Mayor Reinert says Duluth stands with Minneapolis, calls for end of Operation Metro Surge

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert released a lengthy statement Sunday regarding the fatal shooting in Minneapolis Saturday involving federal agents.  Reinert also released a video message on the topic (see below).  Reinert said the city of Duluth stands with Minneapolis.  Reinert also said the city joins fellow Minnesotans in a call to de-escalate federal operations and end Operation Metro Surge.

Below is Reinert’s full statement sent out in the form of a press release:

“Today, many Duluthians are finding themselves feeling numb, concerned, scared, anxious, and angry, after yet another deadly incident yesterday involving federal authorities in Minneapolis. As a community is grieving for Renee Good, Alex Pretti, their families, and the City of Minneapolis.

This shooting happened just a day after hundreds gathered peacefully in Duluth, and thousands marched peacefully in Minneapolis. Showing the world the best of Minnesota.

Today, we stand with Minneapolis and with our fellow Minnesotans and join the call to de-escalate federal actions in Minnesota and end Operation Metro Surge. Current federal actions have only served to heighten tensions and increase risks to public safety in communities throughout our state.

Duluth is and remains a welcoming city. That value has not changed. We are a Port community and for generations people have come from across the globe to make Duluth their home. That has made us stronger, more vibrant, and more interesting.

The focus of City employees is on delivering core city services like public safety, infrastructure, utilities, library and park services. Everyday things that support our community and make a community work. City of Duluth employees do not participate in immigration enforcement. This includes the use of city buildings, facilities, and property.

Our responsibility at the local level is to stay focused and continue delivering critical city services for our entire community and everyone who calls Duluth home. During a time that increasingly feels chaotic and unsettling the opportunity, city government has is to provide a sense of normalcy and stability, and to reassure Duluth that city government is the level of government that can be trusted to work.

I ask Duluthians to stay safe. Double check information has been verified before resharing it. Remain peaceful. Connect with each other. Care for each other. Be Duluth.”