Despite the rumors and misinformation, there are no plans to make Blue Earth a “sanctuary city” for illegal aliens.
Mayor Richard Scholtes says there is no basis for claims that the City Council and staff have knowledge of or involvement in establishing a refugee resettlement or sanctuary program.
“We understand that these topics can be sensitive and we encourage all community members to seek accurate information directly from city channels rather than relying on unverified sources,” says Scholtes. “We value transparency and will continue to communicate openly about any relevant issues that affect our city.”
In a social media posting on Sept. 30, Brenda Baldwin of Minnesota Patriots 4 America wrote that City Administrator Mary Kennedy was going to turn the town into a sanctuary city.
“I think she is going to use this tiny home development to start the process!!” says Baldwin. “This is terrifying and she is going to use our tax dollars to do it!”
During a City Council meeting in August, Kennedy presented a proposal from the Housing and Rehabilitation Authority (HRA) to build 11 rental houses each 480 square feet on the lot east of the new tennis court at Putnam Park.
Also included in the project, which is estimated to cost $2.4 million, would be two storage buildings, one utility/laundry building and one building that could be used for group activities by the residents.
Baldwin also posted that Resettlement Corps was coming to Blue Earth on Oct. 17 to hold a “training day” for 50 to 80 people. However, the group reportedly has canceled the event.
Gaining “sanctuary” designation would restrict state and local officials from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Scholtes says anyone with questions or concerns is urged to contact the city directly for further clarification.