Community reacts to the news that Operation Metro Surge is ending

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    Community optimistic for ICE drawdown 

Operation Metro Surge is ending, and the community is reacting with a mix of emotions.

RELATED: Border czar Homan: ICE surge in Minnesota ready to end, federal officers to withdraw over next week

Throughout the day on Thursday, people visited the Renee Good and Alex Pretti memorials, reflecting on the news.

“I’m just hoping it’s real, that they really leave,” said Myrna Krueger, who lives in Elk River.

Calls for “ICE out” have been resonating through the community for weeks.

“You don’t want them to go to another part of the country and do what they did here,” said Sister Mary Bertrand.

As federal agents begin to leave, many people visiting the memorials said it’s a relief.

“I am happy that they are out of this city, maybe now we can get back to a normal lifestyle,” said DC Randle, who lives in Isanti.  

Healing and reflection

With the operation ending, many are still healing from the past ten weeks.

“There’s a feeling of yes, we as Minnesotans have stood up to the challenge, but on the other hand, you’re left with a feeling of real helplessness,” said Sister Catherine Bertrand.

“To me, it’s well overdue, and hopefully, that can bring some healing back to this community,” added Jay Robinson, who is visiting from Texas.  

Volunteers maintaining the memorials for Good and Pretti say they will continue until permanent plans are in place.

“It’s good that the community came together to honor Renee and Alex and that we keep coming and we won’t forget,” said Krueger.
The post Community reacts to the news that Operation Metro Surge is ending first appeared on KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News.