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Home My WebLink Aboutweekly Notes- April 10th 2020 (002) CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WEEKLY NOTES for: April 10th, 2020 TO: City Council Members&Staff FROM: Eric Johnson,City Administrator ' Zoning&Development Items: 1. The Planning Commission will be holding a special meeting on 4/23 to review the Pony Express Car wash application.The City staff felt we should very much try to accommodate these requests in a more expedited timeline during this COVID-19 situation as it will benefit a local business and we expect it to be a non-controversial item. A C.U.P.application was received for a garage project in the Village Area at 5714 Penrose Ave.This would be before the May planning commission once it is better understood and the application is deemed complete. 2. Some of the conditions of the LOWE'S site has come back into non-compliance; please see the enclosed from the Building Official. 3. Kwik Trip has come into compliance with a number of sign violations—the Building Official has provided the enclosed EMAIL UPDATE. 4. Twin Cities Orthopedics has been supplied with their approval paperwork and we expect to see a building permit request from them in the coming weeks;the decorative lighting issue remains but will not preclude their submission or plans at this time. 5. Lee Mann and I did attend(ZOOM)a meeting with County staff regarding their update and Local Advisory Team process for their south frontage road project. Lee Mann did offer some follow-up questions from the City and these are noted in his letter as attached.At some point in the next 8-12 months,the City will be formally asked to weigh in on the possibility of this roadway—either through a MUNICIPAL CONSENT request and/or information input on grant applications;we do need to understand what are the pros/cons associated with this.Staff will need some further input and guidance from Council in the coming months. Minnesota COVID-19 Data and statistics , COVID-19 Matters: 9 L�,336• This is the Governor's new PORTAL—Many documents/ Exec Orders can be S.rR Cc*; + ...................found : https://mn.00v/covidl9 r,°"".��""� z Wn6°sh°Cv"nty: 6 • Image from State of MN DASHBOARD-> onfirmed Cases W°acca Cqu qr.. 3 Gov. Walz did extend the STAY AT HOME Order through May 41h Washington Cu"'"`r 73 _ • Wet—n ruu y: 4 The City has purchased a complete ZOOM account for$14/month and should 57 Mkin C—dy; 6 • facilitate much of what we need to accomplish via remote meetings;the more wco"nty, 26 difficult matter will be to ensure access to meetings for the public(where L DC-0015 Wdoht Counw; 14 practical)yet not enable confusion between watching and participating. • Like response to Federal law changes,the State did pass legislation relating to Workers Compensation for first responders and other specific classes—the City will need to be sure it remains in compliance, but there will be many questions.This link noted here is a good primer- 4 https://www.Imc.ora/insurance-trust/coveraaes/Imcit-coveraae-covid/ Other Items: • Enclosed is copy of the notice sent to adjacent property owners outlining the summer 2020 street projects, it was mailed to approximately 200 homes+/-.We hope to see work commencing soon after June 1st,depending on the COVID-19 matter. • Washington County did provide some information on some of their discussions related to delays of property tax payments—for 60 day for certain NON-Escrow payers—See the enclosed email from Deputy Admin.Jennifer Wagenius that outlines some of these discussions. • Xcel Energy—Operational Updates related to COVID-19 • The Mayor and I did participate in a ZOOM meeting with the Chamber and our partners with Bayport and Stillwater. It was good to hear that our cites are largely operational and taking the same steps to aid its citizens and businesses where possible. Mayor McComber provided: 1. Shelly Christensen Update for 4/9/20 2. Lockridge Grindal Legislative Updates 4/6&4/9 as well as Exec Order—Extension to May 4th 3. MAOSC Update for 4/3&4/10 4. Metro Cities News for 4/8&4/3 5. White House—State and Local Briefing COVID-19 Update for 4/9/20 6. NLC COVID-19 UPDATES&Information on Community Relief Legislation Please let rm®kaew if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Call Anytime. April 6, 2020 Mr. Adam Royer, Store Manager Lowes Home Improvement#2315 5888 Nova Scotia Ave. N. Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Re: Garden Center Lighting& Outside Storage Dear Mr. Royer: The garden center lights remain uncorrected. Compliance was initially sought earlier this year and delayed as a result of weather. The lights are to be placed at a 90-degree angle, effectuating full-cut off. If you are unclear as to what is needed, contact me immediately. Additionally, this past year City Administrator Johnson, yourself and I had many conversations and some meetings with regard to the outside storage at the store. It was made clear that there is to be no outside storage to the west side of the building, that there are to be no items displayed at the contractor pick up area, with the exception of those items approved near the building wall and the items stored to the back of the store exterior were to comply with the approvals granted to the store. Recent observations at the store showed: 1. Stockpiling of garden material to the northwest corner at the garden center exterior. These items need to be removed and placed to the garden center interior. A drop box was also in place earlier, if this is still in place have it removed or placed to an interior storage area. 2. Lumber stockpiling at the "Indoor Lumber Yard" to the parking lot side. This material needs to be removed from this area and properly located elsewhere. 3. Containers & Material Storage at the rear (South side) of the building were in place. At a recent visit three storage containers were on site, one of which was placed at the fire lane. There were other items to the back of the curb including what appeared to be garden materials, cart corrals & rolling shelves/stock carts. Additionally, there was considerably more garden materials on pallets up against and extending largely the length of the of the back wall. Remove the containers from the site and Properly store the garden materials so that storage complies with the approvals granted to the store. The fire lane is to remain clear at all times. 2 of 69 The storage situation is very much the same as it was in 2020, when we visited to discuss approvals to the store's storage and potential solutions. Have the light fixtures and items 1 through 3 above brought into compliance as above noted requests no later than Friday, April 17, 2020. Failure to meet compliance shall result in the matter being forwarded to the Oak Park Heights Police Department with a request for citation. Please note that any citation issued will be to you directly. Your prompt attention is imperative. Sincerely, PLANNING &CODE ENFORCEMENT Julie Nlaltmun Julie Hultman Building Official C: Eric Johnson, City Administrator Brian DeRosier, Chief of Police Adam Royer, Lowes (Email prior to hard copy mailing) 3 of 69 From: Julie Hultman To: Eric Johnson Subject: Kwik Trip Compliance Update Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 11:16:36 AM Attachments: imaoe001.ono Hi Eric— Just a quick update on Kwik Trip activity that we have been working on with them: • Car Wash Doors have being reprogrammed so that the he entrance door will shut after a vehicle goes into the wash and the exit door will close before the high pressure cycle starts. Once the dryers kick on and the vehicle must exit, the exit will then open. • SAC Review/Update has been done so that the correct use of the space and the outside seating is included. No new SAC is due. • Landscaping improvements/corrections plans which have been outstanding from their development has been discussed with Arborist Danielson. She will be working with them on overseeing the work scope and inspecting it. This is to be accomplished this year. • i n o Non-compliant wall and pump sign frames have been removed. o All special event signs have been removed. They were updated with the Ordinance language and application for special event permits going forward. o Pump Signs—the 2 square feet—permitted were also removed (they were in excess prior to removal).They were notified of the allowance for the pumps and directed to provide details on any plan for placement prior to installing anything to confirm compliance. Julie Hultman, Building Official Planning&Code Enforcement City of Oak Park Heights Phone:651.351.1661 EA: Fax:651.439.0574 El:jhultman(@cityofoakparkhei@hts.com 4 of 69 April 7, 2020 File: 193801828 Attention: Mr. Kevin Peterson, Washington County Via email only: Kevin.Peterson@co.washington.mn.us Reference: STH 36 and Manning Avenue Proposed Interchange Information Request Dear Kevin: Pursuant to the County's PMT meeting of April 6, 2020 for the proposed interchange project at STH 36 and Manning Avenue, on behalf of the City of Oak Park Heights, we respectfully request the following information: • The traffic data, projections and modeling for the proposed interchange including the impacts/relationship to the interchange at Stillwater Boulevard. • The traffic data, projections and modeling for the proposed south frontage road. • The auxiliary lane analysis along STH 36. • The most up to date, detailed cost estimate for the construction of the south frontage road. The City needs this data to facilitate its' review of the project as a whole. It would be helpful if this information is forwarded by the end of next week (4/17). Thank you, and please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions. Regards, Stantec Consulting Services Inc. Lee M,, Mann, PE MN,WI,CA Principal City Engineer, Oak Park Heights Phone: 612-712-2085 Lee.Mann@stantec.com c. file Eric Johnson, City Administrator Pat McGraw, Stantec 5 of 69 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 3/23/20 TO: X X X RE: 2020—City Street-Mill&Overlay Project Dear City Resident/Business Operator: The City is planning to perform a MILL&OVERLAY of a number of streets during the summer of 2020 as shown in the map on next page. A MILL&OVERLAY generally consists of"milling"the top few inches of black-top from the roadway and then reapplying these as well as adding some new materials to that area to create an improved roadway surface.A MILL&OVERLAY is an intermediary step in road maintenance to reach the full life-cycle of a road.We would expect that the MILL and OVERLAY would delay the need for a full reconstruction for at least another decade. Oakgreen Ave. will also see RECLAIM project which is similar to a MILL& OVERLAY,but with some additional material added to improve the road base where necessary. Although some failed curb sections will be replaced, generally curbing, driveway aprons and sidewalks are typically not affected with this type of project. There will be some localized disruption to your local street and which may cause you some temporary delay, undue noise and of course the traditional construction happenings. Unlike many communities, Oak Park Heights does not assess costs for MILL and OVERLAY or RECLAIM projects.These costs are recovered through general property taxes. At this time the final schedule has not been identified; More information will be sent out once dates are better known,but work will not commence until after June 1 st,2020.The City desires you to have a very early knowledge of this project.We expect the project to enhance the roadway from both a"drive-ability"and visual standpoint and again no assessments are proposed or anticipated. How the COWD-19 matter impacts this project is unknown, but at this time we are proceeding with a normal plan and schedule. Please let me know if you have any questions Kind Regards e4l_ Eric Johnson City Administrator 6 of 69 HIGHLIGHTED AREAS (YELLOW) are part of the 2020 Project. (See MAP BELOW) V. x ' ' pp 6 -� L4 iL f 4 i I.1 1 n w � , r or ---i �.. t - w w , { Y Y Jr • _ , m a. 7 of 69 From: Jennifer Wagenius To: "Adam Bell";"Afton"; 'Becky Herman"; "Bryan Bear"; "Carrie Seifert"; "Cheryl McCollev"; "Cindie Reiter"; "City of Lakeland"; "Clinton Gridley"; "cosorio"; "Craia Dawson(Interim)'; "Dan Wietecha";"Dave Engstrom"; "Deb Hill"; "Dellwood"; "Ed Shukle"; "Ellen Hiniker"; Eric Johnson; "Frank Baster Pine Springs"; "J.Thomas McCarty"; "Jennifer Levitt";"Joe Thimm"; "John Fellegv"; "Kathy Schmoeckel"; "Kevin Walsh"; "Kim Points"; "Kristina Handt"; "Lakeland Clerk"; "Linda Tibbetts"; "Lynette Peterson"; "Melissa Taphorn"; "Neil Soltis"; "Patrick Casey"; "Scott Neilson"; "Tobin Lav"; "Daniel Kvllo West Lakeland Township Chair"; "Kathy Higgins Denmark Township"; "Richard Adams Grey Cloud Island Township"; "Richard Glasgow Lakeland"; "Richard Wevrauch -Baytown Township"; "Sheila-Marie Untiedt Chair Stillwater township(smuntiedt(a)hotmail.com)"; "St Mary Point Cindie Reiter"; "Vickie Keating"; "Dan Kvllo(dan.kvllo(abwestlakeland.aovoffice2.com) (dan.kvllo(abwestlakeland.aovoffice2.com)'; "Kathy Higgins Denmark Township"; "Richard Adams Grey Cloud Island Township"; "Richard Glasgow Lakeland";"Richard Wevrauch -Baytown Township";"Sheila-Marie Untiedt Chair Stillwater township(smuntiedt(abhotmail.com)"; "City of St Mary"s Point(clerkSMP()comcast.net) (clerkSMP(a)comcast.net)"; "Keating.Vicki(City of Willernie)(vkeatinal(a)comcast.net)" Cc: Kevin Corbid;Jan Lucke; Douglas Berglund Subject: DATE CORRECTION-Update on Washington County Board Workshop April 7th to discuss property tax due May 15th Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 11:56:18 AM Please see updated message with corrected date below. Jennifer From:Jennifer Wagenius Sent: Thursday, April 9, 2020 11:47 AM Subject: Update on Washington County Board Workshop April 7th to discuss property tax due May 15th Good morning- On Tuesday, April 7th 3s the county board held a workshop to review existing policy and explore potential criteria for the abatement of penalty if property owners pay their May 15th property taxes late due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Washington County commissioners understand the county's responsibility for the collection and distribution of the property taxes to all local government entities and the critical need for that funding to ensure the sustainability of essential services and statutory mandates, including those critical to the COVID-19 response efforts. The county board also recognizes that the preventative measures taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the toll on human life have created financial difficulties for many businesses and families, including a large number of small businesses within the county that are important to the economic health and vitality of our communities. In an effort to balance those responsibilities the county board is considering allowing a subset of property owners who may have been financially impacted by the pandemic to pay their May 15th property taxes by July 15th without the imposition of penalty. Under the current proposal the properties that would be eligible for this waiver of penalty are non-escrow properties classified as: • Commercial/Industrial with a total 2020 tax of$50,000 or less, • Residential, or • Agricultural/Rural vacant land. 8 of 69 Of note, in 2020 52%of all property tax parcels are scheduled to be paid by escrow and 46% of all property tax billed is on escrow parcels. All property owners who are able to pay their May 15th, 2020 property taxes by the due date would be encouraged to do so in order to support the critical county, school and city response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the event that this action is taken by the county board, the county is exploring options with our attorney and local legislators to issue an extra advance of estimated collections to local governments late summer or early fall. Please let me know if you have questions or feedback to share with me or our board. Take care. Jennifer Jennifer Wagenius I Deputy Administrator Washington County 14949 62nd Street North, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-430-6007 A great place to live, work and play...today and tomorrow. 9 of 69 From: Jurek,Colette C To: Bayport-City Administrator; Bayport-PWD; Birchwood-City Administrator; Dellwood-Clerk; Forest Lake- City Administrator; Forest Lake-PW Superintendent;Grant-Clerk; Hugo-City Administrator; Hugo-PWD; Mahtomedi-City Administrator; Mahtomedi-PWD; Marine On St.Croix-Clerk; May Township-Clerk; Eric Johnson;Andrew Kegley; Mary McComber; Pine Springs-Clerk; Stillwater-City Administrator; Stillwater- PWD;Washington County-Construction Engineer;Washington County-County Administrator;Washington County-Deputy Administrator;Washington County-Engineering&Construction Manager;Willernie-Clerk Subject: Xcel Energy:Operational Update/COVID-19 Management Date: Friday,April 10,2020 12:36:18 PM To our Washington County local government units within our service territory . . . Spring is always a busy time in the utility industry with new construction and public improvement projects starting. The added challenge of working through COVID-19 has brought home the need for greater communication to protect our crews and the public all while keeping local construction projects moving forward. We've reached out to every customer requesting work to remind them that our construction schedules are subject to change. Because project status can change so quickly in this pandemic, keeping open lines of communication is more important than ever. Scammers posing as utilities have been active in their efforts to take advantage of nervous customers. Please remind yourselves that Xcel Energy (and likely any other public utility) will not cut off service with a phone call. If a customer receives a suspicious call, they should hang up and reach out to us via the internet, mobile application, or contact information found on their bill. Our website www.xcelener.y.com has links to help customers impacted by the pandemic work out a payment plan. To end this update with some good news, we scoured stock rooms for personal protective equipment acquired in preparation for emergency situations. As a result, we have found healthy supplies of N95 and surgical masks. After carefully considering our own needs, we have distributed 86,000 masks to first responders and health workers in our region. You may have also heard this week that Xcel Energy announced we are dedicating more than $20 million to short- and long-term corporate giving, including COVID 19 response and recovery, to help our communities now and in the future. As always, feel free to reach out with questions, comments or concerns regarding gas or electric service in your communities. Colette Jurek Xcel Energy I Responsible By Nature Manager, Community Relations and Economic Development 1700 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 P: 651.779.3105 C: 612.209.3501 F: 612.573.4039 E: colette.c.jurek_xcelenergy.com XcelEnergy.com Facebook.com/XcelEnergy Twitter.com/XcelEnergy Please consider the environment before printing this email. 10 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: FAQs on the Extended'Stay at Home'Order Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 7:10:44 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Rep. Shelly Christensen <rep.shelly.christensen@public.govdelivery.com> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Thu, Apr 9, 2020 5:13 pm Subject: FAQs on the Extended `Stay at Home' Order Having trouble viewing this email?View it as a Web nage. Rep. Christensen J0 12 of 69 Dear Neighbors, I want to start by thanking our community for the sacrifices that have been made during these trying times. There's still a lot we don't know, but what we can be sure of is that our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Minnesota are working. We're staying home, and because of that we're giving our health care professionals the time to prepare for when the peak of this virus hits our state, but more time is needed. In a tough but necessary decision, yesterday Governor Walz extended the "Stay at Home" order until May 4. The new extension is much longer than the original two-week order, but it's in line with the recommendations of public health officials, and is similar to actions we've seen around the world. For a quick recap of the order, I want to remind everyone that you're still able to leave your homes for essential needs, and you can and should get some fresh air and exercise with a walk around your neighborhood. It's encouraged that you follow Minnesota Department of Health guidelines and maintain a distance of six feet from others when leaving your home. For any questions you might have about the "Stay at Home" order, you can find a list of FAQs here, including when you can and should leave your home, and what services remain open. You can also find a compilation of Minnesota's COVID-19 data and resources here. 13 of 69 Update Stay Home COVID-19 Workers' Comp for Frontline Responders Our health care and public safety professionals put their physical health on the line when they go to work to continue to keep our state healthy and safe. This week in the Minnesota Legislature, we passed a bipartisan bill to ensure that these Minnesotans won't have to potentially sacrifice their financial health as well, with the majority of members voting remotely. delivers workers' compensation benefits to these frontline responders in the event that they contract COVID-19. These are vulnerable, exposed jobs, and we need to support the professions that in turn support our state; the nurses, EMTs, firefighters, police officers, child care workers, and corrections officers. 14 of 69 Workers' Comp This is far from the end of this conversation. There remain too many Minnesotans that are also working to keep Minnesota strong that don't yet have the support they deserve, and we'll be continuing to fight for them. Discrimination Helpline No one deserves to be targeted based on their background. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in instances of discrimination against people of Asian descent in Minnesota and across the country. On Monday, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights launched a new Discrimination Helpline to help protect the civil rights of Minnesotans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Minnesotans who experience or witness discrimination can report incidents by calling 1-833-454-0148 or filling out an online form 15 of 69 Discrimination Helpline If you have any questions about our work in the legislature or the resources available to our community, feel free to reach out to me at rep.shelly.christensen@house.mn, or leave a voicemail at (651) 296-4244. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Representative Shelly Christensen Share this email with friends: To unsubscribe, click here. 16 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:LGN Federal Coronavirus Update:April 6 Date: Monday,April 6,2020 12:26:46 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. <rfsherman@locklaw.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Mon,Apr 6, 2020 11:54 am Subject: LGN Federal Coronavirus Update:April 6 View • F—]Forward logo image FN II J. Kanninen 18 of 69 Partner load image Delegation Members Urge Disaster Declaration for Minnesota U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar(D-MN)and Tina Smith (D-MN), and 19 Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Dean Phillips (D-MN-03), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ilhan Omar(D-MN-05), Tom Emmer(R- MN-06), and Pete Stauber(R-MN-08) urged the Trump Administration to approve Minnesota's request for a major disaster declaration due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The letter, sent to the White House yesterday, can be read in full here. Lianne M. Endo Federal Relations "All of Minnesota's 87 counties and 11 tribes have been affected by the spread of the pandemic,"the lawmakers wrote. "As of April 5, the State load image had 935 positive cases and 29 deaths,with those affected ranging in age from 4 months to 104 years old. Minnesota's health care facilities are confronting a lack of needed supplies and limited capacity,which will be exacerbated by a limited number of qualified medical staff that is expected to decrease further as the pandemic continues to spread." Fourth Relief Package in Flux as Leaders Triangulate House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has scaled back her ambitions for Megan G. Knight Congress's next coronavirus stimulus package to focus on additional Federal Relations direct payments to individuals and expanded loans to businesses, load image possibly leaving an $800 billion infrastructure plan and other priorities for a later bill. Speaker Pelosi released a statement on Friday saying that Congress will need to build on the last relief package, the CARES Act. Even amid the urgency of the virus response, Pelosi promised to continue working "on an infrastructure package for recovery that addresses some of the critical impacts and vulnerabilities in America that have been laid bare by the coronavirus." In a letter to House lawmakers this weekend, the Speaker said communities in the U.S. Nicholas F. Kowalski "cannot afford to wait"for the next coronavirus stimulus. Senior Strategist load image Yet there is not consensus on what the next stimulus should look like. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told the Associated Press in a recent interview that there will be a fourth virus-related bill, but said he and Speaker Pelosi have a "different point of view"about the timing of the next package and what should be included. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy has said he did not think a fourth tranche of aid "is appropriate at this time,"adding that a "tweak"to the most recent legislation might be better. Robert F. Sherman Community Health Centers Outline Multi-Billion Dollar Needs Federal Relations House Democrats want to inject an emergency$10 billion into the federal community health center(CHC) program, reflecting the growing demand for money from clinics and hospitals as the coronavirus spreads across the U.S. CHC costs are mounting as hundreds of thousands of Americans are confirmed to have contracted Covid-19. Community health centers, like hospitals, are forgoing more lucrative services such as dental care to take care of Covid-19 patients. 19 of 69 load image The National Association for Community Health Centers (NACHC) originally asked Congress for$3.2 billion and received $1.3 billion as Vince M. Spinner part of the$2 trillion economic rescue package signed into law in late Federal Relations March. NACHC leaders have said health center needs have grown load image significantly in recent weeks and will be asking for more in the next expected coronavirus package. The group is now asking for a total of$77.3 billion,which would include a five-year extension for the program. House Democrats are saying that the $10 billion they are proposing for community health centers would be targeted to capital costs and improvements for the centers. HHS Secretary: Hospitals Cannot Charge Uninsured Patients Treated for Virus Emily J. Tranter Federal Relations Hospitals and health care providers that accept federal money load image provided through the $2 trillion coronavirus spending package are not allowed to bill uninsured patients treated for Covid-19, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said last week. The providers will be reimbursed at Medicare rates,Azar said,which will be carved out of a $100 billion slice of last month's CARES Act. When probed about re-opening enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans or potentially expanding Medicaid, Secretary Azar demurred. Those who have recently lost their employer-provided health insurance can enroll through the ACA's exchanges under the law's special Randy Kelly enrollment rules, he said. President Trump also announced Friday that Senior Advisor Blue Cross and Blue Shield agreed to waive cost-sharing for Covid-19 load image treatment for their customers, matching promises from other insurers. House Virus Committee Would Add New Layer of Oversight House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said her chamber will create a special committee to oversee the government's response to the coronavirus outbreak, including how the $2.2 trillion from last month's stimulus plan is spent. The Speaker said that the bipartisan committee, to be led by third-ranking Democrat James Clyburn, will also seek to ensure that steps are taken based on science and to protect against price gouging of essential materials in the broader economy. This House committee would be separate from the layers of oversight included in the stimulus bill Congress passed last week. That law mandates a special inspector general, an accountability committee of relevant government departments and a five-person panel appointed by Congress to oversee part of the federal aid for companies. House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy and top Energy and Commerce Republican Greg Walden said in a telephone news 20 of 69 conference that an additional House panel to oversee the coronavirus response is unnecessary. Trump Says CDC Suggests Use of Cloth Masks to Prevent Virus President Trump said late last week that top U.S. health officials are recommending the use of non-surgical grade cloth masks as a voluntary measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, but that he did not plan to wear on himself. "It's only a recommendation,"Trump told reporters at the White House on Friday. "You don't have to do it." The announcement marks a reversal for health officials,who have previously said that those without symptoms did not need to wear a mask. Trump said the advice on masks, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, does not alter guidelines calling for social distancing. The President emphasized that the CDC is not recommending the use of commercial medical-grade masks,which are in short supply at hospitals. 21 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:LGN Federal Coronavirus Update:April 9 Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 1:10:59 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. <rfsherman@locklaw.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Thu,Apr 9, 2020 11:40 am Subject: LGN Federal Coronavirus Update:April 9 View • F—]Forward logo image FN II J. Kanninen 23 of 69 Partner load image Senate in Stalemate Seeking Quick Additional Relief Funds Senate Democrats blocked Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's attempt to quickly pass a $250 billion boost in aid to small businesses suffering revenue losses in the pandemic, likely delaying any action until leaders of both parties find a compromise. Leader McConnell had sought unanimous consent in the Senate this morning for the small business aid requested by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. Monday may be the next chance to quickly approve more aid without objection, and Lianne M. Endo lawmakers are not scheduled to return to Washington until the week of Federal Relations April 20. load image Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are seeking to double the GOP's $250 billion aid request for the slumping economy, including adding federal aid for state and local governments and added funding for hospitals struggling to treat a crush of coronavirus patients.As part of his plea for urgency, McConnell cited Thursday's report that showed an additional 6.6 million people filed for unemployment benefits last week, bringing the three-week total to 16.8 million claims. Megan G. Knight Secretary Mnuchin had asked Congress to approve by the end of the Federal Relations week an additional $250 billion for the program, bringing the total load image amount available to $600 billion. The only way to accomplish that with lawmakers out of town would be if no member of the House or Senate objected. There have been no negotiations between Republican and Democratic leaders on a compromise, with Speaker Pelosi signaling that she has no intention of bringing McConnell's proposal to the House. Federal Medical Aid to States Falls Short, House Report Says The federal government has failed to distribute enough personal Nicholas F. Kowalski protective equipment and medical supplies to states reeling from the Senior Strategist coronavirus pandemic, according to a document released Wednesday load image by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. "The Administration is leaving states to fend for themselves, to scour the open market for these scarce supplies, and to compete with each other and federal agencies in a chaotic, free-for-all bidding war,"Committee Chair Carolyn Maloney said in a statement. The Department of Health and Human Services gave the panel she chairs a spreadsheet documenting states' requests and what was actually supplied.As President Trump has spoken of"great Robert F. Sherman coordination" between state and federal governments, needs for Federal Relations personal protective equipment and ventilators remain unmet despite weeks of work. A number of governors said this week that they are still facing shortages, delays, and confusing demands as they try to supply hospitals beset by critically ill patients. The Trump administration estimated 3.5 billion respirator masks would be necessary, but only 11.7 million have been distributed, less than 1%. Just under 8,000 ventilators have been distributed, a fraction of the number required at hospitals nationwide, according to the 24 of 69 load image committee report. Vince M. Spinner Export Ban on Protective Equipment Kicks In This Week Federal Relations load image The Trump Administration's ban on exports of some personal protective equipment to fight the coronavirus outbreak in the U.S.will take effect Friday and will remain in place for four months; the la publication of the new rule in the Federal Register is making official what President Trump announced last week. The U.S. is following a number of other manufacturing heavyweights that have temporarily halted exports of crucial PPE in recent months, including China and the European Union. The rule covers five types of protective equipment including N95 Emily J. Tranter masks, surgical masks, and gloves. The Federal Emergency Federal Relations Management Agency"is issuing a temporary rule to allocate certain load image scarce or threatened materials for domestic use, so that these materials may not be exported from the United States without explicit approval by FEMA,"the notice stated. President's Health Team Drafts Plan to Open Economy Safely President Trump's top health advisers are developing medical criteria for safely reopening the U.S. economy in coming weeks, should trends showing a crest in the coronavirus outbreak hold steady. Deborah Birx, Randy Kelly the immunologist coordinating the White House virus task force, met Senior Advisor earlier this week with health experts, including Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, Centers for Disease Control and load image Prevention Director Robert Redfield, and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Stephen Hahn. Notably absent from the discussion were economic and political advisers to the president, along with the leader of the coronavirus task force, Vice President Mike Pence. Excluding the political and economic advisers was a deliberate signal that the White House would continue for now to prioritize health considerations over economic ones. President Trump, speaking Wednesday evening at a White House press briefing, said he would "rely heavily"on public health experts to make any policy changes. CDC Clears Virus-Exposed Critical Workers Who Lack Symptoms The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is changing its guidance for workers in critical industries, including food supply and health care, to say that the people exposed to the coronavirus should return to work if they do not have symptoms of the illness. "One of the most important things we can do is keep our critical workforce working,"CDC Director Robert Redfield said Wednesday at a White 25 of 69 House press briefing. The CDC's guidance has been that workers exposed to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus should self-quarantine for 14 days. Now, the agency says those workers should return to work as long as they have no symptoms of the disease,wear a face mask, practice social distancing, and monitor their body temperature for fever. Director Redfield urged those workers not to remain at work if they feel sick, and to refrain from congregating in break rooms or crowded places. "8 Click here to opt-out of receiving future communications. Copyright©2020 26 of 69 From: Lockridoe Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. To: Eric Johnson Subject: Legislative Alert:Walz Extends Stay Home Order for Minnesotans Date: Wednesday,April 8,2020 2:12:56 PM iew• logo image H. Theodore Grindal Partner Today, Governor Tim Walz extended the Stay Home Order until May 4. "What we are doing is working, Minnesota,"said Governor Walz. "We are taking this seriously, and we are staying home. While Minnesota is 27 of 69 load image showing lower rates of infections than our peers across the country, now is not the time to let up or allow that trajectory to change. Updated federal guidance and our own public health experts are showing that if we keep staying home,we will save lives—which is why I made the Rebecca J. Kanninen data-driven decision to extend the Stay Home Order until May 4." Partner load image The Governor's order to stay home is forecasted to significantly slow the spread of COVID-19, pushing out the peak of the disease and allowing the state to continue key preparations for the pandemic. These preparations include building new hospital capacity and buying ventilators and masks, planning for how to protect those most at risk, expanding testing, and freeing up time for health care giants like the Mayo Clinic to develop critical treatments for the virus. The Stay Home Order is now extended to 11:59 pm on May 3, 2020. Daniel G. Larson "As a mom and a daughter, I know how challenging this is for Director,State& Local Minnesota families—but it is working,"said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Government Affairs Flanagan. "These decisions are guided by the best-available data, and load image we are constantly responding to new information and challenges. Staying home is the best strategy we have, and it is saving lives, especially of our most vulnerable." Consistent with the extended Stay Home Order, Executive Order 20-33 also extends the closure of bars, restaurants, and other public accommodations through 11:59 pm on May 3, 2020 and outlines exemptions to the Stay Home Order, including exempted activities and ® critical sector workers. Amos A. Briggs "We're facing an historic public health crisis, and Minnesotans are Government Relations rising to the challenge," Minnesota Department of Health load image Commissioner Jan Malcolm said. "The social distancing and community mitigation efforts Governor Walz implemented have secured us much-needed time to prepare more fully for the predicted [® peak in cases, and today's announcement gives us a better chance to save even more lives. We are thankful for the tremendous effort and sacrifices Minnesotans are making." Under the extended order, Minnesotans may leave their residences only to perform the following activities, and while doing so, they should Peter H. Glessing practice social distancing: Associate/ Communications& • Relocation to ensure safety, such as relocating to a different Grassroots Advocacy location if your home is unsafe due to domestic violence, sanitation, or reasons related to essential operations. • Health and safety activities, such as obtaining emergency services or medical supplies. . Outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking, running, biking, hunting, or fishing. 28 of 69 load image Necessary supplies and services, such as getting groceries, gasoline,or carry-out. Essential intrastate and interstate travel, such as returning to a home from outside this state. Angie A. Huss . Care of others, such as caring for a family member, friend, or pet in Communications& another household. Grassroots Advocacy . Displacement, such as moving between emergency shelters if you load image are without a home. Moving or relocation, such as moving to a new home or place of residence. Voting, including all local and state elections. Funerals, provided that no more than ten attendees are gathered and strict social distancing is enforced. Tribal activities and lands, such as activities by members within the boundaries of their tribal reservation. Ann T. Lenczewski Executive Order 20-33 also orders that all workers who can work from Government Relations home must do so. Workers in critical sectors who cannot work from load image home are permitted to go to work. Guidance related to critical sectors is available at http://mn.gov/deed/critical/. The Governor's Executive Order will have the full force and effect of law upon approval by the Executive Council. Updates on the COVID-19 pandemic in Minnesota are available at mn.gov/covidl9/. Frequently asked questions are available here: Jessica E. Lindeen https://mn.gov/covidl9/faq/. Government Relations load image Kevin J. Matzek Government Relations 29 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: MAOSC Weekly Session BULLETIN-April 3, 2020 Date: Saturday,April 4,2020 8:36:52 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Minnesota Small Cities <cap@maosc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Fri, Apr 3, 2020 5:12 pm Subject: MAOSC Weekly Session BULLETIN -April 3, 2020 - ------------------------------------------------------------------ BULLETIN Weekly Session Update April 3, 2020 Dear Oak Park Heights Leaders and/or Staff How's it going,City Leaders?We hope you're hanging in there and that your cities are doing well. First off, I want to let you know that today, Governor Walz laid out a new COVID19 Dashboard website. You should share this with your communities, as it provides significant information on current data and steps to be taken if people think they may be infected. It also has information for those looking to access, provide or find needed PPE supplies. Although Governor Walz's original Stay At Home order had an end date of April 10th, I suspect that he will soon extend Minnesota's order to match the new Federal Guideline of April 30th(at least). Walz has said that he is evaluatina and will make a determination"early to middle of next week". We all know this is a moving target- influenced daily, by new information and data.All we can do is roll with it and do our best to stay sane in the meantime. 32 of 69 On the issue of"Essential"vs"Non Essential"workers,one bit of news for Small Cities(and the Real Estate industry)is that Home Inspectors have now been declared Essential. COVID-19 and Home Inspections The legislature is not currently having official meetings but there are a number of discussions taking place about what is needed during this state of emergency. MN Small Cities has been working with the League of MN Cities and other organizations to give cities some more flexibility during this time and provide needed resources as you try to best serve your communities. For those of you that have police or fire, please note the recent alert from the League about efforts regarding the workers comp fund for these employees. Get City-Specific Coronavirus Information From League's News and Resources Page: Resources include FAQs on the Stay at Home Executive Order,general operational issues,and city employment issues related to the COVID- 19 pandemic. Some additional,timely news stories: Gov.Tim Walz signs$330 million COVID-19 relief bill with RFA provision. Gov. Fishing Opener postponed until 2021 [Perham Focus] The Governor's annual State of the State Address will take place"virtually"Sunday,April 5th at 7:00pm. We continue to be inspired by the way in which many of Minnesota's small city leaders and communities are dealing with the pandemic. If you have any questions for me or MAOSC please feel free to reach out and ask. We're happy to assist in any way we can. We're thinking about you every day and we HOPE that your community is staying healthy and happy! Please encourage your citizenry to continue heeding state orders and federal guidelines. Reminder: In an effort to help you track us, we've set up a twitter account to post more of what we are doing at the Capitol and tracking legislation. Please give us a follow @mnsmallcities. We will soon be setting up a Facebook page so watch for that as well. As always,Thank You for the work you do for your communities!Our state is better because of the hard work that is being done by leaders in Minnesota's small cities. If at any time you have concerns, issues or suggestions for improvement-feel free to email me at cap()maosc.ora. Stay SAFE and BE WELL! Sincerely, Cap O'Rourke ❑® Executive Director MN Small Cities 612 483 1863 cap1amaosc.org Minnesota Association of Small Cities I maosc.ora ® i0 ,8 8 MAOSC 1 145 University West, St. Paul, MN 55103 Unsubscribe marymccomber(abaol.com Update Profile I About Constant Contact Sent by cap@maosc.org in collaboration with 33 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: MAOSC Weekly Session BULLETIN-April 10, 2020 Date: Friday,April 10,2020 1:07:41 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Minnesota Small Cities <cap@maosc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Fri, Apr 10, 2020 12:03 pm Subject: MAOSC Weekly Session BULLETIN -April 10, 2020 - ------------------------------------------------------------ BULLETIN Weekly Session Update April 10, 2020 Dear Oak Park Heights Leaders and/or Staff Just 12 minutes in length, but to the point,Governor Tim Walz gave his annual State of the State address on Sunday night,from the Governor's Residence. Not surprisingly, it focused entirely on Minnesota's response to COVID-19. SOTS Address /Video On Tuesday,the legislature held an historic meeting,with some members casting votes by phone. Leaders of both bodies had agreed to reconvene to address legislation allowing workers'compensation claims for first responders, police,firefighters,and health care workers,who contract COVID-19.The proposal,as passed,will result in significant costs to cities. However,there are ongoing efforts to provide state funding to offset the fiscal impacts this could have,though what that will look like has not yet been worked out. First responders infected with coronavirus qualify for workers'comp 35 of 69 Minnesota House passes protection for front-line workers in COVID-19 outbreak Then on Wednesday...this happened: Gov.Tim Walz extends Minnesota's stay-at-home order until May 4. In addition, he modified the list of businesses that are now eligible to resume operations. Up to now, legislative leaders HAD pretty much been in agreement and working together on all matters related to the pandemic.That changed yesterday,when Majority Leader Paul Gazelka came out in opposition to Governor Walz's extension of the Stay At Home order. Currently,the plan is for all House and Senate members to return to the Capitol next week-on April 14th-to potentially work through more COVID-19 related bills, but also some other state business they had intended to get to this session, before being interrupted by social distancing protocols. Committee chairs have already submitted a 'new'list of their priorities, moving forward. One significant difference between then ... and now... is that the surplus they were all counting on is now GONE. This will change certain bill priorities around quite a bit. One likely action will be on legislation that relaxes the open meeting laws during a peacetime emergency and allows for remote participation.You can see the language here and summary here. MN Small Cities signed a letter of support for this legislation. Oh,and discussion surrounding possible changes to how we vote this November have also begun to take shape. Governor. House and Senate list of COVID-19 related proposals Vote-by-mail plan for Minnesota gets cool reception Another noteworthy development in these tough times;the Federal reserve issued a press release yesterday, indicating they will be taking additional actions to provide up to $500 billion in loans to states and municipalities during the outbreak,to: "Help state and local governments manage cash flow stresses caused by the coronavirus pandemic by establishing a Municipal Liquidity Facility that will offer up to$500 billion in lending to states and municipalities. The Treasury will provide$35 billion of credit protection to the Federal Reserve for the Municipal Liquidity Facility using funds appropriated by the CARES Act." Lastly, here is one more timely news story that might interest you: MN police groups want locations of those infected with COVID-19 to protect first responders We continue to be inspired by the way in which many of Minnesota's small city leaders and communities are dealing with the pandemic. If you have any questions for me or MAOSC please feel free to reach out and ask.We're happy to assist in any way we can.We're thinking about you every day and we HOPE that your community is staying healthy and happy! Here are some timely resources,should your city need them: City-Specific Coronavirus Information From League's News and Resources Page Things to consider when closing city facilities Map of MN Cases: track the current spread in Minnesota Governor's COVID-19 related executive orders Mn Dept of Health MN COVID-19 Dashboard (stats in real time) Stay SAFE and BE WELL! PS: In an effort to help you track us,we've set up a twitter account to post more of what we are doing at the Capitol and tracking legislation. Please give us a follow @mnsmallcities. Sincerely, Cap O'Rourke ❑® Executive Director MN Small Cities 612 483 1863 cap1a)maosc.org 36 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:Metro Cities News 04/08/20 Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 6:33:03 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Metro Cities News<mcamm@memberclicks-mail.net> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wed,Apr 8, 2020 7:42 pm Subject: Metro Cities News 04/08/20 Metro Cities News In This Issue... Governor Extends Stay-At-Home 1. Governor Extends Order to May 4 Stay-At-Home On Wednesday, Governor Walz announced that the Stay at Order to May 4 Home order will be extended until May 4th. This will require the order that affected bars, restaurants, and other establishments 2. Legislature Passes to be amended so it has the same expiration date. The First Responders Governor warned that although we have seen successes as a Compensation result of social distancing efforts, the situation can change Legislation quickly, and that the number one goal is to buy more time to build hospital and testing capacity. 3. Senate Working Click here for information on the extended order Group Discusses State Budget and Economic Trends Legislature Passes First 4. Unemployment Responders Workers Insurance Benefit Compensation Legislatior Updates On Tuesday, the House and Senate passed legislation, HF 5. MPCA Update and 4537, that provides a presumption for COVID-19 workers' Regulatory compensation claims for public health and safety employees. Flexibility Portal The bill does not provide a funding source for these costs. The bill has now been signed into law by Governor Walz. 6. Transportation Click here for information Issues Discussed in House and Senate Working Group Discusses Senate State Budget and Economic Metro Cities News Trends Archives The Senate COVID-19 Working Group on Monday heard from Archived issues of Metro several testifiers, including the Office of MN Management and Cities News can be found on Budget (MMB), non-partisan Senate fiscal staff, and staff from our website. Click here to the National Conference of State Legislatures on immediate and view the archives! long term budgetary effects of the coronavirus. The working 38 of 69 group also heard about the process for distributing federal funds from the CARES Act among U.S. states and territories as well as a brief breakdown of how the funds can be spent and heard information on action taken by other states in response to the pandemic. Click here for more information Unemployment Insurance Benefit Updatelc A new executive order related to unemployment insurance (UI) was issued by Governor Walz on April 6. Executive Order 20- 29 expedites state unemployment insurance benefits during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency. The order makes two changes. First, it suspends a requirement in state statute that delays UI benefits for any week an applicant is receiving, has received, or will receive vacation pay, sick pay, or personal time off(PTO) pay. Click here to view benefit updates MACH upaate ana Regulatory Flexibility Portal The MN Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) conducted a conference call with city organizations this week to discuss areas where regulation may be relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic. MPCA reported that most of the work the MPCA does will continue. On site file reviews, routine on-site inspections, and some large data requests are not being conducted due to social distancing. Regulated entities, including cities, can use a portal on the MPCA website to ask for regulatory flexibility during the COVID-19 emergency. For more information on regulatory flexibility requests from MPCA, click here. MPCA also reminded those on the call that wastewater licenses will be extended to one year after trainings resume to get recertified. The MPCA is looking at other licenses and certifications that may also have their recertification deadlines extended as well. A decision on whether to pause the Water Fee rule making process has not been made yet. Transportation Issues Discussed in House and Senate The House Transportation Committee and Senate COVID-19 working group met on Wednesday, to discuss transportation issues and proposals in response to COVID-19. Click here for more information Metro Cities(AMM) 145 University Ave W,St. Paul, MN 55103 1651-215-4000 www.Metro CitiesMN.oro 39 of 69 Metro Cities News 04/03/20 Page 1 of 5 METRO CITIESMember Login 8 Search our site... CQ Asaaciation d hAetrvpvlitan MuriciReltl4as Home Metro Cities News About Us Meetings&Events Membership Advocacy Policies&Resources MAMA Return to the biog Upcoming Events Metro Cities News 04/03/20 by:Jennifer Dorn Thu Apr 16,2020 Category:Newsletter CANCELLED-Metro Cities Annual Meetina Category:Annual Meeting Apr Thu May 21,2020 03 In This Issue: Metro Cities Board of Directors Meetina Category:Metro Cities Board of Directors Federal Stimulus Bill Governor's COVID-19 Updates Thu Jun 18,2020 Metro Cities Board of Directors Senate COVID-19 Working Group Convenes Remote Hearings Meetina MnDOT Releases 2020 Road Construction Project List Category:Metro Citieseoardof Directors Sanitizer Resources Available Thu Jul 16,2020 TAC Discusses Further Regional Solicitation Changes Related To COVID-19 Metro Cities Board of Directors Minnesota Housing Announces Funding Availability,Technical Assistance,Extended Deadlines Meeting Category:Metro Cities Board of Directors Thu Aug 20,2020 Metro Cities Board of Directors Meeting Category:Metro Cities Board of Directors Federal Stimulus Bill Metro Cities has reported on the details of the recently passed federal stimulus bill,which includes View Full Calendar funding for states.As we have reported,a portion of the recent stimulus bill is directed to local governments over 500,000 in population,which excludes all municipalities in Minnesota. Our Tweets The federal bill also will distribute funds to state under broad parameters for COVID-19 related costs. Tweets by MetroCitiesMN Metro Cities sent a letter this week to Governor Walz and legislative leaders,signed by Metro Cities,the LMC,the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities,and the Municipal Legislative Commission to express the need for funding support to local governments as the distribution of these funds is considered.The letter noted the many various critical COVID-19 needs cities will be responding to,and the consequential effects for local operational and fiscal capacities. Governor's COVID-19 Updates The Governor and his staff are continuing to deliver daily briefings on the state of the COVID-19 virus in Minnesota and state efforts to respond to challenges as they emerge.The following are highlights from the Governor's Thursday and Friday briefings: Thursday: First Responders and Workers Compensation Governor Walz was asked about proposed eligibility changes to the workers'compensation system to cover first responders infected with COVID-19.The Governor reiterated his desire to resolve this issue and did not rule out executive action.See the Wednesday Newsletter for more information.Metro Cities supports a separate state fund to reimburse first responders rather than using the workers' compensation system and is working with the LMC and other city organizations to express support to the administration and legislators for such a fund.We encourage city officials to contact your local legislators to express support for state assistance for these costs. Congregate Living Facilities Commissioner Malcolm from MDH announced that the department will begin to list congregate care facilities with cases.Their website also has updated data and graphics. 41 of 69 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 4/10/2020 Metro Cities News 04/03/20 Page 2 of 5 She also noted that masks can help individuals from spreading the disease,but they won't protect you from being infected and that medical grade masks should be reserved for health professionals. Furthermore,wearing a mask is not a substitute for practicing social distancing. Department of Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell spoke about the steps the department is taking to limit exposure to virus in the state's prison system.He discussed the challenge of protecting against the spread of COVID-19 while continuing to treat incarcerated individuals humanely.The department is currently reviewing candidates who are close to their release date(within 90 days)for early work release. Out of Pocket Treatment Costs The first is that a deal was struck with the Minnesota Council of Health Plans so that patients will not face any out of pocket costs for COVID-19 treatment.There are some restrictions.Namely,the cost- sharing elimination only applies to in-network treatment and the deal does not include individuals who work for large corporations that self-insure.Policies on copayments will vary from company to company in that case.Click here for details. COV/D Dashboard The Governor announced that a public facing'dashboard'was being built to give Minnesotans a central location for accurate and up to date information on the COVID-19 pandemic.The public can go to this dashboard to see things like the number of cases,deaths,hospitalizations,recoveries,etc. Friday: The Governor addressed the state via a live streamed presentation Friday to give the public some specifics on how his administration is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and its goals for a successful recovery.A key piece of this presentation was the launch of the COVID-19'dashboard' referred to in Thursday's briefing.The page contains current data on testing,social distancing,hospital surge capacity,critical care supply levels,childcare capacity,and economic security.On the main page you can also find the total number of cases and a breakdown of that number by county.Click here to access COVID-19 Dashboard.Metro Cities will also include this link on our COVID-19 webpage. The rest of the presentation was organized around the state's ongoing and future COVID-19 efforts.The initial phase of responding to the virus spurred the creation of working groups focused on hospital surge capacity,procuring supplies,expanding testing capabilities,and managing distance learning and childcare needs.The second phase,long term planning and recovery,is primarily concerned with protecting people most vulnerable to COVID-19,ensuring the strength and stability of the state's food supply,and working with the federal government to provide economic support to people and businesses to help weather this storm. The Governor said his administration is working closely with the Legislature and federal government to manage funds with the goal of ensuring funds are available quickly,so supplies and other necessities can be purchased as needed. The Governor reiterated several challenges as the state moves forward.Namely,there is still limited data on the virus,models are not perfect,and states and nations are all competing against one another for resources and supplies.He ended with a warning that the peak is still on its way before adding that he is confident in the state's ability to overcome this challenge. The Governor was asked about what he is weighing as he considers extending the stay at home order. He repeated that he is using the best available science and data.The order will be adjusted as necessary. Senate COVID-19 Working Group Convenes Remote Hearings The MN Senate has created a COVID-19 Working Group with the goal of working on the pandemic response in an online and public format.The working group is chaired by Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka and is made up of 11 senators from the majority and minority. Hearings were held on April 2 and 3 this week. Thursday,Apr#2 The working group convened a healthcare response meeting on April 2,which included an update from the MN Hospitals Association(MHA),MN Nurses Association,homecare providers,and long-term care providers.The work group heard that Minnesota,like other states,is struggling to acquire many of the materials needed to fight COVID-19 and that hospitals face financial hardship due to the decision to halt elective surgeries as well as costs related to pandemic response.Hospitals are working to determine their capacity to handle the expected surge of patients anticipated to need care.The state is currently working to identify alternate care sites in the state.The MHA is supporting presumptive eligibility for those staff that have direct contact and have a confirmed test or a physician has determined a likely 42 of 69 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 4/10/2020 Metro Cities News 04/03/20 Page 3 of 5 COVID-19 diagnosis.MHA also advocated for allowing licensed health staff from other states to work in MN in an emergency basis to meet the staffing needs that are expected.The MN Nurses Association testified that many hospitals are asking nurses and other staff to re-use protective equipment in an effort to make the supply last as long as is possible.Majority Leader Gazelka expressed his commitment to working with Governor Walz to address the issues presented to the work group. Jobs and Economy Meeting The working group convened April 3 to address the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.DEED Commissioner Steve Grove explained the increase in capacity in the state's unemployment insurance division.He also walked through several of the small business assistance programs highlighted in previous Metro Cities Newsletters,including resources available at uimn.ora and A Guide for Minnesota Small Businesses Who Need Eglp.Commissioner Grove said the critical industries and critical workers list is also posted to help Minnesotans determine if they should report to work. Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari drew parallels and differences between previous economic disruptions such as the 2008 Great Recession and natural disasters.This COVID-19 pandemic is hitting the entire U.S.economy at the same time,unlike a natural disaster.He commended state policymakers for focusing on important responses which help the economy recover more quickly. He supported early money to support employers and employees,rather than using the same dollar for recovery after the pandemic ends. The panel heard from several business representatives who shared stories of hardship and long delays in getting information.They issued requests for delayed tax payments,which would help businesses through this low cash flow period. The working group will meet next week and hear about the state's agency budgets and COVID-19's likely impacts on the state's budget. MnDOT Releases 2020 Road Construction Project List The MN Department of Transportation(MnDOT)has announced that 188 road and bridge construction projects will move forward state-wide in 2020. Some projects,such as the Hwy 5 project near the Minneapolis-St.Paul International Airport have already begun and are proceeding ahead of schedule due to reduced traffic volumes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.An additional 66 projects to improve airports,ports,transit and railroads are also scheduled.Governor Walz provided an exemption for workers engaged in roadway construction,maintenance,and utility projects in the Stay at Home Executive Order 20-20. Metro projects include: Hwy 5 around the airport—Resurface Hwy 5 and ramps from Mississippi River to 1-494 1-94 Nicollet to 280—Resurface 1-94 and ramps between Nicollet Avenue and Hwy 280,add traffic management system and improve accessibility 1-35W MnPASS North—Construct MnPASS Express Lane between CR C in Roseville and Lexington Avenue in Blaine,repave 1-35W and ramps,repair and replace several bridges and install seven noise walls An interactive map of the full 2020 construction program can be found at mndot.gov/construction. For a complete list of projects by highway,visit mndot.gov/roadwork/current.html. Sanitizer Resources Available If your city is seeking additional sanitizer resources,several Minnesota-based distilleries have converted their efforts to making sanitizer.The consortium of distilleries,under the moniker All Hands, is selling and donating gallon size bottles of sanitizer.More information on the product as well as how to purchase or request a donation can be found at allhandsmn.ora. TAC Discusses Further Regional Solicitation Changes Related To COVID-19 The Metropolitan Council Transportation Advisory Committee(TAC)held their monthly meeting via remote call in this week.TAC members discussed the recent decision to move the Regional Solicitation application deadline to May 15th and whether this date should be moved out further and whether other consideration should be made regarding the application process in response to COVID-19.TAC members discussed the possibility that letters of support from applicant agencies could be received by September 1 st.Metropolitan Council staff had received feedback from potential applicants that it would 43 of 69 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 4/10/2020 Metro Cities News 04/03/20 Page 4 of 5 likely be a challenge for applicants to receive letters of support by the May 15th deadline due to the challenges of conducting public meetings. The TAC also discussed possibly awarding points for outreach efforts that were scheduled for projects under the equity scoring component and changing some traffic data requirements due to the disruption in traffic caused by the current state stay at home order.The TAC is likely to meet again before the Transportation Advisory Board(TAB)meeting Wednesday,April 15th to finalize a recommendation to the TAB. Minnesota Housing Announces Funding Availability,Technical Assistance,Extended Deadlines Minnesota Housing launched its annual consolidated request for proposals April 2.The 2020 round of the RFP will be open longer this year,with an extension of the application deadline to July 16,2020. Selection announcements are anticipated to be made at the December 2020 Minnesota Housing Board meeting.New guidance for multifamily application materials and technical assistance contact information is also provided on Minnesota Housing's website. Single Family Application Submission Deadline • Thursday,July 16 by noon:Single Family Application deadline Multifamily Application Submission Deadlines Thursday,May 14 by noon:Intent to Apply deadline.Required for all Multifamily applications submitted in the consolidated RFP.Only the basic project information and HIB form are due at this date. Thursday,June 18 by noon:Qualification Forms and Site Control deadline.All qualification forms and site control documents must be submitted via the Multifamily Secure Upload Tool. Thursday,July 16 by noon:Multifamily application deadline. Note:the application fee is also due by this date. At Metro Cities'February 21 housing workshop,Minnesota Housing officials highlighted the technical assistance available to cities.Cities with proposed housing projects are encouraged to communicate with MN Housing staff on the application process. Single Family Applicants Technical Assistance Contact Impact.Fund.MHFAC@state.mn.us as you are preparing your application and you will be connected with a staff person who can help. View the 2019 RFP recorded technical assistance and New Construction webinars(scroll down to the Impact Fund Training section).Webinars for the 2020 RFP may not be available due to COVID- 19.The 2020 RFP has some changes,however,much of the information in the 2019 webinars are still relevant in the 2020 RFP. Multifamily Applicants Technical Assistance Contact TechnicalAssistanceRequest.MHFAC@state.mn.us as you are preparing your application and you will be connected with a staff person who can help. Questions specific to application rents and maintenance and operating(M&0)numbers can be also be directed to TechnicalAssistanceRequest.MHFAC@state.mn.us.Preliminary M&O reviews and ballpark estimates can be provided to the applicant upon request.The last day Minnesota Housing staff will take any new preliminary M&O review requests will be Thursday,July 9,2020. View pre-recorded training tutorials(scroll down to the training tutorials section). Questions on single family applications should be directed to Song Lee-651.296.2291 and multifamily application questions to Katie Moore-651.269.6354. Share this post: 44 of 69 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 4/10/2020 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Follow-Up:COVID-19 National Briefing Call with State-Local-Tribal Leaders(April 8) Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 7:11:57 PM Attachments: imaoe001.ono For weekly notes from my White House calls. -----Original Message----- From: Crozer, William F. EOP/WHO <William.F.Crozer@who.eop.gov> Sent: Thu, Apr 9, 2020 4:29 pm Subject: Follow-Up: COVID-19 National Briefing Call with State-Local-Tribal Leaders (April 8) [HE WHITE fwu�. State,Local, and Tribal Leaders— Thank you for joining President Donald J. Trump and Senior Administration Officials for the White House briefing call on the Administration's commitment to empower State,local, and Tribal leaders to effectively respond to COVID-19 and provide updates on CARES Act implementation. As President Trump stated,we are deeply grateful for your partnership and close coordination with the Administration in our campaign to vanquish the virus. While there are signs that our collective strategy to slow the spread is working,we are in a crucial phase, and it is important for State, Local, and Tribal leaders to remain committed to the distancing guidelines. Below,please find a recap of the call. We would also like to highlight several important announcements: • CDC Updates Guidance Regarding Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19: On Friday, April 3,the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)issued new guidance recommending individuals wear cloth face coverings in aublic settings where other social distancing measures are di(Licult to maintain(e.g. grocery stores and pharmacies),particularly in areas of significant community-based transmission.More here. • CDC Provides Interim Guidance for Critical Infrastructure Workers Who May Have Had Exposure to COVID-19: On Wednesday, April 8,the CDC released new guidelines regarding when people in critical infrastructure roles can return to work after being exposed to a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19. The guidelines advise that critical infrastructure workers may be permitted to continue work following potential exposure to COVID-19,provided they remain asymptomatic and additional precautions are implemented to protect them and the community. More here. Additional information about identifying critical infrastructure during COVID-19 can be found on the DHS CISA website here. • The U.S. Department of the Treasury and Federal Reserve Board Announce New and Expanded Lending Programs to Provide Up To $2.3 Trillion in Financing: On Thursday,April 9,Treasury launched a Main Street Business Lending program and a 46 of 69 Municipal Liquidity Facility to support the flow of credit to American workers,businesses, states, counties, and cities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Municipal Liquidity Facility (MLF)will provide up to $500 billion in direct financing to states, counties, and cities to help ensure they have the funds necessary to provide essential services to citizens and respond to the coronavirus pandemic.More here. MLF term sheet and guidance can be found here. • President Trump Announces #AmericaWorksTogether: On Tuesday,April 7, President Trump announced a new hashtag to highlight Americans helping one another during the coronavirus pandemic. The President and Administration officials will use the #AmericaWorksTogether hashtag to promote companies that are hiring employees in the middle of the economic turmoil caused by the virus and those who are donating food and other supplies to front line health care workers. The President will also encourage people to use the hashtag when posting examples of Americans helping others during the crisis. We hope that you will join the President and Administration in using#AmericaWorksTogether. shared69 Through collective action, threat.sacrifice, and national determination, we will overcome this PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP COVID-19: Important Resources for State, Local, and Tribal Officials • Coronavirus Guidelines for America: On Monday,March 16,the White House Coronavirus Task Force issued guidelines to help protect Americans during the global coronavirus outbreak. To keep the momentum going to#StopTheSpread and#BendtheCurve, on Tuesday,March 31, the White House Coronavirus Task Force issued revised guidelines—30 Days to Slow the Spread(Lspanol)—to extend the guidance for an additional 30 days. Even if you are young and otherwise healthy,you are at risk, and your activities can increase the risk of contracting the Coronavirus for others. Everyone can do their part. The recommendations are simple to follow but will have a resounding impact on public health. • Up-To-Date Information: The most up-to-date,verified information and guidance can be found via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Coronavirus Disease 2019 website— www.coronavirus.gov. The Coronavirus Task Force holds frequent briefings,which can be viewed live here. • COVID-19 Response and Recovery Primer: Response and recovery efforts are locally executed, state managed, and federally supported. It is important that requests for assistance, 47 of 69 including for critical supplies,get routed through the proper channels as soon as possible. Learn more about the response and recovery process via this important resource—Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic: Response and Recovery Through Federal-State-Local-Tribal Partnership. FEMA's public assistance guidance for COVID-19 response efforts can be found here. Guidance for Tribal Governments can be found here. • Critical Infrastructure Workforce Guidelines: On March 16th,the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued updated critical infrastructure guidance in response to the COVID-19 emergency. DHS issued revised guidance on March 28th (see Memorandum on Identification of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers During COVID-19 Response). The a i n , and accompanying list, is intended to help State, local,tribal and territorial officials as they work to protect their communities,while ensuring continuity of functions critical to public health and safety, as well as economic and national security. The list is advisory in nature and is not a federal directive or standard. • Coronavirus Fact vs. Myth: Rumors can easily circulate within communities during a crisis. FEMA setup a website to help the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to the coronavirus pandemic. • Fraud & Scam Protection: The Department of Justice is remaining vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the crisis. Find out how you can protect yourself and helpful resources on DOJ's Coronavirus Fraud Prevention website. The Federal Trade Commission has also established a website with helpful information to help consumers avoid coronavirus-related scams. • Social Media Resources: Download the Apple COVID-19 Screening Tool. Follow the White House on Twitter and Facebook. Also follow HHS (T i r Facebook) and CDC (T i r Facebook)You can also find informational videos from Coronavirus Task Force members on mitigation, social distancing, etc. on the White House's YouTube page. • Mental Health Resources: Natural disasters—including such pandemics as the coronavirus outbreak—can be overwhelming and also can seriously affect emotional health. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration's (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline— 1-800-985- 5990 (or text TalkWithUs to 66746)—provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to anyone who is seeking help in coping with the mental or emotional effects caused by developments related to the coronavirus pandemic. Learn more about the Disaster Distress Helpline here. • Administration Actions and Federal Agency Resources: USA.gov is cataloging all U.S. government activities related to coronavirus. From actions on health and safety to travel, immigration, and transportation to education, find pertinent actions here. Each Federal Agency has also established a dedicated coronavirus website,where you can find important information and guidance. They include: Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers of Medicare and Medicaid(CMS),Food and Drug Administration(FDA),Department of Education (DoED), Department of Agriculture (USDA), Small Business Administration(SBA),Department of Labor(DOL),Department of Homeland Security (DHS),Department of State(DOS), Department of Veterans Affairs (Y ),Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),Department of Energy (DOE),Department of Commerce(DOC),Department of Justice(DOJ),Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD),Department of the Treasury ( DT),Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Office of the Director of National Intelligence(DDI),Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and U.S. Election Assistance Commission(EAC). Thank you again for your partnership in this whole-of-government,All-of-America effort to defeat the coronavirus. The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs (WH IGA)will continue to share pertinent information as it becomes available. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our office if we can be of assistance. As a reminder,WH IGA is the primary liaison between the White House and the country's State and Local elected officials and Tribal Governments. 48 of 69 The White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs William F. Crozer Special Assistant to the President/Deputy Director White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs 4I COVID-19 Download the COVID-19 App White House COVID-19 National Briefing Call Readout April 8, 2020 "We are marshalling the full power of the American nation — economic, scientific, medical, and military — to vanquish the f virus." PRESIDENT DONALD J,TRUMP d1:1 Topline • Last week,the White House announced updated"Coronavirus Guidelines for America"— extending efforts through April 30—the best way you all can help is to utilize your leadership platform to echo the"30 Days to Stop the Spread."There are initial signs that these efforts are paying dividends and it is critical that everyone continues to follow this guidance, even as we see a leveling out of cases in some areas of the country. • The President has approved major disaster declaration requests quickly as the governors have requested—51 governors have had their requests approved as of last night—meaning that requests from 23 states/territories were approved since the April 1 national update call. • As of Tuesday, April 7, for 37 states that have requested,the President has approved 100% of National Guard deployment costs under Title 32 to assist w/response& logistics support, 49 of 69 while ensuring governors remain in command. • Through Project Air Bridge, FEMA has continued to coordinate the transportation of critically needed personal protective equipment(or PPE) across the country. The air bridge is helping reduce the time it takes for U.S.medical supply distributors to receive PPE and other critical supplies into the country for health care professionals and other key professionals, including law enforcement. Learn more about Project Air Bridge and FEMA's supply chain efforts here. U.S.Department of Health and Human Services • Topline: The CARES Act makes vital investments in the key elements of our public health response to the virus,with more than$100 billion for hospitals and healthcare providers and$27 billion in funds for vaccines,therapeutics, and personal protective equipment. • Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund: On Wednesday, April 8,HHS announced new steps on the $100 billion provided by the CARES Act to support healthcare providers directly. • HHS will begin the initial distribution of these payments to hospitals and healthcare providers across the nation distributed based on how much relative revenue they receive from Medicare. • HHS has endeavored to make this process extremely simple and is expecting 500,000 providers will receive funding this week. • The next allocation of funds will prioritize those providers that do not typically serve the Medicare population or where Medicare is not a dominant payor, like nursing homes and certain types of hospitals. • CDC State and Local Preparedness Grants: CDC is working to distribute $1.5 billion in state and local preparedness grants,which, combined with the first supplemental, amount to a total of about$2.5 billion provided for state,tribal,territorial, and local needs. • HHS distributed$186 million in CDC funds from the first supplemental earlier this week to assist with testing and surveillance activities. • There is a set-aside in the CDC's grant program for tribal health needs, and the CARES Act also includes more than$1 billion provided for critical response needs in Indian Country, including supplies, staffing, and increased telehealth capacity. More here. • Mental Health: Recognizing that mental health is going to be a challenge,the CARES Act provides $250 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, $50 million in new money for suicide prevention, and$100 million in flexible emergency funding for states and tribes to use to address mental health needs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)has now posted the funding opportunity announcement for that flexible emergency funding. More here. • Administration for Children & Families: HHS's Administration for Children and Families is receiving $6.3 billion in funding under the CARES Act,which it is working to operationalize expeditiously with a focus on supporting Head Start providers and augmenting LIHEAP, Child Care and Development Block Grant and Community Services Block Grant funds. This funding will help human service providers whether they serve vulnerable youth, families, or older Americans, are under strain.More here. • Administration for Community Living: The Administration for Community Living also received$955 million to support aging and disability services programs,like getting meals to seniors. HHS has already disbursed some new money from the earlier economic relief legislation. More here. U.S.Department of the Treasury 50 of 69 • Paycheck Protection Program • Paycheck Protection Program(PPP)launched on Friday,April 3rd. The PPP program provides forgivable loans to small businesses with under 500 employees. As of Thursday,April 9,more than 454,000 loans totaling$118 billion across 3,500 lenders have been distributed. • In order to ensure that every business is able to take advantage of the PPP,the Administration has requested to Congress an increase in PPP commitments to $600 billiona$250 billion increase. • The Employee Retention Credit is available for businesses not eligible for the PPP. This is a refundable credit of up to $5,000 per employee,who is retained instead of being laid off.More here. • Updated guidance and frequently asked questions can be found here. A new lender application form can be found here. • More information on the Paycheck Protection Program here. • Economic Impact Payments • Treasury expect that the electronic payment of$2,400 per married couple,plus $500 per child,will begin to be made around April 15. Treasury has banking information for some 60 million taxpayer,who will be a part of the first tranche of payments. • Social Security recipients who do not file tax returns will automatically receive economic impact payments.More here. • Treasury is establishing a portal for those who are not a part of the first tranche to provide their banking information and ensure that they receive their payment promptly. Treasury is also investigating ways to effectively get Economic Impact Payment funds into the hands of the unbanked. • Coronavirus Relief Fund • State, eligible units of local government, and Tribal governments will receive funds from the Coronavirus Relief Fund. Treasury expects that the$150 billion provided to the Fund will be distributed no later than April 24. • Treasury is developing a website portal for eligible governments to provide information necessary to be able to deposit the advance payments. The portal is expected to be online as early as Saturday,April 11. • Treasury is developing guidance in advance of funding release regarding reimbursable expenses. • Main Street Business Lending Program and Municipal Liquidity Facility • Treasury launched a Main Street Business Lending program and a Municipal Liquidity Facility to support the flow of credit to American workers,businesses, States, counties, and cities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Municipal Liquidity Facility (MLF)will provide up to $500 billion in direct financing to states, counties, and cities to help ensure they have the funds necessary to provide essential services to citizens and respond to the coronavirus pandemic.More here.MLF term sheet and guidance can be found here. U.S.Department of Agriculture • Topline:The CARES Act provides$9.5 billion provided for relief to farmers and ranchers.The Act enables support of agricultural producers who experience market losses due to COVID-19.USDA is actively monitoring all food and agriculture commodity markets and the supply chain of food from farm to table during the COVID 19 outbreak.USDA will provide more information regarding program delivery later this Spring. More information about USDA resources in response to COVID-19 can be found here: https://www.usda.gov/coronavirus. 51 of 69 • On Thursday,April 9,USDA announced the first state,Michigan,has been approved to operate Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer(EBT),a new program authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Act.The is a supplemental food purchasing benefit to current SNAP participants and as a new EBT benefit to other eligible households to offset the cost of meals that would have otherwise been consumed at school. More here. • Rural Economic Development • The CARES Act provides$100 million for the ReConnect Loan and Grant Program.USDA extended the open application window through April 15th and will use the CARES Act funding to augment grant awards to qualified applicants.More information about the ReConnect Loan and Grant Program can be found here https://www.usda.gov/reconnect. • The CARES Act provides$1 billion provided for the Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program USDA will administer the increase in program level concurrent with the traditional program, a Notice of Funding Availability announcing the increased program level will issue in April/May. More information about the Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program can be found here: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-industry-loan-guarantees. • The CARES Act provides$25 million provided for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program.USDA announced a new award window for FY2020 will open from April 14th through July 13th. More information about the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program can be found here: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/distance-learning-telemedicine-grants. • Rural Economic Relief • The CARES Act provides foreclosure and eviction relief provided for rural renters and homeowners.Effective March 19th,the Rural Housing Service is providing 60-day relief from eviction and foreclosure to all USDA multi-family housing tenants and single-family home mortgage borrowers.More information about USDA Rural Development's actions in response to COVID-19 can be found here: https://www.rd.usda.gov/coronavirus. • Nutrition • The CARES Act provides$15.5 billion in contingency funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.The Food and Nutrition Service intends to use all available flexibilities to service program participants,including exercising newly authorized waivers ease program operations and protect the health of participants. • The CARES Act provides$100 million for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations program.The Food and Nutrition Service distributes food and administrative funds to Indian Tribal Organizations and state agencies to support nutritional needs of Native American families. • The CARES Act provides$8.8 billion provided for the Child Nutrition Program.Funding supports ongoing activities under the existing program. • The CARES Act provides$450 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program(TEFAP). The Food and Nutrition Service's Emergency Food Assistance Program provides food and administrative funds to food banks to support the nutrition of vulnerable populations.Funding supports ongoing activities under the existing program.More information about Food and Nutrition Service actions to respond to COVID-19 can be found here: https://www.fns.usda.gov/disaster/pandemic/covid-19. U.S.Department of Labor • Topline:On March 27,2020,President Donald Trump signed into law the Coronavirus Aid,Relief,and Economic Security Act(CARES Act). The legislation,in part,created three new programs designed to provide unemployment benefits to American workers: Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation,Pandemic Unemployment Assistance,and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation. • These programs are administered by each state workforce agency or equivalent.Depending on the state technology infrastructure and other factors, states may vary in the implementation and timing of first benefit payments to eligible individuals.Benefits are retroactive to dates as specified in guidance from the Department.This and future guidance is and will be available at https://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/. • The following is a brief summary of each newly established program pursuant to the CARES Act: 52 of 69 • Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation:The FPUC program allows states to provide an additional$600 per week in benefits to individuals collecting regular Unemployment Compensation or certain other benefits. The CARES Act specifies that FPUC benefit payments will end after payments for the last week of unemployment before July 31,2020. • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance:States are permitted to provide Pandemic Unemployment Assistance(PUA)to individuals who are self-employed,seeking part-time employment,or who otherwise would not qualify for regular unemployment compensation. To qualify for PUA benefits, you must not be eligible for regular unemployment benefits and be unemployed,partially unemployed, or unable or unavailable to work because of certain health or economic consequences of the COVID- 19 pandemic. • Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation:The program covers most individuals who have exhausted all rights to regular unemployment compensation under state or federal law and who are able to work,available for work,and actively seeking work as defined by state law. Importantly,the CARES Act gives states flexibility in determining whether you are"actively seeking work"if you are unable to search for work because of COVID-19,including because of illness, quarantine,or movement restrictions. • For more information on unemployment compensation,and links to your State Unemployment Insurance Office,please click here. U.S.Department of Education • Elementary and Secondary Education • The CARES Act includes$13.2 billion in K-12 formula grants to States(Economic Stabilization Fund).This grant is distributed to states based on their share of ESEA Title I-A funds. State education agencies will then distribute at least 90%of funds to school districts and public charter schools based on their share of Title I-A funds. • Under the CARES Act,the U.S. Department of Education has streamlined the waiver application process for states to gain flexibilities to allow schools to repurpose existing K-12 education funds for technology infrastructure and teacher training on distance learning,among other flexibilities to move resources to areas of highest need during the national emergency. • This action follows the Department's announcement of a turnkey waiver process allowing states to cancel federally-mandated standardized testing.The Department has approved waivers for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. • Post-Secondary Education • The CARES Act includes$12.2 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief fund to help institutions of higher education weather the costs associated with COVID-19.Funds will be available through September 30,2021.More here. • The Department has also provided additional flexibilities and regulator):r�for institutions of higher education,their students,and others effective through June 30,2020,including waiving requirements relating to academic terms,approved leaves of absence,distance education,and student aid verification. Additional flexibilities provided under the CARES Act will expire on September 30, 2020. • The Department also announced that any aid provided to students in the form of Emergency Grants to Students under the CARES Act will not be included in future determinations of a student's eligibility for Federal Student Aid programs.In addition,institutions do not need to make adjustments to a student's current financial aid award,even if these emergency grants result in an over-award. • The Department of Education has established a dedicated Coronavirus webpage,which includes resources for institutions of higher education and for K-12. U.S. Department of Commerce • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration(NOAA)will distribute$300 million in fisheries assistance to states,Tribes,and territories in coordination with Interstate Marine Fishery Commissions. 53 of 69 • These funds will support commercial fishing,charter fishing,dealers,processors,aquaculture,and Tribal as well as subsistence sectors that have been directly or indirectly negatively impacted by covid-19. • NOAA Fisheries is collecting information from fishermen,seafood farmers,and other seafood processing/distribution companies,as well as from the recreational fishing sector,on disruptions to supply and demand resulting from COVID-19. • NOAA is assessing immediate and long term needs to secure and enhance the resilience of the US seafood and fisheries industries. • For more on CARES and other NOAA COVID-19 related activities,visit here. • The Economic Development Administration(EDA)received$1.5 billion to prevent,prepare for,and respond to the coronavirus. • EDA will provide grants to communities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic with immediate and long-term economic recovery assistance. • EDA grants will support a wide range of economic planning and technical assistance,innovation, capitalization and recapitalization of Revolving Loan Funds(RLF),and construction and non- construction assistance across the nation. • The majority of the funding will be distributed out of EDA's six regional offices,which are responsible for reviewing the eligibility and merit of applications through a competitive process. • For more information on EDA and Disaster Recovery,visit here. • The Minority Business Development Agency(MBDA)will utilize$10 million to educate,train,and advise minority business enterprises concerning the impact of and recovery from the COVID-19. • These grants are available to minority business centers and minority chambers of commerce. • For more information on MBDA and Disaster Recovery,visit here. • The United States Patent and Trademark Office(USPTO)has released a series of FAQs for patent and trademark filers regarding USPTO's previously announced extension of certain patent and trademark-related timing deadlines under the CARES Act.More here. U.S.Department of Housing and Urban Development • Topline:The CARES Act includes over$12 billion in new funding for HUD programs to provide additional funding to prevent,prepare for,and respond to the coronavirus pandemic(COVID-19). • Primary Allocations • Community Development Block Grants(CDBG):The CARES Act provides$5 billion to enable nearly 1,240 states,counties,and cities to rapidly respond to COVID-19 and the economic and housing impacts caused by it,including the expansion of community health facilities,childcare centers,food banks,and senior services. More here. • Emergency Solutions Grants(ESG):The CARES Act provides$4 billion to address the impact of COVID-19 among individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,and to support additional homeless assistance,prevention,and eviction prevention assistance.More on homelessness assistance programs here. • Tenant-Based Rental Assistance:The CARES Act provides$1.25 billion for additional funds for PHAs to maintain normal operations and take other necessary action during the period that the program is impacted by COVID-19,in addition to administrative expenses and other expenses for Section 8 programs,including Mainstream vouchers.More information here(COVID-19 FAQs for Public Housing Agencies). • Public Housing Operating Fund: $685 million for PHAs to maintain normal operations and take other necessary actions during the period that the program is impacted by COVID-19;funds are to be combined with FY20 funds and awarded using the Operating Fund formula and may be used for both capital and operating expenses. • Native American Programs: $200 million for activities and assistance under title I of NAHASDA and under title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974,including Native American Housing Block Grants,to be distributed using the FY20 formula.More here. • Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS(HOPSA): The CARES Act provides$65 54 of 69 million for additional HOPWA funds to maintain operations and for rental assistance, supportive services and other necessary actions.More here. • The CARES Act also includes the following general provisions that affect HUD and HUD programs: • Rescinds and appropriates funds for a youth homelessness demonstration under the"Homeless Assistance Grants"demonstration in the FYI appropriations act; • Allows for temporary hiring flexibility for HUD to prevent,prepare for,or respond to COVID-19; • Provides a foreclosure moratorium for borrowers with Federally backed mortgages experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19; • Provides the opportunity for multifamily borrowers with Federally backed mortgages experiencing financial hardship to request a forbearance;and • Enables a temporary moratorium on eviction filings. U.S.Department of Justice • The CARES Act provides assistance to state and local law enforcement to assist in preparing for and responding to COVID-19. Specifically,the Act includes $850 million for the Byrne- Justice Assistance Grant Program (Bryne-JAG). The JAG Program provides states,tribes, and local governments with critical funding necessary to support a range of program areas including law enforcement,prosecution,indigent defense, courts, crime prevention and education, corrections and community corrections, drug treatment and enforcement,planning, evaluation, technology improvement, and crime victim and witness initiatives and mental health programs and related law enforcement and corrections programs, including behavioral programs and crisis intervention teams.More here. 55 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update Series Date: Saturday,April 4,2020 9:39:56 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <covid19@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Apr 4, 2020 9:36 am Subject: COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update Series If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. National League of Cities LEADERSHIP UPDATE Colleagues, The National League of Cities is fighting to get you the financial support you need. While we were glad to see Congress pass the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) last week, the legislation did not provide any direct relief to local governments. It instead filters money through states, which have the authority to distribute as they see fit. It is inexcusable that communities on the frontlines of combating this virus are not receiving the direct financial support they desperately need. What's clear from our updated COVID-19: Local Action Tracker is that local leaders are taking extraordinary–and often costly– measures to combat COVID-19 and protect their residents. That is why Congress and the administration must act to ensure every city, town and village impacted by this pandemic—regardless of size—has direct access to emergency funding. On Thursday, NLC outlined our urgent needs for Congress and President Donald Trump. You can bolster these efforts by calling on your Members of Congress. At a time when we all need to come together, we can't be left to fight each other for the current stimulus dollars. We must stand united, keep on the pressure, and demand the necessary resources to end this pandemic and move our communities forward. 56 of 69 Sending you strength, Joe Buscaino ® President, National League of Cities President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council CEO'S FEDERAL ADVOCACY UPDATE I WATCH BELOW 101� RESOURCES UPCOMING EVENTS WEBINAR I Managing Through COVID-19: Lessons and Stories from Local Government Leaders I Tuesday, April 7, 1:00 PM ET Join a live discussion hosted by OpenGov on what they're hearing from customers, followed by a live chat with government leaders from the City of Sunset Valley, TX and Gilpin County, CO on how they're responding quickly to protect their communities and ensure continuity of crucial government functions. Register now. VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLE I Civic Engagement in a Time of Crisis I Wednesday, April 8, 12:30 PM ET Join NLC for our first virtual roundtable with Polco/National Research Council to explore challenges and share solutions around communicating during a crisis. Hear from peers and share how you as a local leader are working to maintain important lines of communication and engagement with your residents. Participation is limited to ensure interaction and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up by sending an email to bradley@nlc.org. WEBINAR I COVID-19: How to Support People Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness Thursday, April 9, 2:00 PM ET Shelter in place orders has brought to light a glaring problem with the US housing system: that 57 of 69 many people do not have a place to shelter. People experiencing unsheltered homelessness may be at a greater risk for infection during community spread of COVID-19. It is imperative for local leaders to provide for their unsheltered population —to help flatten the curve and stymie the growth of a population that has been systematically underserved. Register now. OPPORTUNITIES Bloomberg Philanthropies and the National League of Cities' COVID-19: Local Action Tracker continues to highlight and uplift the efforts of local leaders. View the updated Action Tracker and check back often as we continue to add more information from cities, towns and villages every day. BEST PRACTICES Preventing Spread of COVID-19 Among the Most Vulnerable to Complications ® Supporting seniors, people with disabilities and people with underlying medical conditions during COVID-19 is a critical focus for cities, towns and villages. Local leaders must ensure those at increased risk receive the supports they need. Read more. COVID-19 Guidance for Immigrant Rich Communities It is critical to work with your immigrant communities to ensure they have access to the necessary resources to reduce the ® potential spread of COVID-19. The risk is simple; immigrants (documented and undocumented) exposed to the COVID-19 virus may be less willing to get tested and seek public assistance as a result of increased enforcement actions and stricter public charge rules. Learn more. City Health and Tips to Get Smart Fast on COVID-19 City Health has compiled a comprehensive list of COVID-19 resources, recommendations, tips and experts to follow. Right ®4 now, in our country, there are so many people in public health and public service that should be applauded for putting their own health and safety at risk to protect the common good. Learn more. IN THE NEWS 58 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 10 Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 9:16:46 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <covid19@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Thu, Apr 9, 2020 8:35 am Subject: COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 10 If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. National League of Cities LEADERSHIP UPDATE Colleagues, As Congress and the White House urgently work on additional relief for businesses this week, they must also prioritize economic support for local governments. The National League of Cities has explained the desperate needs of local leaders, but we are still concerned that the majority of cities, towns and villages in our nation will not receive the funding needed. As we articulated in a letter to the White House, we are the entity of government charged with executing our nation's COVI D-19 response, and we cannot wait any longer for federal support. Join our chorus and make sure your Members of Congress know that the current level of federal relief is simply not acceptable. Earlier this week, we applauded Representatives Joe Neguse, Andy Levin, Ben Ray Luj6n and Tom Malinowski for recognizing our needs with the introduction of the Coronavirus Community Relief Act, which will provide direct funding to cities, towns, and villages with fewer than 500,000 people. If passed, this bill will provide critical funds to frontline communities that may have been shut out from receiving direct aid from the CARES Act. Right now, local-federal partnership is key, and we are thankful to members of Congress who are reaching out and working collaboratively with local governments and the National League of Cities. Sending you strength, 60 of 69 Joe Buscaino ®❑ President, National League of Cities President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council CEO'S COVID-19 UPDATE I WATCH BELOW ®❑ RESOURCES UPCOMING EVENTS WEBINAR I Respond to COVID-19 with Real-Time, Intelligent Financial Modeling Tuesday, April 14 1:00 PM ET Andy Burnham, vice president of Financial Services, Stantec, will provide an overview of the Financial Analysis & Management System (FAMS), an intelligent, easy-to-use financial modeling tool designed to give government agencies ultimate flexibility and control in making informed, data-driven decisions about the financial sustainability to affordably deliver critical services to your community. Register now. WEBINAR I During the Coronavirus Outbreak: Investing in Neighborhoods Where Young Children and Families Thrive I Wednesday, April 15, 2:00 PM ET Join NLC and our city and community partners for a conversation on how cities are supporting the infrastructure in neighborhoods during times of business and school closures and increasing social isolation. Learn how city agencies and community partners are promoting public health, bolstering small businesses, and creating innovative new ways to foster community connection—all through the lens of young children and families. Register now. Sharing COVID-19 Information in Multiple Languages: Mayor Lily Mei from Fremont, 61 of 69 California and Councilmember David Luna from Mesa, Arizona discuss communication, language access and other tools and resources for communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. BEST PRACTICES Sharing COVID-19 Information in Multiple Languages Accurate and timely information needs to be made available and readily accessible in multiple languages-denying equitable language access �® to critical information exacerbates the risks associated with COVID-19 for all residents. City leaders can set the tone in their communities and pave the way to require multilingual information dissemination. Read more. Getting Residents Online in a Pandemic Crisis Right now, residents are being asked to learn, work, worship, access healthcare, and socialize from home using technology— `®` but too many of them are unable to do so. Federal, state, local, and private actors are taking steps to try and get households connected as soon as possible. Learn more. City Transportation Changes as COVID-19 Pandemic Continues As city leaders across the country are working to ensure that ®4 residents are practicing physical distancing, they are also trying to balance a difficult task: ensuring that transportation options remain open for those who need them, while safeguarding transportation systems from spreading the virus. Learn more. IN THE NEWS Small, Mid-Size Cities Currently Cut out of Direct Coronavirus Funding Route Fifty-April 8, 2020 The Coronavirus is infecting and killing black Americans at an alarmingly high rate Washington Post-April 7, 2020 GASB to delay deadlines The Bond Buyer-April 7, 2020 CARES Act 2 won't shift muni groups priorities The Bond Buyer-April 6, 2020 62 of 69 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 9 Date: Tuesday,April 7,2020 8:50:03 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <covid19@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Tue, Apr 7, 2020 8:39 am Subject: COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 9 If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. National League of Cities LEADERSHIP UPDATE Colleagues, As the nation braces for what U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams described as the "hardest and the saddest week of most Americans' lives,"we are reminded of the importance of local leadership. Our community members are looking to us for assurance that life will go on—that there is, in fact, a light at the end of this dark tunnel. The National League of Cities is here to support you in making those assurances. Below you will find webinars on supporting different members of your community, including people experiencing unsheltered homelessness and young children and families; a virtual roundtable on civic engagement; a frontline perspective from Mayor Penny Sweet of Kirkland, WA; best practices on CARES Act payments for residents and supporting your local economy; and, the news of the day specific to cities, towns and villages. We are in this together. And together, we will get through it. Sending you strength, Joe Buscaino ® President, National League of Cities President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council 64 of 69 RESOURCES UPCOMING EVENTS WEBINAR I COVID-19: How Local Leaders Can Support Individuals Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness I Thursday, April 9, 2:00 PM ET Shelter in place orders have brought to light a glaring problem with the US housing system: that many people do not have a place to shelter. People experiencing unsheltered homelessness may be at a greater risk for infection during community spread of COVID-19. It is imperative for local leaders to provide for their unsheltered population —to help flatten the curve and stymie the growth of a population that has been systematically underserved. Register now. WEBINAR I During the Coronavirus Outbreak: Investing in Neighborhoods Where Young Children and Families Thrive I Wednesday, April 15, 2:00 PM ET Join NLC and our city and community partners for a conversation on how cities are supporting the infrastructure in neighborhoods during times of business and school closures and increasing social isolation. Learn how city agencies and community partners are promoting public health, bolstering small businesses, and creating innovative new ways to foster community connection—all through the lens of young children and families. Register now. VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLE I Civic Engagement in a Time of Crisis I Wednesday, April 8, 12:30 PM ET Join NLC for our first virtual roundtable with Polco/National Research Council to explore challenges and share solutions around communicating during a crisis. Hear from peers and share how you as a local leader are working to maintain important lines of communication and engagement with your residents. Participation is limited to ensure interaction and assigned on a first come, first served basis. Sign up by sending an email to bradley@nlc.org. BEST PRACTICES On the Frontlines: Kirkland Mayor Penny Sweet Talks COVID- 19 Response and Building Community ® Kirkland, Washington is a quiet and close-knit community that became the epicenter of the U.S. fight against COVID-19. In this short Q&A, Mayor Penny Sweet shares her experience working across the government to protect residents and slow the spread. Read more. 65 of 69 Is Your City Playing by the (New) Rules to Support a Pandemic Economy? As more states and localities issue stay-at-home orders to keep ®4 us safe and healthy, businesses are shuttering, and unemployment is skyrocketing. Cities are trying to protect their local economies knowing full well that opening the economy too soon will spell disaster. Learn more. Money Direct to Residents: Making Sense of CARES Act Payments The federal government will be sending money directly to people as part of the recently passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act or the CARES Act. Local leaders can take action now to make sure their residents keep more of those dollars in their pockets that can be spent in the local economy. Learn more. IN THE NEWS Delays and Shortages Exacerbate Coronavirus Testing Gaps in the U.S. New York Times-April 6, 2020 Even before coronavirus, census shows U.S. cities' growth was stagnating Brookings-April 6, 2020 State, Local Governments Take Lead On Protecting Workers Efficient Gov-April 6, 2020 Coronavirus may peak in some cities this week, experts warn Today-April 6, 2020 National League of Cities 8 a A You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com. To stop receiving these emails, click here. 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy ©2020 NLC, All Rights Reserved 66 of 69 From: National League of Cities(NLC) To: Eric Johnson Subject: CORRECTION-TAKE ACTION:Coronavirus Community Relief Sponsorship Date: Thursday,April 9,2020 2:58:32 PM If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. National League of Cities Co-Sponsor the Coronavirus Community Relief Act The majority of America's cities, towns and villages are not eligible for direct relief under the CARES Act, due to the 500,000 population threshold. The House has offered a proposal to address this specific funding issue -we need you to ACT NOW to build momentum. On Tuesday, April 7, Representatives Neguse (CO-2), Levin (MI-9), Lujan (NM-3) and Malinowski (NJ-7) introduced the Coronavirus Community Relief Act(H.R. 6467), a bill to provide $250 billion in funding to all local governments with fewer than 500,000 residents. These members of Congress heard the message that cities, towns and villages below the 500,000 population threshold need direct federal aid to face mounting challenges related to COVID-19. This bill seeks to create a new fund dedicated to supporting local governments, regardless of population. Reach out to your members in the House to ask them to support this critical legislation. Bipartisan support from Republican and Democratic Members of Congress is key. ■ ■ - � • ■ ■ For additional information and resources for local leaders, visit NLC's Coronavirus Response Resources page. National League of Cities E � Ie 68 of 69