Federal immigration operations across Minnesota are causing concerns for many living in rural areas, including in southern Minnesota.
Waseca Mayor Randy Zimmerman says it's unfortunate some residents may be fearful to leave their homes - even if they are here legally.
"I would suggest just having their documents available and on their person so they can show whatever proof they need to provide," Zimmerman said. "And if they're legal, they should be fine."
Zimmerman says he's aware of a reported ICE-related incident that happened earlier this week, but added he had no additional details about what happened or who may have been detained.
But so far, Zimmerman believes activity has been minimal.
"They're not gonna come to a small town and just randomly grab somebody," he says. "You know, at least I don't think they would. I couldn't imagine that would be the case, but I just think the best thing to do, and with all of my experiences and observations is cooperate as much as possible."
Zimmerman adds the cities immigrant community plays a vital roll, whether it's economically or in Waseca Public Schools.
In another rural Minnesota town, federal agents detained three workers at a Mexican restaurant shortly after agents had eaten there.
An eyewitness told the Minnesota Star Tribune four ICE agents had lunch on Thursday afternoon at El Tapatio, in Willmar.
However, about five hours after dining there, agents followed employees as they closed for the night and arrested three of them.