|
Now that the Governor's "stay at home" order and Ramsey County's new service delivery model are in place, I have spent the last week working hard to ensure that businesses and community members in District 3 have the tools they need to stay healthy and secure during these difficult times. I wanted to offer a few updates and reminders as we move into the next few weeks of this pandemic in Minnesota.
First, I have been spending a great deal of time ensuring that people experiencing homelessness in our community have spaces that allow for social distancing and facilities to provide adequate sanitation. Homelessness is a major issue even in the best of times, but it is especially important now--you cannot "shelter at home" if you don't have a home to shelter in. Preventing the spread of this virus requires that everyone have the ability to spread out and have access to restrooms and places to wash their hands. We are working to install a number of mobile sanitation facilities across Saint Paul for those experiencing homelessness to provide for this critical need. In addition, we are actively working to house as many people as possible in hotels and other facilities as staffing and funds become available. Many of you have reached out to me asking what you can do to help. In the short term, if you are unemployed or available and not in a high-risk group, consider applying to work in one of our temporary shelters. Staffing these facilities in the middle of a crisis has been a significant challenge, and we could really use your help.
Second, I have been deeply concerned by reports of racist attacks on people of Asian descent in our community. A number of constituents have reached out to me expressing fear of leaving their home, even for groceries and other basic needs, because they are worried about being attacked. I want to be abundantly clear: wherever this virus originated, it is not the fault of any group or nationality, and people of Asian descent are no more likely to carry the virus than anyone else. If you experience or witness any such incidents I urge you to report them to authorities immediately. We need to support and lift up each other in these hard times, not divide with hatred.
Third, I want to remind everyone that while you should generally stay at home except for essential needs, you are allowed and even encouraged to get outside to go for walks, to ride your bike, and to be in nature. Ramsey County Parks and trails remain open and will continue to be available for use unless and until the Governor or the Minnesota Department of Health advise otherwise. Please use the same precautions as you would for any other trip out of the home at this time: maintain 6' distance from others, avoid touching your face, and wash your hands whenever possible. In times like these it is especially important to seek out the physical and psychological health benefits of outdoor exercise and activity. If you see someone doing something that you believe violates the Governor's order, please refer it to the relevant authorities rather than trying to enforce it yourself.
As always, I am available via phone and online for any questions or concerns you may have. My contact information is below and also in the left column of this email.
In solidarity,
Trista
As of March 17th the County Board Office at the Ramsey County Courthouse is closed to the public, and all staff are working remotely whenever possible. My office and I will continue to be available for meetings or to assist you with any questions or problems you have.
My office phone number (651-266-8360) still works, and will go directly to my cell phone. To schedule phone or Skype meetings, please contact my Administrative Secretary Kim Burback at Kim.Burback@co.ramsey.mn.us. For assistance with county programs or information, contact my Assistant Ethan Osten at Ethan.Osten@co.ramsey.mn.us or by phone at 651-266-8378.
We will be sending future updates on COVID-19 weekly (or more if there are important developments). If there are resources that you would like us to share in future updates, please contact Ethan Osten. |
