Crystal, Robbinsdale City Councils Address ICE Enforcement
Local officials on the Crystal and Robbinsdale city councils have issued statements addressing the impact of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on their communities.
“I’ve heard from many in the community that they do not feel safe, that they feel very concerned about what’s going on,” said Crystal City Council Member Forest Eidbo on Jan. 20.
After a council discussion, Eidbo drafted a resolution calling for community strength.
He and Council Member David Cummings visited small businesses in Crystal before the council voted on the resolution.
“[We] heard some really harrowing stories about employees that don’t feel safe to come into work, customers that aren’t coming in to shop,” Eidbo said. “And we hear you. And it just breaks my heart.”
The council unanimously approved the resolution.
“The Crystal City Council condemns anyone who violates the laws or the rights, liberty and safety of anyone living in or visiting Crystal,” the resolution read. “Be it further resolved that the Crystal City Council recognizes the incredible service that the community has provided to each other as neighbors reach out and help those in need.”
Eidbo reads the full resolution starting around 11 minutes into the council meeting.
Crystal City Council Member Forest Eidbo reads a resolution addressing the impact of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on the community.
Robbinsdale Council Publishes Letter to Community
The Robbinsdale City Council sent a letter to residents addressing ICE activities in the Friday, Jan. 23 Birdtown Brief newsletter.
Below is the full text of the letter.
“The Robbinsdale City Council expresses deep concern following the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year old mother of three who was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026. The increased presence of ICE operations, including here in Robbinsdale, has deeply affected families across our community.
The violence that has resulted from these federal immigration operations has reverberated throughout our region, heightening fear, anxiety, and uncertainty among residents, particularly within our immigrant and multi-lingual communities who already face systemic barriers and heightened exposure during federal enforcement actions. The visible and aggressive presence of federal immigration officers conducting operations in our region has contributed to a climate where many feel unsafe reporting crimes, attending school, participating in community life, or simply going about everyday activities.
Robbinsdale’s local businesses and community organizations have also signaled concern that fear of immigration enforcement impacts patronage, disrupts staffing and hiring, and harms the economic stability of businesses that are vital to Robbinsdale’s prosperity and character.
As city leaders, we recognize that responsibility for federal civil immigration enforcement, including use of force decisions by ICE agents, lies within the federal government. However, we also have a responsibility to protect the public safety, well-being, and civil liberties of all in Robbinsdale.
For these reasons, the Robbinsdale City Council intends to consider an emergency separation ordinance in the coming weeks. This ordinance, based on models adopted by other Minnesota cities may:
- Clarify that Robbinsdale will not use local resources, personnel, or facilities to assist in federal civil immigration enforcement beyond what is required by federal and state law.
- Establish clear internal policies and training for city staff on how to respond to federal requests, including federal agent access to city property and limits on assistance with civil immigration actions.
- Protect the rights of residents to access city services without fear of inquiries into immigration status.
- Enhance public trust by codifying transparent reporting when local public safety personnel interact with federal agents.
This action is not an indictment of federal law enforcement generally, nor is it intended to impede lawful criminal investigations where local cooperation is required. Instead, it is a practical, local measure to strengthen community trust, promote public safety, and protect civil liberties in Robbinsdale.
The Council first discussed an emergency separation ordinance at a Council Work Session on January 13, with thanks to several members of the public who attended. The Council would also like to thank the Robbinsdale Human Rights Commission for hosting a listening session on January 14 and for facilitating a conversation that ultimately helps make Robbinsdale a more connected community during these difficult times. The emergency separation ordinance will be discussed further at an upcoming public meeting, and we encourage community members to participate and share their input.
We stand with residents who have been shaken by recent events and remain committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming city for all families regardless of national origin or immigration status. To our immigrant neighbors, you are a valued part of Robbinsdale’s community.”
