ASHTON FALLS, MN
— The City of Ashton Falls has officially replaced the police department’s long-standing motto, “Protect and Serve,” with a new phrase: “Public Safety Through Care.” City leaders say the change reflects a broader approach to public safety, while critics argue it sends the wrong message at a time when residents are already concerned about crime.
The new motto began appearing this week on the Ashton Falls Police Department’s website, social media accounts, and signage outside City Hall. Updated patrol car decals are expected to roll out later this year as vehicles are rotated through maintenance.
City Manager Laura Whitcomb said the decision followed nearly eight months of discussion by the city’s Public Safety Review Committee, a group formed last year to examine policing practices, emergency response, and community trust.
“This change is about language and priorities,” Whitcomb said. “Public safety isn’t only about enforcement. It’s also about prevention, mental health, and community engagement.”
According to a report released by the committee, the new motto was chosen to reflect a philosophy that includes social services, crisis intervention teams, and partnerships with local nonprofits. The report notes that police officers are increasingly responding to calls involving mental health crises, substance abuse, and homelessness—situations the committee argues require more than traditional law enforcement tools.
Police Chief Mark Ellison said the department was consulted throughout the process and does not view the change as a rejection of policing.
“Our officers are still sworn to uphold the law,” Ellison said. “That hasn’t changed. But the way we approach public safety has evolved, and this motto reflects that.”
Ellison pointed to recent initiatives such as expanded crisis response training, a co-responder program that pairs officers with social workers on certain calls, and increased emphasis on de-escalation tactics.
Still, the reaction from residents has been mixed.
At Monday night’s city council meeting, more than 40 residents spoke during public comment, many criticizing the decision. Several said the new motto feels political and undermines the authority of police officers.
“‘Protect and Serve’ meant something,” said longtime resident Greg Walters. “It was clear. This new phrase sounds like a slogan you’d see on a college brochure.”
Others expressed concern that the change signals a move away from enforcing the law.
“When people break the law, they shouldn’t be ‘cared for,’” said resident Linda Foster. “They should be held accountable.”
Supporters of the change argued that the motto better reflects reality.
“Police already do more than just arrest people,” said community organizer Renee Alvarez. “They check on seniors, help during emergencies, and respond to mental health calls. This acknowledges that.”
City council approved the change last month in a 5–2 vote. Council members who supported the measure emphasized that it does not alter department policy, staffing levels, or enforcement standards.
Councilmember Jason Reed, who voted against the change, said he worries about perception.
“Words matter,” Reed said. “Even if the intent is good, people interpret this as a shift away from law and order.”
The city spent approximately $21,000 updating branding materials, according to budget documents. Officials said the cost was covered within existing departmental funds and did not require additional taxpayer money.
Crime statistics in Ashton Falls show a mixed picture. While violent crime has remained relatively stable over the past three years, property crime increased by 9 percent last year, according to police data. That increase has fueled criticism that the city is focused on messaging instead of enforcement.
Whitcomb rejected that argument.
“This is not an either-or situation,” she said. “We can take crime seriously while also recognizing that enforcement alone doesn’t solve every problem.”
The police union released a brief statement acknowledging the change but declining further comment. Several officers, speaking privately, said they were neutral on the new motto but frustrated by the public debate.
“Most of us just want to do our jobs,” one officer said. “A motto doesn’t change what happens on the street.”
City officials said they plan to evaluate public response over the next year but have no plans to revisit the decision unless directed by council.
For now, the new motto remains in place, serving as both a statement of intent and a flashpoint in an ongoing debate over what public safety should look like in a changing city.
