Coon Rapids Reschedules February Council Meeting Due to Statewide Precinct Caucuses

As Minnesota prepares for its next statewide precinct caucuses, the City of Coon Rapids has adjusted its municipal calendar to align with state law and to support civic participation at one of democracy’s most local entry points.

Because statewide precinct caucuses are scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., the Coon Rapids City Council has moved its first February meeting to Monday, February 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The change is not merely procedural. It reflects a long-standing legal and civic framework in Minnesota designed to protect access to the caucus process and avoid conflicts that could prevent residents from participating.

A Distinctive Minnesota Tradition of Grassroots Democracy

Precinct caucuses in Minnesota occupy a unique space in the state’s democratic life. Unlike primary elections, which are administered by state and local election officials, caucuses are organized and run by political parties. They serve as the first formal step in the endorsement process and the development of party platforms.

On caucus night, neighbors gather with others who share their political affiliation. These meetings are often informal, sometimes lengthy, and deeply participatory. They are where political priorities begin to take shape at the most local level, long before names appear on ballots.

When and Where Caucuses Take Place

The 2026 precinct caucuses will be held statewide on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Caucus locations are determined by individual political parties, not by cities or counties.

To help residents find their assigned caucus location, the Minnesota Secretary of State provides an official online Caucus Finder tool. By entering their home address, voters can see where their party’s caucus will be held. Because locations and procedures can vary, residents with specific questions are encouraged to contact their political party directly.

What Happens at a Precinct Caucus

While each party runs its caucuses somewhat differently, most meetings revolve around three core functions.

First, participants select precinct-level officers and volunteers. These individuals help organize local party activities, maintain contact lists, and coordinate voter outreach in the months and years ahead.

Second, attendees discuss issues and propose resolutions. A resolution is a policy idea or position that participants want the party to adopt. If a resolution is approved at the precinct level, it advances to higher-level conventions and may ultimately become part of the party’s official platform.

Third, caucus-goers elect delegates. These delegates represent the precinct at future county, district, and state conventions, where candidates for local, state, and federal offices may be endorsed, including candidates for governor and the legislature.

Why Government Meetings Are Restricted on Caucus Night

Minnesota law deliberately protects caucus participation by limiting other public activities on caucus night. Under Minnesota Statutes section 202A.19, a wide range of public bodies are prohibited from holding meetings or events after 6:00 p.m. on caucus day.

The restrictions apply to city councils, county boards, school boards, and special taxing districts. They also extend to public elementary and secondary schools, which may not hold school-sponsored events after that time. State agencies, boards, commissions, and departments are similarly restricted.

Public colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota system, may not schedule events after 6:00 p.m. unless specific permission is granted by their governing boards. The intent is straightforward. The law ensures that Minnesotans are not forced to choose between participating in party caucuses and attending public meetings, school events, or official government business.

It is within this legal framework that Coon Rapids moved its City Council meeting to February 2.

Who Can Participate and the Rules That Apply

Precinct caucuses are open to individuals who generally meet voter eligibility requirements and live within the precinct. Because caucuses are party-run events, participation requirements can vary slightly by party.

One rule, however, is fixed in statute. Minnesota law explicitly prohibits any individual from voting or participating in more than one party’s caucus in the same year, as outlined in section 202A.16.

Because the parties control caucus procedures, questions about rules of order, site accessibility, or meeting format should be directed to the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, the Republican Party of Minnesota, or other recognized major parties operating in the state.

Legal Protections for Workers and Accessibility Requirements

Minnesota law includes specific provisions to reduce barriers to caucus participation.

Employees have a legal right to take time off work to attend a precinct caucus or to serve as a delegate at a political party convention. To exercise this right, individuals must provide their employer with at least ten days written notice, as provided under sections 202A.19 and 202A.135.

Accessibility is also addressed in statute. Major political parties are required to make reasonable efforts to provide interpreters for individuals who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing when requested. Participants who are visually impaired have the right to request caucus materials in advance, under section 202A.155.

Why This Matters for Coon Rapids and Beyond

By rescheduling its February City Council meeting, the City of Coon Rapids underscores a broader civic principle embedded in Minnesota law. Participation in democracy does not begin at the ballot box in November. It begins earlier, in school gyms, community centers, and church basements, where neighbors debate ideas, select delegates, and shape party direction.

The calendar change may appear minor, but it reflects a deliberate effort to protect time and space for civic engagement. For residents planning to attend both city business and a precinct caucus, the adjustment ensures they can do both without conflict.

As February approaches, Minnesotans are encouraged to confirm their caucus location, understand their party’s procedures, and consider participating in a process that remains one of the most direct forms of grassroots democracy in the state.

MinneapoliMedia