Ben Ranft -City Council Member

01/15/2026

I stand firmly with every member of our community who is facing persecution, scrutiny or wrongful detention by ICE. This commitment is neither symbolic nor selective. I, along with other elected officials, have been meeting directly with individuals and families as well as other local stakeholders who are affected to listen, understand their concerns, assess real risks, and clearly explain what can-and cannot-be done within the bounds of the law.

At the same time, I have worked deliberately and collaboratively with the city, county, and school district to ensure alignment on a shared and lawful position: our local institutions will not assist federal immigration enforcement without a valid federal warrant for a specific individual. Instead, they will respond to any request to be a witness and validate any federal warrant that is presented. ICE is not welcome to use any city building to stage or so on. That stance is clear, consistent, and grounded in the law.

This work has been carried out thoughtfully and with discretion-not out of reluctance to speak, but out of responsibility to protect people. Public grandstanding can carry real consequences for real families. Unnecessary attention does not create safety; it can place individuals at greater risk. While public statements may offer momentary reassurance, words without strategy and action can unintentionally cause harm.

Openly declaring opposition to ICE may achieve one outcome with certainty: it invites heightened scrutiny and escalated enforcement. In an already volatile political climate-one that thrives on division and fear-amplified rhetoric often serves to deepen harm rather than reduce it.

I have always stood with my neighbors, regardless of legal status, and I will continue to do so. Important work is happening, trust is being built, conversations are ongoing, and support is being provided-sometimes directly, and sometimes through advocates and trusted community partners.

You may disagree with my approach, and I respect the right to voice that disagreement. However, I will not abandon the responsibility entrusted to me, nor will I contribute to division for the sake of visibility or personal validation. I was elected to serve this community, and I remain committed to doing so with integrity, discretion, and resolve.

True safety comes from unity and thoughtful action-not grandstanding and performance.

09/19/2025

If anyone is interested in hosting a yard sign please let me know.

07/30/2025

I am excited to announce I have submitted my filing for re-election to the St. Peter City Council - North Ward. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our community for the past 4 years. I am proud of our accomplishments and I look forward to continuing the work to make St. Peter the best place to live, work, and visit.

11/14/2023

Who would like better Broadband (Internet) offered in Saint Peter? If you would click the link below for Fidium and put your address in and click to pre-order if it were to become available. Saint Peter needs as many people to pre-signup for services and this may get us on the short list for getting built out with fiber services.

Get blazing fast fiber optic internet for your home with new Fidium Fiber service. High speeds, reliable service. No contracts & no hidden fees!

06/13/2023

Take a moment and fill out this form if you are interested in better broadband in Saint Peter. Enter your address and info. The more people interested in Saint Peter, the sooner they may potentially build out fiber in town.

Get fiber optic internet service & speeds you want in your area with new Fidium Fiber. $-friendly internet service with latest fiber tech. Sign up today!

05/03/2023

You don’t need a plane ticket to experience the world. A new multicultural celebration is demonstrating the diversity of music, dance and cuisine that exist right here in St. Peter.

03/21/2023

Nature-Based Park at Hallett's Pond - Open House
Thursday, March 30, 3:00 - 6:00 PM, Community Center Lobby

What is a Nature-Based Park and Play Area?

An outdoor space that embraces the naturally occurring limits of an environment and invites both children and adults to engage in sensory experiences, physical movement, and exploration for relaxation, wellness, and connection.

The new development opportunity of a nature-based park at Hallett’s Pond provides Saint Peter the opportunity to create a special place for residents to experience a nature-based park and play area at a unique resource within our City.

11/03/2021

I would like to take a moment to thank all who supported and voted for me to serve as City Councilor. I am excited to get to work after the first of the year and will always have all of Saint Peter residents in mind when making decisions. I will make sure that we always consider equity, inclusion, and sustainability in every decision we make and I look forward to making Saint Peter a top choice when folks are looking for a town to call home. When we all belong, we all succeed!

11/02/2021

Voters 568 & 569 in our precinct. Thanks for all the support and best wishes to all the candidates.