Ramsey County Says They Are Offering Temporary Property Tax Relief Amid Fallout From Federal Immigration Crackdown
Published: March 10th, 2026 |
RAMSEY COUNTY MN: Ramsey County officials say they are taking several steps to support residents impacted by Ramsey County Offers Temporary Property Tax Relief Amid Fallout From Federal Immigration Crackdownrecent federal immigration enforcement campaign known as Operation Metro Surge, including offering temporary property tax relief and expanding mental health resources.
County leaders say the operation, which began earlier this winter, has caused financial and emotional strain for many residents and local businesses.
When the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners voted on Feb. 3 to condemn the tactics used by federal immigration agents, commissioners also directed County Manager Ling Becker to develop a coordinated county response. Since then, Becker has mobilized county staff to roll out a series of initiatives aimed at assisting people affected by the enforcement activity.
“While Operation Metro Surge may be winding down, its impacts have not,” Becker said in a statement. “Our most vulnerable residents continue to feel the greatest impact. With direction from the county board, we’ve taken a range of actions to support residents and businesses during this difficult time, and we remain committed to doing what we can to help our community recover.”
Temporary property tax relief
As part of the response, Ramsey County is offering a temporary two-month extension on first-half 2026 property tax payments.
County officials say the enforcement campaign disrupted work and reduced business activity in some communities, contributing to financial hardship for property owners.
Under the program, eligible property owners will be able to pay their taxes up to two months past the typical deadline without late-payment penalties.
Addressing health concerns
County officials say the immigration enforcement campaign has also increased anxiety in affected communities. Some parents have withdrawn children from school and limited public activities due to fears of federal agents.
Officials say that isolation can increase the risk of depression, especially when people are less likely to leave home to seek care.
Ramsey County already provides 24/7 mental health and crisis services, and officials announced an additional $75,000 in one-time funding for the Ramsey County Children’s Mental Health Collaborative. The funding is intended to improve access to mental health support and basic needs services as referrals increase and waitlists grow.
Additional county actions
The county has also taken several other steps in response to the federal operation, including:
The Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, working with local law enforcement, posted guidance for residents who witness or experience potential criminal conduct involving federal agents.
Establishing clear protocols for county employees who may interact with immigration enforcement officials at county-owned or leased facilities.
Creating new training for employees who may encounter federal agents while working in the field.
Launching a “Connect to Services” webpage, available in multiple languages, to help residents find food assistance, emergency support and other resources.
Distributing printed resource materials through county programs, local food shelves, Saint Paul libraries and parks, and Saint Paul Public Schools.
Posting signage at parks and county facilities clarifying that staging or operations are not allowed without authorization.
Expanding support for county employees through the Employee Assistance Program, including stress management sessions and a new mobile app.
County officials say additional support measures for employees and residents are still being developed as the community continues to deal with the effects of the enforcement campaign.