DEPARTMENT: Office of the County Manager
FILE TYPE: Regular Information
TITLE
title
Update On County Response To Operation Metro Surge
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Provide current information to the County Board regarding the effects of Operation Metro Surge on County operations.
SUMMARY
Federal law enforcement agencies have been focused on the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area through an effort known as Operation Metro Surge (OMS) since December 2025. At peak, 3,000 federal law enforcement officers from multiple agencies were working in the Twin Cities with the stated goal of removing criminals through enforcement of immigration laws. Department of Homeland Security began withdrawing 700 agents at the beginning of February, with reports that more will be withdrawn soon.
Operation Metro Surge has affected County operations primarily within Community Services. Some community members and clients will not leave their domicile for fear of the federal law enforcement agents. This means that many people in the community have not been able to work or access basic needs such food, health care, and school. Without income from work, many of these households are now struggling to continue paying for housing.
Staff will present information and update on the situation and review current County response.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Information only; no action requested.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
While it is clear that staff and resources are being used to respond, it is difficult to quantify the fiscal impacts of the OMS response at this time.
☐ None ☐ Current budget ☒ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
body
Information only; no action requested.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: Presentation Slides
BOARD GOALS
☒ Thriving People ☐ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☐ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACT
Department Head: Heidi Welsch
Author: Heidi Welsch