Cottage Grove City Council Meeting 1-21-26
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Pledge of Allegiance
Adoption of agenda
Consent agenda
Approval of disbursement (pay the bills)
Open forum (public comments)
Discussion regarding ICE activity and federal contracts
Council comments/requests
Areas of Interest (4)
- Public outcry in Cottage Grove over city's contract with federal government for ICE training at the Hero Center.
- Mayor and Council break silence on federal immigration enforcement, distancing local police from ICE operations.
- Residents urge City Council to stop future ICE contracts and use existing funds to support affected community members.
- City officials reveal that federal immigration agents operate in the city without communicating with the local police department.
Votes (4)
Adoption of the agenda
Moved by Council member · Seconded by Council member Garza
Approval of consent agenda
Moved by Council member Olsen · Seconded by Council member Clawson
Pay the bills
Moved by Council member Garza · Seconded by Council member Theiti
Adjourn
Moved by Council member Clawson · Seconded by Council member Garza
Notable Quotes (2)
Our police officers do not work hand-in-hand with ICE... we're not going to ask your immigration status.
This doesn't just affect undocumented people. It affects US citizens too, especially families with mixed immigration status.
People (5)
BaileyMayorPresiding over the council meeting.
1 quote
Presiding over the council meeting.
“I've been mayor now this is my 17th year... there's only been two times that I have been like I'll say shocked and dismayed.”
Reflecting on civil unrest and current ICE enforcement in the community.
Michelle MinaResidentRaised concerns about ICE contracts at the Hero Center.
1 quote
Raised concerns about ICE contracts at the Hero Center.
“It really sucked finding out that we trained ICE agents right here in my backyard.”
Voicing frustration over the city's relationship with federal immigration enforcement.
Heather ShowlerResidentWorks in manufacturing, expressed fear for immigrant coworkers.
1 quote
Works in manufacturing, expressed fear for immigrant coworkers.
“This is not benefiting our state. This is not benefiting our community members. They are terrorizing and making people afraid.”
Describing the impact of ICE activity on local families.
GarzaCouncil MemberShared a statement on the community impact of federal immigration enforcement.
1 quote
Shared a statement on the community impact of federal immigration enforcement.
“While immigration policy is not something this council can control, the impact on our community is something that we should really acknowledge.”
Addressing the tension regarding ICE presence in the city.
Pete KernerDirector of Public SafetyIn attendance for public safety questions.
In attendance for public safety questions.
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (1)
- January 21st, 2026 - Cottage Grove City Council meeting