City Council Listening Session - January 26, 2026

The City Council of Bloomington, Minnesota held a listening session on January 26, 2026, primarily focused on community concerns regarding immigration enforcement activities by federal agents, particularly ICE, within the city. Residents expressed fears about civil liberties, safety, and the impact of federal immigration actions on the community, urging the city to take concrete steps such as issuing executive orders or cease and desist letters to prevent the use of city property for immigration enforcement. The discussion also touched on the role and response of local police, with calls for better protection of residents and criticism of perceived inadequate action. While the council acknowledged these concerns and expressed shared apprehension, they emphasized the need for careful, thoughtful approaches to avoid escalating tensions. The meeting concluded with plans for an extended listening session to allow more community input.