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HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly Notes- July 24th 2020 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WEEKLY NOTES for: July 24th 2020 TO: City Council Members& Staff FROM: Eric Johnson,City Administrator Listing of Upcoming Meetings—Thru September 22,2020 Zoning &Development Items: 1. No new applications have been received. 2. Fury Site--What remains is the front window transparency corrections,signage and repainting.Again,slow progress but crews were on site this week. 3. Xcel Energy did remove their floodwall berm that was given a permit by the City;they have been refunded their$5,000. COVID-19 Matters: • This is the Governor's-PORTAL—Many documents/Exec.Orders can be found: https://mn.,qov/covidl9 Washington County has initiated a County Dashboard containing more localized COVID-19 Impacts and rates LINK->>HERE • As a result of the GOV ORDER 8. 7f24f20 Update:In the event any State Order,Rule or Statute that conflicts with provisions of this 20-81 relating to Face Plan,the City shall follow the State guidance;including,but not limited to recent Gov.order 20-81 issued on Coverings, the City's 3/22/20 relating to face coverings. OPENING PLAN has been updated to reflect that language via the insertion of the following. Please note the City's adoption of the Plan allowed Staff some latitude to make minor amendments so no new Council action is required. I have attached Gov Order 20-81 to weekly notes. Other Items: 1. Washington County will be implementing various TECHNICAL ANALYSIS meetings as they discuss a TRANSIT element along the STH 36 Corridor—several of their slides can be found httl2s://washingtoncounty.sharefile.com/d-sccdle004f324030b We understand they are trying to gauge feasibility of a TRANSIT parameter;as opposed to implementing something specific at this time. Mayor McComber provided: 1. Information from Lockridge Grindal--Federal Update&Special Session 2. METRO CITIES NEWS for 7/10/20 3. MAOSC Update for July, 4. Various NLC Updates and Documents for COVID-19 and Policies 5. MNDOT—Update on STILLWATER LIFT BRIDGE 6. Various MASK MANDATE GUIDANCE docs from the State Please let me know if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Call Anytime. 1 of 63 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS MEETINGS & WORKSESSIONS JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 Tuesday, July 28 5:45 p.m. Economic Development Authority Meeting (Council Chambers) 6:00 p.m. (or upon conclusion City Council Worksession of preceding EDA meeting) (Council Chambers) 7:15 p.m. (or upon conclusion City Council Meeting of preceding worksession) (Council Chambers) Thursday, August 13 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, August 17 6:00 p.m. Parks and Trails Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, August 25 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 8 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Thursday, September 10 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Wednesday, September 16 4:00—6:00 p.m. Allen S. King Plant Advisory Panel Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, September 21 6:00 p.m. Parks and Trails Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 22 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) POLICY NOTE:Items in red are expected to be SOCIAL EVENTS in nature and not an official City Council meeting. No official action or discussion may be undertaken by City Council Members who may attend such events. The City is listing such events so as the public is generally aware that there may be occasions when City Council members may desire to attend functions that are purely social-events. STATE OF MINNESOTA Executive Department �ti�suukeR (] v:.• �.a'�j3A Governor Tim Walz Emergency Executive Order 20-81 Requiring Minnesotans to Wear a Face Covering in Certain Settings to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 I, Tim Walz, Governor of the State of Minnesota,by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and applicable statutes, issue the following Executive Order: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present an unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenge to our State. Since the World Health Organization characterized the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic on March 11, 2020, confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota have rapidly increased. On March 15, 2020, Minnesota detected the first confirmed cases caused by "community spread"—infections not epidemiologically linked to overseas travel. By March 17, 2020, all fifty states had reported a confirmed case of COVID-19, and on March 21, 2020, the Minnesota Department of Health ("MDH") announced the first confirmed fatality due to COVID-19 in Minnesota. The President declared a national emergency related to COVID-19 on March 13, 2020. Since then, and for the first time in history, the President has approved major disaster declarations for all fifty states and the District of Columbia. In concert with these federal actions and the actions of states across the nation, Minnesota has taken proactive steps to ensure that we remain ahead of the curve. On March 13, 2020, I issued Executive Order 20-01 and declared a peacetime emergency because this pandemic, an act of nature, endangers the lives of Minnesotans, and local resources were—and continue to be—inadequate to address the threat. After notifying the Legislature, on April 13, 2020, May 13, 2020, June 12, 2020, and July 13, 2020, I issued Executive Orders extending the peacetime emergency declared in Executive Order 20-01. The need to slow the spread of the virus while we ensured that Minnesota had the resources and capacity to address a large outbreak initially required the closure of certain non-critical businesses in our economy. In Executive Order 20-33, seeking to balance public health needs and economic considerations, we began planning to allow more Minnesota workers to safely return to work. We drafted and implemented guidelines and requirements for appropriate social distancing, hygiene, and public health best practices. Executive Order 20-38 expanded exemptions for outdoor recreational activities and facilities, and Executive Orders 20-40, 20-48, 1 2 of 63 20-56, 20-63, and 20-74 allowed for the gradual reopening of certain non-critical businesses that planned for and provided safe workplaces. The experience of other states shows that a COVID-19 surge can occur with little warning and disastrous consequences. Indeed, several states have had to reinstate limitations on businesses, gatherings, and activities as they have faced summer surges in COVID-19 cases. Although Minnesota had experienced a brief period of stable or decreasing numbers in COVID-19 cases, in the past week we have seen our cases begin to increase, with the largest single-day increase in cases in seven weeks reported on July 20, 2020. As such, we must continue to approach our reopening carefully, as the number of cases throughout the United States has increased rapidly in recent weeks. To that end, we know that certain public settings and establishments continue to pose a public health risk. In particular, the opportunities for COVID-19 transmission are elevated in confined indoor spaces, health care and congregate care facilities, settings where people gather and linger or where movement is unpredictable, and places where social distancing measures are not always possible. As we carefully consider and provide opportunities for a variety of businesses and other venues to scale up their operations, safety in these settings is a key priority. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ("CDC"), face coverings are effective in preventing the transmission of respiratory droplets that may spread COVID-19. Recognizing the utility of face coverings to prevent wearers who are asymptomatic or pre- symptomatic, the Federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration recommends that employers encourage workers to wear face coverings at work. Ideally, face coverings should be worn in combination with other infection control measures, including social distancing, but face coverings are especially important in settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain. As the CDC has explained, face coverings are most effective when they are worn by all individuals in public settings when around others outside of their households because many people infected with COVID-19 do not show symptoms. Consistent with this guidance, Minnesota has strongly recommended widespread use of face coverings since April. An increasing number of states are now mandating face coverings in certain settings to control the spread of COVID-19. As of July 17, 2020, 28 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico have implemented a face covering requirement. With this order,we do the same to protect Minnesota. In Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 12.02, the Minnesota Legislature conferred upon the Governor emergency powers to "(1) ensure that preparations of this state will be adequate to deal with disasters, (2) generally protect the public peace, health, and safety, and (3)preserve the lives and property of the people of the state."Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 12.21, subdivision 1, the Governor has general authority to control the state's emergency management as well as carry out the provisions of Minnesota's Emergency Management Act. Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 12.21, subdivision 3(7), authorizes the Governor to cooperate with federal and state agencies in "matters pertaining to the emergency management of the state and nation." This includes "the direction or control of. . . the conduct of persons in the state, including entrance or exit from any stricken or threatened public place, occupancy of facilities, and . . . public meetings or gatherings."Pursuant to subdivision 3 of that same section, the Governor may "make, amend, and rescind the necessary orders and rules to carry out the 2 3 of 63 provisions" of Minnesota Statutes 2019, Chapter 12. When approved by the Executive Council and filed in the Office of the Secretary of State, such orders and rules have the force and effect of law during the peacetime emergency. Any inconsistent rules or ordinances of any agency or political subdivision of the state are suspended during the pendency of the emergency. For these reasons, I order as follows: 1. Paragraph 3 of Executive Order 20-74 is rescinded as of Friday, July 24, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. All other provisions of Executive Order 20-74 remain in effect. 2. Beginning on Friday, July 24, 2020 at 11:59 p.m., Minnesotans must wear a face covering in indoor businesses and indoor public settings, as described in this order and the related industry guidance, available at the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov), as well as any other guidance referenced in this order. Workers must also wear face coverings outdoors when it is not possible to maintain social distancing. When leaving home, Minnesotans are strongly encouraged to have a face covering with them at all times to be prepared to comply with the requirements of this Executive Order. 3. Definitions. For purposes of this Executive Order, the following terms are defined as follows: a. A "face covering"must be worn to cover the nose and mouth completely, and can include a paper or disposable face mask, a cloth face mask, a scarf, a bandanna, a neck gaiter, or a religious face covering. Minnesotans are encouraged to refer to CDC guidance on How to Make Cloth Face Coverings, available at hgps://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent_ getting- sick/how-to-make-cloth-face-covering html. Medical-grade masks and respirators are sufficient face coverings, but to preserve adequate supplies, their purchase and use is discouraged for Minnesotans who do not work in a health care setting or in other occupations that require medical-grade protective equipment(e.g., certain construction occupations). Masks that incorporate a valve designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, or masks with openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents are not sufficient face coverings because they allow exhaled droplets to be released into the air. b. "Business" and"businesses" are broadly defined to include entities that employ or engage workers, including private-sector entities, public-sector entities, non-profit entities, and state, county, and local governments. c. "Worker" and"workers" are broadly defined to include owners, proprietors, employees, contractors, vendors, volunteers, and interns. d. "Social distancing" means individuals keeping at least 6 feet of distance from other individuals who are not members of their household. e. "Household"means a group of individuals who share the same living unit. 3 4 of 63 f. "Living unit" or"living units" are broadly defined to include single family homes; mobile homes; shelters and similar facilities; family foster care homes; individual units of multi-unit dwellings; hotel or motel rooms; dormitory rooms; residential programs licensed under Minnesota Statutes 2019, Chapter 2451); and assigned units or rooms in a hospital, long-term care facility, residential treatment facility, or correctional facility. Additionally, a"living unit" or"living units" includes any other setting used as a residence and shared only with members of the same household. g. "Higher education institution" means all post-secondary institutions, including but not limited to institutions licensed and registered with the Office of Higher Education, with a physical campus in the State. 4. Federal activities. Nothing in this Executive Order will be construed to limit, prohibit, or restrict in any way the operations of the federal government or the movement of federal officials in Minnesota while acting in their official capacity, including federal judicial, legislative, and executive staff and personnel. 5. Legislative proceedings. This Executive Order does not apply to Legislative proceedings and meetings. 6. Judicial Branch. This Executive Order does not apply to the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Requirements for face coverings in judicial branch facilities and at proceedings held by the judicial branch are subject to policies or orders of the Chief Justice. 7. Tribal activities and lands. a. Activities by tribal members within the boundaries of their tribal reservations are exempt from the restrictions in this Executive Order but may be subject to restrictions by tribal authorities. b. Activities within the boundaries of federal land held in trust for one of the 11 Minnesota Tribal Nations are exempt from the restrictions in this Executive Order but may be subject to restrictions by tribal authorities. 8. Exempt individuals. The following individuals are exempt from face covering requirements of this Executive Order: a. Individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that makes it unreasonable for the individual to maintain a face covering. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who have a medical condition that compromises their ability to breathe, and individuals who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance. These individuals should consider using alternatives to face coverings, including clear face shields, and staying at home as much as possible. 4 5 of 63 b. Children who are five years old and under. Those who are under two-years- old should never wear a face covering due to the risk of suffocation. Those who are at least two are encouraged to wear a face covering if they can do so in compliance with CDC guidance on How to Wear Cloth Face Coverings, available at hgps://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting- sick/how-to-wear-cloth-face-coverin_sg html (i.e., without frequently touching or removing the covering). c. Individuals at their workplace when wearing a face covering would create a job hazard for the individual or others, as determined by local, state or federal regulators or workplace safety and health standards and guidelines. 9. Situations where face coverings are mandatory. Except for individuals who are exempt under paragraph 8 of this Executive Order, and except for the circumstances described in paragraphs 10 through 12, Minnesotans are required to wear a face covering: a. In an indoor business or public indoor space, including when waiting outdoors to enter an indoor business or public indoor space. i. This requirement does not apply in living units except that(1)workers entering another person's living unit for a business purpose are required to wear a face covering when doing so; and (2)visitors, patients, residents, or inmates of hospitals, shelters or drop-in centers, long-term care facilities, residential treatment facilities, residential programs licensed under Minnesota Statutes 2019, Chapter 245D, or correctional facilities must wear a face covering even when in a living unit if required by the facility. ii. This requirement also does not apply in a private vehicle that is being used for private purposes. b. When riding on public transportation, in a taxi, in a ride-sharing vehicle, or in a vehicle that is being used for business purposes. c. In any other business, venue, or public space which has opted to require a face covering when it would not otherwise be required by this Executive Order. d. For workers only, when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. e. When applicable industry guidance, available on the Stay Safe Minnesota website (hltps://staysafe.mn.gov) specifically requires face coverings. In some instances, face shields may be required in addition to or instead of face coverings or may be allowed as an alternative to face coverings. 5 6 of 63 10. Circumstances where mandatory face coverings may be temporarily removed. Face coverings required under Paragraph 9 of this Executive Order may be temporarily removed under the following circumstances: a. When participating in organized sports in an indoor business or indoor public space while the level of exertion makes it difficult to wear a face covering. b. When exercising in an indoor business or public indoor space such as a gym or fitness center, while the level of exertion makes it difficult to wear a face covering,provided that social distancing is always maintained. c. When testifying, speaking, or performing in an indoor business or public indoor space, in situations or settings such as theaters, news conferences, legal proceedings, governmental meetings subject to the Open Meeting Law (Minnesota Statutes 2019, Chapter 13D),presentations, or lectures,provided that social distancing is always maintained. Face shields should be considered as an alternative in these situations. d. During practices or performances in an indoor business or indoor public space when a face covering cannot be used while playing a musical instrument, provided that social distancing is always maintained. e. During activities, such as swimming or showering, where the face covering will get wet. f. When eating or drinking in an indoor business or indoor public space, provided that at least 6 feet of physical distance is maintained between persons who are not members of the same party. g. When asked to remove a face covering to verify an identity for lawful purposes. h. While communicating with an individual who is deaf or hard of hearing or has a disability, medical condition, or mental health condition that makes communication with that individual while wearing a face covering difficult, provided that social distancing is maintained to the extent possible between persons who are not members of the same household. i. While receiving a service—including a dental examination or procedure, medical examination or procedure, or personal care service—that cannot be performed or would be difficult to perform when the individual receiving the service is wearing a face covering. Workers performing services for an individual who is allowed to temporarily remove their face covering under this provision must comply with face covering requirements in the applicable industry guidance, available at the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov). 6 7 of 63 j. When an individual is alone, including when alone in an office, a room, a cubicle with walls that are higher than face level when social distancing is maintained, a vehicle, or the cab of heavy equipment or machinery, or an enclosed work area. In such situations, the individual should still carry a face covering to be prepared for person-to-person interactions and to be used when no longer alone. k. When a public safety worker is actively engaged in a public safety role, including but not limited to law enforcement, firefighters, or emergency medical personnel, in situations where wearing a face covering would seriously interfere in the performance of their public safety responsibilities. 11. Situations where face coverings are strongly encouraged. I strongly encourage Minnesotans to wear face coverings in the following situations: a. During indoor or outdoor private social gatherings (e.g., when visiting at a private home with friends or relatives who do not reside in the same household),particularly in settings where it is difficult or impossible to maintain social distancing. b. When riding in a private vehicle with a person or persons who do not reside in the same household. c. Inside your home, if you are infected with COVID-19 or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and reside with others who could be infected. d. When participating as an athlete in indoor or outdoor organized sporting events, to the extent possible, where social distancing is not being maintained. e. Except for workers required to wear face coverings under paragraph 9.d, in any outdoor business or public outdoor space when it is not possible to consistently maintain social distancing, such as when entering or exiting a business, being seated, moving around in a space with others present, using the restroom, ordering food, or waiting in line. 12. Child care,preschool, kindergarten through grade 12 schools, and higher education institutions. Child care settings and educational institutions have unique needs that do not always permit universal face coverings when indoors. Child care and schools also require additional flexibility surrounding the use of face shields, which increase visibility of facial expressions and lip movements to aid in speech perception and child development and learning. To provide for an effective developmental and educational environment, and to ensure safety for workers, students, and children, these businesses and institutions must comply with the following specific requirements on the use of face coverings and face shields. These specific requirements and recommendations apply only within the premises of the child care settings,preschool, kindergarten through grade 12 schools, and higher education institutions discussed in this paragraph 12. These specific requirements do not apply when school, child care, or higher education buildings are used for purposes 7 8 of 63 other than child care,preschool, kindergarten through grade 12 education, or higher education—in which case, they should be treated like any other indoor public space or indoor business for purposes of this Executive Order. a. Child care,preschool, and pre-kindergarten. Child care settings—defined as family and group day care homes (licensed under Minnesota Rules 2019, Chapter 9502); child care centers (licensed under Minnesota Rules 2019, Chapter 9503); certified centers (certified under Minnesota Statutes 2019, Chapter 245H); legal nonlicensed child care providers (defined under Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 119B.011, subdivision 16); certain license- exempt Head Start,public and private school programs (defined under Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 245A.03, subdivision 2(a)(5), (13), and (26)); and other Head Start, preschool and pre-kindergarten programs serving children five-years-old and under are required to comply with face covering and face shield guidance available at hgps://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/masks.html. Basic requirements for these settings are detailed below, but child care providers must consult the guidance for the full list of face covering and face shield requirements, recommendations, and exceptions. These requirements, recommendations, and exceptions should be clearly documented in COVID- 19 Preparedness Plans and made available to families and staff. i. Children five and under exempt. Children five years old and under are not required to wear a face shield or face covering, and children under two should never wear a face covering due to the risk of suffocation. A child between the ages of two and five who can reliably wear a face covering or face shield in compliance with CDC guidance on How to Wear Cloth Face Coverings (hlt 2s://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-- sick/how-to-wear-cloth-face-coverin_sg html) (i.e., without frequently touching or removing the covering) may do so, except that children who are sleeping, unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering or face shield without assistance or who cannot tolerate a shield or covering due to a developmental, medical, or behavioral health condition should not wear a face covering or face shield. ii. Workers exempt. Workers meeting exemption criteria described in paragraph 8 of this Executive Order should not wear a face covering and should wear a face shield only if able to do so safely. iii. Groupings. To reduce the risk of exposure, child care settings should maintain consistent groups or cohorts of children and related workers and should take steps to avoid intermixing groups or cohorts of children and workers to the extent possible. 8 9 of 63 iv. Communal space.Unless exempt, workers and children must wear a face covering or face shield in all indoor communal areas where groups intermix (e.g., center or building hallways, lobbies, restrooms, breakrooms, etc.). A. Non-exempt workers and children who are required to wear a face covering or shield may remove the covering or shield temporarily to engage in certain activities that make wearing a face shield difficult or impracticable (e.g., when eating or drinking; when communicating with an individual who is deaf or hard of hearing or has a disability, medical condition, or mental health condition that makes communication with that individual while wearing a face covering difficult; when participating in certain physical activities or playing certain instruments, or when performing or presenting; during activities, such as swimming, where the face covering will get wet; or when receiving a service, such as nursing or medical service, that would be difficult or impossible to perform with a face covering),provided that social distancing is maintained to the extent possible. B. Face coverings or face shields are strongly recommended outdoors for non-exempt workers and children when it is difficult or not possible to maintain social distancing. V. Classrooms and in-home care. A child care setting may allow non- exempt staff and workers to remove face coverings or face shields when in an indoor classroom or care setting (including family child care and in-home care providers)that is confined to one group or cohort. Non-exempt workers and children are strongly encouraged to wear coverings or shields in these settings to the extent possible, especially when social distancing cannot be maintained, unless wearing a covering or shield would interfere with child development. vi. Optional exemption for children. If a child care provider cares for children who are five and under, but also cares for children older than five, the business can exempt children older than five from face covering and face shield requirements only if the exemption is clearly communicated in writing with all enrolled families and included in the business's COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. vii. More protective face covering policies permitted. Nothing in this Executive Order should be construed as preventing a child care setting from developing a face covering policy that imposes more protective requirements, consistent with applicable law, than those in this Executive Order or applicable industry guidance. 9 10 of 63 b. Kindergarten through grade 12 schools. Kindergarten through grade 12 schools must comply with face covering and face shield guidance available at hlt 2s://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/k12planguide.pd f. The basic requirements for these settings are detailed below, but these schools must consult the guidance for the full list of face covering and face shield requirements, recommendations, and exceptions. i. In general, unless the individual is exempt under paragraph 8.a or .c of this Executive Order or is under the age of two, all students, staff, and other persons present indoors in school buildings and district offices or riding on school transportation vehicles are required to wear a face covering. This paragraph 12.b does not apply to child care,pre- kindergarten or preschool programs on school premises, which are subject to the requirements of paragraph 12.a. ii. Face shields may be used as an alternative to face coverings in the following situations: A. For students who are unable to tolerate a face covering due to a developmental, behavioral, or medical condition. B. For teachers of all grades when a face covering would impede the educational process. C. For staff providing direct support student services when a face covering would interfere with the services provided. D. For students in kindergarten through grade 8 when wearing a face covering is otherwise problematic for the student. iii. Staff may remove face coverings when working alone, including when alone in an office, classroom, vehicle, cubicle with walls at least face level when social distancing is maintained, or other enclosed work area. iv. In addition, staff, students, and other persons present indoors in a school building or district office may temporarily remove face coverings in the following situations,provided that social distancing is maintained to the extent possible: A. When engaged in physical activity (e.g., during recess or physical education) or sporting events where the level of exertion makes wearing a face covering difficult or impracticable. B. When eating or drinking. 10 11 of 63 C. During practices or performances involving singing, acting, public speaking, or playing musical instruments that make wearing a face covering difficult or impracticable. D. In response to requests to verify an identity for lawful purposes. E. When communicating with an individual who is deaf or hard of hearing or has a disability, medical condition, or mental health condition that makes communication with that individual while wearing a face covering difficult. F. During activities, such as swimming or showering, where the face covering will get wet. G. While receiving a service—including nursing, medical, or personal care services—that cannot be performed or would be difficult to perform when the individual receiving the service is wearing a face covering. Workers performing a service for an individual who is allowed to temporarily remove their face covering under this provision must comply with the face covering requirements in the applicable Industry Guidance, available at the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov). V. Except for staff, children, or other persons who are exempt under paragraph 8.a or .c of this Executive Order or are under the age of two, face coverings (or, where applicable, face shields) are strongly recommended outdoors when it is not possible to maintain social distancing or where it will likely not be possible to maintain social distancing. c. Higher education institutions. Students and staff in higher education institutions must comply with the requirements of this Executive Order, except that students and faculty are permitted to wear face shields as an alternative to face coverings in the following situations: i. When faculty are teaching a class or giving a lecture, or when students are participating in classroom activities, where it is important for the face to be seen (for example, certain activities in language or communications classes). ii. Where a face covering may pose a hazard due to the nature of the class or activity (for example, in a laboratory component of a class). iii. When staff or faculty are providing direct support student services and a face covering impedes the service being provided. 11 12 of 63 13. Inclusion of face covering requirements in businesses' COVID-19 Preparedness Plans. All businesses must update their COVID-19 Preparedness Plans to include the face covering requirements of this Executive Order, including those that have been incorporated into the Industry Guidance applicable to their business available on the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov), inform their workers how their plan has been updated, and make the revised plan available to their workers. The Industry Guidance applicable to the business may include face covering requirements that are more protective than those of this Executive Order, consistent with applicable law. 14. Notice of face covering requirements. Businesses must post one or more signs that are visible to all persons—including workers, customers, and visitors—instructing them to wear face coverings as required by this Executive Order. 15. Implementation of face covering requirements by businesses. a. Businesses must require that all persons, including their workers, customers, and visitors, wear face coverings as required by this Executive Order. b. When possible, businesses must provide accommodations to persons, including their workers and customers, who state they have a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that makes it unreasonable for the person to maintain a face covering, such as permitting use of an alternate form of face covering (e.g., face shield) or providing service options that do not require a customer to enter the business. c. Businesses may not require customers to provide proof of a medical condition mental health condition, or disability, or require customers to explain the nature of their conditions or disability. d. Businesses must follow the requirements of other applicable laws with respect to whether a business may require a worker to provide documentation of a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability related to their inability to wear a face covering and what the business may ask regarding the condition or disability. e. Nothing in this Executive Order requires businesses or their workers to enforce this requirement when it is unsafe to do so, or authorizes them to restrain, assault or physically remove workers or customers who refuse to comply with this Executive Order. f. Nothing in this Executive Order authorizes businesses or their workers to violate other laws, including anti-discrimination laws. 16. More protective policies permitted.Nothing in this Executive Order should be construed to prevent a business from developing a policy that imposes more protective requirements with respect to face coverings, consistent with applicable law, than those in this Executive Order or applicable industry guidance. This Executive 12 13 of 63 Order does not authorize landlords or property managers to require tenants and others to wear face coverings in tenants' living units. Landlords and property managers must provide a clear means for tenants and others to request a reasonable accommodation to face covering requirements in common areas. 17. Safe work. The protections noted in Executive Order 20-54 (Protecting Workers from Unsafe Working Conditions and Retaliation)remain in full force and effect. Businesses are responsible for the safety and health of their workplaces and must adhere to the requirements set out in the Industry Guidance applicable to the business, available on the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov), Minnesota OSHA Standards, and MDH and CDC Guidelines, including the face covering requirements of this Executive Order. Under existing law and authority, DLI may issue citations, civil penalties, or closure orders to places of employment with unsafe or unhealthy conditions, and DLI may penalize businesses that retaliate against employees who raise safety and health concerns. 18. Enhanced local measures permitted. Nothing in this Executive Order or previous Executive Orders should be construed to prohibit or prevent political subdivisions from implementing, within their jurisdictions and pursuant to applicable law and authority, requirements beyond those contained in this Executive Order, as long as the additional requirements have a real or substantial relation to the public health crisis caused by COVID-19. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 12.32,political subdivisions may not relax or reduce this Executive Order's requirements. In other words, to the extent that they have authority to do so, cities and other political subdivisions may take actions that are more protective of the public health, consistent with applicable law, but may not take actions that are less protective of the public health. 19. Relationship with other law. Wearing a face covering in compliance with this Executive Order or local ordinances, rules, or orders is not a violation of Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 609.735. 20. Enforcement. I urge all Minnesotans to voluntarily comply with this Executive Order. a. Individual violations. Any individual who willfully violates this Executive Order is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and upon conviction must be punished by a fine not to exceed $100. This does not apply to: (1) children younger than 14 years old; or(2) students 14 years old and older who are enrolled in a school or higher education institution identified in Paragraph 12 of this Executive Order, and who are on the premises of the school or institution for educational purposes. b. Business violations. i. Business compliance with this Executive Order. As provided in paragraphs 13 through 15 of this Executive Order, a business is 13 14 of 63 compliant with this Executive Order if(1)their workers are wearing face coverings as required by this Executive Order; (2)the business has updated their COVID-19 Preparedness Plan to address the face covering requirements of this Executive Order; (3) the business has posted one or more signs that are visible to all persons—including workers, customers, and visitors—instructing them to wear face coverings as required by this Executive Order; and(4)the business makes reasonable efforts to enforce this order with respect to customers and visitors. For additional information about the steps businesses can take to ensure compliance with this order, refer to the face covering guidance and FAQs available at the Facemasks and Personal Protective Equipment webpage (hgps://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus.html#masks). The guidance and FAQs may also be accessed at the following webpages: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecover.html (guidance document) and https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfaq.html (FAQ document). ii. Penalties for non-compliance. Any business owner, manager, or supervisor who fails to comply with this Executive Order is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction must be punished by a fine not to exceed $1,000, or by imprisonment for not more than 90 days. In addition to these criminal penalties, the Attorney General, as well as city and county attorneys, may seek any civil relief available pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 8.3 1, for violations of this Executive Order, including civil penalties up to $25,000 per occurrence from businesses and injunctive relief. c. Regulatory enforcement. State and local licensing and regulatory entities that regulate businesses for compliance with statutes, rules, and codes to protect the public are encouraged to assess regulated businesses' compliance with this Executive Order and use existing enforcement tools to bring businesses into compliance. d. Individual rights.Nothing in this Executive Order is intended to encourage or allow law enforcement to transgress individual constitutional rights. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 4.035, subdivision 2, and section 12.32, this Executive Order is effective immediately upon approval by the Executive Council. It remains in effect until the peacetime emergency declared in Executive Order 20-01 is terminated or until it is rescinded by proper authority. A determination that any provision of this Executive Order is invalid will not affect the enforceability of any other provision of this Executive Order. Rather, the invalid provision will be modified to the extent necessary so that it is enforceable. 14 15 of 63 Signed on July 22, 2020. �. 'wd&� 40* Tim Walz Governor Filed According to Law: A.AV � Steve Simon Secretary of State Approved by the Executive Council on July 22, 2020: Alice Roberts-Davis Secretary, Executive Council Filed on July 22, 2020 15 Office of the Minnesota 16 of 63 Secretary of State, Steve Simon From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:Legislative Alert:Walz Announces Statewide Mask Mandate Date: Wednesday,July 22,2020 2:31:14 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Lockridge Grindal Nauen P.L.L.P. <legalert@locklaw.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Wed, Jul 22, 2020 2:09 pm Subject: Legislative Alert: Walz Announces Statewide Mask Mandate logo image ❑® 17 of 63 H. Theodore Grindal Legislative Alert: V16 11- 0-r- ")rO r- Partner load image Governor Tim Walz today signed Executive Order 20-81,which requires Minnesotans to wear a face covering in indoor businesses and indoor public settings. Researchers have advocated for masking, calling it a simple and effective step to slow the spread of the COVID- 19 virus. To date, 30 states across the country, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico have issued similar mandates. "COVID-19 has impacted every corner of our state and every aspect of Rebecca J. Kanninen our lives,"said Governor Walz. "But as Minnesotans always do during Partner tough times,we come together and we take care of one another.And load image right now there's no better way to demonstrate our Minnesotan values than by wearing a mask. By combatting the spread of COVID-19, masking will help protect our neighbors, keep our businesses open, and get us on track to return to the activities we love." "Wearing a mask is one of the best ways we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and prevent Minnesotans from getting sick in the first place,"said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. "As someone who has lost a loved one to this virus, I know that every death we can prevent is Daniel G. Larson another family who does not have to feel this kind of grief. Masking up Director,State &Local helps us keep businesses open, socialize safely, and embrace a new Government Affairs normal. But most importantly, it will save lives." load image "Until there is a widely available vaccine,wearing a mask is one of the best tools we have for limiting the spread of COVID-19 and its harmful impacts,"said Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Commissioner Jan Malcolm. "Masking up when heading out, along with practicing social distancing and other preventive measures, are extremely important and will help us slow the spread of the disease so we can do more of the things we all want to do.As we've learned more about the virus, the science is increasingly clear that wearing masks significantly cuts the risk of spreading the disease from one person to another. Ann T. Lenczewski Even if you are confident you don't have serious illness, remember that Government Relations, without showing any symptoms you could pass the infection along to Tax Policy&Local someone who is at high risk of severe illness or death. No one wants to Government load image take that chance with a friend or loved one." "Wearing a making is the quickest path to reopening our economy," said Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development(DEED)Commissioner Steve Grove. "By wearing a mask, Minnesotans are helping keep businesses and communities open. Masks are more than just a courtesy—they are essential to protecting employees and customers." The mandate goes into effect on Saturday, July 25. DEED and MDH Nathaniel C. Mussell will be working together to distribute masks to underserved Partner communities and businesses across the state. Over the past several weeks, business owners and medical professionals have been showing their support for a mask mandate, saying it takes the burden off them to enforce people's behaviors. 18 of 63 load image Individuals with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that makes it unreasonable for the individual to maintain a face covering are exempt from the order. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who have a medical condition that compromises their ability to breathe, and individuals who are unconscious, Amos A. Briggs incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance. These individuals should consider using alternatives to Government Relations load image face coverings, including clear face shields, and staying at home as much as possible. Children who are five-years-old and under are also exempt. Those who are under two-years-old should never wear a face covering due to the risk of suffocation. While the goal of this Executive Order is voluntary compliance, not enforcement, any individual who willfully violates this Executive Order is guilty of a petty misdemeanor and upon conviction can be punished Peter H. Glessing by a fine not to exceed $100. Businesses willfully violating this Associate/ Executive Order are guilty of a misdemeanor and can be punished by a Communications& fine not to exceed $1,000 or up to 90 days in jail. The Attorney Grassroots Advocacy General, as well as city and county attorneys, may also seek civil load image penalties from businesses who are in violation of this Executive Order. The mandate will have the full force and effect of law upon the approval of the Executive Council,which is made up of Governor Walz, Lt. Governor Flanagan,Attorney General Ellison, Secretary of State Simon, and State Auditor Blaha. For information and resources on the mask mandate, including frequently asked questions, visit mn.gov/COVID19. Angie A. Huss Communications& Grassroots Advocacy load image Jessica E. Lindeen Government Relations 19 of 63 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:LGN Federal Update:July 20,2020 Date: Monday,July 20,2020 3:48:18 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, Jul 20, 2020 3:24 pm Subject: LGN Federal Update: July 20, 2020 View • F—]Forward logo image FN II J. Kanninen 20 of 63 Partner load image Senate Leadership Reveals Outline of Next Relief Package Proposal Senate leadership plans to unveil their opening bid for the next round of economic aid this week, which is expected to include providing continued unemployment insurance subsidies, tax incentives for employers to avoid layoffs and encourage rehiring, and a new round of checks and direct payments sent by the IRS. Emily J. Tranter The proposal will resemble much of the CARES Act, but it is not Lead Lobbyist, Policy and expected to include a new round of direct aid to state and local Federal Government governments, or the full $600 per week unemployment subsidy Affairs provided by that legislation. House leaders have made aid to local load image governments and unemployment subsidies major priorities for the next phase of aid. A payroll tax cut is also expected in the legislation despite initial resistance from both Democrats and Republicans. There has been little support in Congress for the idea, in large part because its impact would be blunted by the millions of unemployed U.S. workers no longer on payrolls. However, it has been a priority of the President for weeks. The Senate plan is to include some level of unemployment subsidy and Nathaniel C. Mussell to allow more flexibility for use of remaining state aid funds provided by Partner the CARES Act. The proposal is not expected to include additional load image appropriations in an effort to keep the total cost below$1 trillion. House Readies First Spending Vote for Fiscal Year 2021 House members plan to vote this week on their first fiscal year 2021 spending package, a four-bill "minibus"that would require the administration resume sending funds to the World Health Organization, among other policy changes. The legislation includes the Agriculture- FDA, Interior-Environment, Military Construction-VA, and State and Foreign Operations appropriations bills. Lianne M. Endo Federal Relations Members have until this afternoon to submit amendments to the Rules load image Committee, which will meet in the next few days to agree to a rule for consideration of the package on the floor Thursday and Friday. Next week, House lawmakers will take up a second package of spending bills, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer recently told lawmakers, without identifying which bills would be included. Secretary Mnuchin Says Government Should Weigh Forgiving Small PPP Loans The federal government should weigh forgiving all small loans provided Megan G. Knight under the Paycheck Protection Program during the coronavirus Federal Relations pandemic, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said before a House committee last week. "We should consider forgiving all small loans, but would need fraud protection," Mnuchin told the House Small Business Committee last Friday. The government has approved more than 4.9 million PPP loans 21 of 63 load image totaling $518.1 billion, as of July 16. Secretary Mnuchin did not specify what he considers a "small" loan that could be forgiven, and said that "some level of reporting in a simple way is important." Robert F. Sherman "We have complete agreement there should be a second check available to the businesses that are hardest hit, and there should be Federal Relations requirements around that," Mnuchin told the committee. He singled out load image restaurants, hotels, and other travel and hospitality businesses as needing more help. Also on Friday, former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen told a separate House panel that she is"tremendously concerned" about the possible economic ramifications of Congress allowing extended federal unemployment insurance benefits to lapse. Minnesota Delegation Notes Vince M. Spinner Federal Relations •Senator Amy Klobuchar(D-MN)joined Senator Bob Menendez (D- NJ)to introduce the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults load image Act,which would provide$1.2 billion in funding to ensure that senior housing facilities have the necessary resources to effectively protect residents during the pandemic. Read more here. •Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and 12 of her Senate colleagues submitted a comment letter in response the Department of Labor's proposed rule that would discourage financial advisors from considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG)criteria. Read more here. Randy Kelly Senior Advisor •Congressman Jim Hagedorn (R-MN-01)was presented the 2020 load image Champion for Healthy Seniors Award by the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease (PFCD). Read more here. •Congresswoman Angie Craig (D-MN-02)and Congressman Pete Stauber(R-MN-08) introduced a bill, the Stop Coronavirus Scams Act, in an effort to reduce the rising number of scams occurring through telemarketing calls, text messages, and social media during the pandemic. Read more here. •Congressman Dean Phillips(D-MN-03) promoted mnvotes.org in an effort to get Minnesotans to make a plan to safely vote in the coming elections. Read more here. •Congresswoman Betty McCollum(D-MN-04)and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar(D-MN-05)added report language in the FY 2021 appropriations bills that would open the door for federal funding for the Twin Cities in the next fiscal year to fund critical investments intended to rebuild neighborhoods that are confronting economic and racial inequality. Read more here. 22 of 63 •Congressman Tom Emmer(R-MN-06)and Congressman Rodney Davis (R-IL-13)co-led a letter to House leadership advocating for targeted support for both home-based and center-based child care providers. Read more here. •Congressman Collin Peterson (D-MN-07) and Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-IN-02) introduced legislation to provide American businesses and manufacturers another year of relief from Section 301 tariffs by extending product exclusions currently in effect. Read more here. Click here to opt-out of receiving future communications. Copyright©2020 23 of 63 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Saturday,July 18, 2020 8:39 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Metro Cities News 07/17/20 For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: Metro Cities News <mcamm@memberclicks-mail.net> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Fri, Jul 17, 2020 6:34 pm Subject: Metro Cities News 07/17/20 Ell METRO CITIES Metro Cities News 1 1 In This Issue... Funding Announced for Housing 1. Funding Assistance: Applications Due July Announced for 22 Housing Assistance: Governor Walz this week announced $100 million in housing Applications Due assistance for Minnesotans facing housing hardship due to July 22 COVID-19. The assistance comes from the Coronavirus Relief Fund allocated to the state through the federal CARES Act. 2. Updated Eviction, For more information, click here. Foreclosure Executive Orders upaatea r-vlction, Foreclosure 3. House Committee Executive Orders Considers Governor Walz issued Executive Order 20-79 on July 14. The Flexibility for Jobs Executive Order modifies the eviction protections to allow and Economic evictions in additional limited circumstances. Development To read more, click here. Programs 4. Draft Regional Economic Framework i 24 of 63 Released - House Committee Considers Comments Sought 5. Metropolitan Flexibility for Jobs and Economic Council Development Prograrl,s Transportation The House Jobs committee heard a bill on July 17 that would Committee provide job and investment extensions to businesses previously Approves CARES awarded Minnesota Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund Act Funding assistance. For more information, click here. 6. Metropolitan Unci' Environment .)raft Regional Economic En Committee Adopts Framework Released - Comments Wastewater Rates Sought 7. Senate Joint The Metropolitan Council, Greater MSP and Center for Committee on Civil Economic Inclusion have released a draft Regional Economic Unrest Framework. 8. Ways and Means To read more, click here. Committee Meets to Discuss Metropolitan Council Bonding, Public Safety, and Other Transportation Committee Spending Bills Approves CARES Act Funding The Metropolitan Council Transportation Committee this week approved an amendment to the Council's operating and capital budget. The amendment acknowledges receipt of$226 million Metro Cities News from the federal CARES Act. Archives For more information, click here. Archived issues of Metro Cities News can be found on Metropolitan Council Environment our website. Click here to view the archives! Committee Adopts Wastewater Dates The Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) adopted the 2021 rate charges. The proposed municipal wastewater charge (MWC) is to increase 2% for 2021, and the Sewer Availability Charge (SAC) is proposed to remain flat for 2021-22. To read more, click here. senate joint Committee on Civil I 1 n rp¢t The Senate Judiciary and Public Safety and Transportation Committees held its final joint committee meeting on civil unrest this week. For more information, click here. 2 25 of 63 Ways and Means Committee Meets to Discuss Bonding, Public Safety, -"d Other '-)pending Bills On Tuesday the Ways and Means committee took up a capital investment and other bills and sent bills to the general register. To read more, click here. Metro Cities (AMM) 145 University Ave W, St. Paul, MN 55103 1651-215-4000 This email was sent tn by men nifera-metrocitiesmn.org Metro Cities Association of Metropolitan Municipalities - 145 University Ave W, EXPaul, Minnesota 551O3. United States ' 051'215'4004 Remove My Email or Manage Preferences ' Privacy Policy mm*red by Q munbw0chs 26v,na Metro Cities News 07/24/20 Page 1 of 4 C TRC]TIES Member Login a Search our site... UR 9etropolitan MurioiReltl4as Home Metro Cities News About Us Meetings&Events Membership Advocacy Policies&Resources MAMA Return to the blog Upcoming Events Metro Cities News 07/24/20 by:Jennifer Dorn Mon Aug 17,2020 Category:Newsletter Transportation&General Government Category:Policy Committee Jul Tue Aug 11,2020 24 I Municipal Revenues In This Issue: C—gory:PolicyC.—i„ee Wed Aug 19,2020 Federal CARES Act Funds Reporting Requirements for Local Governments Metropolitan Agencies • Governor Walz Issues Executive Order on Face Masks Category:Policy Committee Law Enforcement Reform Measures Pass Legislature Wed Aug 19,2020 Legislature Adjourns Sine Die Housing and Economic Development Community Development Committee Discusses 2021 Budget Category:Policy Committee Call for Border to Border Broadband Grant Applications TbuAug 10,1020 DEED Names Businesses That Received Small Business Emergency Loans Metro Cities Board of Directors Small Business Relief Grant Program Update Meeting Category:Metro Cities Board of Directors View Full Calendar Federal CARES Act Funds Reporting Requirements for Local Governments our Tweets Tweets by MetroCitiesMN The State Office of MN Management and Budget(MMB)is in the process of developing reporting requirements for local governments receiving Coronavirus Relief Funds(CRF)through the Federal CARES Act for COVID-19 related expenses.Metro Cities participated in a meeting this week with MMB officials and local government representatives to discuss a process and forms for the requirements. MMB is working to have requirements that are administratively reasonable for local officials to process. MMB intends to publish reports on a monthly basis and noted that there is significant interest on how Coronavirus Relief Funds(CRF)are being spent.Metro Cities will provide further information as it is available.MMB asked that city officials continue to work with local government organizations regarding questions on funds and expenses,as well as the reporting requirements,once they are established.In the meantime,city officials should continue to track and document expenses.The next deadline for certification forms is July 30. The LMC will conduct a webinar next Wednesday,July 29th,at 11:00 am regarding the reporting requirements.Please see www.imc.org for information on how to register.Questions?Please contact Patricia Nauman at 651-215-4002 or patriciaZmetrocitiesmn.org Governor Walz Issues Executive Order on Face Masks On Wednesday,Governor Walz issued an Executive Order,effective Saturday July 25th,that requires face masks in indoor businesses and public settings.Please click HERE for an FAQ document,and HERE for additional guidance and recommendations on face masks.This information can also be found on Metro Cities'COVID-19 web page,located under the Policies&Resources section of our website at www.metrocitiesmn.ora 27 of 63 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 7/24/2020 Metro Cities News 07/24/20 Page 2 of 4 Law Enforcement Reform Measures Pass Legislature Early Tuesday morning,the Legislature reached agreement on legislation to law enforcement and public safety measures.HF 1-Mariani passed the House 102-29 and the Senate 60-7,and Governor Walz signed the bill Thursday.The legislation includes provisions allowing cities to offer incentives to peace officers who reside in the city,bans choke holds and certain neck restraints,makes modifications on the use of deadly force,establishes that police officers have a duty to intercede and report fellow officers who use excessive force,bans a law enforcement agency from providing warrior-style training, and mandates training on crisis intervention,mental illness and autism. The bill creates a panel of expert arbitrators to handle peace officer arbitration matters.The panel will be appointed by the governor in consultation with law enforcement and community stakeholders,and will consider grievances related to written disciplinary action,discharge or termination.Arbitrators must receive training that includes cultural competency,racism,implicit bias,and recognizing and valuing community diversity and cultural differences.Trainings must also include the daily experience of peace officers and may include ride-alongs with on-duty officers or other activities that provide exposure to the environments,choices,and judgments required of officers in the field. The legislation also makes several changes to the Peace Officer Standards and Training(POST)Board. These include adding two seats to the board appointed by the Governor from the general public,and the creation of The Ensuring Police Excellence and Improving Community Relations Advisory Council.The Council will make recommendations to the POST Board on improving police and community relations. The POST Board must also create a central repository for peace officer data and create a model policy on use of force by September 1 st,2020.The model policy must include a duty for police to intercede when observing excessive force by other officers,and a duty to report illegal activity by other officers. All law enforcement agencies must update their policies with this model policy by December 15th, 2020. The bill also creates an independent Use of Force Investigations Unit at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension(BCA)to conduct officer involved death and sexual conduct investigations.Further,the legislation requires reporting of data on use of force that results in serious bodily injury or death to the BCA.The legislation makes data collected during peer counseling of officer's private data under most circumstances. Questions?Contact Steve Huser at 651-215-4003 or stevenZmetrocitiesmn.ora Legislature Adjourns Sine Die The Legislature adjourned its second special session sine die early Tuesday morning,after passing a package of law enforcement reform measures.An omnibus capital investment/tax bill,SS HF 3-Murphy, failed in the House on a 75-57 vote.The House passed a resolution,HR1-Richardson,on a 82-40 vote,to declare racism as a public health crisis.The Legislature also passed an online drivers'license testing implementation bill,SS SF 4-Houslev,that was sent to the Governor for his signature.An August special session is anticipated. Community Development Committee Discusses 2021 Budget The Metropolitan Council's Community Development Committee met July 20 and held a discussion on the division's 2021 budget.The preliminary 2021 division budget,as presented by staff,projects a five percent reduction($129.9M CY2020 compared to$123.9M CY2021).Some of the reductions come from one-time expenses in 2020 that have not at this point in time been built into the base 2021 budget. These include Met Council-directed initiatives around housing and climate change. Staff presented a number of COVID-19 pandemic-spurred impacts on the budget.These include: Poverty rate changes and housing cost burden changes will depend on the duration of business closures and reduced economic activity. Relief from the federal relief package(CARES Act)mostly mitigate earnings losses,provided that industries re-open and deferred economic activities resume in mid-2020. People of color have experienced a disproportionately large share of job losses since the beginning of the pandemic.The benefits provided by the federal relief package will temporarily reduce disparities by race and ethnicity,though disparities will remain quite large. The Council expects several revenue streams to be maintained,including property tax revenues,fiscal disparities revenue,new state appropriations,new federal appropriations,and lottery-in-lieu revenue. 28 of 63 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 7/24/2020 Metro Cities News 07/24/20 Page 3 of 4 The CDC and other Metropolitan Council divisions will continue to meet and discuss 2021 budget plans in August.The CDC will discuss Livable Communities and equity grant programs in the fall.The Council will adopt preliminary levies and budget on August 26 with final adoption on December 9. Call for Border to Border Broadband Grant Applications DEED's Office of Broadband Development is soliciting applications for Border to Border Broadband grant funding of broadband infrastructure projects.Cities remain eligible applicants for the broadband funds.Broadband development projects located in unserved or underserved areas are eligible. An unserved area is an area of Minnesota in which households or businesses lack access to wire-line broadband service at speeds that meet the Federal Communications Commission's(FCC)threshold of 25 megabits per second(Mbps)download and 3 megabits per second(Mbps)upload.An underserved area is an area of Minnesota in which households or businesses do receive service at or above the FCC threshold of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up,but lack access to wire-line broadband service at speeds of 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. $20 million has been appropriated as available funding for the 2020 round of the Minnesota broadband grant program.Priority consideration will be given to projects that leverage greater amounts of funding for a project from other private and public sources.The maximum individual grant amount is$5 million. The maximum grant funding award cannot exceed 50%of the eligible total project costs. The deadline for the applications is 4:00 p.m.on Wednesday,September 30,2020. Application proposals must be mailed to: Office of Broadband Development,MN Department of Employment and Economic Development First National Bank Building,332 Minnesota Street,Suite E200 St.Paul,MN 55101-1351 No paper copies of the application are required for this grant round.Application submittals must be via electronic documents in Microsoft Word and PDF formats on a USB drive.Applications must be received by the deadline to be considered for funding. For more information and application instructions and template forms,consult our website,under Broadband Grant Program—Application details,or contact our OBD Staff at 651-259-7610.OBD/DEED will be posting a webcast to provide potential Applicants with more information about the program and will answer questions in a supplemental FAQ.Details about this recorded webcast will be available soon. DEED Names Businesses That Received Small Business Emergency Loans 1,020 small businesses throughout Minnesota received a Small Business Emergency Loan,which was funded with$30 million in the 2020 regular session.Funds were re-appropriated from a MIF fund and the state's Minerals Fund. $27 million was awarded to businesses,with almost$3 million distributed to lenders to assist with loan administration and technical assistance expenses. The loans were made throughout Minnesota with businesses in the seven-county metro receiving$13.2 million in loans and businesses in Greater Minnesota receiving$14.0 million.A demographic breakout of ownership of businesses receiving loans will be available later this year. A list of businesses that received a Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loan,as well as a breakout of loans by region and lender,is available here. Loans were made for amounts between$2,500 and$35,000 to qualifying small businesses whose owners who lacked adequate cash flow to withstand temporary closure.The 0%interest loans are up to 50%forgivable if the business maintains operations at substantially the same level as before the pandemic. The emergency loans went to help businesses temporarily closed under Executive Order 20-04,later clarified by Executive Order 20-08,which stopped onsite customer dining at restaurants and bars and closed salons,tattoo parlors and other personal care businesses. 29 of 63 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 7/24/2020 Metro Cities News 07/24/20 Page 4 of 4 Small Business Relief Grant Program Update More than 27,400 individual businesses applied for the state's small business relief grant program, passed in the June special session.They include: 9,740 women-owned businesses(35i of all applicants) 5,535 minority-owned businesses(20%of all applicants) 1,340 veteran-owned businesses(5i of all applicants) 19,197 businesses with 6 or fewer employees(70%of all applicants) DEED has completed the lottery drawing process for$10,000 grants to small businesses that have suffered financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.DEED provided initial lists of grantees to the qualified local and regionally based nonprofit organizations,which will now evaluate and conduct eligibility verifications for the grantees.Businesses will be contacted directly by the nonprofit charged with administering their grant. The state will provide a complete list of the Small Business Relief Grant Program grantees by late August. An additional component of the program was the Cultural Mall Operator Grant Program,which will award grants up to$250,000 to Minnesota-based operators of privately owned,permanent indoor retail space and food markets with an ethnic cultural emphasis.DEED staff explained at Metro Cities'policy committee that this component is intended to reduce rent for operators in the mall. Share this post: Metro Cities(Association of Metropolitan Municipalities) 145 University Ave W,Suite 125 St.Paul,MN 55103 651-215-4000 Backtotop A powered by r\Members icks 30 of 63 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&yea... 7/24/2020 7/21/2020 Customize Your Email MN SMALL CITIES Ci ��TIES g�6 Minnesota Association of Small Cities July 2020 Newsletter State, Local&Federal Updates for Minnesota's Small Cities Click Here for Print Version View as Web igg From the Desk of the Executive Director: Happy July, Minnesota Small City Leaders- I hope you are getting out and enjoying the summer as much as possible. I am really trying. In fact, I spent yesterday sitting on a lake outside Nevis MN (a member city), listening to the debates taking place at the MN Capitol. Life is GOOD when you can be"at work" in a beautiful northern Minnesota setting.Thank goodness for modern technology. The state legislature gaveled in to special session #2 eight days ago (July 13)and adjourned somewhere around midnight last night.The State News block below will explain what our lawmakers accomplished (and did not accomplish).Well also address other NEWS you need to know, including your new slate of board members,and updates on the CARES Act$$for Cities.You'll find a number of time-sensitive opportunities as well (grants,webinars, etc)to check out and see what might be of interest. And of course,our monthly Federal Updates. FYI: Did you know that MAOSC is the ONLY small cities focused organization in Minnesota with a Federal Lobbying component? Per numerous member-requests we are currently assembling a list of ideas/ways small cities are planning to use their federal CARES Act money. Please click here and tell us how YOUR CITY is planning to spend its allocation! This information will be very helpful to other small cities around the state.The list will be distributed to all 2020-2021 Members at the end of July. PLEASE TAKE NOTE(below)of the upcoming webinar we'll be hosting on July 29-with MMB staff-to bring small cities up to speed on HOW to access and utilize these funds. Finally, I want to take a minute to congratulate the 16 MAOSC Cities(members in '19-21 and/or'20-21) recently announced among a group of 32 cities to receive DEED Small Cities Development Program(SCDP)grants totaling nearly$19 million for infrastructure and rehabilitation projects. NICE WORK-Argyle, Battle Lake,Clara,Goodhue, Greenbush,Hinckley,Jasper, Lake Lillian, McIntosh, Murdock,Ogilvie,Springfield,St.Charles,Trimont, Underwood,and Waterville! FYI: Learn more about SCDP grants on the DEED website. Cities and townships with populations under 50,000 can apply. -ALSO -The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced last month a number of Community Facilities Grants to be distributed in rural communities across Minnesota. Carlton and Argyle were among them(see more detail in the Federal News block). Congratulations to you as well! 31 of 63 https://em-ui.constantcontact.com/em-ui/em/page/em-ui/email#edit/activity/247d81 a8-14cc-4a27-958a-736e69ef1 d7b 1/5 7/21/2020 Customize Your Email MAOSC BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS Meet the '20=21 MN Small Cities Board of Directors On July 8th we held our annual meeting("virtually"of course)and ?'' = selected new board members and new executive officers.The board consists of 12 seats representing MAOSC's 12 state Regions, plus 4 at-large seats.With this recent election ALL but one* board seat is currently filled. We would like to extend our deep gratitude to Mary MComber, Mayor of Oak Park Heights, for her service as President of the MN Small Cities board. Lucky for us, Mary will remain on the board in the role of Immediate Past President. Departing the board are Jeff Thompson (Paynesville)and James Joy(Hawley),and we thank both of them for their commitment and service to MN Small Cities as well! ...And with that,we'd like to WELCOME our newest board members: Cheryl Hahn (Sebeka); Michelle Stevens(Upsala); and Wyatt Kemper(St. Martin)! We now also have a new slate of Officers. Congratulations to:Tim Burkhart, President(Hinckley); Shannon Mortenson,Vice President (Warren);Jacob Kolander,Treasurer(Vesta); and Joel Young, Secretary(Chatfield). Rounding out the board are members: Dave Engstrom(Lake St.Croix Beach); Michael Hammes(Mazeppa); Bill McCabe(St. Augusta);Wendy Pederson (Franklin);Tina Rennemo (Baudette);Jonathan Smith (Perham); and Andy Weld (Medford). The entire board looks forward to working with all of our member cities across the state, helping to advocate on your behalf! It's going to be another fantastic year for MN Small Cities! Note: the photo above is from 2019 and will be updated as soon as Covid allows us to safely gather and pose for a new one. *The board seat representing Region 10(Blue Earth, Brown, Martin, Nicollet, Faribault,Jackson,Sibley,and Watonwan counties) is currently open. If you or someone you know is interested in serving on the MAOSC board, please contact Cap ORourke for details. I rl �l it's time to • �� RENEW YOUR all JUL MEMBERSHIP,, y 29 Membership Renewalcs "... It's NOT Just for Masks &Sanitized" It's that time of year.The new, MAOSC 2020-2021 On Wed.,July 29th MMB staff will join us for a membership year began on July 1 and we wish to small-city-specific"How To/Q&A"about the thank all small cities that have already pledged your recently released CARES Act Covid Relief dollars. continued support! Thank You! MN Small Cities was instrumental in ensuring that even We'd also like to thank all of the cities that joined our the smallest Minnesota cities were included in this zoom session`Chat with Cap'#1 last week. If you disbursement.We fought hard for that outcome and missed it-and if for any reason your city has now we'd like to see that your city is prepared to fully questions about the benefits of membership-we invite benefit from your allocation. On this call,you'll learn you to join us for a'CHAT with CAP' #2 zoom about timelines, HOW to access the funds,and the session tomorrow July 22(Noon - 1pm). many ways to utilize these funds for the betterment of your community! You may be surprised by the Check(click) HERE if you are unsure about your city's different ways it can be used. status(city names in BOLD have renewed). If you did not receive a renewal form contact lynda@maosc.org. REGISTER HERE Webinar: " ... It's NOT Just for Masks and Sanitizer!" We look forward to working with you-and Date: Wednesday,July 29 advocating FOR you-again,in 2020-2021! Time: 9:30 am - 10:30 am 32 of 63 https://em-ui.constantcontact.com/em-ui/em/page/em-ui/email#edit/activity/247d81 a8-14cc-4a27-958a-736e69ef1 d7b 2/5 7/21/2020 Customize Your Email Location: via Zoom [call-in details will be sent to registrants] This session is for MN Small Cities members only. But- if your city's'20-21 dues payment is "on the way" or pledged, please contact Cap or Lynda . STATE, FEDERAL & LOCAL NEWS STATE NEWS SPECIAL SESSION -Part 2 began on Monday,July 13 with an extension of YGovernor Walz's Emergency Powers and a prediction that lawmakers would need about ' a week to get everything done. In true"down to the wire"form,they finalized a police reform bill -VERY late last night-and adjourned without passing bonding or taxes. h House Again Blocks Measure To Limit Walz's Ability To Declare Peacetime Emergency WALZ EXTENDS PEACETIME EMERGENCY POWERS FOR ADDITIONAL 30 DAYS Special Session Ends. Deal Reached on Police Reform, Bonding Bill Fails Bonding The House combined a bonding bill AND a tax bill (HF3)together.The bill was brought up late on Monday night but failed on a 75-57 vote, not getting the 81 required for a bonding bill.The GOP House Caucus continues to ask for changes to the Governor's emergency powers.!Current spreadsheet Police Reform This issue PASSED both the House and Senate and includes the following reforms: • Critical incident stress management teams and public safety peer counseling (modified) • Investigatory reform(modified) • Police residency reform (modified) • Banning chokeholds and certain neck restraints(modified) • Use of force reform (modified) • Use of force reporting • POST Board reform and citizen engagement(modified) • Prohibiting warrior-style training (modified) • POST Board model policies • Mental health and crisis intervention training • Mandatory autism training • Requiring the duty to intervene and report • Arbitration reform (modified) • Peace officer training assistance funding extension (new) Minnesota lawmakers pass sweeping_package of police accountability measures Covid As the school year approaches and the return of school remains in doubt the GOP Senate proposed a bill that gives control to local districts on determining when they return. SCHOOL IN THE FALL: MN Senate Republicans want individual districts to decide Other The House passed a resolution 82-40 declaring racism a public health crisis and creating a review committee. Minnesota House declares racism a public health crisis Other State News Links AG's office settles with Frontier Comm. 33 of 63 https://em-ui.constantcontact.com/em-ui/em/page/em-ui/email#edit/activity/247d81 a8-14cc-4a27-958a-736e69ef1 d7b 3/5 7/21/2020 Customize Your Email Walz approves. in federal COVID aid to �I cities,counties& Walz:$853M in CARES Act funding to be distributed to MN communities iwr DEED Breaks Down the Regional Economic =' Impact from COVID j 'Left with nothing':Funding shortfall cancels Minnesota's opioid response grants Where did the terms'Outstate'and Greater FEDERAL NEWS Minnesota'originate? Our JULY 2020 Federal Legislative Update LOCAL N EWS from DC Lobbyist,Vince Spinner,at Lockridge a Grindal Nauen includes the following topics: Minnesota Association ofSmall cities Shorts • Klobuchar's High-Speed Internet Legislation Noteworthy items featuring MAOSC member cities or •Smith's Push for USDA to Allocate Relief officials.Members can submit Small Cities'Shorts or Funds to Bolster Broadband Access other feature ideas by emailing lynda@maosc.com. • House Passage of$1.5 Trillion Highway Bill Akeley,Ortonville,Kelliher,Crosslake: Legion of Lumberjacks-National Paul Bunyan Day. • Peterson's Bill to Ease Barriers to EDA Funds Clara City: In danger of losing its grocery,small • Hagedorn and Colleagues Urge HHS to Minnesota town worked to land a new store Provide Relief to Rural Healthcare Providers Floodwood: Disability services on life support... • House Bill:College Access for Rural Students Dodge Center: Local Civil Air Patrol members • House Legislation to Expand Telehealth deliver donations to Minnesota National Guard • House Bill Tying Grants to Police Change Ashby:Tornado rips through MN community. •White House Wants Stimulus by Aug.Recess • USDA Community Facilities Grants for Small Towns in Minnesota kESOURCES & TIMELY OPPORTUNITIES 'resented in order ofappiicaidon and/or registration deadiin& •The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority(PFA) -working in collaboration with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) -is accepting applications for the Point Source Implementation Grant Program for awards in FY 2021. The program provides 80%grants up to$7 million to governmental units to assist with the cost of water infrastructure projects. Cities and other local governments that expect to have a PSIG eligible project ready for construction start in the spring/summer of 2021 should submit a PSIG grant application no later than July 31, 2020. Application forms are available at mn.gov pfa. Questions about project eligibility/certification requirements?Contact bill.dunn@state.mn.us. •The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is seeking applications for the second round of its Rural Entrepreneurial Venture(REV) program which supports long-term economic growth.Three communities will be selected for this three-year program. Communities with populations of 5,000 or less in SMIF's 20-county region are eligible to apply.Applications are due on September 1. For more information visit smifoundation.org rev or contact Pam Bishop at pamb@smifoundation.org. • MPCA will be presenting two free SALT virtual workshops on various dates, beginning July 22 and running through September 15,with the majority of options occuring in August. Check the calendar. Smart Salting for Roads and 34 of 63 https://em-ui.constantcontact.com/em-ui/em/page/em-ui/email#edit/activity/247d81 a8-14cc-4a27-958a-736e69ef1 d7b 4/5 7/21/2020 Customize Your Email Smart Salting for Parking Lots and Sidewalks. • MPCA Two-day Salt Symposium 2020- Live streamed 7:30 a.m.to about 3 p.m. on August 4 and S. August 4 New directions in chloride-water softening,fertilizers and dust control August 5 Winter Maintenance-the latest research and technology. Registration. •The MPCA is accepting funding applications for water resource projects through the CWP Loan Program.The Clean Water Partnership(CWP) program offers zero-interest loans to local units of government for implementing nonpoint- source best management practices and other activities that target the restoration and protection of a water resource such as a lake,stream,or groundwater aquifer. Ongoing MN SMALL CITIES BOARD of DIRECTORS Until Next Time ... MAOSC's Board Members&Regions Thank you for your great work •Tim Burkhardt,President(Region 5) and dedication,small city •Shannon Mortenson, Vice Pres.(Region 1) leaders! •Jacob Kolander, Treasurer(Region 9) •Joel Young,Secretary(Region 12) As always, if you have questions or •Mary McComber,Past President(Region 8) ifilul.ry concerns-for me or MAOSC- please •Tina Rennemo(Region 2) don't hesitate to ask.We're happy to assist any way we can. •Jon Smith(Region 3) •Cheryl Hahn(Region 4) I hope to see you on tomorrow's'Chat with Cap'zoom •Wendy Pederson(Region 6) call and/or the July 29 Cares Act webinar with MMB! •Wyatt Kemper(Region 7) •OPEN(Region 10) Note: In my travels around the state this summer I'd like to •Andy Welti(Region 11) stop in for meet and greets with our member cities when •Michael Hammes(At-Large 1) possible. If you are interested in one of these visits, please •William McCabe(At-Large 2) drop a line to Lynda so she can add you to our list! •Michelle Stevens(At-Large 3) lynda@moasc.org •Dave Engstrom(At-Large 4) FOLLOW US 0 () MAOSC 1 145 University West, St. Paul, MN 55103 Unsubscribe {recipient's email} Update Profile I About our service provider Sent by cap@maosc.org powered by %N Constant Contact Try email marketing for free today! 35 of 63 https://em-ui.constantcontact.com/em-ui/em/page/em-ui/email#edit/activity/247d81 a8-14cc-4a27-958a-736e69ef1 d7b 5/5 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Local Leaders Racing Against the Economic Impact of COVID Date: Saturday,July 18,2020 8:36:55 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League Of Cities (NLC)<news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Sat, Jul 18, 2020 6:03 am Subject: Local Leaders Racing Against the Economic Impact of COVID browser. local leaders race against clock 8 Local Leaders Racing Against the Economic Impact of COVID With closing businesses and social life adjusting to a new reality, local leaders face unprecedented challenges to protect the future of their local economies. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the US, local leaders are leading with urgency to keep their economies on track. Read more. 36 of 63 CAE Call Your Senator Action eviction cliff is here The Eviction Cliff is Here By the end of this summer, as many as one of every five renters in the U.S. may be evicted from their homes. As 8 state governments reopen their economies in the midst of the novel coronavirus, the stay-at-home emergency orders and eviction moratoria are beginning to fall away. Read more. Local Broadband Wins in the House Moving Forward Act In recognition of the critical place broadband now holds — in our lives, the recently-passed Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2) includes a package of unprecedented investments in broadband infrastructure and changes to federal broadband subsidies and programs. Read more. NLC Launches 2020 Commitments Program In collaboration with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, NLC's City Innovation Ecosystems Program asks community leaders to commit to specific local economic development practices proven to remove barriers to entrepreneurship and create fairer economies. Read more. News Civil Forfeiture Reform: Support for Civil Forfeiture Capital Research Center— July 16, 2020 Coronavirus's Painful Side Effect Is Deep Budget Cuts For State And Local Government Services Global Economic Intersection — July 13, 2020 37 of 63 Announcements Last Chance for Cities Are Essential! Without a final overwhelming effort by every local elected official to influence Members of Congress, our federal leaders could leave out direct budget aid to all 19,000 cities, towns and villages in the next coronavirus relief package. July represents our final chance to advocate for direct federal assistance for all cities, towns and villages in the final COVID-19 emergency assistance bill. Take Action Now! WEBINAR: Early Childhood Municipal Policy 101 Learn how to leverage municipal policies and practices to embed equity into city governance and the early childhood system with the future and communities' youngest residents in mind. By embedding equity into how cities do business, local leaders will be in a position to equitably rebuild their communities from the ongoing impact of COVID-19 so that all young children and their families may thrive. Register here. WEBINAR: Supreme Court Review for States and Local Governments Even though the Supreme Court decided less cases than usual, the 2019-20 term didn't disappoint. Join a July 29th discussion of the term's most interesting and relevant cases to states and local governments. Topics of some of the other cases covered in the webinar include DACA, abortion, and "faithless electors." Register here. Job Postings City Administrator - City of Dickinson President/CEO - Public Entity Partners City Manager - City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin National League of Cities You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20001 38 of 63 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd:COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 35 Date: Wednesday,July 22,2020 8:31:20 AM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: National League of Cities (NLC) <covid19@nlc.org> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Wed, Jul 22, 2020 8:09 am Subject: COVID-19: Pandemic Response Update I Issue 35 If this message is not displaying properly,please view the online version. National League of Cities LEADERSHIP UPDATE Colleagues, This week, Congress returned to Washington and negotiations around a final coronavirus relief package have begun. Unfortunately, the first proposal from the Senate will likely not include direct aid to state and local governments. Cities have been told for months that our time will come—well, America's communities are out of time. Cities, towns and villages need our federal partners to provide critical funding for our communities to prevent colossal, irreparable damages to our workforce, economy, infrastructure projects and more. This is the final push. If you haven't already taken action and called your Senators, do it today - we need your voice right now. This is the time to fight for your community and share why our cities, towns and villages cannot be overlooked. Cities Are Essential, and we can't back down until Congress and the Administration pass legislation that proves it. Sending you strength, Joe Buscaino ® President, National League of Cities President Pro Tempore, Los Angeles City Council 39 of 63 America's Hometowns Are At Risk Cities, towns and villages have written America's history. And right now, all of our nation's communities need direct, flexible aid to combat crippled revenues and skyrocketing costs due to the coronavirus. Cities are essential and without a final overwhelming effort by YOU, Congress could neglect critical budget aid to all 19,000 cities, towns and villages ini the next federal relief package. America's Hometowns Are At Risk Video 8 RESOURCES UPCOMING EVENTS WEBINAR I Cities Addressing Food Insecurity During COVID-19 and Beyond I Thursday, July 23, 3:00 PM ET Join the Food Research &Action Center and the National League of Cities to learn how the federal nutrition programs can help families struggling with food insecurity during the COVID-19 public health emergency and beyond into the school year. This webinar will provide city leaders and city agencies an overview of the programs, dive into food insecurity data to better understand disproportionate impacts on BIPOC, best practices for implementation, opportunities to leverage programs and funding, look at cities taking action, and provide next steps for leaders to move this work forward in their communities. Register here. WEBINAR I Elections & Public Health: Safer Voting in COVID Times I Thursday, July 23, 3:00 PM ET Municipal, county and state leaders and election officials are working hard to hold successful and safe elections in the face of COVID-19. Now, in addition to the two dimensions of voter participation they must always think through in conducting elections— Is it easy? Is it meaningful?—there is a third dimension: Is it safe?This webinar brings together experts and showcases tools to help city leaders and their partners to ensure their elections are safe and accessible for all voters. Register here. WEBINAR I Early Childhood Municipal Policy 101 Webinar Embedding Equity in How Your City Does Business I Tuesday, July 28, 2:00 PM ET Learn how to leverage municipal policies and practices to embed equity into city governance and the early childhood system with the future and communities' youngest residents in mind. 40 of 63 By embedding equity into how cities do business, local leaders will be in a position to equitably rebuild their communities from the ongoing impact of COVID-19 so that all young children and their families may thrive. Register here. WEBINAR I City Strategies to Support Homeless &At-Risk Residents in light of COVID- 19 1 Thursday, July 30, 11:30 PM ET The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated health risks for individuals experiencing homelessness and has put more Americans, especially housing insecure individuals and individuals with co-occurring health challenges, at greater risk. Many cities have stepped up to temporarily house vulnerable residents, but face unique challenges related to budget, capacity, and public health moving forward. This webinar offers an opportunity to learn from city leaders who have implemented holistic approaches to supporting the health of residents at high risk of experiencing homelessness. Register here. Your City Is Being Left Behind -Call Your Senator Now! Senate leadership will release a framework for a final coronavirus relief package this week. And while this is only the first step in weeks of Congressional negotiations, there will be no additional funds for state and local governments included in the proposal. Call your Senator TODAY! and tell them that direct aid to all local governments MUST be a part of any emergency assistance package. EPA Announces Release of Water Utility COVID-19 Financial Impact Tool Throughout the COVID-19 national health emergency—and as communities across the country reopen—water utilities have reliably provided safe drinking water and critical wastewater services. The EPA has released a new tool to help water utilities assess the financial impact of COVID-19 on operations. Census State and Local Tax Revenue Survey For those communities that received a letter to participate in the Quarterly Survey of State and Local Tax Revenue the U.S. Census Bureau requests your response: Because of the recent Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we realize you may not have immediate access to the records you need to provide exact responses to the questions in this survey. If this is the case, the U.S. Census Bureau will accept your best estimate. For survey specific questions please review the FAQ. Your response helps accurately measure the American economy so that policymakers, government officials, and governments like yours can understand the impacts of this Coronavirus outbreak. Please contact ewd.gtax@census.gov or leave at message at 800-832-2839 if you have any questions. BEST PRACTICES Cities are Essential –The Fight of Our Financial Lives Congress is back in session this week and has begun negotiating 41 of 63 0 the next coronavirus relief package. Local leaders, now is the time for a final push for direct flexible budget aid to all 19,000 cities, towns and villages. Read more. Emergency Preparedness and COVID-19 Cities and counties are at various stages of reopening Across the country, elected officials and emergency management teams, ® engineers, planners, first responders, and other city and county staff are facing the most tremendous three-headed emergency response foe in history. Learn more how you can prepare your community. Read more. University Towns Face Economic Crisis and COVID-19 Head On University communities are responsible for the safety of the student-residents who will lead the next generation of American ®4 businesses and prosperity. Not only are these beloved college towns facing major budget challenges due to the loss of revenue from college students not returning, but these communities are on the frontlines of our nation's health, safety and economic response to the global pandemic. Read more. IN THE NEWS How one college town is suffering amid COVID-19 Yahoo Finance -July 21, 2020 To survive financial storm of virus, states turn to Congress Associated Press-July 20, 2020 Get ready for new coronavirus negotiations Politico-July 20, 2020 COVID-19 economically impacting college towns across the nation, including State College CBS 21 News-July 20, 2020 42 of 63 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH STAY SAFE FrequentlyAsked Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings JULY 22, 2020 As of July 25, 2020, per the Governor's Executive Order 20-811, people in Minnesota are required to wear a face covering in all public indoor spaces and indoor businesses, unless you are alone. Additionally, workers are required to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. Research has shown that use of face coverings can greatly reduce the risk of infection when combined with other prevention efforts such as social distancing and hand hygiene. About face coverings How do face coverings slow the spread of COVID-19? The virus which causes COVID-19 is thought to be mostly spread by respiratory droplets released when people talk, cough, or sneeze. Many people with COVID-19 do not show any symptoms but can still spread the virus to others, especially those who have had prolonged close contact with another person. Additionally, people can be contagious before they show symptoms of COVID-19. Wearing a face covering will help to protect the people around you if you are infected and do not know it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that people should wear a face covering in public to limit the spread of respiratory droplets, especially in situations where social distancing is hard to maintain. Face coverings along with other measures like good hand hygiene and social distancing work together to slow the spread. How to wear a face covering A face covering can include a paper or disposable mask, cloth mask, neck gaiter, scarf, bandanna, or a religious face covering. A face covering must cover the mouth and nose completely. The covering should not be overly tight or restrictive and should feel comfortable to wear. Any masks that incorporate a valve that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, or masks with openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents are not sufficient face coverings because they allow droplets to be released from the mask. 43 of 63 1 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS Refer to the following resources for additional guidance and tips on how to wear a face covering: ■ Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)Video: Mask Do's and Don'ts (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= w2-p4MsAgU&feature=youtu.be)–for other languages and a transcript, see the MDH Videos for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Response webpage (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/materials/videos.htm1) ■ MDH When and how to wear a mask (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/prevention.htmI#masks) ■ MDH Facemasks and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/guidance.htmI#ppe) ■ CDC guidance for the use of cloth face coverings to help slow the spread of COVID-19 (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html) How do we know face coverings are effective? Wearing face coverings in the context of other respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis and influenza has been shown to reduce transmission.23 Model simulations using data from New York and Washington suggest that broad use of face coverings can significantly reduce community transmission of COVID-19 and decrease the number of hospitalizations and deaths.4 States that have mandated use of face coverings in public have seen a decline in their daily growth rate of COVID-19 cases, and these measures are estimated to have prevented between 230,000 and 450,000 cases.SCase studies have shown that universal masking for source control has helped to prevent transmission, including in a hair salon where stylists positive for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) did not transmit to their clients while wearing face coverings.6The greatest community benefits are likely to be seen when as many people as possible wear face coverings in combination with other prevention measures such as social distancing and hand hygiene. About the face covering requirement Why is there a state mandate? Minnesota has strongly recommended widespread use of face coverings since April. As shown in other states, COVID-19 surges can happen quickly—even in areas with previously low or decreasing case numbers—and with disastrous consequences. Because Minnesota has begun the process of reopening its economy and people are now leaving home more frequently, smart, simple infection-control measures, like wearing a face covering, are particularly important to prevent further COVID-19 spread. Previously, Minnesota and other states encouraged voluntary compliance with face covering recommendations, but compliance with such recommendations has been inconsistent and face covering requirements have been shown to increase consistent face covering use'. Other states are having success controlling the spread of COVID-19 by mandating face coverings in certain settings in accordance with CDC and WHO recommendations. 44 of 63 2 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS How long will the Executive Order be in effect? This Executive Order is effective immediately upon approval by the Executive Council, with the requirement to wear face coverings starting July 25, 2020. It remains in effect until the peacetime emergency declared in Executive Order 20-01 ends or until cancelled by a proper authority (Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 4.035, subdivision 2, and section 12.32). Which face covering requirement do I follow if my city already has a face covering requirement? The Executive Order establishes the minimum face covering requirements for all Minnesotans. If a local government authority(such as a city or county) establishes requirements that are more protective (in that they require face coverings in more situations), those requirements must be followed. What's the penalty for not wearing a face covering? The goal of the Executive Order is to advise Minnesotans that wearing a face covering will protect them, their families, their friends, and others, and the expectation is that Minnesotans will voluntarily comply with the Order's requirements. Enforcement is not the goal of this Executive Order, but because these requirements are so important for the safety of our communities, Minnesotans who fail to comply with the Executive Order may receive a petty misdemeanor citation and a fine of up to$100. Businesses have heightened responsibility for public safety, given the volume of people that pass through Minnesota businesses on any given day. As such, businesses (and their owners and management) may be subject to criminal charges (up to a misdemeanor, $1,000 fine, and not more than 90 days in jail), civil enforcement and fines (of up to $25,000), and regulatory enforcement (e.g., actions by government authorities that license or regulate the business). Should I say something if someone near me isn't wearing a face covering? There are people who may not be able to wear face coverings for a variety of reasons and you may not be able to tell why just by looking at a person. Unless you are a business responsible for ensuring worker and customer compliance with the Executive Order, do not confront a person about why they are not wearing a face covering but instead, if possible, ask them to maintain social distance. Face coverings protect others from you so the best option is for you to continue to wear your face covering and, where possible, physically distance yourself at least six feet from persons not wearing face coverings. Remember, we're all in this together and not everyone is able to wear a face covering. 45 of 63 3 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS When to wear a face covering and when you can remove it What medical conditions or circumstances would prevent a person from wearing a face covering? There is no defined list of recognized medical, mental health conditions or disabilities that would prevent someone from wearing a face covering. Even if there was,there can be individual variation in tolerance for wearing a face covering among people with the same condition–one person might tolerate a face covering and another might not. Face coverings can also pose special challenges for people who are deaf or hard of hearing or have other communication needs or disabilities. The Executive Order not only provides exemptions for people who are unable to wear a face covering due to a medical or mental health condition or disability, but also allows people without such conditions to temporarily remove their face covering while communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing or who has a condition or disability that makes communication with that person while wearing a face covering difficult. See Best Practices for Masks: Considerations for People with Disabilities and Special Health Needs (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/Ruidemasks.pdf). Do I have to wear a face covering if there are not many cases in my area? Yes. The case count reported by MDH does not account for all cases because a person with COVID-19 may not feel sick or get tested. It is important that all Minnesotans take precautions. Face coverings will help to slow the spread of COVID-19 everywhere in Minnesota, and help keep our economy open. What if I am asked to remove my face covering to verify my identity? The Executive Order allows a person to temporarily remove their face covering when asked to do so to verify their identity—for example, when applying for or renewing a driver's license or identification card. However, businesses and other persons or entities that are required or authorized to verify a person's identity are encouraged to use other means of identification that do not require a person to remove their face covering (for example, checking a person's height or eye color against the information on their driver's license or identification card)to the extent possible. I have a valid permit to carry a pistol—am I prevented from carrying a pistol while wearing a face covering? No. People wearing a face covering may possess a pistol under a legal permit to carry in the same manner as a person who is not wearing a face covering. Am I required to wear a face covering in a polling place? 46 of 63 4 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS Yes.The Executive Order requires that face coverings be worn in any indoor public space or indoor business—including polling places. Voters who refuse to wear a face covering within the polling place will be provided with the opportunity to vote using curbside voting procedures which will allow the voter to vote outside and without violating the Executive Order. A voter who refuses to wear a face covering and refuses the curbside option will not be prevented from voting. However, any individual who fails to comply with the Executive Order—whether in a polling place or other indoor public space or business—may be subject to a petty misdemeanor citation and a fine of up to $100. For more information about Election Day voting and other ways to vote, visit the Office of Minnesota Secretary of State website at https://sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/or call 1-877-600-VOTE (8683). Businesses and workers What are the requirements for face coverings at work? Generally,workers are required to wear a face covering at all times when indoors, when outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, or when specific industry guidance has stricter requirements. Please see the Stay Safe Guidance for Businesses and Organizations (https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/index.0 sphttps://staysafe.mn.gov/industry- guidance/index.*sp)to find information about specific work industries. Industry-specific requirements that differ from or impose greater requirements than the Executive Order are also summarized at Face Covering Requirements and Recommendations under Executive Order 20-81 (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecover.html). Businesses are responsible for clearly communicating the applicable requirements to their workers. The Executive Order also identifies a number of situations where a face covering may be temporarily removed, such as when a worker is working alone (for example,when in a closed office, a cubicle with walls above face height when social distancing is maintained, or other enclosed space with no other individuals present). In addition, if a worker cannot wear a face covering due to a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability, a business must provide an accommodation to the worker if possible. Are businesses responsible for requiring that workers, customers, and visitors wear a face covering? Yes, it is the responsibility of the business to require that its workers, customers, and visitors are wearing face coverings consistent with the provisions of Executive Order 20-81. Businesses must update their COVID-19 Preparedness Plan to align with the requirements of Executive Order 20-81. Businesses must also communicate to workers and customers that face coverings must be worn when required by the Executive Order—meaning, when indoors,for both customers and workers, and also when outdoors for workers, when social distancing cannot be maintained—unless 47 of 63 5 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS circumstances allow for the temporarily removal of the face covering. At a minimum, businesses must communicate face covering requirements by clearly posting signage in places that are visible to all workers, customers, and visitors. A best practice would be for businesses to notify customers about face covering requirements through communication while they are making reservations, appointments, or placing orders for pickup. Where can business owners find masking materials for their storefront? Digital and print materials related to the#MaskUpMN campaign are available for download on the State of Minnesota's COVID-19 website. What should a business do when a worker, customer, or visitor claims to be exempt from the face covering mandate? The Executive Order contains exemptions to the face covering mandate, including for certain medical and mental health conditions and disabilities. When a customer or visitor claims to be exempt due to a medical or mental health condition or disability, businesses may not require proof of the condition or disability, or require customers or visitors to explain the nature of their condition or disability. When possible, businesses must provide accommodations to customers and visitors who are unable to wear a face covering (for example, by offering curbside pick-up) and mitigate worker and customer exposure to individuals who are unable to wear a face covering. If a worker claims to be exempt from face covering requirements, businesses must follow the requirements of applicable laws (including civil rights laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act)that relate to verification of a worker's condition or disability. The business should also provide any exempt worker an accommodation to the extent possible. For example, if the worker will interact with customers,visitors, or other workers,the employer could offer the worker the option of wearing a face shield as an alternative. The employer should also consider taking steps to mitigate the worker's interaction with other workers and, if the business is customer- facing, with customers as well. What should a business do when customers or workers refuse to comply with face covering requirements? When an employee does not claim a legitimate exemption from face covering requirements (for example, due to a disability) but still refuses to wear a face covering, businesses should take appropriate disciplinary action. If a customer who does not claim a legitimate exemption refuses to comply with face covering requirements, businesses should assess the situation and determine how best to proceed, using normal procedures for dealing with a difficult customer. Because businesses have an obligation to protect their workers from hazards—including COVID-19 infection—businesses must take steps to mitigate or eliminate the risks posed by a person who refuses to wear a face covering. Here are some best practices to consider: 48 of 63 6 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS ■ If a customer(or visitor) enters or attempts to enter without a face covering, communicate face covering requirements to the customer, offer the customer a face covering, and request that they put it on. ■ If a customer continues to refuse to wear a face covering, decline services to the customer, or request that the customer not enter the premises or leave the premises. ■ The business may also offer the customer service alternatives, if available, including curbside pick- up, home delivery, or retrieving merchandise for the customer. ■ Based on its assessment of the situation,the business may also determine that there is a need to engage law enforcement to assist. Nothing in the Executive Order provides businesses with the right to physically restrain or remove a noncompliant person when it would not otherwise be legal to do so. Employees and management should avoid direct enforcement in situations that would put themselves or others at risk of harm and instead consider engaging law enforcement. Can a worker refuse to perform job duties if a customer is not wearing a face covering? If workers, acting in good faith, have a reasonable belief that they have been assigned to work in an unsafe and unhealthy manner, they may refuse to perform the job duties assigned if they have requested that the business correct the hazardous conditions. It is the responsibility of businesses to provide their workers with a safe and healthy workplace. If a customer refuses to wear a face covering, a business needs to take action to mitigate workers' exposure to the customer, while making reasonable efforts to obtain the customer's compliance. Who provides and pays for the face covering if workers have to wear them? Businesses are encouraged to provide face coverings for all workers to ensure compliance with the Executive Order. If an employer requires that all workers wear the same uniform face covering, such as one with their business logo on it,they will likely purchase the face covering and provide it to workers. However, the law provides that an employer can deduct from a worker's wages the cost of a uniform so long as it does not reduce the worker's pay below the minimum wage for hours worked. The amount of the deduction for a face covering may not exceed the cost of the face covering to the employer. The maximum deduction for all items that are part of a uniform allowed by law is$50. If the employer provides the face covering and deducts the cost of the face covering from the worker's wages, the employer must reimburse the worker the full amount deducted for the face covering when the worker's employment ends and the worker returns the face covering to the employer. If an employer chooses not to provide the face covering, workers are responsible for acquiring their own face covering and wearing it while at work to comply with the Executive Order. 49 of 63 7 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS Does a face covering need to meet an employer's "appropriate attire" requirements? Appropriate attire requirements are developed and enforced by the business and, in some instances, by law. Employees should speak with their employer and review the employer's COVID-19 Preparedness Plan as well as any employee handbook or applicable employer policy. Can a worker be disciplined by an employer if they wear a face covering even if a wearing a face covering is not required? No, Executive Order 20-54 provides that an employer cannot discriminate or retaliate against a worker for wearing a face covering that the worker has personally acquired as long as the face covering does not violate industry standards or existing employer policies related to health, safety, or decency. How will authorities determine if my business is compliant with the face covering mandate? The Executive Order states that a business is in compliance with the Executive Order if: 1. The businesses' workers are wearing face coverings as required by the Executive Order; 2. The business has updated their COVID-19 Preparedness Plan to address the face covering requirements to align with the requirements of the Executive Order; 3. The business has posted one or more signs visible to all workers, customers, and visitors instructing them to wear face coverings as required by the Executive Order—meaning when indoors (all persons) and, outdoors (workers only) in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained; and 4. The business makes reasonable efforts to enforce the face covering requirements with respect to customers and visitors. The previous four sections discuss the steps that businesses can take to ensure compliance with the Executive Order. When assessing a situation involving potential violation of the Executive Order, a local law enforcement agency or state regulatory agency should consider the seriousness of any non-compliance. Factors relevant to the seriousness of the non-compliance include but are not limited to:the number of workers and customers not requiring face covering as required by the Executive Order; how long and how often workers and customers are not wearing face coverings; the consequences of workers and customers not wearing face coverings, including indications the business is associated with the transmission of COVID- 19; and the actions taken by the business to prevent and respond to their workers' and customers' non- compliance with face covering requirements. The objective of any enforcement action will be to achieve compliance with the Executive Order to protect the health of Minnesotans. 50 of 63 8 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS School and child care settings What are the requirements for schools? Face coverings are generally required for all students, staff, and other persons present in any kindergarten through grade 12 school buildings or district offices or riding on school transportation vehicles. To provide a consistent, safe environment for students and staff, this requirement applies equally to kindergarteners, even those aged 5 or under. Students and staff have increased flexibility to wear face shields in certain circumstances, all of which are detailed in the Executive Order found at Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.*sp) and MDH 2020-2021 Planning Guide for Schools (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/kl2pIanguide,pdf), As with other settings, children under 2 years or anyone with a medical, developmental, or behavioral condition that makes it unreasonable to wear a face covering must not wear face coverings. What are the requirements for child care, preschool and pre- kindergarten? Universal masking is challenging in child care settings—particularly those that serve young children— due to the importance of communication for child development. These settings also may be able to mitigate risks of transmission by grouping staff and children together in consistent "cohorts" that do not mix with others. Accordingly, the Executive Order grants flexibility to the following child care settings, as long as they serve children 5 years and under: family and group day care homes (licensed under Minnesota Rules 2019, chapter 9502); child care centers (licensed under Minnesota Rules 2019, chapter 9503); certified centers (certified under Minnesota Statutes 2019, chapter 245H); legal non-licensed child care providers (defined under Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 1198, subdivision 16); certain license-exempt Head Start, public and private school programs (defined under Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 245A.03, subdivision 2 (a) (5), (13), and (26)); and other Head Start, preschool and pre- kindergarten programs. In general, either a face covering or face shield is required for all staff in child care settings when in communal areas, hallways or lobbies. When isolated in a classroom or home care environment with one group or cohort, face coverings are strongly recommended, but not required. Children 5 years and under are exempt from the face covering requirement, and a child care setting that serves children under 5 may choose to exempt older children by fulfilling specific requirements (i.e., written notice to all families and documentation in COVID-19 Preparedness Plans). For additional requirements, guidance, and information, please refer to the Executive Order at Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.*sp) and MDH guidance on COVID-19 Prevention Guidance for Youth, Student, and Child Care Programs (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/socialdistance.pdf). 51 of 63 9 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS Where to get a face covering Where can I get a face covering? Masks or cloth coverings can be purchased or handmade. There is not a list of approved vendors. When buying or making a face covering, remember to check that it meets the following requirements: ■ Completely covers the mouth and nose. ■ Is not overly tight or restrictive. ■ The face covering must not be made of mesh or other fabric with holes and must not have a valve designed to facilitate easy exhaling or other openings, holes, visible gaps in the design or material, or vents. If making a mask,there are many resources available to assist, including: ■ How to Make Cloth Face Coverings (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting- sick/how-to-make-cloth-face-covering.htm l) ■ This CDC video also demonstrates a no-sew version: How to Make Your Own Face Covering (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPxlygvJgf4&feature=voutu.be) Concerns, questions or complaints Where can I send concerns about compliance or questions? To report violations by businesses or individuals, contact local law enforcement or one of the agencies listed below, if applicable. ■ To ask questions or report violations of this Executive Order that relate to worker health and safety: Contact the Department of Labor and Industry by email at osha.compliance@state.mn.us or by phone at 651-284-5050 or 1-877-470-6742. ■ To ask other workplace-related questions about this Executive Order: Contact the Department of Employment and Economic Development using the form on the following webpage: Questions about Returning to Work(https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/safework/returning/). ■ To report violations by restaurants and food service establishments, pools, or lodging services: Follow the instructions on: MDH Online Complaint Form (https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/food/license/compint.html#beforefile) . In some instances, you may need to contact a local public health agency to report your complaint. Refer to the "Before reporting a complaint" section on the above webpage or to the Minnesota State and Local Food, Pools, and Lodging Contacts (https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/food/docs/license/locaIs.pdf)to determine whether a local public health agency is the right contact for your area. 52 of 63 10 of 12 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE REQUIREMENT TO WEAR CLOTH FACE COVERINGS ■ To report discrimination in relation to this Executive Order: Contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights at 1-833-454-0148 or submit a report at Report Discrimination Online (https://mn.gov/mdhr/intake/consultationinguiryform/). ■ For general questions about face covering requirements or COVID-19: Contact the Minnesota Department of Health by phone at 651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504, or submit an inquiry using the Have a Question? We're here to help online form (https://staysafe.mn.gov/contact-us/). References 1. Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.asp) 2. Dharmadhikari A.S., Mphahlele A., Stoltz A., et al. Surgical Face Masks Worn by Patients with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2012 May 15;185(10):1104-1109. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3359891/ 3. Cowling B.J., Zhou Y., Ip D.K.M., et al. Face Masks to Prevent Transmission of Influenza Virus: A Systematic Review. Epidemiol Infect 2010 Apr;138(4):449-56. https://Pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20092668/ 4. Eikenberry S.E., Mancuso M., Iboi E., et al. To mask or not to mask: Modeling the potential for face mask use by the general public to curtail the COVID-19 pandemic. Infect Dis Model. 2020;5;293-308. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7186508/ 5. Lyu W., Wehby G. Community Use of Face Masks and COVID-19: Evidence From A Natural Experiment Of State Mandates In The US. Health Affairs, published online June 16, 2020. Doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2020.00818. https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/full/10.1377/hlthaff.2020.00818 6. Brooks,J.T., Butler J.C., Redfield R.R.. Universal Masking to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Transmission—The Time is Now.JAMA, published online July 14, 2020. Doi:10.1001/Iama.2020.13107. https://*amanetwork.com/*ournals/*ama/fullarticle/2768532 7. Goldman Sachs Research. Face Masks and GDP. 2020 June 29. https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/pages/face-masks-and-gdp.html 53 of 63 11 of 12 Face CoveringRequirements and Recommendations under Executive Order 20-81 JULY 22, 2020 As of July 25, 2020, per the Governor's Executive Order 20-81, people in Minnesota are required to wear a face covering in all public indoor spaces and businesses, unless alone. Additionally, workers are required to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. Research has shown that use of face coverings can greatly reduce the risk of infection when combined with other prevention efforts such as social distancing and hand hygiene. For more information about face coverings and the Executive Order, please see the Frequently Asked Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings (https://www.health.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfag.htm1). Types of face coverings ■ Types of face coverings can include a paper or disposable mask, a cloth mask, a neck gaiter, a scarf, a bandanna, or a religious face covering. ■ A face covering must cover the nose and mouth completely. The covering should not be overly tight or restrictive and should feel comfortable to wear. ■ Any mask that incorporates a valve that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling, mesh masks, or masks with openings, holes,visible gaps in the design or material, or vents are not sufficient face coverings because they allow droplets to be released from the mask. ■ A face covering is not a substitute for social distancing, but is especially important in situations when maintaining at least a 6-foot distance from other individuals not who are not members of the same household is not possible. ■ It is not known whether face shields (a clear plastic barrier that covers the face) provide the same source control for droplets as face masks, but they may be an option in situations where wearing a face mask is problematic. For optimal protection, the shield should extend below the chin and to the ears, and there should be no exposed gap between the forehead and the shield's headpiece. ■ Although medical-grade masks (e.g., surgical face masks, N95 respirators) are sufficient face coverings, members of the public who do not work in health care or an occupation that requires 54 of 63 1 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS medical-grade protective equipment (e.g., certain construction professions) are discouraged from wearing them as they should be reserved for those workers. Persons exempted from the face covering requirement ■ Children under age 2 years must not wear face coverings. Children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old are not required to wear face coverings, but are encouraged to wear a face covering when in public if they can do so reliably in compliance with CDC guidance (i.e.,without frequently touching or removing the face covering). ■ Persons who have medical or other health conditions, disabilities or mental health, developmental, or behavioral needs that make it difficult to tolerate wearing a face covering. ■ Any person who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, sleeping, incapacitated, or is otherwise unable to remove the face covering without assistance. ■ Persons at their workplace when wearing a face covering would create a safety hazard to the person or others as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines. ■ Alternatives to masks such as clear face shields may be considered for those with health conditions or situations where wearing a mask is problematic. Face shields may also be used as an alternative to face coverings when specifically permitted in the applicable Industry Guidance available at the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/index.esp). When it is required to wear a face covering ■ In all public indoor spaces and businesses, including when waiting outside to enter the public indoor space or business. ■ When riding on public transportation such as buses or trains, or in a taxi, ride-sharing vehicle, or vehicle that is being used for a business purpose. ■ For workers only: When working outdoors in situations where social distancing (i.e., maintaining physical distance of at least six feet from other individuals who are not in the same household) cannot be maintained. ■ When present in a business, whether indoor or outdoor, that has elected to require face coverings. Businesses are allowed to require face coverings even in situations where face coverings are not otherwise required by Executive Order 20-81. ■ When applicable industry guidance, available on the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov) specifically requires face coverings (refer to the industry-specific guidance section, below). 55 of 63 2 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS When a face covering is not required ■ When at home or in an assigned room or living unit in a place of temporary lodging (e.g., hotel or motel room) or other place whether a person may reside short-or long-term (e.g., shelter, dormitory, residential treatment facility, long-term care facility, correctional facility). • However, workers who enter a person's home or assigned living unit for purposes of their job— for example, home health care aides or staff in a residential treatment, long-term care, or correctional facility—must wear face coverings when doing so. Certain facilities—including hospitals, shelters, long-term care facilities, residential programs licensed under Minnesota Statutes chapter 245D, residential treatment facilities, or correctional facilities—may also require visitors and residents, patients, or inmates to wear face coverings even when in a living unit. ■ When in a private vehicle being used for private (i.e., non-business) purposes. ■ When outdoors or participating in outdoor recreation (e.g., exercising, walking, gardening) for private purposes. However, workers are required to wear face coverings when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. ■ Even in situations where face coverings are not required, all persons should carry a face covering to prepare for close interactions with others or to enter an indoor space. When a face covering can be temporarily removed ■ While eating or drinking, if you can maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others who are not a member of the same party. ■ When someone asks to verify an identity for lawful purposes, such as when ordering an alcoholic beverage or entering certain events. ■ When participating in an activity in which the face covering will get wet. For example, when swimming. ■ While communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, or who has a medical condition, disability, or mental health condition that makes communication with that individual while wearing a mask difficult, provided that social distancing is maintained to the extent possible between persons who are not members of the same household. ■ While receiving a service—including a dental examination or procedure, medical examination or procedure, or personal care service—that cannot be performed or would be difficult to perform when the individual receiving the service is wearing a face covering. ■ When alone, such as when working in an office or a cubicle with walls higher than face level when social distancing is maintained, in an enclosed indoor area, in a vehicle, or in the cab of heavy equipment or machinery. In such situations, persons should still carry face coverings to be prepared to wear when no longer alone. ■ When participating in organized sports where the level of exertion makes wearing a face covering difficult. 56 of 63 3 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS ■ When participating in indoor physical exercise—such as in a gym or fitness center—where the level of exertion makes wearing a face covering difficult, as long as social distancing can be maintained at all times. ■ When testifying, speaking, singing, or performing in an indoor business or public indoor space, in situations or settings such as theaters, news conferences, courtroom proceedings, or lectures, provided that social distancing is always maintained. Face shields should be considered as an alternative in these situations. ■ During practices or performances in an indoor business or indoor public space when a face covering cannot be used while playing a musical instrument, provided that social distancing is always maintained. When it is strongly recommended (but not required) to wear a face covering ■ In any public outdoor space or business when it is not possible to maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others or where close person-to-person interaction is possible or likely, such as when entering or exiting a business, moving around in a space with others present, using the restroom, ordering food, or waiting in line. ■ In private social gatherings—for example, when visiting in a private home with friends or relatives that do not reside in the same household—especially when it is not possible to maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. ■ At home, for individuals experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.This will help protect other members of the same household from being infected. ■ During participation in organized sporting activities, if wearing a face covering is safe and practical. ■ When at home or in a private vehicle when someone who is not a member of the same household is present, particularly when social distancing cannot be maintained. Businesses' obligations under the Executive Order Under Executive Order 20-81, businesses must: ■ Require that all persons, including their workers, customers, and visitors, wear face coverings as required by Executive Order 20-81 and take reasonable steps to enforce the requirement. ■ Mitigate or eliminate worker and customer exposure to persons who cannot wear or refuse to wear a face covering. ■ Update their COVID-19 Preparedness Plans to include the face covering requirements of Executive Order 20-81, inform their workers how their plan has been updated, and make the revised plan available to their workers. ■ Post one or more signs that are visible to all persons—including workers, customers, and visitors— instructing them to wear face coverings as required by Executive Order 20-81. 57 of 63 4 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS ■ When possible, provide accommodations to persons, including their workers and customers, who state they have a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that makes it unreasonable for the person to maintain a face covering. Accommodations could include permitting use of an alternate form of face covering—a face shield, for example—or providing service options that do not require a customer to enter the business. Executive Order 20-81 does not: ■ Require businesses or their workers to enforce face covering requirements when it is unsafe to do so. ■ Authorize businesses to restrain, assault, or physically remove workers or customers who refuse to comply with Executive Order 20-81 when it would not otherwise be legal to do so. ■ Authorize businesses and their workers to violate other laws, including anti-discrimination laws. For additional information about the steps businesses can take to ensure compliance with Executive Order 20-81, refer to Executive Order 20-81 which is available at Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.*sp), and the Frequently Asked Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfag.htm1). Enforcement While Minnesota expects that businesses and individuals will voluntarily comply with the requirements of this guidance and Executive Order 20-81 to keep their fellow Minnesotans safe, there are consequences for violation of these requirements. These consequences can include petty misdemeanor citations and fines for people, and criminal, civil, and regulatory sanctions for businesses (and their owners and managers). For more information, see Executive Order 20-81 available at Executive Order 20-81 which is available at Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.*sp), and the Frequently Asked Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfag.htm1). Where to report concerns with compliance or ask questions To report violations by businesses or individuals: Contact local law enforcement or one of the agencies listed below, if applicable. ■ To ask questions or report violations of this Executive Order that relate to worker health and safety: Contact the Department of Labor and Industry by email at osha.compliance@state.mn.us or by phone at 651-284-5050 or 1-877-470-6742. 58 of 63 5 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS ■ To ask other workplace-related questions about this Executive Order: Contact the Department of Employment and Economic Development using the form on the following webpage: Questions about Returning to Work(https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/safework/returning/). ■ To report violations by restaurants and food service establishments, pools, or lodging services: Follow the instructions on MDH Online Complaint Form (https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/food/license/compint.html#beforefile) . In some instances, you may need to contact a local public health agency to report your complaint. Refer to the "Before reporting a complaint" section on the above webpage or to the Minnesota State and Local Food, Pools, and Lodging Contacts (https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/food/docs/license/locals.pdf)to determine whether a local public health agency is the right contact for your area. ■ To report discrimination in relation to this Executive Order: Contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights at 1-833-454-0148 or submit a report at Report Discrimination Online (https://mn.gov/mdhr/intake/consultationinguiryform/). ■ For general questions about face covering requirements or COVID-19: Contact the Minnesota Department of Health by phone at 651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504, or submit an inquiry using the Have a Question? We're here to help online form (https://staysafe.mn.fzov/contact-us/). Additional guidance: Child care, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions Executive Order 20-81 establishes different or additional requirements, exceptions, and recommendations for child care, K-12 schools, and higher education institutions. For additional information, please see Executive Order 20-81 at Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.*sP-I,the Minnesota Department of Health Frequently Asked Questions About the Requirement to Wear Face Coverings (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/facecoverfag.htm1) and guidance specific to these settings at the following web pages: • Child care settings are required to comply with the face covering and face shield guidance available at Masking Recommendations for Child Care and Schools: COVID-19 (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/masks.htm1). • Kindergarten through grade 12 schools are required to comply with the face covering and face shield guidance available at 2020-2021 Planning Guide for Schools (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/kl2pIanguide.pdf). • Higher education institutions are required to comply with the face covering and face shield guidance available at Institutes of Higher Education (IHE): COVID-19 (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/ihe.htm1). 59 of 63 6 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS Industry-specific guidance Executive Order 20-81 requires face coverings to be worn when specifically required by the applicable industry guidance available at the Stay Safe Minnesota website (https://staysafe.mn.gov). The following industry-specific guidance imposes additional face covering requirements that, as instructed by the Executive Order, must be followed by businesses and workers in those industries: Restaurants and Bars ■ The applicable industry guidance requires: • All workers to wear a face covering in any part of the restaurant or bar,whether indoor or outdoor, unless a worker is working alone in an office or other enclosed or separated area where food is not stored, handled, or prepared. • Workers to wear face shields when a face covering cannot be worn, such as when working in hot kitchens. • Workers who have face-to-face interactions with customers must wear both a face covering and face shield when the customer is not wearing a face covering and it is not possible to maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet. • Refer to Industry Guidance for Safely Reopening: Restaurants & Bars (https://mn.gov/deed/assets/restaurant-bar-industry-guidance-ACC tcm1045-432897.pdf)for additional guidance about the requirements applicable to bars and restaurants. Retail and Personal Care Services ■ For both retail and personal care services settings, the applicable guidance requires that, if the service being performed requires the customer to remove their face covering, the worker must wear both a face covering and face shield. Refer to the following webpages for additional guidance about the requirements applicable to these industries: Industry Guidance for Safely Reopening: Personal Care Services (https://mn.gov/deed/assets/personal-care-industry-guidance-acc tcm1045- 432896.pdf) and Industry Guidance for Safely Reopening: Retail (https://mn.gov/deed/assets/reopening-minnesotas-consumer-facing-businesses tcm1045- 431883.pdf). Resources ■ Executive Orders from Governor Walz (https://mn.gov/governor/news/executiveorders.esp) ■ COVID-19 Mask Do's and Don'ts Video (https://youtu.be/ w2-p4MsAgU) -Available in many translations and in ASL version on the MDH Videos for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Response Webpage (https://www.heaIth.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/materials/videos.htm1) ■ CDC: Sew and No Sew Instructions for How to Make A Cloth Face Covering (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-to-make-cloth-face- covering.html) 60 of 63 7 of 8 FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS ■ MDH Best Practices for Masks: Considerations for People with Disabilities or Special Health Needs (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/guidemasks.pdf) ■ Minnesota COVID-19 Response: If You Are Sick(https://mn.gov/covidl9/for-minnesotans/if-sick/) ■ MDH 2020-2021 Planning Guide for Schools (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/kl2pIanguide.pdf) ■ OSHA: Should Workers Wear A Cloth Face Covering At Work (https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid- 19/covid-19-fag.html) - Recommendations for Mitigating COVID-19 at Higher Education Institutions (https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/schools/guideihe.pdf) m MINNeSOTA Minnesota Department of Health I health.mn.gov 1 651-201-5000 625 Robert Street North PO Box 64975, St. Paul, MN 55164-0975 Contact.health.communications@state.mn.us to request an alternate format. 61 of 63 8 of 8 From: Mary Mccomber To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Project complete: Stillwater Lift Bridge Date: Tuesday,July 21,2020 3:14:56 PM For weekly notes -----Original Message----- From: MnDOT <mndot@public.govdelivery.com> To: marymccomber@aol.com Sent: Tue, Jul 21, 2020 3:13 pm Subject: Project complete: Stillwater Lift Bridge Having trouble viewing this email?view it as a web nage. MnDOT logo 62 of 63 Project complete: Stillwater Lift Bridge With the opening of the Stillwater Lift Bridge and the new 4.7 mile St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail on June 1, the project has reached the end. And all environmental commitments have been met for construction of the new St. Croix Crossing and transformation of the Lift Bridge to a bicycle/pedestrian trail. The grand opening celebration, dinner and street dance planned earlier this year for the opening of the Stillwater Lift Bridge is postponed until next year due to the COVID- 19 pandemic. Tentative plans call for a celebration on the first anniversary of the St. Croix River Loop Trail opening on June 1, 2021. More details will be provided early next yea r. If you purchased tickets for the Lift Bridge dinner planned earlier this year, you should have received a refund. For more information about postponed events, please visit the metro public involvement website. More about this project Transformation of the lift bridge to a bicycle/pedestrian crossing began in August 2017. Restoration work included repairing steel, painting, upgrading the electrical and mechanical system, installing decorative lights and rebuilding the concourse area to restore the lift bridge to its original 1931 look. If you'd like more information about the Stillwater Lift Bridge project, please visit: mndot.gov/metro/projects/liftbridge. Stay connected • Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/mndot and Twitter: @mndot • Sign up for Metro area weekend traffic impacts email updates • Be ready. Know your route: mndot.gov/knowyourroute • For real-time travel information anywhere in Minnesota visit 511mn.org or dial 5-1-1 MnDOT • mndot.gov Stay Connected with Minnesota Department of Transportation: MnDOT's Social Media Hub>> 63 of 63