State officials urge keeping fence around State Capitol well into 2021 Advisory panel is told that unrest still poses a threat to safety and property. By Stephen Montemayor Star Tribune December 15, 2020 — 9:49pm Text size Copy shortlink: Public safety leaders want to see a drop in protests and vandalism at public buildings in Minnesota and nationwide before taking down the fence that has surrounded the State Capitol since May. First meant as a temporary precaution against a threat to the building amid rioting after George Floyd's killing, the fence has remained at the urging of state officials fearful that continued volatile protests will spill over onto the Capitol steps. It is costing the state about $8,200 per month.