We last interviewed Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette in August 2024. At that time, he was focused on improving coordination among Police, Fire, 911, Emergency Management, and Neighborhood Safety, while strengthening internal processes and building out the Neighborhood Safety Department. Recruitment for the Minneapolis Police Department and launching the Lake Street Community Safety Center were also top priorities. In this follow-up conversation, our focus shifted to the impact Operation Metro Surge has had on those departments and how the city is preparing for future large-scale federal enforcement activity.
The interview was prompted in part by Commissioner Barnette’s recent commentary in the Star Tribune, where he outlined what he believes should guide both authorities and residents during moments of uncertainty. We wanted to better understand how those principles translate into day-to-day decisions inside City Hall.
One ongoing source of public frustration is the slow progress on reopening the Third Precinct Community Safety Center. Barnette acknowledged that concern and encouraged residents to use the Lake Street Safety Center at 2228 E. Lake Street while construction continues. Additional information about the city’s response to federal immigration enforcement is available through the website: http://Minneapolismn.gov/federal
Interview Summary
In our latest interview, Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette described the “murky gray area” Minneapolis has been navigating during the recent federal immigration surge. Because of the city’s separation ordinance, MPD does not coordinate with federal immigration enforcement on civil matters, yet officers are still responsible for protecting life and preventing serious harm when situations escalate. With thousands of federal agents arriving at one point, the scale and tactics changed quickly, forcing the city to adapt in real time. Barnette explained that officers responding to 911 calls must make fast legal judgments, often without knowing what happened before they arrived, while trying to de-escalate tensions and avoid crossing legal lines themselves.
The operational impact has been significant. Overtime costs have climbed across Police, Fire, 911, Emergency Management, and Neighborhood Safety, with the Emergency Operations Center running 24/7. Barnette acknowledged morale concerns as vacations were postponed and staff worked extended hours, calling the recovery period long-term rather than something that will resolve in a few weeks. He also addressed the long-delayed Third Precinct community safety center in south Minneapolis. Construction is expected to begin this summer, with a goal of opening by late 2026. Barnette admitted frustration with the timeline, noting that officers have been operating out of a temporary space for too long and that residents deserve a fully functioning precinct where they can file reports and access services. The new facility is intended to better reflect the city’s commitment to community safety and provide a modern space for officers and partners.
On neighborhood safety, Barnette said the department is in a stronger position than it was a year ago. Under Director Amanda Harrington, the office has tightened contracting procedures, clarified priorities, and rolled out safety ambassador pilots along key corridors. Early feedback has been positive, though formal evaluation is still underway. Expansion to areas like Uptown remains uncertain as the city reassesses its budget following the surge. Barnette described the ambassadors as a valuable tool but cautioned that financial constraints may require reprioritization. His broader message was clear: Minneapolis is adjusting under pressure, but rebuilding capacity, restoring morale, and strengthening neighborhood-based safety efforts will take sustained focus and resources.
