in our ongoing legal battle to halt Operation Metro Surge. A federal judge denied the City’s request for a Preliminary Injunction.
While the City’s lawsuit against the Trump Administration is not over, the court declined to issue an immediate emergency order to stop federal operations while the case proceeds.
Mayor Frey and the City Attorney’s office have vowed to continue pursuing the lawsuit to hold the federal administration accountable for the disruption and fear this operation has caused. As the Mayor stated, "This operation has not brought public safety... It’s an invasion, and it needs to stop."
As we navigate this legal challenge, our community continues to mourn the loss of our neighbors, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. The City remains committed to seeking justice both inside and outside the courtroom, and ensuring Minneapolis remains a safe, welcoming city for all.
Find updates on the City response on the City website.
Traffic Calming Measures
311 and other city departments have been receiving complaints about speeding and unsafe driving including vehicles coming from Whipple Federal Building. To help address some of these concerns, Public Works has deployed traffic calming / speed reduction chicanes at the following intersections. A few more signs yet to be added, but installation is largely complete.
- 34th Ave S and E 58th St (between E 57th St and E 58th St.)
- 43rd Ave S and E 58th St (between E 57th St and E 58th St.)
A note on cameras: The Minneapolis Police Department uses mobile camera trailers in places where usual conditions have changed, you may have noticed them around sensitive areas in the City this week. The cameras allow the City to monitor activity in public spaces to help us determine the type and level of police response needed. They may also document criminal activity happening within the view of the camera. MPD policy prohibits the use of cameras for facial recognition, and they are not used to assist in immigration enforcement.
Upcoming Planned Protests and Events
This list is for awareness only:
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Friday, Feb. 6: Rally for Democracy, West 50th Street between Upton and Thomas Avenue South, Minneapolis, 5 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 7:
- Powderhorn Park rally
- Crusaders Rally – City Hall, 2 pm
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Sunday, Feb. 8: Government Plaza, 2 p.m.
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Saturday, March 28: “No Kings” protest
Street Barricades
The City has cleared makeshift barricades on streets in recent weeks. We deeply understand and sympathize with the fear and anger driving residents to protect their neighbors from the ongoing federal occupation. However, blocking streets is a serious concern for fire and emergency medical response because it can delay response times and restrict access for emergency vehicles. Keeping streets clear is a critical part of the City’s responsibility to protect lives during emergencies, and the City will continue to clear physical street obstructions as the arise.
If you see a civilian barricade this weekend, please report it to 311.
 Recognize Minneapolis employee vehicles
With multiple law enforcement agencies in town, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with City emergency and non-emergency vehicles.
Police vehicles could be marked or unmarked. Fire Department vehicles are always red. City teams drive different makes and models, but the City’s logo is always present.
And no matter what vehicle they drive, City personnel do not participate in federal immigration law enforcement, nor do they loan any vehicles to federal teams.
See examples of City vehicles and their markings.
 Recognize Minneapolis employee uniforms
With multiple federal agencies in town, we recommend Minneapolitans familiarize themselves with the unforms worn by City of Minneapolis employees.
Nobody in a City uniform will ever ask for your immigration status or participate with any federal immigration enforcement activity. Our officers do not wear masks to hide their identity.We work for and with our community, not against it.
Here’s what they look like – from police to animal control. See Minneapolis employee uniforms and badges.
 Resource: Prescription drug resources and delivery
The City has compiled a list of prescription drug resources and delivery options. The information includes lists of:
- Local pharmacy chains that deliver.
- State and local pharmacy assistance programs
- Nonprofit and charitable assistance programs
- National discount programs
- Combination delivery and low-cost options
Find a list of prescription drug resources on the City website.
"MPLS for MPLS” encourages support for local businesses and workers
People are showing up for Minneapolis. Often, that starts with everyday choices: where to eat, shop, gather and spend time. That idea is at the heart of MPLS for MPLS, a new initiative from Meet Minneapolis encouraging residents to intentionally engage with neighborhood businesses and workers during a challenging moment for the city.
The effort also provides practical information about which businesses are open and what may look different right now, including modified hours and knock-for-entry policies.
Small businesses are the heartbeat of Minneapolis neighborhoods. They help shape the character of each block, create welcoming places for residents and visitors to gather, and provide livelihoods for thousands of workers and families. When those businesses struggle, the ripple effects are felt across the community and throughout the city’s economy.
Read more on the Meet Minneapolis website.
Renters’ rights and evictions
People who rent their homes are important members of our community, and renters make up more than half of the population in Minneapolis. If you are a renter, and are at risk of being evicted from your home for reasons related to the ongoing occupation, there are resources available.
Know your rights if ICE comes to your home
Everyone has constitutional protections — regardless of immigration status.
Before opening your door to ICE, know your rights, as recommended by the Immigrant Law Center. Remember to assert them calmly and safely.
The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota suggests the following if federal immigration agents come to your home.
- ICE needs a judge-signed warrant with your name and address to enter.
- You can ask them to show you the warrant through the window or under the door.
- If there is no valid warrant, you have the right to keep your door closed.
Find more know-your-rights resources on the City website in:
- English
- Soomaali
- Español
- Hmong
- Afaan Oromoo
Hennepin County’s mobile crisis team
This is a difficult time for everyone in our city. If you're in crisis or know someone who is, the Cope mobile crisis team can help 24/7. Cope responds to anyone in Hennepin County who needs an urgent response — whether one person, families or communities.
Cope has bilingual and bicultural staff available for face-to-face, phone, and video visits. It uses interpreters when needed.
Call 612-596-1223 or visit Hennepin County’s website. If the situation is life-threatening or you need immediate response, call 911.
Reporting school threats
Amid ICE’s divisive presence in our neighborhoods, we’ve heard reports of threats of violence against schools and community organizations. Call 911 immediately if you hear about or receive a threat involving schools, students, or community groups. Reporting threats right away helps keep everyone safe. If you have questions about your child’s school safety plan, contact your school’s administration.
Call 911 immediately if you:
- Receive a threat about violence directed toward a school or a student, or a threat on school grounds.
- See a threat on social media directed at a school.
- Receive threatening calls or emails sent to a nonprofit or community organization.
Reporting suspicious vehicles
Residents and community members can report suspicious vehicles on city streets. If you see an unmarked vehicle without front and rear license plates, you can report it to 311.
Discrimination Protection
In Minneapolis, you are protected by law against discrimination based on where you or your family come from – or where someone assumes you come from – including your culture, accent, appearance, or language. These protections apply in employment, housing, businesses, City services and more.
This is about discrimination in daily life in Minneapolis – not immigration enforcement. While the City does not have jurisdiction over federal agencies, we do enforce our Civil Rights Ordinance, and discrimination is not allowed here.
Report discrimination by employers, landlords, businesses, City services or others by visiting minneapolismn.gov/civilrights or by calling 311. You may also contact the department at 612-673-3012 to schedule an intake call.
If a situation involves federal action, there are additional places to report concerns:
Black History Month events
The City is hosting several events throughout Black History Month this February to honor, celebrate and reflect. The 2026 theme is: A Century of Black History Commemorations: Honoring Our History, Uplifting Our Legacy, Continuing the Celebration. All City of Minneapolis employees are welcome and encouraged to attend.
- Black History Month kickoff: Council resolution
- On Thursday, we officially kicked off Black History Month with our annual City Council resolution. This event sets the tone for our 2026 celebrations. Jamela Pettiford lead us in singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black national anthem, followed by guest speakers honoring the significance of Black History Month.
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Moments That Matter: Celebrating Local Black Artists
- Join us as we celebrate local Black artists in Minneapolis by showcasing their powerful and inspiring art. This event highlights creativity, culture and the lasting impact of Black artists within our community. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10 Public Service Building, Room 100AB
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A Touch of Soul
- A Touch of Soul is a lively celebration featuring spoken word artists, dancers and an opportunity to support Black-owned businesses through tabling and product sales.
Noon-1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24 Public Service Building, Room 100AB
 Summer internship programs taking applications through March 1
Applications are open now for summer internships for Minneapolis-area teens and young adults.
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Step Up
- Step Up interns, age 14-21 and not enrolled in college, can get training, work experience, mentoring, and paid internship experiences with local employers.
- Placements are with parks, community organizations, public agencies, nonprofits and private sector businesses.
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Find more details and apply for the Step Up program by March 1.
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Urban Scholars
- This summer leadership internship is for college and graduate students interested in public sector careers.
- The 2026 Urban Scholars program runs from June 1 to Aug. 14. The program is a full-time summer program providing paid internships, professional development and mentorship opportunities for young professionals. The interns work full-time with the employers four days a week with leadership development every Monday.
- Candidate applications are due March 1st.
 Cold Weather Alert
During extremely cold weather, remember to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and take warming breaks when possible if you plan to be outdoors. Frostbite can happen in just minutes during extreme cold temperatures. Your safety matters.
- Stay inside as much as possible and limit time spent outside.
- Dress in layers and keep clothes and shoes dry.
- Check on family, friends, neighbors and older adults who may live alone or need help.
- Know the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. Call your health care provider if symptoms are severe.
- Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
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Additional cold weather safety advice.
Get tips and be ready for extreme cold before you go out.
 Happy Groundhog Day!
In lighter news, it was Groundhog Day this week! In case you hadn’t already heard, folklore says that if Punxsutawney Phil (THE official groundhog), sees its shadow, it signals six more weeks of winter; otherwise, an early spring is on its way. Given that Phil saw his shadow, six more weeks of winter weather is anticipated. Phil’s prognostications are generally considered poor, with an overall success rate of between 35-40%, at least according to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). So, for those who are ready for spring, hang in there! |
