White Bear Lake City Council 01/27/2026

The City of White Bear Lake held a City Council meeting on January 27, 2026, focusing primarily on community safety concerns related to federal immigration enforcement activities within the city. The Police Chief provided an update on interactions with ICE agents, emphasizing the department's policy of not enforcing immigration laws and their role in maintaining peace and safety. Council members expressed concerns about community trust and constitutional rights, proposing a future work session to explore legal options and protections. Additionally, Senator Gusterson provided a legislative update highlighting state budget forecasts, bonding projects, and efforts to secure funding for local governments, including public safety and affordable housing initiatives. The council also reviewed and approved their 2026 legislative priorities, which included support for law enforcement training funding, opposition to legislation limiting local zoning authority, and support for increased revenues for deputy registrars. The meeting concluded with plans to schedule a work session to further discuss immigration-related community safety issues.