The Law, Safety and Justice Committee approved Dec. 2 an amendment to a contract that funds communications support for the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, extending work with the Wren Collective. The vote passed by roll call 5–2 amid objections from two commissioners concerned the vendor is an advocacy group rather than a traditional public‑relations firm.

Representatives from the County Attorney’s Office said the firm provides rapid‑response support, drafting press releases and communications around complex legal issues, and that the expense sits within the elected office’s budget. The office said it has reduced monthly spending over time and that bringing the firm in‑house would be costlier.

Commissioner Anderson and others asked whether county communications capacity could or should fulfill this work and requested documentation on procurement and vendor selection. Commissioner Lundy and another member voted no, saying they were uncomfortable funding a group they characterized as advocacy‑oriented with public funds; proponents said the work is communications support for complicated legal matters and noted public safety and victim services benefits from prompt, accurate messaging.

Committee members asked staff to provide additional background on the vendor selection process and the scope of services. The motion passed 5–2 on a roll‑call vote; commissioners Anderson and Lundy voted no.