A coalition of mayors announces the formation of Cities for Safe and Stable Communities (MN). We are a grassroots, local government-led coalition dedicated to restoring stability and trust in government. While our cities have faced challenges for some time, Operation Metro Surge has created an urgent need for a unified local voice.
As mayors, we know the names and faces in our cities. We are held accountable for the wellbeing of our schools, hospitals, and local businesses, and for upholding the rule of law for our residents. Current enforcement tactics are violating constitutional protections and actively harming the families we swore to serve.
This surge is not just a "Minneapolis issue;" the fallout is felt across the state. This operation strains city resources, disrupts local economies, and tears at community cohesion. This is unsustainable, especially in light of the economic uncertainty of the past year. From small business closures and workforce instability to housing insecurity, the damage weakens Minnesota’s entire economic engine.
The toll on our families and children has been heavy. Students as young as five years old have been detained, leaving their friends and teachers to cope and advocate for their return.
This approach undermines true public safety. The surge forces cities to absorb unsustainable costs. The costs are not just financial; we are seeing a dangerous erosion of trust between residents and local law enforcement that could take years to earn back. When residents are too afraid to call 911 or access city services, everyone is less safe. Residents should be able to interact with our cities without fear. We need a return to order that stops pulling officers away from essential needs, to focus on their true mission: protecting our neighborhoods.
Our coalition is asking federal and state elected officials for immediate de-escalation and acknowledgement of economic harms, including potential 2026 relief funds to cities. As more communities join, we will assess the damages done and determine how we restore Minnesota institutions in the wake of these unprecedented setbacks.
We believe in Minnesota’s resilience. While federal agencies must answer for this damage, we know Minnesotans are the ones who will build back. We invite leaders – from the suburbs to Greater Minnesota – to join us. Together, we can chart a path that values safety, honors constitutional rights, and restores the peace our communities deserve. A future where cities can do their jobs and Minnesotans can feel secure in their communities.
Undersigned Cities:
- Bloomington
- Brooklyn Center
- Brooklyn Park
- Columbia Heights
- Eden Prairie
- Edina
- Golden Valley
- Hopkins
- Maplewood
- Minnetonka
- Richfield
- St Louis Park