City of Minneapolis News Update: Nov. 10, 2020

COVID-19
CoM news update

Nov. 10, 2020


This newsletter provides updates on the City's response to COVID-19, an overview of recovery efforts underway, efforts to transform public safety and other important news and information from the City of Minneapolis.


As hospitals express capacity concerns, Gov. Walz announces new COVID-19 restrictions

As hospitals express concern about capacity to treat Minnesotans with COVID-19, Gov. Tim Walz today announced new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the virus in Minnesota. Beginning on Friday, the restrictions will apply to social gatherings, celebrations and receptions, and bars and restaurants, which are three of the most significant sources of COVID-19 outbreaks across the state. Walz also today announced $10 million in funding to support small businesses affected by the pandemic.

In order to make effective decisions to control the spread of COVID-19, health officials need to understand who, when, and where this virus is spreading. Health officials, with guidance from the White House, have analyzed testing results and contact tracing data to understand how the virus is spreading throughout the state. The results show that the virus is being disproportionately spread by younger adults between the ages of 18-35. Because of this, social settings which attract a younger crowd are the most significant sources of COVID-19 spread in the state. In fact, over 70 percent of COVID-19 outbreaks in Minnesota from June to November have a direct link back to weddings, private social gatherings, and late nights at bars and restaurants.

Starting this Friday, all bars and restaurants must end dine-in service between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. Indoor capacity will be capped at 150 people, and may not exceed 50 percent of an establishment’s total capacity. Bar counter service will be closed for seating and service in all establishments besides those that only have counter service. In counter-service only establishments, patrons can line up with masks and then return to their table. These restrictions follow research that shows these environments become more risky later in the evening. Beginning on Friday there will also be a 10-person limit for indoor and outdoor gatherings, and all social gatherings will be limited to members of three households or less.

Capacity limits for receptions related to weddings, funerals, and similar events will be instituted through a phased approach, but will eventually lead to a 25-person cap. In addition, such receptions and similar events may not take place between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m.

Learn more about the State's response to COVID-19


Minneapolis steps up investments in food security

Through its CARES Community Food Security Grants initiative to provide emergency food relief, the City of Minneapolis has awarded more than $935,000 in federal CARES-Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) funding to 37 local food shelves, food pop-ups, farmers markets, restaurants and faith communities distributing free food and meals directly to Minneapolis residents.

Awardees will serve the City of Minneapolis and provide free emergency food support related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides providing immediate food relief, these grant awards will build capacity in the emergency food relief system, positioning community partners to sustain the increased level of service needs brought on by the impacts of COVID-19.

“Nobody should have to wonder where their next meal will come from,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “But since the onset of the pandemic and recession, we’ve seen a sharp rise in Minnesotans confronting food insecurity. With support from our trusted community partners, this investment will help meet a fundamental need for more residents in our city.”

After the City received 47 applications with requests of nearly $1.3 million for the original $470,000 of CARES-CRF funding, the City allocated another $465,000 in CARES-CRF to the pool.

Read more.


Take survey by Nov. 20 on transforming community safety

Minneapolis community, please provide your input on what community safety looks like and tell us your ideas about a new model of community safety for the City. You can take the survey in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong or Oromo.

Complete the survey by Nov. 20 for the first phase of survey results. Input provided after Nov. 20 may continue to be used for future engagement phases.

In June 2020, the City Council pledged to create a new model of community safety. As part of that, we committed to a yearlong process of community engagement. This survey is one of the first steps in that process. Through the survey, you can share your vision for a new community safety model. You can also provide ideas for how to accomplish that new model.

Results from the survey will be used to help create recommendations for elected leaders and to help guide the City’s next steps for community engagement.

This survey includes some questions similar to other recent City surveys. That includes questions about alternative responses to mental health crises and non-emergency crimes. Any input you already provided on those surveys is valued and will still be used as planned. Recommendations will also be considered as part of this broader focus on transforming community safety.

You can also check back to stay up to date on progress and more opportunities to provide input.


State opens COVID-19 saliva testing location at Minneapolis Convention Center

saliva

The State of Minnesota has opened a COVID-19 saliva testing site at the Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave. S.

Those coming for testing should enter on the west side of the building off 1st Avenue, then continue to exhibit room E. Free parking will be available and marked in nearby surface lots and parking ramps.

Due to expected demand, testing will be available seven days a week, noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. The State of Minnesota and Vault Health will reevaluate hours of each site as others open and demand waxes and wanes with disease progression in Minnesota. Appointments can be made through the Vault Health registration site.

Watch a video: "What to Expect: Visiting a COVID-19 Saliva Testing Site"


Minneapolis City offices closed Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day

Minneapolis City government offices are closed Wednesday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day. All City offices will resume regular business hours Thursday, Nov. 12.

The holiday does not affect the City’s garbage and recycling service which maintains its normal schedule. Solid Waste and Recycling’s customer service office is closed Nov. 11. The South Transfer Station is open tomorrow, but customers need to schedule vouchers in advance to visit and will not be able to do that scheduling tomorrow.

Minneapolis 311 is also closed Monday, Nov. 11.

The City’s metered parking will not be enforced on the holiday. Other metered parking restrictions in the city may remain in effect and be subject to enforcement, including Park Board, University of Minnesota and private organizations that operate their own meters. Always read the information posted on the meter to be certain.

Minneapolis police and fire emergency services are not affected by the holiday. 


Share feedback on proposed 2021 City budget at upcoming online public hearings

budget

There are three upcoming online public hearings for people to share thoughts on Mayor Jacob Frey’s recommended 2021 City Budget. Comments can also be submitted online at the City’s website.

Online public hearings

  • 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16
  • 6:05 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2
  • 6:05 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9

Learn how to participate in online public hearings.

Comments submitted online will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed $1.5 billion budget calls for a 5.75% maximum levy increase. With a 12% increase in the overall tax base growth, three-quarters of Minneapolis residential property owners will see a decrease in their property tax bills with the median-valued household set to experience a $59 yearly decrease.

Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more. You can also watch a series of videos on the City’s budget process.


Find free COVID-19 tests and flu shots; help stop the spread

The City of Minneapolis is offering free COVID-19 tests and flu shots. Testing is encouraged and available to everyone, whether or not they have symptoms. Testing is one of the best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 and help prevent exposing your loved ones to the virus.

You don’t need insurance for the test. Your flu shot is free if you don’t have insurance. If you do have insurance, bring your insurance card for the flu shot.

  • Free COVID-19 tests and flu shots at Hennepin United Methodist, 511 Groveland Ave. Noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7
  • Free COVID-19 tests and flu shots at East Side Neighborhood Services, 1700 Second St. NE Noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14

You can expect to get your test results in about two business days.

More free COVID-19 tests

  • Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., Exhibit Room E Noon-7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends starting Nov. 9 Make an appointment here. Find instructions here.
  • Southside Community Health Services, 324 E. 35th St. 2-3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays Appointments required: Call 612-821-3548 to schedule an appointment. You can expect to get your test results in about two-three business days. Same day testing can be done for health care workers, first responders and essential workers.
  • Native American Community Clinic, 1213 E. Franklin Ave. 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Appointments required: Call 612-872-8086 to schedule an appointment.

Find a current list of free COVID-19 tests and flu shots on the City website.

The COVID-19 test is free, and you do not need insurance for the test. If you need medical care but don’t have health insurance, the Minnesota Department of Health offers resources to find low-cost health care or health insurance.

If you can’t attend one of these testing events, you can use this directory to find a testing location near you.

Watch and share these short videos in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong by the Minnesota Department of Health about what to expect when you get a COVID-19 test.


Applications open for vacancies on crucial City boards and commissions

I serve because a better world is attainable -- we just have to work for it.

Six major boards and commissions are seeking applications for people to help shape important City decisions. Most of the boards and commissions below meet between one and four times a month.

Examples of past board and commission work includes reviewing a proposed charter amendment related to the creation of a Department of Community Safety & Violence Prevention (Charter Commission), comparing national best practices with current MPD policies for officer interactions with those experiencing mental health crises (Police Conduct Oversight Commission), and reviewing zoning changes to allow new affordable housing options (Planning Commission).

Read more.


Save money and stay comfy this winter

It’s no secret that the seasons are changing. For many Minnesotans, that might come with a draft of cold air across the living room or an annual heating bill increase. No one can stop the seasons from turning, but the City of Minneapolis wants you to stay comfortable at home and keep your energy bills low, and the Home Energy Squad can help.

Their recommendations can help you improve everything from the energy performance of large equipment like furnaces, to the smaller, easier-to-overlook energy users like lightbulbs.

While usually performed in person, Home Energy Squad is now offering a free virtual home energy audit. If you are working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have noticed that asking your home to act as both office and living space can really increase how much energy you use along with your monthly utility bill. After your free virtual visit, you and your energy expert may decide that the best next step is an in-person visit, which can be performed safely with health and safety guidelines in mind. Free in-person visits are available to income-qualified households.

Call 651-328-6220 or visit mncee.org/hes today for a free virtual audit that will help you discover ways to save energy in your home.


State executive order suspending evictions extended until Nov. 12; rental assistance available through Hennepin County

The governor's latest extension of the peacetime emergency means that the suspension of evictions and landlord-initiated lease terminations remains in place until Nov. 12.

This suspension will allow households to remain sheltered during the peacetime emergency. The executive order does not relieve a tenant's obligation to pay rent.

While the eviction moratorium continues, housing providers can evict a tenant when the tenant violates a lease by endangering the safety of others, engaging in certain illegal activities, or significantly damaging property. Evictions can also proceed if the homeowner or their family member needs to move into the premises or if a writ of recovery was issued prior to March 24 at 5 p.m.

Emergency rental assistance

Hennepin County offers emergency rental assistance for residents with low incomes who have been financially harmed by COVID-19. Residents can learn more and apply at www.hennepin.us/rent-help and find more information here:


COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program helps with housing expenses

Minnesota’s COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program helps cover housing expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities or other housing-related costs. This program will help keep folks in their homes and maintain housing stability for eligible renters and homeowners in communities across the state.

People in Minnesota interested in applying for assistance can call the Greater Twin Cities United Way’s 211 Resource Helpline at 651-291-0211, visiting 211unitedway.org or texting “MNRENT” or “MNHOME” to 898-211. The 211 Helpline has dedicated multilingual staff to answer questions about the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

For questions regarding the application process, check the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program frequently asked questions.


Learn more about workplace safety and paid sick leave during COVID-19

Workers have a variety of overlapping protections to navigate COVID-19 and its effects in the workplace.

The State of Minnesota and City of Minneapolis can help clarify best practices and requirements for workplace safety. Watch this video and check online for more information. Call 311, or MN OSHA at 651-284-5050, to report safety problems in a business or seek additional guidance.

Every COVID-19 preparedness plan must ensure that sick workers stay home. In addition to the City’s Sick and Safe Time ordinance, the U.S. Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) ensures that workers are not forced to choose between their paychecks and public health.

In general, employees (of government or private sector employers with fewer than 500 employees), are entitled to (up to) two weeks (of fully or partially paid) sick leave for COVID-19 related reasons. Additional partially paid leave is available to care for a child, including during school closure or virtual learning. Private employers may be reimbursed with tax credits. For more information about Coronavirus Leave, call 1-866-4-US-WAGE and check out the following resources: informational video, eligibility tool, poster and FAQs


Statewide mask mandate in effect

mask wearing

Minnesotans are required to wear a face covering in indoor businesses and indoor public settings. Researchers have advocated for masking, calling it a simple and effective step to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. 

The state regulation reinforces Mayor Jacob Frey’s emergency regulation requiring people in Minneapolis to wear cloth face masks or coverings when they are in an indoor place of public accommodation is in effect.

Businesses are not required to provide masks to customers or employees themselves, though employers shall be required to mandate the use of masks by their staff. Non-compliance should be reported through 311. Find information on how to get a mask.  


Public health information: Slow the spread of COVID-19

maskup

City's Cultural Radio Programs

Tune into the City's cultural radio programs for COVID-19 updates. The City has programs on KMOJ 89.9 FM (English); La Raza 95.7 FM (Spanish); KALY 101.7 FM (Somali); and WIXK AM 1590 (Hmong.) Radio shows schedule


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