The meeting prominently featured a resolution supporting immigrant and refugee communities in Moorhead. The resolution emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of various immigrant groups, including the Somali community, to the local culture and economy. Public comments played a role in this discussion, with several community members voicing their support and urging the council to adopt the resolution.

Amelia Sterlesen, affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America, spoke in favor of the resolution, condemning discriminatory rhetoric and policies at the national level. She emphasized the need for the community to stand in solidarity against divisive attitudes. Garrett Mauer and Lynn Dr. Pinnick echoed these sentiments, highlighting the humanity and contributions of immigrants and refugees. Mauer emphasized that the resolution’s adoption would reflect the character of Moorhead’s leadership and community values. Pinnick tied the resolution to recent honors for human rights advocates, advocating for unity in support of immigrant neighbors.

Abdi Shakur Muhammad shared a personal narrative, recounting his experiences as an immigrant in Moorhead. He noted the welcoming nature of the community and expressed concern for those who feel unsafe due to negative rhetoric. His story underscored the importance of the resolution as a promise to protect all residents’ dignity, calling for collective support to strengthen the city.

Following public comments, a council member motioned to support the resolution, which was seconded and proceeded to a roll call vote.

The meeting also marked the swearing-in of five new police officers, addressing staffing needs within the Moorhead Police Department. Chief Chris Hemlick introduced the officers. The ceremony underscored the department’s ongoing efforts to bolster staffing amid previous shortages, with the chief acknowledging current openings and urging potential applicants to apply.

The council then turned its attention to the city’s 2026 budget, presented by Finance Director Jennica Flanigan. The proposed budget focused on maintaining fiscal responsibility while addressing key priorities such as employee compensation, public safety staffing, and community development. The budget outlined an estimated revenue of approximately $46.3 million for the general and park funds, with contributions from property taxes, utility transfers, and local government aid.

Expenditures for the general and park funds were projected to match the revenue, with allocations for various departments including police, fire services, and community development. Notably, police and fire departments accounted for about 47% of the overall budget, while employee wages and benefits formed approximately 71% of total expenditures. Flanigan noted an increase of $3.1 million from the previous year, largely due to employee compensation adjustments and the addition of three firefighter positions.

Public comments highlighted the need for increased staffing in the fire department, with residents advocating for the hiring of additional firefighters to meet growing demands. Chris Piper, a resident with extensive experience in fire services, emphasized the importance of adhering to NFPA standard 1710 for adequate staffing, urging the council to support the inclusion of three additional firefighters in the budget.

Guadalupe Santoa shared a personal account of a delayed fire department response. He advocated for increased resources to ensure community safety, highlighting the emotional and financial impact of inadequate staffing on residents.

Mayor Shelley Carlson acknowledged the challenges of balancing budget constraints with community needs, expressing appreciation for the staff’s efforts in navigating complex budgetary considerations. The council ultimately voted to approve the budget and related resolutions.