Council Member Katie Cashman believes that a crime prevention specialist would be more beneficial for the safety of residents than the mounted patrol, which is currently the only one in Minnesota. Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw expressed concern about funding the new role at the expense of the horses in the mounted unit, naming each of them individually and emphasizing their importance as living animals.

The comment about the horses from Council Member Vetaw led to criticism from family members of those killed by law enforcement, who use the phrase “say their names” to raise awareness about systemic racism and police brutality. Despite this, none of her peers provided a specific reason for wanting to end the program this year, with some questioning the relevance of a horseback unit in modern times.

Council Member Payne described the mounted unit as antiquated and potentially evocative of negative historical images, such as plantation overseers or border patrol agents. The debate over the future of the mounted patrol in Minneapolis continues, with concerns raised about its effectiveness and relevance in contemporary law enforcement.