Roseville council votes to join regional coalition on Operation Metro Surge response
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Summary
The Roseville City Council unanimously voted to join the Cities for a Safe and Stable Communities coalition and authorized up to $3,000 for the city—s near-term participation after hearing a presentation from Richfield—s mayor and public comments urging quick action.
The Roseville City Council voted unanimously on Feb. 23 to join the Cities for a Safe and Stable Communities coalition, a multi-city group formed to coordinate local responses to disruptions tied to Operation Metro Surge.
Richfield Mayor Mary Supple, representing one of the coalition—s founding members, told the council the group now includes "over 20 cities" and is speaking collectively to state and federal officials about economic stabilization and housing support. "We're representing over 500,000 residents," Supple said, urging unified, nonpartisan advocacy.
City Manager Pat Trojgen told the council staff expects any Roseville cost-share to be modest; council discussion centered on whether joining would let the city ensure local priorities —2——particularly housing stability and economic assistance for affected small businesses —2——are elevated in discussions with state leaders.
Public commenters supported joining. Carrie Gelli of the Dale Street area urged the council to approve the city—s membership promptly so Roseville voices could be included in talks with Gov. Tim Walz and other officials. Andy Johnson, a resident from the Acorn Park area, said the coalition could help frame assistance for people who remain housebound and for families facing eviction.
Council Member Straub moved to join the coalition with an expenditure of up to $3,000 to cover the city—s near-term share; Council Member Graf seconded. The motion passed 4—to—0. The council did not specify a recurring commitment beyond the current legislative session and said staff should return with any final cost-sharing details.
Mayor Rowe and council members said the coalition—s stated principles —2——safety over partisanship, economic stabilization, and local control —2——fit Roseville—s approach and that a coordinated voice could increase leverage with state and federal officials. Richfield—s Supple said coalition leaders plan regular mayoral and city-manager Zoom calls to coordinate messaging and strategy.
Next steps: staff will complete membership paperwork and notify the council of any required expense allocations; council members said they expect updates after the coalition—s outreach to state legislators and the governor.
