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Minnetonka council members denounce recent political violence, urge civility
Summary
Several Minnetonka City Council members used the June 23 meeting to condemn recent acts of political violence in Minnesota, urged respectful discourse and described outreach to staff and residents; councilmembers emphasized nonviolence and decried threats to public servants.
Multiple council members at the Minnetonka City Council meeting on June 23 addressed recent violent incidents involving elected officials in the state and urged residents to de‑escalate rhetoric and stay civil in public discourse.
“...we don't condone violence, and, you know, whatever your political leanings, whatever your political stance, when dealing with elected officials, these are human beings,” Councilmember Wilburn said, calling for disagreements to be handled through the ballot box or civil engagement rather than threats or violence.
Councilmember Calvert described elected officials as neighbors and urged residents to “solve your problems at the ballot box.” Councilmember Coakley said the events left her and her family feeling fearful and urged people to call out hostile behavior in social media and public forums. Councilmember Schack thanked police and staff for support offered to constituents and noted the broad, cross‑party outpouring of recognition for the public service of those affected.
The council did not take formal action beyond public statements. Several members asked for and received assurances that staff and the police department had communicated with affected residents over the weekend after the incidents.
Why it matters: Council members stressed that threats and violent rhetoric can have real consequences for public servants and their families. The remarks were a response to widely reported violent incidents involving state officials and reflected a unanimous call among council members for restraint and civility.
No ordinance changes, policy votes or budget actions related to safety were proposed at the meeting; council comments were statements of concern and calls for respectful civic engagement.
