NOTE
City Staff and the Council extend our appreciation to the dozens of community members who joined us at Kaposia Education Center to share their perspectives and experiences as we have lived through the impacts of Operation Metro Surge in our community. We also thank you for helping us navigate the path forward as partners invested in a healthy, supportive, and collaborative City.
With cautious optimism that the federal government’s “mission” in Minnesota is nearing its conclusion, we recognize the need to lift up our neighbors and friends, support our locally owned businesses, and extend love and gratitude to our educators, first responders, parents, and care providers. Our most vulnerable neighbors and loved ones rely on them as our community continues the hard but rewarding work of making South St. Paul an even more remarkable City tomorrow than it is today.
View the presentation from the February 12 Special Worksession – Impacts of Federal Immigration Enforcement
The City and Police Department Statement
The City of South St. Paul is aware of federal immigration enforcement activity taking place throughout the region. We understand that this activity has created fear, uncertainty, and confusion within our community. It is important that community members understand that South St. Paul has no direct, indirect, or ancillary role in civil immigration enforcement.
South St. Paul does not receive or engage in communication or information sharing with the federal government related to civil immigration enforcement. No City department, official, employee, or agency provides assistance or support for civil immigration enforcement, as such assistance or support would be outside the scope of our authority under law.
Our primary focus has been, and will continue to be, to serve every member of this community equally and to do everything within our legal authority, control, and power to foster the safety and wellbeing of our community and community members.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the City of South St. Paul’s role in immigration enforcement?
The City of South St. Paul and the South St. Paul Police Department do not enforce federal immigration laws and do not take part in federal immigration enforcement. South St. Paul police officers:
- Enforce state and local laws
- Do not ask about or verify immigration status
- Are not usually notified before federal enforcement actions
- Wear clearly marked South St. Paul Police Department uniforms
What should I expect from South St. Paul Police?
The South St. Paul Police Department serves the entire community and focuses on safety for everyone. If gatherings or protests occur in response to federal actions, officers may be present to help keep community members safe. If you are a victim of, or have witnessed, a crime, call 911.
What is the City doing to support impacted community members?
City staff are reaching out to community members who may be affected. We listen to concerns and help connect people with local resources. If you need support, please contact Dakota County Crisis Response Unit at 952-891-7171 or email our staff at mhu@sspmn.org. We will connect you with the appropriate resources.
Does the City have information about federal immigration enforcement actions?
The City is not typically informed about federal immigration enforcement operations and does not have details about when or where they take place.
Who should I contact for information about federal immigration enforcement?
For questions about federal immigration enforcement actions, contact the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement St. Paul Field Office at 612-843-8600.
Resources
Federal resources
State resources
Minnesota Elected Officials
Legal and advocacy resources
Resources for children and families