City Council Launches Investigation into Hotel-ICE Ties; Bicycle Committee Convenes
Minneapolis City Council Initiates Hotel Licensing Investigation
In a move reflecting the heightened tensions between local governance and federal immigration enforcement, the Minneapolis City Council has officially initiated an expedited investigation into two major downtown hotels. The decision, which became a central focus of city government activity on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, centers on whether federal agents involved in the ongoing "Operation Metro Surge" are being housed at the facilities.
The liquor licenses for The Depot and Canopy by Hilton were scheduled for routine renewal, but the Council opted to table the vote following a wave of constituent concerns regarding the potential presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Council Member Aurin Chowdhury, who chairs the committee overseeing these licenses, emphasized that the city has a fundamental obligation to address public safety concerns and conduct due diligence for its residents.
"It is our job as council members to do what we can to further investigate and address these concerns, and public safety is one of the number one things that we do as a body," Chowdhury stated during the session. While an initial motion for a two-week probe was voted down, the council successfully passed a motion for an expedited investigation. City staff and business licensing officials are now mandated to present their findings to the full council by tomorrow, February 19.
Mayor Frey Delivers Message on Federal Presence
As the city continues to navigate the complexities of a significant federal law enforcement presence, Mayor Jacob Frey released a defiant public message today titled "You Failed to Break Us." In his address, Frey detailed the social and economic damage caused by the federal surge, which the Mayor's Office reports has had a staggering $203 million impact on the Minneapolis economy.
Frey’s remarks highlight a period of unprecedented disruption for the city, noting that the federal actions have affected everything from small business revenue to community mental health. The Mayor is currently working with the "Super Committee of the Whole," a temporary legislative structure implemented by the City Council to streamline emergency responses and maintain essential city operations during the ongoing federal activity.
Bicycle Advisory Committee Meets Today
Despite the high-stakes political environment, routine municipal business continues at City Hall. The Minneapolis Bicycle Advisory Committee is scheduled to convene today at 4:30 PM in Room 11 of City Hall. While the agenda focuses on standard infrastructure and transit goals for 2026, committee members are also expected to discuss how federal checkpoints and roadblocks throughout the city have impacted cyclist safety and the accessibility of the downtown core.
City officials have reminded the public that while government meetings remain open, security remains heightened at the Public Service Building and City Hall. Residents can follow the proceedings through the city’s legislative information management system or attend the 4:30 PM session in person.