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Dear Neighbor,
This past week I have sent multiple newsletters as my best way to reach a lot of constituents quickly, with accurate information that is coming forward at breakneck speeds. It is hard to choose what to put in here, but I aim to not duplicate or be redundant with messages. I hope you continue to find them valuable, and I will continue to find more ways to communicate and connect with constituents as this pandemic continues.
This is a tough time for so many families, from health and safety to your jobs and businesses and concern about loved ones. Please know you can always schedule time with me through my office, even though that connection for the time being will be by phone. Josie Vautrin manages my schedule and our contact information is on the left side of this email.
Last week we worked to communicate your needs to the state, and I am happy to report that MN State-level income tax filing deadlines were extended. We also spent much of last week connecting with small businesses and working to respond to their needs given mandated closures of areas to gather. I am also happy to report that the Governor acted on our requests to aid renters and instituted a freeze on evictions.
Many homeowners have asked if we could delay the due dates of the Hennepin County Property Tax Statements received in the mail last week. This needs coordination even at the state level, but today in committee our City Assessor, Patrick Todd, indicated that these conversations were progressing and that we will see what can be done.
We are working to see what can be done about opening up more areas for people to get out and take walks and exercise, as many have noted how crowded our lake paths have become.
Today in a virtual style setting, Ways and Means Committee included a lengthy conversation about our city’s financial status report (as of last quarter). I’ve heard from many of you about how we look to balance longer-term strategic needs with our short-term response to our current economic conditions. There are a lot of unknowns at the moment, but we are making estimates and re-forecasting with the information and knowledge we have today about keeping a structurally balanced budget as we face this pandemic together.
Until there is more city news to share- be safe and be well.
  A wonderful message from one of our neighbors
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