JUST THE FACTS

January 30, 2026 Volume 17 Issue 5

Immigration Enforcement in Owatonna

The City of Owatonna and the Owatonna Police Department (OPD) are committed to providing a safe, secure and respectful community for all. While the level of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents’ presence in the Owatonna area may vary at any given time, information is available to help community members be informed and prepared for potential interactions. 

Visit owatonna.gov/police to view a recent publication “Immigration Enforcement in Owatonna.” It contains a list of what local police officers will and will not do, OPD’s role regarding immigration, and other resources available to the public. 

City to Host Open Houses on Proposed Police & Fire Facilities

The City of Owatonna invites community members to attend an upcoming open house to learn more about plans to build new police and fire facilities that meet the needs of the community and first responders. The open houses will take place February 3 and February 26 from 4 until 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall to provide community members with flexibility to attend the date that works best for them.

After serving the community well for many years, Owatonna’s current police and fire stations no longer meet modern public safety standards. Aging infrastructure, limited space and outdated systems affect safety, efficiency and emergency response — making it increasingly difficult for first responders to deliver the level of service residents deserve.

Over the past two years, the City has carefully evaluated public safety needs and developed a long‑term plan to address these challenges. The proposed plan includes building a new fire station on the site of the current Law Enforcement Center and a new police station on the West Hills Campus. These locations were selected to support efficient operations, fast emergency response and responsible use of taxpayer dollars by building on properties already owned by the City.

At the open houses, residents can explore self‑guided information stations, ask questions and learn how the proposed facilities will support public safety operations and serve the community for decades to come.

To learn more about the proposed facilities, visit Owatonna.gov/psf. 

The Power of the Passenger- Speak Up!

Discussions around road safety usually focus on the driver. However, a passenger's life is just as much at risk when unsafe driving choices are made. Although National Passenger Safety Week recently wrapped up, its lifelong safety goals extend beyond just one week. Empowering every passenger to be a proactive co-pilot who isn't afraid to speak up when things don't feel right should be top of mind every day! It can feel awkward, but a single courageous voice can prevent a tragedy.

A passenger has the responsibility to speak up when seeing:

• Distracted driving: Offer to be the "designated texter" or navigator so the driver can keep eyes on the road.
• Impairment: Never get into a car with a driver who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Help them find a sober ride instead.
• Speeding or aggressive driving: Let the driver know there is no rush and that the driving is making others uncomfortable.
• Seat belts and child restraints: Remind everyone that the vehicle doesn't move until every person is buckled up.

Visit the Minnesota Safety Council and the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) for additional tools and resources. By speaking up, you aren't just "backseat driving" – you are protecting yourself, your friends and your community.