A few Blaine residents raised concerns about federal immigration enforcement activity during the Blaine City Council’s Jan. 21 meeting, as city officials clarified the police department’s role and limitations regarding federal law enforcement.
Early in the meeting, Police Chief Brian Podany said the department has received inquiries about federal law enforcement activity occurring in the city.
Podany said the Blaine Police Department is not involved in federal immigration enforcement and defers all immigration matters to federal authorities. He said federal officers have been present in most or all cities across the Twin Cities metro area, as well as in many cities statewide.
Federal law enforcement agencies do not notify Blaine police when they enter or leave the city.
Podany said the department cannot provide legal advice to residents or businesses, but encourages those with concerns to consult legal counsel and research what federal laws and requirements allow.
The police department is also working with schools to ensure the safety of youth who wish to exercise their First Amendment rights.
“If we observe or become aware of something that appears to be misconduct, or a civil rights violation that occurs in Blaine, we will report that to the appropriate authorities,” Podany said.
Podany said the city does not have legal authority over federal law enforcement agencies.
“If there are questions, and there are concerns, I encourage people to reach out to me,” he said. “We care deeply about the residents in our community.”
During the public comment portion of the meeting, two residents raised concerns related to federal immigration enforcement.
One resident questioned how the city would respond if federal immigration officers requested access to surveillance data or other city resources. She also said teachers, students and families in the community were experiencing heightened anxiety.
Another resident questioned why comments were not being addressed during open forum. City Manager Erik Thorvig said council procedure does not allow for back-and-forth dialogue during public comment, but that questions could be addressed after the meeting or submitted to Podany for follow-up.
The resident said she was aware of Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Blaine as of Jan. 20 and asked that information be shared with the public as soon as possible.