COVID-19 Updates

Archive

1. October 2021

   October 28, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced that Minnesota will begin administering Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shots to eligible Minnesotans in line with federal guidance issued from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Minnesotans who initially received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine can now get a booster at least six months after their initial series if they are:

     All Minnesotans age 18 and older who got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are recommended to get a booster shot at least 2 months after their initial vaccine.

     Officials also authorized 'mixing and matching' COVID-19 vaccine boosters, meaning anybody who is eligible to get a booster shot can get either the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson booster shot regardless of what they received for their primary series.

     Ramsey County is offering Pfizer booster shots at clinics. Booster shots will be available by appointment only. Note that not all providers are offering all three boosters. Please check with your local clinic or provider for what booster shots they offer.

     • 65 years and older;
     • Age 18 and older and live in long-term care settings;
     • Age 18 and older and have underlying medical conditions;
     • Age 18 and older and work or live in high-risk settings;

   • Yesterday, Governor Walz announced Minnesota's plan to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to children ages 5-11 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Advisory Committee voted to recommend the use of the Pfizer vaccine in children 5-11 years old. The state of Minnesota has built a strong network of providers—including pharmacies, health care systems, clinics, local public health and tribal health agencies, and school clinics, and state-run community clinics—that can begin vaccinating eligible children once final eligibility recommendations are issued by the federal government next week.

     Here's how currently eligible Minnesotans can get their free shot:

     • Use the state’s Vaccine Locator Map to find a vaccine provider near you.
       • Call Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 (Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.)
     • Check for vaccine appointments using the Vaccine Finder. You can search for appointments by vaccine type (e.g., Pfizer).
     • Find a Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health COVID-19 vaccination clinic. Registration is available online or individuals can call Ramsey County Public Health’s vaccine phone line at 651-266-1190 (Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
     • Contact your primary health care provider or a local pharmacy.
   • Minnesota has launched ‘Kids Deserve a Shot,’ a vaccine incentives program rewarding Minnesotans 12-17 years old for completing their COVID-19 vaccine series. This program comes as the State continues to drive vaccination efforts and awareness across Minnesota, with a focus on boosting vaccination among this least-vaccinated age group. The program consists of two sets of rewards: a $200 Visa gift card, and five drawings of $100,000 Minnesota college scholarships for any Minnesotan 12-17 years old with a complete vaccine series in 2021. 

   • Voting information for Ramsey County voters. Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021.

     • Vote before election day in-person or by mail. Ballots must be received by Ramsey County elections by Nov. 2 to be counted. 

     • Find your polling location and vote on election day. 

     • Register to vote on election day and bring proof of residence with you.

   • Nominate a business for the 2021 Saint Paul Business awards. Do you have a favorite Saint Paul business that you want to see recognized for their contributions to the community and the city’s economy? Businesses are selected to geographically represent Saint Paul’s rich and diverse communities. Nominations are due Friday, Dec. 3 by 4:30 p.m.
   • October is #CyberMonth and we’ll be sharing tips and information to help you #BeCyberSmart and avoid falling victim to cybercrimes. Scammers are expected to steal over $2 billion from victims in 2021. We can thwart their efforts by learning the how to spot common scams. Learn how with this quiz from Scam Spotter.
   • The City of Saint Paul is updating the Bicycle Plan. This plan update will focus on separated bike lanes and shared use paths because they provide a comfortable space for people of all ages and abilities to bike and move throughout Saint Paul. Take the short survey by Oct. 31.

   • The City of Saint Paul has partnered with Move MN to gather information about how employees get to and from work in downtown Saint Paul. The gathered information will help the City develop policies and projects to support our evolving transportation needs. Take our Downtown Saint Paul Commuter Survey before Nov. 5.

   • Saint Paul Public Works has started the annual Residential Fall Sweep. Crews will sweep approximately 530 miles of residential streets in the next four to six weeks, weather dependent. Street sweeping protects our environment and lakes and rivers by keeping out debris, but also keeps our storm sewers working properly, preventing back ups and flooding on streets and private property.

     To help the sweeping efforts on all residential streets, please:

     Additionally, residents can sign up to adopt a drain. Help protect our waterways by adopting a storm drain.

     • Do NOT sweep leaves, dirt or additional garbage in the streets. This is illegal, makes it harder to get the streets fully clean, and slows down the entire sweeping process.
     • Follow all “No Parking” signs, which will be posted 24 hours in advance. Please move all vehicles off the streets.
     • Do NOT put garbage and recycling carts in the streets. Please keep all carts on the boulevard.
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting a variety of fall and Halloween events at recreation centers throughout the city through Oct. 31st.
   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. A great way to reduce food waste is to freeze foods such as bread, sliced fruit, leftovers, or meat. It keeps it from getting wasted and is ready for you when you need it. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 

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   October 21, 2021

   • Today, Mayor Carter announced a vaccine requirement for all City of Saint Paul workers. Key aspects of the policy include:

     • All City of Saint Paul workers are required to complete a vaccination series by Dec. 31, 2021.  
     • Meeting this requirement will also include providing proof of vaccination, and attesting to vaccination status, except in those instances when employees may qualify for an accommodation or religious exemption.  
     • Since testing only provides a way to determine if someone has COVID after they’ve already contracted it, offers no protection for an unvaccinated individual, nor for any individuals they interact with, the vaccine requirement will not include an opt-out for testing. 
     • Additional information for City workers will be published by the Saint Paul Department of Human Resources on Friday, Oct. 22.  

   • Minnesota has launched ‘Kids Deserve a Shot,’ a vaccine incentives program rewarding Minnesotans 12-17 years old for completing their COVID-19 vaccine series. This program comes as the State continues to drive vaccination efforts and awareness across Minnesota, with a focus on boosting vaccination among this least-vaccinated age group. The program consists of two sets of rewards: a $200 Visa gift card, and five drawings of $100,000 Minnesota college scholarships for any Minnesotan 12-17 years old with a complete vaccine series in 2021. 
   • October is #CyberMonth and we’ll be sharing tips and information to help you #BeCyberSmart and avoid falling victim to cybercrimes. Your cell phone holds some of your most sensitive, personal information. If your phone ends up in the wrong hands, someone could steal your identity, buy stuff with your money, or hack into your email or social media accounts. Learn more from the Minnesota Attorney General on how to protect yourself from smartphone scams phone.

   • On Oct. 19, Public Works started the annual Residential Fall Sweep. Crews will sweep approximately 530 miles of residential streets in the next four to six weeks, weather dependent. Street sweeping protects our environment and lakes and rivers by keeping out debris, but also keeps our storm sewers working properly, preventing back ups and flooding on streets and private property.

     To help the sweeping efforts on all residential streets, please:

     • Do NOT sweep leaves, dirt or additional garbage in the streets. This is illegal, makes it harder to get the streets fully clean, and slows down the entire sweeping process.
     • Follow all “No Parking” signs, which will be posted 24 hours in advance. Please move all vehicles off the streets.
     • Do NOT put garbage and recycling carts in the streets. Please keep all carts on the boulevard.

     Additionally, residents can sign up to adopt a drain. Help protect our waterways by adopting a storm drain.

   • MEA No-School programming on Oct. 21-22. On days Saint Paul Public Schools are not in session, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation offers half-day, full-day, and drop-in programs. 
     • Rec Check (grades 1-5) at 22 locations from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Cost: Free.
     • Drop-in and open gym programs for youth, families, and adults.

   • The City of Saint Paul is seeking experienced development teams to reimagine the former Hamm’s Brewery Complex on Saint Paul’s East Side. Be part of the city’s growth while reflecting and preserving an important piece of its history through the redevelopment of this site.

   • Residents can now review and provide feedback on the proposed art design concepts for the entrances to the Exchange Street Tunnel, which is part of the Eastbound Kellogg RiverCentre Bridge reconstruction project. These designs were based on the first community engagement survey in which a majority of respondents indicated a preference for a design that reflects the natural landscape in the area, including the Mississippi River and the bluffs. Share your thoughts by completing a short feedback form by Nov. 30. For more information about the Eastbound Kellogg RiverCentre Bridge, please visit the project webpage.

   • You could be eligible for up to $3,600 per child with the Federal Child Tax Credit. If you aren’t getting the monthly payments already and didn’t file taxes this year, you can still sign up until Nov. 15. Need help signing up? Prepare + Prosper can help you claim your credit now if you:

     • Aren’t required to file taxes (earn less than $12,400 if single or $24,800 if married filing jointly)
     • Haven’t filed taxes this year
     • Have a valid Social Security (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
     • Your child has a Social Security Number

     Make an appointment to meet virtually or over the phone. 

   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting a variety of fall bonfires, festivals, and Halloween events. 
     • Movies in the Parks Scary Movie Series. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome. The last movie is tomorrow, Oct. 22 with a showing of "Get Out" at Como Picnic Pavilion.
     • Recreation centers are hosting fall and Halloween events through Oct. 31st.
   • Take the Minnesota Street Survey! Share your feedback on some different reconstruction options for Minnesota Street in downtown Saint Paul. 
   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. Don’t just pick it and forget it. Prep your fruits and veggies as soon as you get home from your shopping trip. We teamed up with the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts to learn how to prep veggies while minimizing waste. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 

   • #RecycleSmart: Keep shredded paper out of your recycling cart. Shredded paper can either be bagged and placed in your garbage cart or dropped off for recycling at one of many Ramsey County local shredding businesses.

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   October 14, 2021

   • October is #CyberMonth and we’ll be sharing tips and information to help you #BeCyberSmart and avoid falling victim to cybercrimes. Uh-oh, you just realized that you clicked on a potentially dangerous link or opened a questionable attachment. What now?    
     • If you think a scammer has your information, like your Social Security, credit card, or bank account number, go to IdentityTheft.gov. There you’ll see the specific steps to take based on the information that you lost.  
     • If you think you clicked on a link or opened an attachment that downloaded harmful software, update your computer’s security software. Then run a scan.   
     • Help fight scammers. If you receive a phishing email, forward it to the Anti-Phishing Working Group. If you receive a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726). You can also, report all phishing attacks to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. 

   • MEA No-School programming on Oct. 21-22. On days Saint Paul Public Schools are not in session, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation offers half-day, full-day, and drop-in programs. 
     • Rec Check Extended (grades 1-5) at Edgcumbe, Frogtown, or Hazel Park Recreation Centers from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost: $10/day *Registration closes Monday, Oct. 18.
     • Rec Check (grades 1-5) at 22 locations from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Cost: Free.
     • Drop-in and open gym programs for youth, families, and adults.

   • Como Zoo and Conservatory updates.
     • Como Zoo welcomes its newest resident, Kulu, a 725 pound male polar bear. Kulu comes to Como Zoo with a new innovative tracking device, one of several prototypes in the “Burr on Fur” Program. Developed through a partnership with Polar Bears International and 3M, the “Burr on Fur” Program advanced prototype devices stick to a polar bear’s fur, providing a minimally invasive way of tracking wild polar bears. Visitors to Como now can see Kulu in the deep-water exhibit of the Polar Bear Odyssey habitat.
     • The Fall Flower Show opened Saturday, Oct. 9 and features a variety of chrysanthemums and fall favorites. The first half of the Fall Flower Show runs Oct. 9 – 31. The second half of the Fall Flower Show runs Nov. 6 28. There will be a mid-show change Nov. 1 – 5 in which the Sunken Garden will be closed, but all other rooms of the Conservatory will remain open to the public. 
     • Reservations and face masks are required for all Como Zoo & Conservatory visitors.
   • The City of Saint Paul is updating the Bicycle Plan. This plan update will focus on separated bike lanes and shared use paths because they provide a comfortable space for people of all ages and abilities to bike and move throughout Saint Paul. Take the short survey by Oct. 31.

   • Families First Housing Pilot Program. Giving kids a stable home to study and learn in is more essential than ever. If you need help with rent, check out the City of Saint Paul’s Families First Housing Pilot. Qualified Saint Paul families receive $300/month in rent assistance for three years. 

     • Hmong: Yuav kawm kom paub ntau ntxiv txog txoj hauj lwm Families First Housing Pilot, mus saib hauv stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Somali: Si aad wax dheeraad ah uga ogaato Families First Housing Pilot, booqo stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Spanish: Para obtener más información sobre el programa Piloto para la Vivienda Family First, visite stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Karen: လၢ ကမၤလိအါထီၣ်ဘၣ်ဃးဒီး Families First ဟံၣ်ဃီတၢ်ရဲၣ်တၢ်ကျဲၤအဂီၢ်, လဲၤကွၢ်ဖဲ stpaul.gov/families-first.

   • The second half of 2021 Ramsey County property tax payments are due Friday, Oct. 15. Payment can be made online, by mail, in person or at a payment drop box. Watch a video explaining property values and taxes.

   • Comcast RISE Investment Fund applications are open through Oct. 14. Small businesses owned by people of color in the Twin Cities, including those in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties, may apply for a $10,000 grant from the Comcast RISE Investment Fund. Comcast will award $1 million in grants to 100 eligible small businesses in the Twin Cities. 

   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. Did you forget what's in the back of the fridge? Fridge organization can have a huge impact on your amount of food waste. Use these tips for organizing your fridge and freezer to keep foods fresh longer – and use them. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 
   • Do you need help paying your rent or utilities? Assistance is available for Saint Paul and Ramsey County residents. Eligible renters can qualify for rent and utility assistance for up to 15 months (this includes assistance with a future month’s rent!). If you are in need of support, apply on our website or connect with a field navigator who can help you apply today.
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting Movies in the Parks Scary Movie Series. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome. 
     • TOMORROW! Oct. 15: "The Shining" at Mears Park
     • Oct. 22: "Get Out" at Como Picnic Pavilion
     • Recreation centers are hosting additional fall and Halloween events all month long.

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   October 7, 2021

   • October is #CyberMonth and we’ll be sharing tips and information to help you #BeCyberSmart and avoid falling victim to cybercrimes. A first step to being more “cyber smart” is learning to spot phishing attempts. Phishing is when scammers use email or text messages to trick you into giving them your personal information, like passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. Following these tips to avoid phishing through emails:

     • Make sure to read to full email address of the sender. If the email address looks suspicious don’t click on anything!
     • Hover over all the links before clicking on them to make sure the link destination looks legitimate.
     • Read any email that include URLs or file attachments with extra scrutiny.

   • Saint Paul Public Library is celebrating the publication of “Children’s Stories,” a book of folk tales and stories created in partnership with five local writers from the Karen community in Minnesota. The celebration on Saturday, October 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Arlington Hills Library, (1200 Payne Avenue) will include dance and musical performances, readings by the authors, family activities, and more. This program is made possible by the Minnesota Art & Cultural Heritage Funds.

   • As the City recognizes national Digital Inclusion Week in Saint Paul, Saint Paul Public Library announces the addition of two digital navigators to support digital equity across the city by working directly with community members to increase digital inclusion and improve access to library resources, services, and programs. The Library also offers Wi-Fi hotspots for checkout to support access for all City residents. This program is funded by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education using federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services Grants to States program.

   • DEADLINE EXTENDED: The Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) is looking to partner with community members through the Financial Empowerment Community Council (FECC). The council will monitor citywide financial empowerment metrics and indicators, review the effectiveness of OFE activities and initiatives, and provide feedback and advice on OFE partnerships, community engagement, policy platform, research agenda, and potential grant opportunities. View the board positions and apply online. Application deadline has been extended to October 13. 

   • The second half of 2021 Ramsey County property tax payments are due Friday, Oct. 15. Payment can be made online, by mail, in person or at a payment drop box. Watch a video explaining property values and taxes.

   • Comcast RISE Investment Fund applications are open through October 14. Small businesses owned by people of color in the Twin Cities, including those in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington Counties, may apply for a $10,000 grant from the Comcast RISE Investment Fund. Comcast will award $1 million in grants to 100 eligible small businesses in the Twin Cities. 

   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. Did you know fresh fruit and vegetables make up the largest percentage of household waste by weight? Check out this storage cheat sheet for tips on how to store your fruits and veggies so they last longer. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitteras we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 

   • #RecycleSmart: Keep kids’ toys, sporting equipment, and large plastic items out of your City of Saint Paul recycling cart. These items cannot be sorted at recycling facilities. They often contain more than one material (plastic, metal, textiles, or batteries) making them impossible to recycle. Do your part by purchasing high-quality (or used) items and donating items that are in good shape when you’re done with them.

   • The City of Saint Paul currently has six open VISTA positions to work within City departments or with partner organizations. We are looking for members of the community to join us for a year of service. Roles and job duties include community engagement, volunteer recruitment, healthcare access, senior living support, equity training, and more. All positions allow VISTAs to attend school during off-hours, and offer a stipend and health care benefits. Applications are due by Oct. 10.
   • Do you need rent or utility help?  Assistance is available for Saint Paul and Ramsey County residents. Eligible renters can qualify for rent and utility assistance for up to 15 months (this includes assistance with a future month’s rent!). The State of Minnesota’s eviction moratorium is lifting and evictions for non-payment of rent can start on Oct. 12, unless renters have a pending application submitted for assistance. If you are in need of assistance, apply on our website or connect with a field navigator who can help you apply today.

   • Ramsey County will begin offering Pfizer booster shots at clinics on Saturday, Oct. 9. Booster shots will be available by appointment only. COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are only available to people who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago, and who are either 65 years and older, or have underlying underlying medical conditions, or work or in high-risk settings.

     Booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines have not yet been determined to be needed, nor approved. If you initially received either Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines you are not eligible for a booster at this time.

     Can’t remember which vaccine you received, or if it was at least six months ago? Look up your vaccine record on the Docket app or contact the Minnesota Department of Health to get your COVID-19 vaccination information.

   • Additional updates from Saint Paul Public Library:

     • Saint Paul Public Library is partnering with The Zen Bin to host a series of workshops intentionally created for community members to offer safe spaces, healing, and support. Residents ages 16 and up are invited to explore a different theme every other week at Rondo Library from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Registration is required. 

     • All Saint Paul Public School school students automatically get a Library Go virtual library card to access physical items and online resources.

     • Saint Paul Public Library’s in-person Homework Centers are open for free, drop-in assistance at five library locations across Saint Paul. Homework Centers offer students of all ages support, technology, and resources to study independently or with the help of volunteer tutors.

   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting Movies in the Parks Scary Movie Series. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome. 
     • TOMORROW! Oct. 8: "IT" (2017) at Lake Phalen
     • Oct. 15: "The Shining" at Mears Park
     • Oct. 22: "Get Out" at Como Picnic Pavilion (details coming soon)

2. September 2021

   September 30, 2021

   • Do you need rent or utility help?  Assistance is available for Saint Paul and Ramsey County residents. Eligible renters can qualify for rent and utility assistance for up to 15 months (this includes assistance with a future month’s rent!). The State of Minnesota’s eviction moratorium is lifting and evictions for non-payment of rent can start on Oct. 12, unless renters have a pending application submitted for assistance. If you are in need of assistance, apply on our website or connect with a field navigator who can help you apply today.

   • Ramsey County will begin offering Pfizer booster shots at clinics on Saturday, Oct. 9. Booster shots will be available by appointment only. COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are available for the following people who received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago:

     • 65 years and older.
     • 18+ who have underlying medical conditions.
     • 18+ who work in high-risk settings.
     • 18+ who live in high-risk settings.

     Booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines have not yet been determined to be needed, nor approved. If you initially received either Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines you are not eligible for a booster at this time.

     Can’t remember which vaccine you received, or if it was at least six months ago? Look up your vaccine record on the Docket app or contact the Minnesota Department of Health to get your COVID-19 vaccination information.

   • Leading up to Wolf Awareness Week (Oct. 17-23), Como Zoo & Conservatory is excited to welcome two new resident wolves into Como’s Wolf Woods habitat, and announce the opening of a new wolf traveling exhibit. Nicky and Cerberus, two-and-a-half-year-old male littermates born at the Wildlife Science Center in Stacy, Minnesota, will be on exhibit beginning Oct. 1.

   • The City of Saint Paul currently has six open VISTA positions to work within City departments or with partner organizations. We are looking for members of the community to join us for a year of service. Roles and job duties include community engagement, volunteer recruitment, healthcare access, senior living support, equity training, and more. All positions allow VISTAs to attend school during off-hours, and offer a stipend and health care benefits. Applications are due by Oct. 10.

   • Saint Paul Regional Water Services has canceled the Highland Park water tower open house for October. The parking lots around the tower are being repaved and work continues on the parking lot to the north of the Highland tower. Due to the construction activity surrounding the site, the open house usually held in October has been canceled. Water utility staff are looking forward to hosting both the summer and fall open houses in 2022.

   • Updates from the Saint Paul Public Library.

     • Saint Paul Public Library is partnering with The Zen Bin to host a series of workshops intentionally created for community members to offer safe spaces, healing, and support. Residents ages 16 and up are invited to explore a different theme every other week at Rondo Librarybeginning Sept. 30, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Registration is required. 

     • All Saint Paul Public School school students automatically get a Library Go virtual library card to access physical items and online resources.
     • The transformed Rice Street Library Children's Area features new books, resources, and a beautiful interactive wall mural, designed and painted by library staff and artists, AJ and Z, with contributions by young library visitors. Watch the mural come alive in this time lapse video or highlights from the ribbon cutting ceremony. 

     • Saint Paul Public Library’s in-person Homework Centers are open for free, drop-in assistance at five library locations across Saint Paul. Homework Centers offer students of all ages support, technology, and resources to study independently or with the help of volunteer tutors.

   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting Movies in the Parks Scary Movie Series. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be on-site. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome.  
     • TOMORROW! Oct. 1: "Hocus Pocus" at Como Picnic Pavilion
     • Oct. 8: "IT" (2017) at Lake Phalen
     • Oct. 15: "The Shining" at Mears Park
     • JUST ANNOUNCED! Oct. 22: "Get Out" at Como Picnic Pavilion (details coming soon)
   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. A great way to reduce food waste and save money is to find creative ways to use food scraps that would otherwise go to waste. Check out these a-peeling ideas for how to use a banana peel. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 
   • DEADLINE TODAY: Ramsey County Emergency Management & Homeland Security is currently collecting public input to help update the county’s multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. Our community is vulnerable to a variety of potential natural disasters, which threaten the loss of life and property in the county. Share your thoughts about public perception and opinions regarding hazards in Ramsey County by completing a short online survey by Sept. 30.
   • DEADLINE TOMORROW: The Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) is looking to partner with community members through the Financial Empowerment Community Council (FECC). The council will monitor citywide financial empowerment metrics and indicators, review the effectiveness of OFE activities and initiatives, and provide feedback and advice on OFE partnerships, community engagement, policy platform, research agenda, and potential grant opportunities. View the board positions and apply online. Priority application deadline is tomorrow, October 1. 

   • Voting information for Ramsey County voters.

     • Vote before election day in-person or by mail. Ballots must be received by Ramsey County elections by Nov. 2 to be counted. 

     • Register to vote or update your address online through Oct. 12. (Pre-register to vote as a 17-year-old if you will be 18 years old when the next election occurs.) Residents may also register when they vote at in-person absentee voting locations or at their polling place on Election Day. Proof of residence is required for in-person registration. 

   • Free masks available for students and families this fall. Ramsey County’s A Mask for Everyone program is an initiative to ensure that individuals and families have access to quality masks and accurate information about mask use to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Masks are available in several sizes from toddler to adult. 

     • Mascarillas gratis para estudiantes y familias

     • Cov ntaub npog qhov ncauj qhov ntswg pub dawb rau cov me nyuam kawm ntawv thiab tsev neeg

     • Maaskaraha bilaashka ah oo loogu talagalayardayda iyo qoysaska
     • Haguuggii fuulaa bilisaa barattootaa fi maatiif
   • With rain bringing much needed relief from the drought in several areas across the state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services is no longer mandating watering restrictions. The utility continues to encourage customers to practice water conservation measures where they can as a matter of general water use. Learn more about the current drought status and frequently asked questions. You may also sign up for email alerts.

   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

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   September 23, 2021

   • With rain bringing much needed relief from the drought in several areas across the state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services is no longer mandating watering restrictions. The utility continues to encourage customers to practice water conservation measures where they can as a matter of general water use. Learn more about the current drought status and frequently asked questions. You may also sign up for email alerts.
   • Saint Paul Regional Water Services was voted the winner of the 2021 “Best in Glass”drinking water taste test at this year’s Annual Conference for the Minnesota Section of the American Water Works Association. 

   • Saint Paul Public Library’s in-person Homework Centers return the week of September 27 and will be open for free, drop-in assistance at five library locations across Saint Paul. Homework Centers offer students of all ages support, technology, and resources to study independently or with the help of volunteer tutors.

     • Rondo Library will celebrate the opening of its Homework Center with an open house and vaccine clinic for the community on September 27 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Families can meet volunteer tutors and learn more about homework help and other programs at the library. Several community organizations will join to share information, including Messianic Care/Black Nurses Rock who will provide Pfizer vaccines for youth and adults 12 and older in partnership with Ramsey County and the Stairstep Foundation. 

   • The Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) is looking to partner with community members through the Financial Empowerment Community Council (FECC). The council will monitor citywide financial empowerment metrics and indicators, review the effectiveness of OFE activities and initiatives, and provide feedback and advice on OFE partnerships, community engagement, policy platform, research agenda, and potential grant opportunities. View the board positions and apply online. Priority application deadline is October 1. 
   • Weekly Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. A shopping list is an easy way to shop smart and prevent food waste. When making your list, shop your fridge and cupboards first, then make a meal plan, and use your shopping list to avoid buying food that you already have at home. Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 

   • Join City staff Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. for a discussion about the proposed Phase 1 of the 1-4 Unit Housing Study. This study is exploring the potential to create more neighborhood-scale housing types that are missing across the city. The webinar will go over the Planning Commission’s public hearing draft of the proposed Phase 1 amendments, what they mean and how you can submit public comment on the study.

   • Ramsey County Emergency Management & Homeland Security is currently collecting public input to help update the county’s multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. Our community is vulnerable to a variety of potential natural disasters, which threaten the loss of life and property in the county. Share your thoughts about public perception and opinions regarding hazards in Ramsey County by completing a short online survey by Sept. 30.
   • #RecycleSmart, do your part to keep plastic bags and plastic wrap out of your City of Saint Paul recycling cart. These items tangle in equipment at recycling facilities. Choose reusable options or take items to a participating business for recycling.
   • COVID Community Coordinators (CCCs) are community-based organizations that connect Minnesota’s diverse communities to COVID testing, vaccination, and other resources. COVID Community Coordinators support Minnesotans who need COVID-19 information specific to their communities, including in their languages. Coordinators help community members find and get critical resources to deal with health concerns, as well as employment, food access, housing, child care, and legal rights. Search for a COVID Community Coordinator that fits your needs.
   • Fall updates from Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.
     • Outdoor aquatic centers, Phalen Beach, and splash pads are closed for the season. Great River Water Park at Oxford Community Center is open. 
     • Movies in the Parks scary movie series kicks off this week on Saturday, Sept. 25. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be available. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome. 
     • Fall activity registration is open! Browse upcoming activities and events.
     • Fitness in the Parks will continue with a limited schedule as long as weather permits. The schedule will be adjusted so keep checking back for updates. Follow Fitness in the Parks on Facebook for other announcements and weather cancellations.

   • Voting information for Ramsey County voters.

     • Vote before election day in-person or by mail. Ballots must be received by Ramsey County elections by Nov. 2 to be counted. 

     • Register to vote or update your address online through Oct. 12. Residents may also register when they vote at in-person absentee voting locations or at their polling place on Election Day. Proof of residence is required for in-person registration. 

   • Free masks available for students and families this fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends everyone wear masks indoors at K-12 schools. If your child is in need of face masks for the 2021-2022 school year, you can request masks for free through Ramsey County’s A Mask for Everyone program. Masks are available in several sizes from toddler to adult. A Mask for Everyone is an initiative to ensure that individuals and families – specifically racially, ethnically and culturally diverse communities – have access to quality masks and accurate information about mask use to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

   • September is National Preparedness Month. During September, Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents to prepare and plan for an emergency. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance. HSEM's website outlines steps to follow to make your plan as well as other emergency preparedness resources.
   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

   ---

   September 16, 2021

   • Today, the Minnesota Department of Health announced a new mobile app that gives Minnesotans access to their immunization record faster. Minnesotans can now easily access their immunization record through their smartphones or other mobile devices by using an app called Docket. Docket enables residents with a Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) record to securely view and share their immunization records, even if they were given by different health care providers in Minnesota.

   • With our nation’s leaders more frequently proposing potential immigration reforms, the City of Saint Paul is launching an awareness campaign about Fraudulent Immigration Services. The campaign aims to inform Saint Paul community members about how to identify, prevent, respond to, and report fraudulent immigration services. 
   • Food Too Good To Waste virtual challenge. A lot of the food waste that is produced is food that could have been eaten. Research shows 30% of edible food goes to waste in the United States. This past summer, the City of Saint Paul launched Food too Good to Waste, a special pilot project with 145 families to fight food waste. Now you can join us for our virtual food waste challenge! Follow us each week on Facebook and Twitter as we share helpful tips for #FoodWasteFridays. 

   • Another Citywide Drop-Off Event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 18 at Minnesota State Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Please enter eastbound on Larpenteur Avenue. Properly dispose of unwanted appliances, electronics, mattresses, and box springs for a fee. Cardboard, paper for shredding, and food donations for local organizations will be accepted for free. Please visit the website to see a list of accepted materials, prices, and other event details.

   • Absentee voting for Ramsey County voters. Absentee voting for the general election begins tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 17. If you’d like to vote by mail, you can request your ballot and it will be sent to you later this month. Ballots must be received by Ramsey County elections by Nov. 2 to be counted. You can also vote in person at Ramsey County’s Elections Office in Saint Paul beginning Sept. 17. All voters can vote absentee in Minnesota. 

     Register to vote or update your address online through Oct. 12. Residents may also register when they vote at in-person absentee voting locations or at their polling place on Election Day. Proof of residence is required for in-person registration. A list of approved documentation and sample ballots are available online. 

   • The City of Saint Paul's free meal service has transitioned from curbside pick-up back to its usual schedule and format. Through a partnership with Youthprise, free suppers and snacks for youth 18 years of age and under will be available at designated recreation centers around Saint Paul. Learn more and view the 2021-22 school-year meal schedule.
   • Fall updates from Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.
     • Outdoor aquatic centers have closed for the summer, but Great River Water Park at Oxford Community Center is now open. Phalen Beach will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. - 7 p.m. through September 26, weather depending.
     • Fall activity registration is open! Sign up for dance, martial arts, badminton, cooking, babysitting training, yoga, senior classes, arts & crafts, skateboarding and more! Registration is also open for school-year Rec Check, S'more Fun, and Recreation for Preschoolers. Browse upcoming activities and events.
     • Fitness in the Parks will continue with a limited schedule through September (weather permitting). The schedule will be adjusted throughout the month so keep checking back for updates. Follow Fitness in the Parks on Facebook for other announcements and weather cancellations.

     • Movies in the Parks scary movie series is back this fall. Grab a costume and a friend because you won't want to come alone! Food trucks will be available. Movies are free to attend and all are welcome. 

   • Join Dr. Lynne Ogawa, Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director, for a virtual community conversation on Sept. 22 at 4 p.m. about COVID-19 vaccines and testing. Ask Dr. Ogawa your COVID-19 questions while learning how to protect yourself, your family and our community during the ongoing pandemic. The conversation is hosted by Ramsey County’s COVID-19 Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team and Public Health. You can submit questions in advance by email or ask during the event.

   • Free masks available for students and families this fall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends everyone wear masks indoors at K-12 schools. If your child is in need of face masks for the 2021-2022 school year, you can request masks for free through Ramsey County’s A Mask for Everyone program. Masks are available in several sizes from toddler to adult. A Mask for Everyone is an initiative to ensure that individuals and families – specifically racially, ethnically and culturally diverse communities – have access to quality masks and accurate information about mask use to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

   • Saint Paul is hiring paid, on-call Snow Emergency Ticketing Workers who can work a day or night shift during the City’s declared snow emergencies for the 2021-2022 winter season. Applicants must be 18 years or older and have a valid Class D driver’s license. $18/hr. Applications have been extended through Sept. 20.

   • Downtown Saint Paul will see some shifting of bus routes due to construction over the next few years. When it’s over, routes 3, 16, 62, 67, and 75 will either be on Robert St. or Minnesota St. Your input is critical as Metro Transit considers both these options. Learn about proposed changes and share your thoughts through a short survey by Sept. 18.

   • September is National Preparedness Month. During September, Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents to prepare and plan for an emergency. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance. HSEM's website outlines steps to follow to make your plan as well as other emergency preparedness resources.
   • As severe drought conditions continue to impact communities across the State, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is still implementing required watering restrictions. In order to conserve our valuable water resources, customers are now required to restrict their lawn watering to odd or even days of the month based on address number, with odd-number address on odd days and even numbered addresses on even days. Outdoor watering may only take place before noon or after 6 p.m. Learn more about the current drought status, frequently asked questions about these required restrictions, and other ways you can conserve water. You may also sign up for email alerts. 

     • Servicios de agua de la región de Saint Paul anuncia restricciones de riego en medio de las condiciones de sequía en curso

     • Kev Tshaj Tawm Txog Tej Kev Txwv Txiav Ywg Dej Hauv Ib Cheeb Tsam Saint Paul

   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

   ---

   September 9, 2021

   • Another Citywide Drop-Off Event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 18 at Minnesota State Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Please enter eastbound on Larpenteur Avenue. Come drop off large or unwanted items for a fee. Please visit the website to see an updated list of accepted materials.

   • Absentee voting for Ramsey County voters. Absentee voting for the general election begins Friday, Sept. 17. If you’d like to vote by mail, you can request your ballot and it will be sent to you later this month. You can also vote in person at Ramsey County’s Elections Office in Saint Paul beginning Sept. 17. All voters can vote absentee in Minnesota. 

   • Through a partnership between the State of Minnesota and YMCA of the North, free Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines will be offered to all Minnesotans 12 years of age and older at 14 YMCA locations. Minnesotans will be able to walk-in or make an appointment onlineand can receive either their first or second dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The YMCA vaccine clinics will not require any form of personal identification or medical insurance. Language interpretation, American Sign Language (ASL) and ADA accommodations will be available onsite.
   • #RecycleSmart: Propane tanks, helium tanks, and other pressurized cylinders should never be put in your City of Saint Paul recycling carts.It is illegal and they are extremely dangerous for sorting staff. Properly dispose of tanks at the Ramsey County Hazardous Waste Collection site for free.  
   • Jobs available with the City of Saint Paul and partner organizations.
     • Saint Paul is hiring paid, on-call Snow Emergency Ticketing Workers who can work a day or night shift during the City’s declared snow emergencies for the 2021-2022 winter season.Applicants must be 18 years or older and have a valid Class D driver’s license. $18/hr. Apply online by Sept. 13, 2021. 
     • Fast track your career at a Metro Transit hiring event where you can apply and interview for full-time positions in one visit. Hiring events are happening on Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. - noon and Sept. 14 from 4 - 7 p.m. New drivers start at more than $20/hour, and receive benefits, such as a hiring bonus, pension, unlimited ride bus pass, health care, and annual salary increases.
     • Saint Paul Public Schools is in search of quality staff for part-time work in their Discovery Club child care program. $15/hour. No evening or weekend shifts required. 

   • Downtown Saint Paul will see some shifting of bus routes due to construction over the next few years. When it’s over, routes 3, 16, 62, 67, and 75 will either be on Robert St. or Minnesota St. Your input is critical as Metro Transit considers both these options. Learn about proposed changes and share your thoughts through a short survey by Sept. 18.

   • The Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission(PCIARC) will host the PCIARC Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Summit on Sept. 14 at 5 p.m. The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. Come learn about the complaint review process, meet the commissioners, and join us for food, music, and community. The PCIARC LEP event welcomes all, especially those who primarily speak languages other than English. Register online or contact the PCIARC at civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 
   • September is National Preparedness Month. During September, Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents to prepare and plan for an emergency. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance. HSEM's website outlines steps to follow to make your plan as well as other emergency preparedness resources.
   • As severe drought conditions continue to impact communities across the State, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is still implementing required watering restrictions. In order to conserve our valuable water resources, customers are now required to restrict their lawn watering to odd or even days of the month based on address number, with odd-number address on odd days and even numbered addresses on even days. Outdoor watering may only take place before noon or after 6 p.m. Learn more about the current drought status, frequently asked questions about these required restrictions, and other ways you can conserve water. You may also sign up for email alerts. 

     • Servicios de agua de la región de Saint Paul anuncia restricciones de riego en medio de las condiciones de sequía en curso

     • Kev Tshaj Tawm Txog Tej Kev Txwv Txiav Ywg Dej Hauv Ib Cheeb Tsam Saint Paul

   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

   ---

   September 2, 2021

   • Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced two new semi-permanent COVID-19 community testing sites in Saint Paul and Bloomington.
     • The Saint Paul site is located in Roy Wilkins Auditorium, 175 West Kellogg Blvd. Testing at the Saint Paul site will occur Monday – Thursday, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
     • The Bloomington site is located at 9930 Logan Ave. S (former DMV). Testing at the Bloomington site will occur Monday – Friday, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
     • Testing is free at all of the state's community testing sites. Appointments can be made through the Vault Health registration site. Walk-ins are also accepted.
   • Community vaccination sites at MSP Terminal 2 (open to general public) and MSP Terminal 1 (terminal access required) are administering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine through Sept. 21. Get your shot at Terminal 2 and enter for a chance to win a $200 travel voucher through Sun Country Airlines. 
   • $100 vaccine rewards available though the State of Minnesota or Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health initiatives. 
     • The State of Minnesota is offering $100 Visa gift cards on site to the first 3,600 Minnesotans who get their first COVID-19 vaccine dose at the Minnesota State Fair. The incentive comes after the conclusion of Minnesota’s successful $100 COVID-19 vaccine incentive program, with nearly 80,000 Minnesotans who received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine since July 30 signing up for the reward. 
     • Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health will provide VISA gift cards to everyone that gets vaccinated at a Saint Paul – Ramsey county Public Health-operated clinic through Sept. 16 or while supplies last.
       • Reciba su vacuna contra el COVID-19 de forma gratuita - hasta $100 en tarjetas de regalo

       • Txhaj koj koob tshuaj tiv thaiv kab mob COVID-19 tsis tau them nyiaj - ntxiv ntau txog $100 ua daim npav khoom plig

       • Talaallii COVID-19 kee kan tolaa fudhadu - Dabalataan kaardii kennaa hamma $100

       • Hel Tallaalkaaga COVID-19 ee bilaashka ah - oo lagu daray illaa $100 ee Kaararka hadiyadda

   • September is National Preparedness Month. During September, Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents to prepare and plan for an emergency. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance. HSEM's website outlines steps to follow to make your plan as well as other emergency preparedness resources. 
   • The Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC) will host the PCIARC Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Summit on Sept. 14 at 5 p.m. The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. Come learn about the complaint review process, meet the commissioners, and join us for food, music, and community. The PCIARC LEP event welcomes all, especially those who primarily speak languages other than English. Register online or contact the PCIARC at civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 
   • Fast track your career at a Metro Transit hiring event where you can apply and interview for full-time positions in one visit. Hiring events are happening on Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. - noon and Sept. 14 from 4 - 7 p.m. New drivers start at more than $20/hour, and receive benefits, such as a hiring bonus, pension, unlimited ride bus pass, health care, and annual salary increases.
   • As severe drought conditions continue to impact communities across the State, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is still implementing required watering restrictions. In order to conserve our valuable water resources, customers are now required to restrict their lawn watering to odd or even days of the month based on address number, with odd-number address on odd days and even numbered addresses on even days. Outdoor watering may only take place before noon or after 6 p.m. Learn more about the current drought status, frequently asked questions about these required restrictions, and other ways you can conserve water. You may also sign up for email alerts.

     • Servicios de agua de la región de Saint Paul anuncia restricciones de riego en medio de las condiciones de sequía en curso

     • Kev Tshaj Tawm Txog Tej Kev Txwv Txiav Ywg Dej Hauv Ib Cheeb Tsam Saint Paul

   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

3. August 2021

   August 26, 2021

   • Lost your vaccine card? You should get a card when you get your COVID-19 vaccination that includes the name of the vaccine product and the date you got it. Follow recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health on what to do if you've lost your vaccine card. Information is available in English, Spanish, Hmong, and Somali.
   • $100 vaccine rewards available though the State of Minnesota or Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health initiatives. 
     • NEW! Governor Tim Walz announced that the State of Minnesota will offer $100 Visa gift cards on site to the first 3,600 Minnesotans who get their first COVID-19 vaccine dose at the Minnesota State Fair. The incentive comes after the conclusion of Minnesota’s successful $100 COVID-19 vaccine incentive program, with nearly 80,000 Minnesotans who received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine since July 30 signing up for the reward. 
     • Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health will provide VISA gift cards to everyone that gets vaccinated at a Saint Paul – Ramsey county Public Health-operated clinic, while supplies last.
       • Reciba su vacuna contra el COVID-19 de forma gratuita - hasta $100 en tarjetas de regalo

       • Txhaj koj koob tshuaj tiv thaiv kab mob COVID-19 tsis tau them nyiaj - ntxiv ntau txog $100 ua daim npav khoom plig

       • Talaallii COVID-19 kee kan tolaa fudhadu - Dabalataan kaardii kennaa hamma $100

       • Hel Tallaalkaaga COVID-19 ee bilaashka ah - oo lagu daray illaa $100 ee Kaararka hadiyadda

   • The City of Saint Paul is updating the Bicycle Plan. This plan update will focus on separated bike lanes and shared use paths because they provide a comfortable space for people of all ages and abilities to bike and move throughout Saint Paul. Find out more and take the short survey.

   • Changes coming to free meals program. When the pandemic began, the City shifted it's free meals program to serve families in need to a curbside pick-up format. After almost 18 months and more than two-million meals served, it will now begin transitioning back to the usual free meals schedule and set-up. The last day for curbside pick-up will be tomorrow, Aug. 27. Through a partnership with Youthprise and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, free suppers and snacks for youth 18 years of age and under will be available at designated recreation centers around Saint Paul. 

   • Seize the summer sun at an outdoor event or swimming session. There is still time to catch Saint Paul Parks and Recreation's Music in the Parks, Movies in the Parks, Fitness in the Parks, and Free family fishing nights programs. Additional Aquatics updates for the fall are below: 
     • Highland Park Aquatic Center will offer late-season hours from September 7-12, weather depending. Programs include late-season open swim, lap swim, water aerobics, and tot time schedules. 
     • Phalen Beach will be open daily from 12pm-7:30pm through September 6, then open on Saturdays and Sundays only from 12pm-7pm through September 26.
     • Great River Water Park will reopen on Monday, September 13. Programs include fall open swim, lap swim, water aerobics, and tot time schedules. Registration for fall swimming lessons is now open.
     • Como Regional Park Pool will close for the season after September 6.
   • #RecycleSmart: Clothes, linens, and other textiles should never be placed in your City of Saint Paul recycling container. Find companies who accept reusable textiles. Non-reusable clothes and linens may be turned into rags or should be placed in your garbage container.
   • As severe drought conditions continue to impact communities across the State, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is implementing required watering restrictions which went into effect Tuesday, Aug. 17. In order to conserve our valuable water resources, customers are now required to restrict their lawn watering to odd or even days of the month based on address number, with odd-number address on odd days and even numbered addresses on even days. Outdoor watering may only take place before noon or after 6 p.m. Learn more about the current drought status, frequently asked questions about these required restrictions, and other ways you can conserve water. You may also sign up for email alerts.

     • Servicios de agua de la región de Saint Paul anuncia restricciones de riego en medio de las condiciones de sequía en curso

     • Kev Tshaj Tawm Txog Tej Kev Txwv Txiav Ywg Dej Hauv Ib Cheeb Tsam Saint Paul

   • Families First Housing Pilot Program. Giving kids a stable home to study and learn in is more essential than ever. If you need help with rent, check out the City of Saint Paul’s Families First Housing Pilot. Qualified Saint Paul families receive $300/month in rent assistance for three years. 

     • Hmong: Yuav kawm kom paub ntau ntxiv txog txoj hauj lwm Families First Housing Pilot, mus saib hauv stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Somali: Si aad wax dheeraad ah uga ogaato Families First Housing Pilot, booqo stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Spanish: Para obtener más información sobre el programa Piloto para la Vivienda Family First, visite stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Karen: လၢ ကမၤလိအါထီၣ်ဘၣ်ဃးဒီး Families First ဟံၣ်ဃီတၢ်ရဲၣ်တၢ်ကျဲၤအဂီၢ်, လဲၤကွၢ်ဖဲ stpaul.gov/families-first.

   • Mayor Melvin Carter has announced both his 2022 City Budget Proposal and 2022 Library Budget Proposal. 
   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

   ---

   August 19, 2021

   • As severe drought conditions continue to impact communities across the State, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is implementing required watering restrictions which went into effect Tuesday, Aug. 17. In order to conserve our valuable water resources, customers are now required to restrict their lawn watering to odd or even days of the month based on address number, with odd-number address on odd days and even numbered addresses on even days. Outdoor watering may only take place before noon or after 6 p.m. Learn more about the current drought status, frequently asked questions about these required restrictions, and other ways you can conserve water. You may also sign up for email alerts.

     • Servicios de agua de la región de Saint Paul anuncia restricciones de riego en medio de las condiciones de sequía en curso

     • Kev Tshaj Tawm Txog Tej Kev Txwv Txiav Ywg Dej Hauv Ib Cheeb Tsam Saint Paul

   • Mayor Melvin Carter has announced his 2022 Library Budget Proposal. While last year's budget scaled back City services including Saint Paul Public Libraries due to the uncertainties of the pandemic, the Mayor's 2022 Library Budget Proposal restores library hours and staffing to ensure residents have access to the libraries they want and need in their neighborhoods.

     The Mayor's 2022 proposal also includes a new five-year strategy for the City's Capital Improvement Budget, including an $8.1 million investment over the next two years for the Hamline Midway Library. This supports the ability to explore two unique and impactful options to shape the future of the 91-year-old library building including the renovation and expansion of the existing building or the development of a new one. 
      

     • The 2022 Library Budget Address can be viewed on Saint Paul Public Library Facebook at facebook.com/stpaulpubliclibrary. 

     • A video, full text, and a PDF copy of the Address can be found at sppl.org/library-budget-address/.

     • The full set of budget proposal materials can be viewed at stpaul.gov/budget. 

   • Last week, Mayor Melvin Carter announced his 2022 City Budget Proposal. The proposed budget totals $713 million and a proposed 6.9% property tax levy increase which amounts to an increase of $10.58 per month for a median value home. 

   • Following a vote by the City Council on Wednesday, Aug. 18, the City of Saint Paul will fully eliminate off-street parking minimums for real estate developments in Saint Paul. This change will remove all currently required parking minimums across the city, modernizing Saint Paul’s zoning codes and aligning them with best practices for land use while reducing administrative burdens for small businesses and developers.

   • The City of Saint Paul is hosting an Electronics-Only Drop-off Event this Saturday, Aug. 21, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Residents can bring their broken laptop, old cell phone, electrical cords, and other unusable electronics to Washington Tech High School (1495 Rice Street) for proper disposal and recycling. 

   • Saint Paul is now hiring paid, on-call Snow Emergency Ticketing Workers who can work a day or night shift during the City’s declared snow emergencies for the 2021-2022 winter season. Applicants must be 18 years or older and have a valid Class D driver’s license. $18/hr. Apply online by Sept. 13, 2021.

   • Fast track your career at a Metro Transit hiring event where you can apply and interview for full-time positions in one visit. Their next hiring event is this Saturday, Aug. 21 at 9 a.m. Can't make this one? Additional hiring events are happening on Sept. 11 and 14. New drivers start at more than $20/hour, and receive benefits, such as a hiring bonus, pension, unlimited ride bus pass, health care, and annual salary increases.

   • $100 vaccine rewards available though the State of Minnesota or Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health initiatives. 
     • Governor Walz extended the State's $100 vaccine reward initiative through Aug. 22. Minnesotans 12 years and older who receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine between July 30 and Aug. 22 are eligible for a $100 Visa gift card through a state of Minnesota program. 
     • Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health will provide VISA gift cards to everyone that gets vaccinated at a Saint Paul – Ramsey county Public Health-operated clinic starting Aug. 13, while supplies last.
   • Reminder: Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.

   ---

   August 12, 2021

   • Today, Mayor Melvin Carter announced his 2022 City Budget Proposal. The proposed budget totals $713 million and a proposed 6.9% property tax levy increase which amounts to an increase of $10.58 per month for a median value home. 

     Amid the ongoing impacts of the challenges we have faced over these past 18 months, this proposal supports a shared vision for revitalization and sustainability to begin our long-term rebuilding processes right away. This proposal includes restoring critical services interrupted by the pandemic, starting a new program to support low-income homeowners who are housing cost burdened and establishing the City of Saint Paul Office of Neighborhood Safety. 

     With today's release of the 2022 Budget Address, the Mayor has also laid out a vision for leveraging the enormous potential of American Rescue Plan funds over the next several years including:

     • Investing $40 million for neighborhood safety strategies
     • Investing $40 million for housing strategies
     • Investing $40 million for jobs and career readiness programs.

     Learn more and watch the video presentation.

   • Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carterhas issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Businesses are also encouraged to institute indoor face covering requirements for all individuals in alignment with recently released CDC guidance, which recommends all individuals to wear face coverings indoors in areas with “substantial” (50-100 cases per 100,000) or “high” (100+ cases per 100,000) transmission of COVID-19. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.
   • Minnesotans 12 years and older who receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine between July 30 and Aug. 15 are eligible for a $100 Visa gift card through a state of Minnesota program.
   • Saint Paul Parks & Recreation's fall activity registration is now open.Activities and events are available for all ages. 
     • Movies in the Parks has added a Scary Movie Series in September and October. 
     • Information for the 2021-22 school-year after school and no school day programs are now available including Rec Check, S'more Fun, and Recreation for Preschoolers.
   • River safety reminders. The Saint Paul Fire Department responds to numerous calls for service annually that involve the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs and caves. Please take a moment to review our rules and regulations and watch this safety video from Saint Paul Parks and Recreation and the Saint Paul Fire Department.

   • Families First Housing Pilot Program. Giving kids a stable home to study and learn in is more essential than ever. If you need help with rent, check out the City of Saint Paul’s Families First Housing Pilot. Qualified Saint Paul families receive $300/month in rent assistance. 

     • Hmong: Yuav kawm kom paub ntau ntxiv txog txoj hauj lwm Families First Housing Pilot, mus saib hauv stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Somali: Si aad wax dheeraad ah uga ogaato Families First Housing Pilot, booqo stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Spanish: Para obtener más información sobre el programa Piloto para la Vivienda Family First, visite stpaul.gov/families-first.
     • Karen: လၢ ကမၤလိအါထီၣ်ဘၣ်ဃးဒီး Families First ဟံၣ်ဃီတၢ်ရဲၣ်တၢ်ကျဲၤအဂီၢ်, လဲၤကွၢ်ဖဲ stpaul.gov/families-first.
   • Amid ongoing drought conditions impacting communities across our state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is encouraging customers to stay updated on current efforts regarding outdoor water use and encouraging customers to conserve water.
     • Limit outdoor watering to odd or even days of the month based on their address number, with odd-number addresses on odd days and even-numbered address on even days. Lawns only need 1 inch of water a week, so outdoor watering can be limited to only once or twice a week on your odd or even day.
     • Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
     • Check outdoor hoses and pipes for leaks.

   Learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions, including other ways you can conserve water during this ongoing drought. You may also sign up for email alerts.

   • #RecycleSmart, do your part by purchasing high-quality items and donating items that are in good shape. Plastic lawn furniture, laundry baskets, plastic toys, and other large plastic items can't be placed in your City of Saint Paul recycling cart. Recycling facilities are not designed to handle these items. 

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   August 5, 2021

   • Amid the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant, Mayor Melvin Carter has issued Executive Order 2021-33 requiring face coverings in City-controlled properties for all employees and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Businesses are also encouraged to institute indoor face covering requirements for all individuals in alignment with recently released CDC guidance, which recommends all individuals to wear face coverings indoors in areas with “substantial” (50-100 cases per 100,000) or “high” (100+ cases per 100,000) transmission of COVID-19. Face coverings are also required inside all Ramsey County facilities.
   • Amid ongoing drought conditions impacting communities across our state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is encouraging customers to stay updated on current efforts regarding outdoor water use. Please limit outdoor watering to odd or even days of the month based on their address number, with odd-number addresses on odd days and even-numbered address on even days. (Helpful tip: Lawns only need 1 inch of water a week, so outdoor watering can be limited to only once or twice a week on your odd or even day.) SPRWS also reminds customers to limit watering to cooler times of the day, before noon or after 6 p.m., to minimize evaporation. SPRWS continues to monitor conditions and will announce additional conservation efforts as the situation changes. Learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions, including other ways you can conserve water during this ongoing drought. You may also sign up for email alerts.

   • Ramsey County invites the community to a celebration on August 11 for the completion of the Dale Street reconstruction project. The celebration will begin at 9 a.m. with a walk from Rondo Community Library to the south end of the bridge and conclude with remarks, ribbon cutting and refreshments. 

   • COVID-19 vaccines are available through state, county, and community clinics. Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health offers free vaccine clinics in locations throughout the community. Locations include Arlington Hills Community Center, Oxford Community Center, pop-up clinics at a variety of events around Saint Paul, and a select number of community vaccination sites. Minnesota is winding down its mass vaccination sites, while continuing efforts to make vaccines accessible with smaller community vaccination sites. Vaccines are being administered at both terminals at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport through August 7, and the Mall of America is continuing to take walk-ins. All other sites are only administering second doses and will end before August 7. 
     • Community Connectors help residents navigate myths and rumors surrounding COVID-19, answer questions and provide accurate information about vaccines. Connectors can also help make appointments or recommend walk-up vaccination sites.
     • Companies across the country are offering support and rewards to individuals to get their vaccines, including free rides to vaccination clinics or free childcare during vaccination appointments. Minnesotans who get their shot July 1 through August 7 at MSP Airport’s Terminal 2 will be entered into a weekly drawing for a $500 travel voucher through Sun Country Airlines. NEW! The State of Minnesota is offering a new incentive for anyone 12 years of age and older who receive their first dose between July 30 and August 15 will be eligible for a $100 Visa gift card.
   • Support Saint Paul's community members who need a helping hand with Neighbors Helping Neighbors and Listening House. Flexible volunteer hours are available at two sites, Listening House and Freedom House, both located near downtown Saint Paul. Volunteers have the opportunity to help in the kitchen, assist with laundry, organize donations, offer support to guests, and more. Socially distanced options are available. Sign up for these volunteer spots or to be connected with other community volunteer organizations. 
   • Last week, Governor Tim Walz announced Minnesota’s ‘Vax to School’ campaign encouraging students and families to get fully vaccinated by the beginning of the school year. Minnesotans 12 years of age and older are authorized to receive the two-dose Pfizer vaccine, which takes five weeks to go from first dose to fully vaccinated. To kick off the campaign, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) released a video of educators from across Minnesota calling on students and families to get vaccinated to ensure a safe and worry-free school year.
     

     Currently only one-third of Minnesotans 12-15-years-old and less than half of Minnesotans 16-17-years-old are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Unvaccinated kids remain vulnerable to life-threatening symptoms and long-term health consequences from virus exposure.

   • Reminder: Our City of Saint Paul newsletter will now be sent once a week on Thursdays. We will continue to update our subscribers with timely City announcements and emergency updates as those situations arise. For the latest information, follow the City's Twitter account at Twitter.com/cityofsaintpaul or Facebook page at Facebook.com/cityofsaintpaul.

4. July 2021

   July 29, 2021

   • Today, Governor Tim Walz announced Minnesota’s ‘Vax to School’ campaign encouraging students and families to get fully vaccinated by the beginning of the school year. Minnesotans 12 years of age and older are authorized to receive the two-dose Pfizer vaccine, which takes five weeks to go from first dose to fully vaccinated. To kick off the campaign, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) released a video of educators from across Minnesota calling on students and families to get vaccinated to ensure a safe and worry-free school year.

     Currently only one-third of Minnesotans 12-15-years-old and less than half of Minnesotans 16-17-years-old are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Unvaccinated kids remain vulnerable to life-threatening symptoms and long-term health consequences from virus exposure.

   • Amid ongoing drought conditions which are impacting communities across our state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is encouraging customers to follow an alternating watering schedule. SPRWS customers are asked to limit their outdoor watering to odd or even days of the month based on their address number, with odd-number addresses on odd days and even-numbered address on even days. SPRWS customers are also asked to limit watering to cooler times of the day, before noon or after 6 p.m., to minimize evaporation. SPRWS is monitoring conditions and will announce additional conservation efforts as the situation changes. Learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions, including other ways you can conserve water during this ongoing drought.

   • Dakota County and the City of Saint Paul celebrated the completion of the new Robert Piram Regional Trail, a 3.6-mile paved trail connecting Harriet Island in Saint Paul and Kaposia Landing Park in South St. Paul. The trail provides access to an extended network of trails and regional greenways and offers a safe route for pedestrians and bicyclists along the Mississippi River corridor.

   • Saint Paul's National Night Out is on Tuesday, August 3, 2021. National Night Out is an annual nationwide event that encourages residents to get out in the community, meet neighbors, and partner with police. The Saint Paul Police Departments encourages all residents to participate. Learn more about National Night Out.

   • Emergency rental assistance is now available for Saint Paul residents. Program funds help eligible renters with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. Qualifying renters are able to receive up to 15 months in total financial assistance. Rent is still due, and the State of Minnesota’s eviction moratorium is beginning to lift. If you are in need of emergency rental assistance, reach out to a Saint Paul field navigator below to start your application today. Renters with an outstanding claim for rent help are not allowed to be evicted before June 1, 2022.

   • Federal Child Tax Credit direct payments to nearly all working families started earlier this month. For those who qualify, look for a deposit labeled “CHILDCTC” in your bank account. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. To get money to families sooner, the IRS will send families half of their 2021 Child Tax Credit as monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year. Child Tax Credit information is available in multiple languages. Learn more frequently asked questions. 
   • Beginning August 5, our City of Saint Paul newsletter will be sent once a week on Thursdays. We will continue to update our subscribers with timely City announcements and emergency updates as those situations arise. For the latest information, follow the City's Twitter account at Twitter.com/cityofsaintpaul or Facebook page at Facebook.com/cityofsaintpaul.

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   July 26, 2021

   • This summer, the City of Saint Paul is partnering with local businesses and organizations to bring an exciting series of science and technology programs and activities for youth called Summer Swarm. Mayor Carter invites you, your family, friends and neighbors to join in the fun! Visit the Tech For All webpage to learn about these upcoming technology activities like a TikTok Video Production class, a pop-up video game truck, creating employment pathways in the tech industry, and more! 
   • Amid ongoing drought conditions which are impacting communities across our state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is encouraging customers to follow an alternating watering schedule. SPRWS customers are asked to limit their outdoor watering to odd or even days of the month based on their address number, with odd-number addresses on odd days and even-numbered address on even days. SPRWS customers are also asked to limit watering to cooler times of the day, before noon or after 6 p.m., to minimize evaporation. SPRWS is monitoring conditions and will announce additional conservation efforts as the situation changes. Learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions, including other ways you can conserve water during this ongoing drought.
   • Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s free concert series, “Groovin’ In The Garden,” hosts it's final concert this Wednesday, July 28 featuring local musicians Kiss the Tiger. Pack a picnic and dancing shoes, spread out a blanket & join for this free outdoor concert and activities in front of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory from 6 - 8 p.m. Food, ice cream treats, beer and wine will be available to purchase. The event will happen rain or shine! (If it rains, the event will move inside the Visitor Center Porch next to the Water Gardens.) Please note the Zoo and Conservatory close at 6 p.m. These are outdoor concerts and reservations for the concerts are not required. 

   • In partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation's Youth Tackle Football will be offered free of charge for Fall 2021. Equipment, such as a helmet, shoulder pads, jersey, and football pants are provided to participants and returned at the end of the season. Registration is open through July 31.
   • Saint Paul Youth Commission is accepting applications until July 31. The Youth Commission provides young people the opportunity to get involved in their community, grow their network, and play a role in making Saint Paul a city that works for all of us. 

   • #RecycleSmart, do your part to keep needles and sharps out of your City of Saint Paul recycling cart. Prevent injuries and disease transmission by properly disposing of needles and syringes. 

   • Beginning August 5, our City of Saint Paul newsletter will be sent once a week on Thursdays. We will continue to update our subscribers with timely City announcements and emergency updates as those situations arise. For the latest information, follow the City's Twitter account at Twitter.com/cityofsaintpaul or Facebook page at Facebook.com/cityofsaintpaul.

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   July 22, 2021

   • Amid ongoing drought conditions which are impacting communities across our state, Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) is encouraging customers to follow an alternating watering schedule. SPRWS customers are asked to limit their outdoor watering to odd or even days of the month based on their address number, with odd-number addresses on odd days and even-numbered address on even days. SPRWS customers are also asked to limit watering to cooler times of the day, before noon or after 6 p.m., to minimize evaporation. SPRWS is monitoring conditions and will announce additional conservation efforts as the situation changes. Learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions, including other ways you can conserve water during this ongoing drought.
   • Vaccine clinics are available through state, county, and community clinics. Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health offers free vaccine clinics in locations throughout the community. Locations include Arlington Hills Community Center, Oxford Community Center, Harding High School, Washington Tech Magnet, pop-up clinics at a variety of events around Saint Paul, and a select number of community vaccination sites. Minnesota is winding down its mass vaccination sites, while continuing efforts to make vaccines accessible with smaller community vaccination sites. Vaccines are being administered at both terminals at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport through August 7, and the Mall of America is continuing to take walk-ins. All other sites are only administering second doses and will end before August 7. 
     • Community Connectors help residents navigate myths and rumors surrounding COVID-19, answer questions and provide accurate information about vaccines. Connectors can also help make appointments or recommend walk-up vaccination sites.
     • Companies across the country are offering support and rewards to individuals to get their vaccines, including free rides to vaccination clinics or free childcare during vaccination appointments. Minnesotans who get their shot July 1 through August 7 at MSP Airport’s Terminal 2 will be entered into a weekly drawing for a $500 travel voucher through Sun Country Airlines.

   • Emergency rental assistance is now available for Saint Paul residents.Program funds help eligible renters with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. Qualifying renters are able to receive up to 15 months in total financial assistance. Rent is still due, and the State of Minnesota’s eviction moratorium is beginning to lift. If you are in need of emergency rental assistance, reach out to a Saint Paul field navigator below to start your application today. Renters with an outstanding claim for rent help are not allowed to be evicted before June 1, 2022.

     Field navigators from the organizations listed below are available to assist tenants with the application process and can answer questions about required documentation, program rules and requirements, and application status. 

     • Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servcio (CLUES) Rapid Response Hotline, 651-362-0162, clues.cera@clues.systems

     • Hmong American Partnership (HAP), Mai Nhia Lor, Program Manager, 651-304-6236, mainhial@hmong.org

     • Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC), Heidi Jimenez, 651-447-5152, Heidi@ledcmn.org

     • McLemore Holdings, 1-800-991-7036, rapgeneral2021@gmail.com

     • Zero Balance Project, (In the Zero Balance Project, landlords start and lead the application on behalf of their renters), zerobalanceproject@housinglink.org

   • This summer, the City of Saint Paul is partnering with local businesses and organizations to bring an exciting series of pop-up science and technology programs and activities for youth called Summer Swarm. Mayor Carter invites you, your family, friends and neighbors to join in the fun! Visit the Tech For All webpage to learn about these upcoming technology activities like Robo Wars Camp, Engineering Wizards Camp, a TikTok Video Production class, a pop-up video game truck, and more! 
   • Beginning August 5, our City of Saint Paul newsletter will be sent once a week on Thursdays. We will continue to update our subscribers with timely City announcements and emergency updates as those situations arise. For the latest information, follow the City's Twitter account at Twitter.com/cityofsaintpaul or Facebook page at Facebook.com/cityofsaintpaul.

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   July 19, 2021

   • Minnesota eviction moratorium updates. A bill overturning Governor Walz’s executive orders preventing statewide rental housing evictions went into effect on June 30, 2021. This starts an off-ramp process from the COVID-19 eviction moratorium that will gradually take effect in the coming months.

     Beginning October 13, landlords may file or proceed with an eviction action against a tenant who is eligible for rental assistance through a COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program, but refuses to either apply for assistance; provide the needed information to the landlord for them to apply for assistance on the tenant’s behalf; or provide the landlord with proof of the tenant’s application for emergency rental assistance. Landlords must provide written notice of an eviction due to nonpayment of rent to the tenant at least 15 days prior to filing.

     Don’t wait to apply for help! Renters who have applied for help through a COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program cannot be evicted for nonpayment of rent through June 1, 2022. If you need help paying rent or utility bills, explore your options today.

   • Emergency rental assistance is now available for Saint Paul residents. Program funds help eligible renters with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. Qualifying renters are able to receive up to 15 months in total financial assistance. Rent is still due, and the State of Minnesota’s eviction moratorium is beginning to lift. If you are in need of emergency rental assistance, reach out to a Saint Paul field navigator below to start your application today. Renters with an outstanding claim for rent help are not allowed to be evicted before June 1, 2022.

     Field navigators. These organizations are available to assist tenants with the application process and can answer questions about required documentation, program rules and requirements, and application status.

     • Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servcio (CLUES) Rapid Response Hotline, 651-362-0162, clues.cera@clues.systems

     • Hmong American Partnership (HAP), Mai Nhia Lor, Program Manager, 651-304-6236, mainhial@hmong.org

     • Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC), Heidi Jimenez, 651-447-5152, Heidi@ledcmn.org

     • McLemore Holdings, 1-800-991-7036, rapgeneral2021@gmail.com

     • Zero Balance Project, (In the Zero Balance Project, landlords start and lead the application on behalf of their renters), zerobalanceproject@housinglink.org

   • Federal Child Tax Credit direct payments to nearly all working families started last week. For those who qualify, look for a deposit labeled “CHILDCTC” in your bank account. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. To get money to families sooner, the IRS will send families half of their 2021 Child Tax Credit as monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year. Child Tax Credit information is available in multiple languages. Learn more frequently asked questions. 
   • Safe Summer Nights events continue this week. The Safe Summer Nights program is designed to provide opportunities for Saint Paul police officers to become acquainted with residents of the neighborhoods they serve. All events are free, feature food, activities for youth, and ample opportunities for attendees to meet their Saint Paul police officers. View the schedule and attend the next event of the season on Thursday, July 22 at Langford Park Recreation Center from 5 - 7 p.m. 

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   July 15, 2021

   • Child Tax Credit direct payments to nearly all working families start today. Look for a deposit labeled “CHILDCTC” in your bank account. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. The full benefit of the Child Tax Credit is now $300 per month per child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17. To get money to families sooner, the IRS will send families half of their 2021 Child Tax Credit as monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year. Child Tax Credit information is available in multiple languages. Learn more frequently asked questions.  

     Did you file taxes in the last two years or sign up to get a stimulus check last year? Then you don’t have to do anything to get the money you’re already owed! The IRS will automatically send you a monthly payment by direct deposit or check starting on July 15, 2021 if you are eligible. 

     Didn’t file taxes in the last 2 years? There’s one easy step to start getting your Child Tax Credit payments. Just fill out a simple form to begin receiving your monthly payments. 

   • Youth summer activities open for registration. 
     • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Summer Camps. Offering a variety of fun, safe, and structured activities for youth and teens, these full day and half day camps are designed to allow youth to connect with their peers, stay active, and engage in their community. Offerings will include arts and crafts, sports and fitness, outdoor adventures, nature exploration, games and technology, and more! Pricing varies with many free options available, including Summer Rec Check. Register online or over the phone by contacting the recreation center directly. 
     • Saint Paul Public School's Summer Learning Programs. These programs give Saint Paul students opportunities to learn new things and strengthen current academic skills. Prepare for the upcoming school year through active, fun, hands-on activities, and make progress toward graduation. All programs are free. Next session begins July 19. 
     • Saint Paul Public Library programs. Saint Paul Public Library is offering a variety of programs this summer, including Summer Spark. Summer Spark encourages kids to have fun, stay active, and keep learning all summer long. Join in the fun by attending free virtual programs and earning prizes by completing reading and activity challenges. 
     • Sprockets. Sprockets is a network of many different after-school and summer programs in Saint Paul. Sprockets improves the quality, availability, equity and effectiveness of out-of-school time learning for all youth in Saint Paul through the committed, collaborative and innovative efforts of community organizations, government, schools and other partners.
   • #RecycleSmart, do your part to avoid plastic utensils and straws. Place plastic utensils and straws in the garbage. These items cannot be placed in your City of Saint Paul recycling container because they are too small to sort at recycling facilities, and there are no recycling markets for them. 

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   July 12, 2021

   • Monthly payments for families with kids start on July 15, 2021. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. The full benefit of the Child Tax Credit is now $300 per month per child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17. To get money to families sooner, the IRS will send families half of their 2021 Child Tax Credit as monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year. Child Tax Credit information is available in multiple languages.   

     Did you file taxes in the last two years or sign up to get a stimulus check last year? Then you don’t have to do anything to get the money you’re already owed! The IRS will automatically send you a monthly payment by direct deposit or check starting on July 15, 2021 if you are eligible. 

     Didn’t file taxes in the last 2 years? There’s one easy step to start getting your Child Tax Credit payments. Just fill out a simple form to begin receiving your monthly payments. 

   • Governor Walz announced that Minnesota will wind down its mass vaccination sites, while continuing efforts to make vaccines accessible with smaller community vaccination sites. With the exception of the Mall of America location, final doses will be administered at Community Vaccination Program mass vaccination sites on or before August 7. (Minnesotans who get their shot July 1 through August 7 at MSP Airport’s Terminal 2 will be entered into a weekly drawing for a $500 travel voucher through Sun Country Airlines.) Minnesotans who have not received their vaccine are still encouraged to get one at their pharmacy or primary care provider.

   • Ramsey County is partnering with several trusted community agencies to connect residents with accurate, culturally appropriate information about the COVID-19 vaccine and opportunities to get vaccinated.Community Connectors help residents navigate myths and rumors surrounding COVID-19, answer questions and provide accurate information about vaccines. Connectors can also help make appointments or recommend walk-up vaccination sites. There are multiple Ramsey County community vaccine clinicsto choose from. 

   • Road closures on four City streets are now reopened. Four temporary road closures stood up this spring to support community members engaging in physically distant outdoor activities are now reopen to vehicles. The following Saint Paul streets are reopened to vehicle traffic:

     • Como Regional Park – East Como Lake Drive from East Como Boulevard to Lexington Parkway   
     • Phalen Regional Park – East Shore Drive from Johnson Parkway to Arlington Avenue   
     • Cherokee Regional Park – Cherokee Heights Boulevard from Baker/Chippewa to Annapolis  
     • Mississippi River Boulevard – Mississippi River Boulevard from Ford Parkway to Pelham Boulevard 

     As the City of Saint Paul continues to learn from the pandemic and adapt and respond to the needs of our community, these closures will remain a part of the conversation. Residents interested in learning about current and future plans and projects, including pending master plan updates for Mississippi River Boulevard and East Como Boulevard, should visit the future park planning webpage and subscribe to updates.

   • Safe Summer Nights events continue this week. The Safe Summer Nights program is designed to provide opportunities for Saint Paul police officers to become acquainted with residents of the neighborhoods they serve. All events are free, feature food, activities for youth, and ample opportunities for attendees to meet their Saint Paul police officers. View the schedule and attend the next event of the season on Thursday, July 15 at Battle Creek Recreation Center from 5 - 7 p.m. 
   • Youth Fall Tackle Football registration has been extended to July 31.For fall 2021, in partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, youth tackle football will be offered free of charge! Equipment, such as a helmet, shoulder pads, jersey, and football pants are provided to participants and returned at the end of the season. 
   • Saint Paul Youth Commission has extended the application deadline to July 31. The Youth Commission provides young people the opportunity to get involved in their community, grow their network, and play a role in making Saint Paul a city that works for all of us. 

   • The State of Minnesota's peacetime emergency preventing property owners from evicting residents for not paying rent has ended. Financial assistance is available to renters who owe rent and have been financially impacted by COVID-19. 

     • Ramsey County and the City of Saint Paul have teamed up to create the Saint Paul - Ramsey County Rent Assistance Program, a new tenant assistance program for Ramsey County renters struggling to pay rent due to the financial burdens of COVID-19.

     • RentHelpMN is available for COVID-19 emergency rent and utility bill assistance is currently prioritizing renters who owe back rent. Eligible renters can receive help with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. Apply for RentHelpMN online or call 211. The 211 helpline has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions about RentHelpMN 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

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   July 8, 2021

   • Temporary road closures on four City streets will reopen today, July 8. Four temporary road closures stood up this spring to support community members engaging in physically distant outdoor activities will reopen to vehicles. By the end of the day today, July 8, the following Saint Paul streets will reopen to vehicle traffic:

     • Como Regional Park -- East Como Lake Drive from East Como Boulevard to Lexington Parkway   
     • Phalen Regional Park -- East Shore Drive from Johnson Parkway to Arlington Avenue   
     • Cherokee Regional Park -- Cherokee Heights Boulevard from Baker/Chippewa to Annapolis  
     • Mississippi River Boulevard – Mississippi River Boulevard from Ford Parkway to Pelham Boulevard 

     As the City of Saint Paul continues to learn from the pandemic and adapt and respond to the needs of our community, these closures will remain a part of the conversation. Residents interested in learning about current and future plans and projects, including pending master plan updates for Mississippi River Boulevard and East Como Boulevard, should visit the future park planning webpage and subscribe to updates.

   • Metro Transit will temporarily shut down the Green Line service in downtown Saint Paul from the Capitol/Rice Street Station to Union Depot. This closure will be in place Friday, July 9 at 4:30 a.m. until Monday, July 12 at 4 a.m. Metro Transit will provide alternative bus transportation for that portion of the route during designated times. Due to the work on the rail, there were be several road closures, including 12th Street from Cedar to Robert, Minnesota Street from 12th to 11th Streets, northbound lane of Cedar Avenue from 12th to 11th Streets, southbound lane of Cedar Avenue from 12th to 7th Streets, 4th Street from Cedar Avenue to Minnesota Street, and Minnesota Street from 4th Street to Kellogg Boulevard.

   • Governor Tim Walz announced that Minnesota reached the goal set by President Biden and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to vaccinate 70% of the state’s 18-and-older population by July 4.Minnesota is only the second state in the Midwest to meet President Biden’s goal, and it leads the Midwest in the percentage of the overall population fully vaccinated (52%). Walk in or make an appointment through the Vaccine Connector at one of the state’s COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program locations or find a vaccine location near you. 

   • Monthly payments for families with kids start on July 15, 2021. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. The full benefit of the Child Tax Credit is now $300 per month per child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17. You can receive monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year.   
     

     Did you file taxes in the last two years or sign up to get a stimulus check last year? Then you don’t have to do anything to get the money you’re already owed! The IRS will automatically send you a monthly payment by direct deposit or check starting on July 15, 2021 if you are eligible. 

     Didn’t file taxes in the last 2 years? There’s one easy step to start getting your Child Tax Credit payments. Just fill out a simple form to begin receiving your monthly payments. 

   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation and Saint Paul Public Library have expanded hours at their facilities. No advance reservations are required to enter the buildings but some activities still require reservations to participate. These departments have been providing many critical programs and services throughout the last year, and are excited to mark the return of expanded business hours and additional programs and services.
   • Como Zoo has welcomed a female lesser kudu calf, born overnight on Wednesday, June 30, 2021. The baby calf is currently off exhibit while she bonds with her mother, Fjorda, and is expected to make her public debut in the next few weeks. Naming rights to the calf will be incorporated into Como Friends’ July 15th Sunset Affair Gala.

   • Volunteer with Saint Paul Natural Resources to be a Tree Steward. The free annual Tree Stewards training is happening this weekend, July 9th and 10th, and will give you the knowledge and skills to help care for trees in your community. The course includes information on best planting practices, watering of young trees, pruning suckers and sprouts, and developmental pruning on young trees.
   • Additional swimming lessons sessions have been added at Highland Park Aquatic Center. The next sessions begin July 19 and August 2. Lessons are also available at Como Pool. 

   • #RecycleSmart and keep paper cups and plates out of your recycling cart. These paper products cannot be recycled because they are often lined with plastic or contaminated with food. Do your part and avoid using disposable paper plates and cups by choosing reusable or compostable optionsinstead. 

   ---

   July 1, 2021

   • The Fourth of July is a popular time to gather with family and friends. As you celebrate, please remember that we all have a responsibility to ensure the safety of those around us. Visit Saint Paul has some ideas on where to celebrate and enjoy the holiday weekend festivities. As a reminder, City of Saint Paul offices will be closed, Monday, July 5. 

   • Temporary road closures on four City streets will reopen July 8. Four temporary road closures stood up this spring to support community members engaging in physically distant outdoor activities will reopen to vehicles next week. By the end of the day Thursday, July 8, the following Saint Paul streets will reopen to vehicle traffic:

     • Como Regional Park -- East Como Lake Drive from East Como Boulevard to Lexington Parkway   
     • Phalen Regional Park -- East Shore Drive from Johnson Parkway to Arlington Avenue   
     • Cherokee Regional Park -- Cherokee Heights Boulevard from Baker/Chippewa to Annapolis  
     • Mississippi River Boulevard – Mississippi River Boulevard from Ford Parkway to Pelham Boulevard 

     As the City of Saint Paul continues to learn from the pandemic and adapt and respond to the needs of our community, these closures will remain a part of the conversation. Residents interested in learning about current and future plans and projects, including pending master plan updates for Mississippi River Boulevard and East Como Boulevard, should visit the future park planning webpage and subscribe to updates.

   • This summer, the City of Saint Paul is partnering with local businesses and organizations to bring an exciting series of pop-up science and technology programs and activities for youth called Summer Swarm. Mayor Carter invites you, your family, friends and neighbors to join in the fun! Visit the Tech For All webpage to learn about these upcoming free technology activities like drone racing and robotics workshops this summer.

   • Como Park Zoo & Conservatory’s free concert series, “Groovin’ In The Garden”, returns featuring some of the Twin Cities’ finest musicians. Pack a picnic and dancing shoes, spread out a blanket & join for these free outdoor concerts & activities in front of the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory every Wednesday, July 7 – July 28 from 6 - 8 p.m. Food, ice cream treats, beer and wine will be available to purchase.

     • July 7 - Leslie Rich & The Rocket Soul Choir

     • July 14 - Innocent Regge Band

     • July 21 - The Flamin' Oh's
     • July 28 - Kiss The Tiger

   The event will happen rain or shine! (If it rains, the event will move inside the Visitor Center Porch next to the Water Gardens.) Please note: The Zoo and Conservatory close at 6pm. These are outdoor concerts and reservations for the concerts are not required. 

   • Join Mayor Carter at a virtual City budget roundtables session. The roundtables will focus on identifying the values and priorities of our community as part of the 2022 city budget process. The roundtables are free, open to the public and will be centered around an informative budget game that reflects the types of decisions city leaders face each year in the development of the annual city budget. Register for the offered roundtable sessions by 8 a.m. the day before the session:
     • Tuesday, July 6 - 5:30 p.m. (Register by July 5 at 8 a.m.)
     • Thursday, July 8 - 6:30 p.m. (Register by July 7 at 8 a.m.)
   • Attend the final virtual information session for employers with the new Right Track Plus program on July 8. The City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County are excited to provide COVID-impacted young adults, ages 18-24, with internships and professional development opportunities. As an employer there are many ways for you to get involved, including hosting an intern with all wages and payroll covered by Ramsey County. Attend the final one-hour long information session on Tuesday, July 8 at 1 p.m.
   • Free meals are available for Saint Paul families in need over the summer. All families with one or more children under the age of 18 are eligible. Please note that due to the Fourth of July holiday, there will be no meal service on July 5.

5. June 2021

   June 28, 2021

   • In partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, fall youth tackle football will be offered free of charge. Registration for tackle football is extended to July 31. Flag football, soccer, and lacrosse registrations will close June 30. Fall sports are offered for ages 3-14. 

   • Fitness in the Parks is up and...running! Fitness in the Parks is a free outdoor exercise program that brings a variety of fitness activities to many of Saint Paul’s beautiful parks. No registration or experience is required, and classes are open to all fitness levels. All ages are welcome. Follow Fitness in the Parks on Twitter and Facebook for updates and cancellations. They are looking for instructors. If you are a local instructor with an interest in offering fitness classes in Saint Paul, please contact katie.foss@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
   • The City of Saint Paul is partnering with Ramsey County, the Workforce Innovation Board, Allianz Field, the Midway Chamber, and CareerForce to host an upcoming in-person Midway Area Job Fair. The event will be held on Tuesday, June 29 (with a rain date of June 30) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Allianz Field. A free vaccination clinic will also be available on site. 
   • Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health offers free pop-up vaccine clinics in locations throughout the community. No ID or medical insurance is needed. Walk-ins are welcome. Additionally, the State of Minnesota offers free vaccination clinics around the state, including at both terminals at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
   • Services to support and reward getting your COVID-19 vaccine. Companies across the country are offering support and rewards to individuals to get their vaccines, including free rides to vaccination clinics or free childcare during vaccination appointments. The State of Minnesota has launched a summer vaccine reward program. The first 100,000 Minnesotans, ages 12 and older, who get their first COVID-19 vaccine between May 27 through June 30 will be eligible for a special reward. The Craft Brewers Guild and the Minnesota Distillers Guild, launched the ‘Cheers to the Vaccine’ campaign providing free or discounted drinks to vaccinated adults. Minnesotans 21 years of age and older who have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose will be eligible for a free or discounted drink at participating establishments through June 30. Establishments participating in the ‘Cheers to the Vaccine’ campaign include:
     

     Minnesotans are reminded to always drink responsibly and plan a sober ride.

     • Bad Weather Brewing Company (Saint Paul business!)
     • Bald Man Brewing
     • Dampfwerk Distillery Co.
     • Far North Spirits, Inc.
     • Isanti Spirits
     • La Dona Cerveceria
     • Lawless Distilling Company
     • L'Etoile du Nord
     • Loon Liquors
     • Lupulin Brewing Company
     • Richwood Winery
     • Royal Foundry Craft Spirits
     • Spiral Brewery
     • Stilheart Distillery and Cocktail Lounge
     • Unmapped Brewing Co.
     • Utepils Brewing Co.

   Approaching deadlines

   Make sure to get your applications and registrations in for the following items before June 30. 

   • Mortgage payment forbearance. Forbearance means that your mortgage lender could allow you to pause or reduce your payments for a limited period of time. There are two ways to get more information on mortgage payment forbearance:
     1. Contact the entity you make your mortgage payments to and request a COVID-19 forbearance.
     2. Contact a housing counseling agency in your area by calling 800-569-4287 or visiting their website.

   If you need assistance paying your mortgage after June 30, please contact a Minnesota Homeownership Center foreclosure prevention counselor.

   • Saint Paul Youth Commission. The Youth Commission is the place for young people to play a role in making Saint Paul a city that works for all of us. Apply online by June 30.
   • Ad Hoc Garbage Advisory Group. Share your thoughts and insights about Saint Paul's Citywide Garbage Program and help the City prepare for the next garbage collection contract. The Group is advisory and will not be involved with hauler negotiations, recycling, or organics collection programs. All Group meetings will be open to the public, with time for individuals to comment. Apply online by June 30. 
   • Plan, Eat, Save: Food Too Good to Waste Challenge. Whether it’s stale bread, limp carrots or more bananas than you know what to do with, chances are you’ve wasted food in the past. Making some small changes can help you waste less food while saving you both time and money. Get more out of your food (and grocery budget) by signing up for the “Food: Too Good to Waste Challenge” from July 18-August 28 to make small shifts in how you shop, prepare, store, and save food. Participants will receive a free kit to weigh their food waste weekly and be eligible for weekly incentives. Sign up by June 30.

   ---

   June 24, 2021

   • All 26 Saint Paul recreation center locations are now open for regular business hours. No advance reservations are required to enter the buildings but some activities still require reservations to participate, such as fitness rooms, walking tracks, and the Rice Arlington Batting Cages. Visit Rec Reimagined webpage for the latest status on activities and events. 

   • "We Belong Together" summer kick off at Arlington Hills Community Center this Saturday, June 26 from 1 - 4 p.m.  Join Saint Paul Public Library, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, Sprockets, and other community organizations to connect, create, play, and learn about events and activities happening at libraries and parks all summer long. Activities include live music and dance performances, drones and robotics, juggling, tennis, book giveaways, food trucks, and more! (Psst, get there at the start of the event for a special presentation with Mayor Carter and Saint Paul Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Gothard.) A Youth and Family Vaccination Clinic with the Minnesota Twins will also be on-site with free COVID-19 vaccines for individuals 12 years or older. The first 200 individuals to be vaccinated at the event will receive two complimentary tickets to the Friday, August 13 Twins vs. Tampa Bay Rays game.

   • Join Mayor Carter at a virtual City budget roundtables session. The roundtables will focus on identifying the values and priorities of our community as part of the 2022 city budget process. The roundtables are free, open to the public and will be centered around an informative budget game that reflects the types of decisions city leaders face each year in the development of the annual city budget. Register for the offered roundtable sessions by 8 a.m. the day before the session:
     • Wednesday, June 30 - 5:30 p.m. *FULL* (Register by June 29 at 8 a.m.)
     • Tuesday, July 6 - 5:30 p.m. *NEWLY ADDED* (Register by July 5 at 8 a.m.)
     • Thursday, July 8 - 6:30 p.m. (Register by July 7 at 8 a.m.)

   • Youth fall sports registration with Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is open for tackle football, flag football, soccer, and lacrosse. For fall 2021, in partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, youth tackle football will be offered free of charge! Registration for tackle football is extended to July 31, with flag football, soccer, and lacrosse registrations closing June 30. Fall sports are offered for ages 3-14.
   • Barbers & stylists can receive $1,000 grant through Shots at the Shop initiative. This program is a collaboration between the Black Coalition Against COVID, SheaMoisture, the University of Maryland Center for Health Equity, and the Biden Administration to increase COVID-19 vaccine awareness, education and engagement. Up to 1,000 barbershops and beauty salons across the country will receive a $1,000 grant from SheaMoisture to participate in the initiative before July 4, 2021. 
   • The City of Saint Paul is partnering with Ramsey County, the Workforce Innovation Board, Allianz Field, the Midway Chamber, and CareerForce to host an upcoming in-person Midway Area Job Fair. The event will be held on Tuesday, June 29 (with a rain date of June 30) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Allianz Field. A free vaccination clinic will also be available on-site. 
   • Saint Paul residents impacted by COVID-19 can still access mortgage payment forbearance through June 30. Forbearance means that your mortgage lender could allow you to pause or reduce your payments for a limited period of time. There are two ways to get more information on mortgage payment forbearance:
     1. Contact the entity you make your mortgage payments to and request a COVID-19 forbearance.
     2. Contact a housing counseling agency in your area by calling 800-569-4287 or visiting their website.

   If you need assistance paying your mortgage after June 30, please contact a Minnesota Homeownership Center foreclosure prevention counselor.

   • Newly added virtual information sessions for employers with the new Right Track Plus program. The City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County are excited to provide COVID-impacted young adults, ages 18-24, with internships and professional development opportunities. As an employer there are many ways for you to get involved, including hosting an intern with all wages and payroll covered by Ramsey County. Attend one of the added one-hour long information sessions:

     • Thursday, July 1 - 11 a.m. 
     • Tuesday, July 8 - 1 p.m.
   • Apply to serve on a new “Ad Hoc Garbage Advisory Group” to share your thoughts and insights about Saint Paul's Citywide Garbage Program and help the City frame the next garbage collection contract. The Group's advisory and will not be involved with hauler negotiations or recycling and organics collection programs. All Group meetings will be open to the public, with time for individuals to comment. Apply online by June 30. 
   • Sign up for Saint Paul's Plan, Eat, Save: Food Too Good to Waste Challenge by June 30. Whether it’s stale bread, limp carrots or more bananas than you know what to do with, chances are you’ve wasted food in the past. Making some small changes can help you waste less food while saving you both time and money. Get more out of your food (and grocery budget) by signing up for the “Food: Too Good to Waste Challenge” from July 18-August 28 to make small shifts in how you shop, prepare, store, and save food. Participants will receive a free kit to weigh their food waste weekly and be eligible for weekly incentives.

   ---

   June 21, 2021

   • Monthly payments for families with kids start on July 15, 2021. The federal American Rescue Plan increased the amount of the 2021 Child Tax Credit to support families with children. The full benefit of the Child Tax Credit is now $300 per month per child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17. You can receive monthly payments for six months (July – December 2021) and you’ll receive the remaining tax credit when you file your taxes next year.  

     Did you file taxes in the last two years or sign up to get a stimulus check last year? Then you don’t have to do anything to get the money you’re already owed! The IRS will automatically send you a monthly payment by direct deposit or check starting on July 15, 2021 if you are eligible. 

     Didn’t file taxes in the last 2 years? There’s one easy step to start getting your Child Tax Credit payments. Just fill out a simple form to begin receiving your monthly payments. 
      

   • The 2021 Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC) will host the PCIARC Annual Summit tomorrow, June 22, at 6 p.m. The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. The PCIARC Annual Summit gives community members a chance to meet PCIARC Commissioners, learn about the complaint process, hear about the work of the PCIARC over the last year, and the plans for the future. Register for the virtual event online or contact the PCIARC Coordinator, Julian Roby, at 651-266-8970 or civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 

   • Join the conversation about the Riverview Corridor Modern Streetcar Project at an virtual Open House on Wednesday, June 23 at 6 p.m. This project will improve access to jobs, education, healthcare, recreational areas, and activity centers. It will also provide a vital connection to downtown Saint Paul, the Mall of America, MSP Airport and vibrant the neighborhoods between. The event will provide project details and updates and opportunities for your questions and comments. Learn more and register for the open house. 

   • Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota’s professional sports franchises are offering a series of on-site vaccination opportunities for fans attending games. The events are part of the ‘Roll Up Your Sleeves, Minnesota Fans’ campaign. These efforts offer convenient vaccination opportunities, and build the broad community protection needed to keep their fans and our state safe. The last team franchise vaccine event is happening at the Minnesota United game on Wednesday, June 23 at Allianz Field.

   • The City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County are excited to provide COVID-impacted young adults, ages 18-24, with internships and professional development opportunities through the new Right Track Plus program. As an employer there are many ways for you to get involved, including hosting an intern with all wages and payroll covered by Ramsey County. Learn more and register for the last virtual information session happening on June 24 at 9 a.m.

   • The Saint Paul Youth Commission is now accepting applications. The Youth Commission is the place for young people to play a role in making Saint Paul a city that works for all of us. Apply online by June 30.
   • Sign up today for Saint Paul's Plan, Eat, Save: Food Too Good to Waste Challenge. Whether it’s stale bread, limp carrots or more bananas than you know what to do with, chances are you’ve wasted food in the past. Making some small changes can help you waste less food while saving you both time and money. Get more out of your food (and grocery budget) by signing up for the “Food: Too Good to Waste Challenge” from July 18-August 28 to make small shifts in how you shop, prepare, store, and save food. Participants will receive a free kit to weigh their food waste weekly and be eligible for weekly incentives.

   ---

   June 17, 2021

   • This Saturday, June 19th, the City of Saint Paul will join communities across our nation in commemorating Juneteenth, the annual celebration that marks the emancipation of the last remaining African captives on June 19th, 1865, ending the institution of American slavery in the United States. Mayor Carter has declared that Juneteenth as a new, annual paid City holiday, and City offices will be closed, Friday, June 18, in recognition of this new holiday. 
   • Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter announced a series of City budget roundtables for community members to help shape the vision for Saint Paul as we emerge from the many challenges of this past year. The roundtables will focus on identifying the values and priorities of our community as part of the 2022 city budget process.
     

     Led by the Mayor’s Office, in collaboration with the Office of Financial Services and Office of Technology and Communications, three virtual roundtables will be held in the coming weeks. The roundtables are free, open to the public and will be centered around an informative budget game that reflects the types of decisions city leaders face each year in the development of the annual city budget. Register for the offered roundtable sessions by 8 a.m. the day before the session:

     • Tuesday, June 22 - 4 p.m. (This is a corrected time from previous communications.) (Register by June 21 at 8 a.m.)
     • Wednesday, June 30 - 5:30 p.m. (Register by June 29 at 8 a.m.)
     • Thursday, July 8 - 6:30 p.m. (Register by July 7 at 8 a.m.)

   • Safe Summer Nights events continue tonight, June 17. The Safe Summer Nights program is designed to provide opportunities for Saint Paul police officers to become acquainted with residents of the neighborhoods they serve over a meal. The partnership between the Saint Paul Police Department and the Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Department hosts events at multiple recreation centers around Saint Paul to bring neighborhood families and police officers together in a picnic-type setting. All events are free, feature food, activities for youth, and ample opportunities for attendees to meet their Saint Paul police officers. View the schedule and attend the next event of the season tonight at Rice Recreation Center from 5 - 7 p.m. 

   • Music in the Parks and Movies in the Parks are back for Summer 2021. All evens take place outdoors and are weather dependent. Bring a chair or blanket with you and take in some live entertainment at a Saint Paul park! As a reminder, the drinking fountains in our parks are turned off at this time. We recommend bringing a full water bottle with you when you visit or attend an event.
   • Free meals are available for Saint Paul families in need over the summer. All families with one or more children under the age of 18 are eligible. Please note that due to the Juneteenth holiday, there will be no meal service on June 18.

   • The City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County are excited to provide COVID-impacted young adults, ages 18-24, with internships and professional development opportunities through the new Right Track Plus program. As an employer there are many ways for you to get involved, including hosting an intern with all wages and payroll covered by Ramsey County. Learn more and register for a virtual information session on June 18, 21 or 24.

   • Landlord assistance available in Ramsey County. The Zero Balance Project is now accepting applications for landlords with tenants who have been unable to make rent payments as a result of COVID-19. Applications will be accepted through June 20.
   • The 2021 Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC) will host the PCIARC Annual Summit on June 22 at 6:00 p.m. The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. The PCIARC Annual Summit gives community members a chance to meet PCIARC Commissioners, learn about the complaint process, hear about the work of the PCIARC over the last year, and the plans for the future. Register for the virtual event online or contact the PCIARC Coordinator, Julian Roby, at 651-266-8970 or civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 

   • The City of Saint Paul is partnering with Ramsey County, the Workforce Innovation Board, Allianz Field, the Midway Chamber, and CareerForce to host an upcoming in-person Midway Area Job Fair. The event will be held on Tuesday, June 29 (with a rain date of June 30) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Allianz Field.

   • Saint Paul residents impacted by COVID-19 can still access mortgage payment forbearance through June 30. Forbearance means that your mortgage lender could allow you to pause or reduce your payments for a limited period of time. There are two ways to get more information on mortgage payment forbearance:

     1. Contact the entity you make your mortgage payments to and request a COVID-19 forbearance.
     2. Contact a housing counseling agency in your area by calling 800-569-4287 or visiting their website.

     If you need assistance paying your mortgage after June 30, please contact a Minnesota Homeownership Center foreclosure prevention counselor.

   ---

   June 14, 2021

   • Today, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter announced a series of city budget roundtables for community members to help shape the vision for Saint Paul as we emerge from the many challenges of this past year. The roundtables will focus on identifying the values and priorities of our community as part of the 2022 city budget process.

     Led by the Mayor’s Office, in collaboration with the Office of Financial Services and Office of Technology and Communications, three virtual roundtables will be held in the coming weeks. The roundtables are free, open to the public and will be centered around an informative budget game that reflects the types of decisions city leaders face each year in the development of the annual city budget. Register for the offered roundtable sessions:

     • Tuesday, June 22 - 8 a.m.
     • Wednesday, June 30 - 5:30 p.m.
     • Thursday, July 8 - 6:30 p.m.
   • Phalen Beach, Highland Park Aquatic Center, Como Regional Park Pool, and splash pads are now open with regular season hours. Great River Water Park is closed for the summer 2021 season and will reopen on September 6. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation will adhere to all current CDC and MN Department of health guidelines on COVID-19. Visit the Aquatics website for rates, memberships, swimming lesson registration, splash pad locations and more.

     As a reminder, the drinking fountains in our parks are turned off at this time. We recommend bringing a full water bottle with you.

   • Apply to serve on a new “Ad Hoc Garbage Advisory Group” to share your thoughts and insights about Saint Paul's Citywide Garbage Program and help the City frame the next garbage collection contract. The Group's advisory and will not be involved with hauler negotiations or recycling and organics collection programs. All Group meetings will be open to the public, with time for individuals to comment. Apply online by June 30. 

   • Free meals are available for Saint Paul families in need over the summer. All families with one or more children under the age of 18 are eligible. Please note that due to the Juneteenth holiday, there will be no meal service on June 18.

   • The City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County are excited to provide COVID-impacted young adults, ages 18-24, with internships and professional development opportunities through the new Right Track Plus program. As an employer there are many ways for you to get involved, including hosting an intern with all wages and payroll covered by Ramsey County. Learn more and register for a virtual information session on June 15, 18, 21 or 24.

   • DEADLINE TOMORROW! The City of Saint Paul plans to rebuild the Eastbound Kellogg Boulevard RiverCentre Bridge and the Exchange Street Viaduct, which are adjacent to the RiverCentre parking ramp and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Construction is tentatively scheduled to start in 2022 depending on funding. Review preliminary designs and share your feedback through an online survey by June 15. 
   • DEADLINE TOMORROW! The first open house for the Minnesota Street Reconstruction Project is happening now through June 15. This virtual event includes a video presentation explaining the project and a survey to capture your feedback on goals and existing conditions. Check out the project website to learn more about this planned reconstruction project downtown and share your ideas with the project team.

   • Dale Street reconstruction will resume today, June 14. Ramsey County's work will reconstruct Dale Street between Iglehart and Concordia avenues. The section of Dale Street will be closed through July 30. There will also be occasional work between Concordia and University avenues for work on traffic signals, boulevard plantings and restoration, and other smaller projects. The project is expected to be fully complete by August 2021. 

   ---

   June 10, 2021

   • Sign up today for Saint Paul's Plan, Eat, Save: Food Too Good to Waste Challenge. Whether it’s stale bread, limp carrots or more bananas than you know what to do with, chances are you’ve wasted food in the past. Making some small changes can help you waste less food while saving you both time and money. Get more out of your food (and grocery budget) by signing up for the “Food: Too Good to Waste Challenge” from July 18-August 28 to make small shifts in how you shop, prepare, store, and save food. Participants will receive a free kit to weigh their food waste weekly and be eligible for weekly incentives.
   • Due to the forecasted high temperatures, Phalen Beach and Highland Park Aquatic Center will be open June 10 and 11, from noon - 8 p.m. for open swim. Regular season hours will begin at Phalen Beach, Highland Park Aquatic Center, and Como Regional Park Pool on June 12. All splash pads are now open daily from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Great River Water Park is closed for the summer 2021 season and will reopen on September 6. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation will adhere to all current CDC and MN Department of health guidelines on COVID-19. Visit the Aquatics website for rates, memberships, swimming lesson registration, splash pad locations and more.

     As a reminder, the drinking fountains in our parks are turned off at this time. We recommend bringing a water bottle with you.

   • All 13 Saint Paul Public Library locations have expanded hours and are reintroducing services, including study rooms and in-person outdoor programs. Watch for additional programming and services coming this summer.
   • The City is hosting Citywide Drop-off Events to help you get rid of appliances, electronics, and mattresses. The first one is June 12 at Harding High School (1540 6th St E) from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. At this Drop-Off Event, we will also be collecting food donations for local food shelves, so please consider bringing non-perishable and canned food items. 

   • The City of Saint Paul plans to rebuild the Eastbound Kellogg Boulevard RiverCentre Bridge and the Exchange Street Viaduct, which are adjacent to the RiverCentre parking ramp and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Construction is tentatively scheduled to start in 2022 depending on funding. Review preliminary designs and share your feedback through an online survey by June 15. 
   • The first open house for the Minnesota Street Reconstruction Project is happening now through June 15. This virtual event includes a video presentation explaining the project and a survey to capture your feedback on goals and existing conditions. Check out the project website to learn more about this planned reconstruction project downtown and share your ideas with the project team.

   • Dale Street reconstruction will resume June 14. Ramsey County's work will reconstruct Dale Street between Iglehart and Concordia avenues. The section of Dale Street will be closed through July 30. There will also be occasional work between Concordia and University avenues for work on traffic signals, boulevard plantings and restoration, and other smaller projects. The project is expected to be fully complete by August 2021. 

   • Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota’s professional sports franchises are offering a series of on-site vaccination opportunities for fans attending games in the weeks ahead. These efforts offer convenient vaccination opportunities, and build the broad community protection needed to keep their fans and our state safe. Teams are partnering with healthcare providers to offer vaccines at the following games:
     • Minnesota Lynx on Saturday, June 12, Target Center
     • Minnesota United on Wednesday, June 23, Allianz Field

   June 7, 2021

   • Last week, Mayor Melvin Carter signed Executive Order 2021-25 lifting the City of Saint Paul’s mask requirement for city-controlled facilities and licensed businesses. Amid ongoing efforts to get more in our community vaccinated, just as the City is poised to meet benchmarks set by local public health experts, the Mayor urges residents to continue taking precautions and to get vaccinated as soon as possible. 

   • Landlord assistance available in Ramsey County. The Zero Balance Project is now accepting applications for landlords with tenants who have been unable to make rent payments as a result of COVID-19. Applications will be accepted through June 20.

   • #RecycleSmart and keep plastic bags and film out of your recycling cart. Plastic bags and plastic wrap get tangled in the equipment at recycling sorting facilities. Do your part by bringing bags and plastic film to a retail drop-off for recycling or avoid plastic bags altogether by choosing to use reusable bags.
   • ENDING TOMORROW: The State Fair Community Vaccination Site (1680 Como Ave. Falcon Heights, MN 55108) is offering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone 18 years and older through tomorrow, June 8. During this window, the site is accepting online reservations and daily walk-ups from noon to 8 p.m. Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.
   • Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota’s professional sports franchises are offering a series of on-site vaccination opportunities for fans attending games in the weeks ahead. These efforts offer convenient vaccination opportunities, and build the broad community protection needed to keep their fans and our state safe. Teams are partnering with healthcare providers to offer vaccines at the following games: 
     • Minnesota Lynx on Saturday, June 12, Target Center
     • Minnesota United on Wednesday, June 23, Allianz Field
   • Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health offers free COVID-19 vaccination clinics for all eligible individuals, including Pfizer vaccines for ages 12 and older. Even if you didn’t get your first dose with Ramsey County, you can still get your second dose with them. Clinics are available throughout the month of June on Saturdays at Oxford Community Center and Sundays at Arlington Hills Community Center. 

   • The State of Minnesota has launched a summer vaccine reward program. The first 100,000 Minnesotans, aged 12 and older, who get their first COVID-19 vaccine between May 27 through June 30 will be eligible for a special reward, including Minnesota State Parks passes, gift cards, or entry tickets into a variety of Minnesota entertainment venues and events.

   • Governor Walz, in partnership with the Craft Brewers Guild and the Minnesota Distillers Guild, launched the ‘Cheers to the Vaccine’ campaign providing free or discounted drinks to vaccinated adults.Minnesotans 21 years of age and older who have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose will be eligible for a free or discounted drink at participating establishments through June 30.

     Establishments participating in the ‘Cheers to the Vaccine’ campaign include:

     • Bad Weather Brewing Company (Saint Paul business!)
     • Bald Man Brewing
     • Dampfwerk Distillery Co.
     • Far North Spirits, Inc.
     • Isanti Spirits
     • La Dona Cerveceria
     • Lawless Distilling Company
     • L'Etoile du Nord
     • Loon Liquors
     • Lupulin Brewing Company
     • Richwood Winery
     • Royal Foundry Craft Spirits
     • Spiral Brewery
     • Stilheart Distillery and Cocktail Lounge
     • Unmapped Brewing Co.
     • Utepils Brewing Co.

     Minnesotans are reminded to always drink responsibly and plan a sober ride.

   ---

   June 3, 2021

   • Yesterday, Mayor Melvin Carter signed Executive Order 2021-25 lifting the City of Saint Paul’s mask requirement for city-controlled facilities and licensed businesses. Amid ongoing efforts to get more in our community vaccinated, just as the City is poised to meet benchmarks set by local public health experts, the Mayor urges residents to continue taking precautions and to get vaccinated as soon as possible. 
   • Safe Summer Nights events begin tonight, June 3. The Safe Summer Nights program is designed to provide opportunities for police officers to become acquainted with residents of the neighborhoods they serve over a meal. The partnership between the Saint Paul Police Department and the Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Department hosts events at multiple recreation centers around Saint Paul to bring neighborhood families and police officers together in a picnic-type setting. All events are free, feature food, activities for youth, and ample opportunities for attendees to meet their Saint Paul police officers. View the schedule and attend the first event of the season tonight at the Martin Luther King Recreation Center (with Hallie Q. Brown Community Center) from 5 - 7 p.m. 

   • Due to the forecasted high temperatures, Phalen Beach, Highland Park Aquatic Center and our splash pads will open early. Phalen Beach and Highland Park Aquatic Center will be open this Saturday and Sunday, June 5-6, from 12:30pm-8pm for open swim. They will be closed during the week, then reopen for the season, along with Como Regional Park Pool, on June 12 as was previously announced. Free splash pads will also open early due to the high temperatures. Starting June 5, all splash pads will be open from 9am-9pm daily. (Please note, Great River Water Park will be closed during the summer 2021 season.) Visit the Aquatics webpage for rates, memberships, swimming lesson registration, splash pad locations and more.
   • Reminder: the State Fair Community Vaccination Site (1680 Como Ave. Falcon Heights, MN 55108) is offering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone 18 years and older through June 8. During this window, the site is accepting online reservations and daily walk-ups from noon to 8 p.m. Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.

   • The City is hosting Citywide Drop-off Events to help you get rid of appliances, electronics, and mattresses. The first one is June 12 at Harding High School (1540 6th St E). Visit stpaul.gov/drop-offs for a full list of accepted items, dates, locations, fees and additional event dates. 
   • Funeral Assistance is available through Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, their mission is to help people before, during and after disasters and are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus. FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. To apply for assistance online or call FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline at 1-844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET. Information is provided in several languages both by telephone and the website.

6. May 2021

   May 27, 2021

   • Mayor Melvin Carter delivered his 2021 State of Our City Address earlier today. The video recording and the full text of the address is available at StPaul.gov/state-of-our-city. 

   • Mayor Carter issued Executive Order 2021-23 related to adjusting skyway system closure hours. An individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system is permitted to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 10 p.m. starting on May 31, 2021 through Labor Day or the end of the stated emergency.  Notice of the revised skyway hours must be posted in conspicuous locations. The new order takes effect on May 31 and will expire at the end of 40 days after its effective date. 
   • All City offices will be closed on Memorial Day, Monday, May 31. Saint Paul Public Library will be closed on Saturday, May 29 - Monday, May 31.

   • Today, Governor Walz launched ‘Your Shot to Summer,’ the state’s COVID-19 vaccine incentive campaign encouraging Minnesotans to roll up their sleeves and get their COVID-19 vaccine during the next month. The campaign aims to get 70 percent of Minnesotans 16 years of age and older vaccinated by July 1. The first 100,000 Minnesotans who get their first shot between May 27 and June 30 will be able to choose the reward of their preference from a wide-ranging list of options, including state parks passes, fishing licenses, gift cards, and tickets to various summer attractions and events. Beginning June 1, 2021, Minnesotans can verify their first dose and indicate their preferred vaccine reward at mn.gov/covid19/summer. 

   • Governor Walz announced earlier this week that 2.5 million Minnesotans have completed the vaccination process, and last week, Ramsey County became the fourth Minnesota county to exceed a vaccination rate of 70% among those 16 and older.  The milestone comes as new COVID-19 cases, positivity rates, and hospitalizations continue to steadily decline. According to a New York Times analysis, new cases in Minnesota have dropped 49% in the last 14 days – faster than all but six other states. Minnesotans are encouraged to find appointments near them using the state’s Vaccine Locator Map or visiting Vaccines.gov to search by vaccine type.
   • Reminder: the State Fair Community Vaccination Site (1680 Como Ave. Falcon Heights, MN 55108) is offering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone 18 years and older through June 8 (open on Memorial Day, May 31). During this window, the site is accepting online reservations and daily walk-ups from noon to 8 p.m. Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.
   • Saint Paul Public Library published its 2020 Impact Report, highlighting the important role the library played in the City's response to our community's emergency needs. Last year, the library distributed 9,400 meals to families; sewed 2,200 cloth masks; gave away more than 7,400 books to young people, ensuring children could continue to safely read, play, and create all summer long; and deepened its commitment to racial healing and anti-racism work by expanding its collection of e-books focused on anti-racism.
   • The City is hosting Citywide Drop-off Events to help you get rid of appliances, electronics, and mattresses. The first one is June 12 at Harding High School (1540 6th St E). Visit stpaul.gov/drop-offs for a full list of accepted items, dates, locations, fees and additional event dates. 

   ---

   May 24, 2021

   • Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota’s professional sports franchises announced a series of on-site vaccination opportunities for fans attending games in the weeks ahead. The upcoming events are part of the ‘Roll Up Your Sleeves, Minnesota Fans’ campaign. These efforts offer convenient vaccination opportunities, and build the broad community protection needed to keep their fans and our state safe. Teams are partnering with healthcare providers to offer vaccines at the following games:

     • Minnesota Twins on Monday-Wednesday, May 24-26, Target Field
     • Minnesota Lynx on Saturday, June 12, Target Center
     • Minnesota United on Wednesday, June 23, Allianz Field

   • Anyone 18 years or older can get their first or second Moderna shots at a Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health COVID-19 vaccination clinics. Even if you didn’t get your first dose with Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health, you can still get your second dose (you must have received a first dose Moderna vaccine to get a second dose). Walk-ins available up to 15 minutes before end time.

   • The State Fair Community Vaccination Site is now offering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone 18 years and older starting this Wednesday, May 26 to June 8. During this window, the site is accepting online reservations and daily walk-ups from noon to 8 p.m. Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.

   • Community members are invited to attend a virtual healing circle tomorrow, Tuesday, May 25, 4 - 5:30 p.m. to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer and civil unrest that followed, the recent trial and verdict, and the killing of Daunte Wright in April. These circles are led by experienced individual healers who are embedded in the community and use their lived experiences, expertise and training to facilitate a welcoming, safe and comfortable environment for participants to express themselves.

   • The City of Saint Paul plans to rebuild the Eastbound Kellogg Boulevard RiverCentre Bridge and the Exchange Street Viaduct, which are adjacent to the RiverCentre parking ramp and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Construction is tentatively scheduled to start in 2022 depending on funding. Review preliminary designs and share your feedback through an online survey at www.stpaul.gov/eastboundkellogg.
   • The first open house for the Minnesota Street Reconstruction Project is happening now through June 15, 2021. This virtual event includes a video presentation explaining the project and a survey to capture your feedback on goals and existing conditions. Check out the project website to learn more about this planned reconstruction project downtown and share your ideas with the project team.
   • Join MnDOT and the City of Saint Paul for a fun live trivia game and share your hopes for the future of transportation on May 27 at 5 p.m. For more information or to explore self-paced online stories, visit: MinnesotaGo.org/stories.
   • Officials from the City of Saint Paul and Ramsey County faced off at the 8th Annual Northland Cup Hockey Game to benefit victims of domestic violence in our community and to raise support for the Saint Paul & Ramsey County Domestic Abuse Intervention Project (SPIP). The Saint Paul and Ramsey County Domestic Abuse Intervention Project exists to eliminate domestic violence against women and their children, and the social and systems responses that condone or allow its oppression. This is often the first contact a victim has with support services.

   ---

   May 20, 2021

   • Following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation, Minnesota has expanded eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine to all Minnesotans ages 12 years and older. Minnesotans age 12 to 17 are eligible only for the Pfizer vaccine (12-15 year-olds must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at state vaccination sites). Stay up to date on who is getting vaccinated. 

   • The State Fair Community Vaccination Site is now offering the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone 18 years and older from May 26 to June 8. During this window, the site is accepting online reservations and daily walk-ups from noon to 8 p.m.
     • On Saturday, May 22, Ramsey County's clinic at Oxford Community Center will offer the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Sign up for an appointment. 
     • Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.

   • Community members are invited to attend a series of virtual healing circles to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer and civil unrest that followed, the recent trial and verdict, and the killing of Daunte Wright in April. These circles are led by experienced individual healers who are embedded in the community and use their lived experiences, expertise and training to facilitate a welcoming, safe and comfortable environment for participants to express themselves.

   • Last week, Mayor Melvin Carter signed Executive Order 2021-21, requiring face masks to be worn indoors in all city-controlled facilities and at all businesses licensed by the City of Saint Paul at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking. All businesses are strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained. The renewed mask requirement comes as the statewide mask mandate lifts, and as local public health officials continue working to increase vaccination rates across the city. 

   • Join Saint Paul Parks and Recreation on May 22 for an Arbor Day tree planting. Parks and Recreation is seeking small groups of 2-4 people to help plant trees at North Dale Recreation Center. Sign your group up today.
   • Music in the Parks is back at Como Lakeside Pavilion. All shows take place outdoors on the promenade and are weather dependent. Check out the schedule and stay tuned for our 2021 schedule for Mears Park and Rice Park coming soon.
   • The Saint Paul Youth Commission is now accepting applications. The Youth Commission is the place for young people to play a role in making Saint Paul a city that works for all of us. Apply online by June 30.

   ---

   May 17, 2021

   • Last week, Mayor Melvin Carter signed Executive Order 2021-21, requiring face masks to be worn indoors in all city-controlled facilities and at all businesses licensed by the City of Saint Paul at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking. All businesses are strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained. The renewed mask requirement comes as the statewide mask mandate lifts, and as local public health officials continue working to increase vaccination rates across the city. 

     Executive Order 2021-21 applies to all individuals except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering. Acceptable face coverings include manufactured or homemade cloth face coverings, and are not required to be medical-grade masks. Face coverings must fully cover a person’s nose and mouth.  

   • The deadline for Ramsey County first-half property taxes is today, May 17. Payments will be accepted via U.S. mail, at secure form drop-off locations and electronically. A short video is available to help you better understand property taxes and valuations: 
     • English: Understanding Your Property Taxes
     • Hmoob: Totaub Txog Cov Se Tsev thiab Lub Tsev Muaj Nqis Li Cas
     • Soomaali: Fahamka Cashuuraha iyo Qiimaha Hantidaada Maguurtada
     • Español: Comprendiendo los Impuestos y Valores de Su Propiedad
     • Karen
        
   • On Saturday, May 22, Ramsey County's clinic at Oxford Community Center will offer the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Sign up for an appointment. Saint Paul–Ramsey County Public Health Medical Director Dr. Lynne Ogawa recently discussed the safety and effectiveness of the J&J vaccine in a video presentation.

   • Residents may be eligible for the federal Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB), a temporary benefit program designed to help low-income households connect to the Internet and stay connected during the COVID-19 crisis. Qualified households can receive a temporary monthly credit of up to $50/month toward their internet service and leased internet equipment until the program's funding runs out. For Comcast customers, this temporary benefit can be applied to all tiers of Xfinity Internet service, including Internet Essentials, and is available to both new and existing customers. For more information, please visit www.xfinity.com/EBB.  

   • May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Check out ways to learn about and engage in mental health and well-being throughout the month. 

   ---

   May 13, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced that Minnesota is ready to vaccinate 12 to 15 year olds this week as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorizes the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for that age group. Once CDC immunization guidance is issued, Minnesotans age 12 to 15 should be able to get vaccinated at locations where Pfizer vaccines are available. Sign up on the Vaccine Connector to make an appointment at one of the state Community Vaccination Program locations. (Walk-ins for Minnesotans 12+ will be accepted at state community vaccination sites administering Pfizer vaccines in Bloomington (Mall of America), Saint Paul (Roy Wilkins Auditorium), Lino Lakes and Oakdale.)

   • DEADLINE TOMORROW! Cultural STAR applications are due before 4 p.m. tomorrow, May 14. Need help? Check out these supporting materials:

     • Sample applications

     • Application process section of the special projects, organizational development and capital project guidelines.

     • 2021 Cultural STAR Information Session slides

     • 2021 Cultural STAR Information Session video

   • Como Park Zoo & Conservatory will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 3 at 10 a.m. to officially open its newest exhibit, Como Harbor, the new seal and sea lion habitat. Como Harbor’s forward-thinking design features include needed upgrades for Sparky the Sea Lion and her seal and sea lion friends as well as for Como’s visitors. At this time, reservations and facemasks are still required to visit Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, including for those who would like to attend the ribbon cutting. Emjoy a sneak peak of Como Harbor as well as Sparky and her friends enjoying their new home.

   • Summer opportunities for youth and families. 

     • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is offering summer camps and activitiesat various locations across the city, including the popular Summer Rec Check program (formerly known as Summer Blast.) These full day and half day camps are designed to allow youth to connect with their peers, stay active, and engage in their community. Options available for youth and teens.

     • Summer swimming lesson and sailing lesson registration is now open. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is preparing to open Highland Park Aquatic Center, Como Regional Park Pool, Phalen Beach, and splash pads on June 12. Great River Water Park will not be open this summer. Additional aquatics updates will be available throughout the summer.

     • Saint Paul Public School's Summer Learning Programs give Saint Paul students opportunities to learn new things and strengthen current academic skills. Prepare for the upcoming school year through active, fun, hands-on activities, and make progress toward graduation. All programs are free. 

   ---

   May 10, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced that eligible Minnesotans can walk in for a COVID-19 vaccination without an appointment at the state’s Community Vaccination Program locations. Walk-ins for Minnesotans 16+ are now accepted at state community vaccination sites in Bloomington (Mall ofAmerica), Saint Paul (Roy Wilkins Auditorium), Lino Lakes and Oakdale. Walk-ins for Minnesotans 18+ are now accepted at Mankato, Duluth, Rochester, and St. Cloud.

   • Join the City of Saint Paul tomorrow, May 11, at 6 p.m. for a virtual discussion on administrative citations, a new tool that’s under consideration for city ordinance compliance. RSVP to join theconversation and learn more.
      
   • Construction in Saint Paul. Minnesota can be known for our two seasons: winter and construction! Here are some of the latest construction projects happening in Saint Paul: 
     • Starting today, May 10, a portion of Mississippi River Boulevard, and theadjoining shared bike and pedestrian trail will be closed to all bike, pedestrian and vehicle traffic for construction of the Mississippi River Boulevard Crossing project at Highland Bridge. The road and trail closure will be located between Ford Parkway and Magoffin Avenue, and is expected to reopen fall 2021. Vehicles will be rerouted to Cleveland Avenue and Ford Parkway while bike and pedestrians can detour along Magoffin Avenue, Cleveland Avenue, and Highland Parkway.

     • Learn more about the two-year construction project on I-94 between Western Ave. and Mounds Blvd. and on I-35E between I-94 and University Ave. scheduled to begin this summer. Find out how this work could impact you, ways to stay informed, and plan ahead for changes. More information is available on Minnesota Department ofTransportation's project site. 

     • Ramsey County Public Works will lead or participate in dozens of 2021 projects that will improve travel and commerce throughout communities in the east metro and improve safety conditions for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and transit users. View all projects for the 2021 season, including one major project of reconstructing Cleveland Avenue between Como and Larpenteur avenues. 

   • The deadline for Ramsey County first-half property taxes is May 17.Payments will be accepted via U.S. mail, at secure form drop-off locations and electronically. A short video is available to help you better understand property taxes and valuations: 
     • English: Understanding Your Property Taxes
     • Hmoob: Totaub Txog Cov Se Tsev thiab Lub Tsev Muaj Nqis Li Cas
     • Soomaali: Fahamka Cashuuraha iyo Qiimaha Hantidaada Maguurtada
     • Español: Comprendiendo los Impuestos y Valores de Su Propiedad
     • Karen

   • Recycle Smart and keep random metal out of your recycling cart.Random metal items such as pots and pans, pipes, hangers, and tools can damage equipment and harm workers at recycling sorting facilities. Do your part by bringing random metal items to a scrap metal recycler. Find a drop-off location with Ramsey County's A to Z Recycling and Disposal Guide.

   ---

   May 6, 2021

   • Today, Governor Tim Walz announced a three-step timeline to end nearly all state COVID-19 restrictions by May 28, and end the statewide masking requirement once 70% of Minnesotans age 16 years and older get their vaccine, or by July 1. Step one begins, tomorrow, May 7 at noon and removes limits for outdoor dining, events, and other get-togethers, and ends the mask requirement outdoors except at large venues with over 500 people. It also eliminates the state-established mandatory closing time for bars and restaurants. Additional steps and continued health guidelines are outlined in the latest StaySafeMN plan.

   • The Minnesota State Fairgrounds vaccination site will be focusing on administering second-dose, follow up-appointments at the site for the next three weeks. During this time, the site will not be open for new appointments/walk-ins until approximately May 19, when appointments open for the final two weeks of Johnson & Johnson, single-dose shots. These final two weeks of Johnson & Johnson shots will take place from May 26 through June 9. Minnesotans are encouraged to sign up for the Vaccine Connector to be notified when a vaccine is available at any community vaccination clinic. 

   • Beginning May 10, a portion of Mississippi River Boulevard, and the adjoining shared bike and pedestrian trail will be closed to all bike, pedestrian and vehicle traffic for construction of the Mississippi River Boulevard Crossing project at Highland Bridge. The road and trail closure will be located between Ford Parkway and Magoffin Avenue, and is expected to reopen fall 2021. Vehicles will be rerouted to Cleveland Avenue and Ford Parkway while bike and pedestrians can detour along Magoffin Avenue, Cleveland Avenue, and Highland Parkway.

   • Summer swimming lesson and sailing lesson registration is now open. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is preparing to open Highland Park Aquatic Center, Como Regional Park Pool, Phalen Beach, and splash pads on June 12. Great River Water Park will not be open this summer. Additional aquatics updates will be available throughout the summer. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is also offering summer camps at various locations across the city.

   • RentHelpMN is available for COVID-19 emergency rent and utility bill assistance. Eligible renters can receive help with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. RentHelpMN is currently prioritizing renters who owe back rent. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance. Apply for RentHelpMN or find more information online or call 211. The 211 helpline has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions about RentHelpMN 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
      
   • The Metropolitan Council's Solar-for-Vouchers Program provides technical assistance to owners of multifamily rental property to install solar panels and reduce their energy costs. In exchange, property owners make a commitment to rent some of their units to lower-income families. Learn more about the program at a free virtual seminar on May 7 at 9:30 a.m.

   ---

   May 3, 2021

   • The U.S. Census Bureau has released the first population data fromCensus 2020. Minnesota led the nation in self-response to the census, with 75.1% of households returning their census form without additional follow up from a census taker. Explore more Minnesota Census 2020 data, including some of the highlighted points below:

     • Minnesota’s population grew by 7.6% to 5,706,494, outpacing most Midwestern states and keeping pace with the national average.

     • The state grew just enough to hold on to all eight of its congressional seats.

     • Minnesota hung on to the 435th seat in Congress by a close margin. Keeping all eight representatives in the U.S. House helps federal funding for schools, highways, and healthcare.

   • Applications are now open for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. TheUS Small Business Administration (SBA)'s Minnesota Office is hosting webinars to learn about the process. Register for one of the times below:

     • May 4 at 10 a.m. (Register)
     • May 6 at 4 p.m. (Register)
     • May 10 at 4 p.m. (Register)

     The SBA is prioritizing processing and funding applications from women, veterans, or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals for the first 21 days, but all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

   • Cultural STAR applications are now open. Loans and grants are available for arts and cultural special projects, capital projects, and organizational development. NEW! One additional online information session has been added May 5 at 5:30 p.m. Applications are due May 14 at 4 p.m.

   • Additional virtual community healing circles to support health and wellbeing have been scheduled for this month. These circles are led by experienced individual healers who are embedded in the community and use their lived experiences, expertise and training to facilitate a welcoming, safe and comfortable environment for participants to express themselves.
      
   • The Metropolitan Council's Solar-for-Vouchers Program provides technical assistance to owners of multifamily rental property to install solar panels and reduce their energy costs. In exchange, property owners make a commitment to rent some of their units to lower-income families. Learn more about the program at a free virtual seminar on May 7 at 9:30 a.m.
      
   • Based on what we know about COVID-19 vaccines, people who have been fully vaccinated can start to do some things that they had stopped doing because of the pandemic. Continue to follow CDC guidelines on what you can start doing and what you should keep doing if you are fully vaccinated. You should still protect yourself and others in many situations by wearing a mask in indoor public settings and while gathering indoors with unvaccinated people (including children or those who live with a person at increased risk) from other households. Also continue to cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, stay home if you feel ill, and follow any applicable workplace or school guidance. 

7. April 2021

   April 29, 2021

   • The Minnesota State Fairgrounds vaccination site is now offering COVID-19 vaccinations through May 4 for anyone ages 16 years and older, regardless of your zip code. Minnesotans from anywhere can walk-in or make an appointment by going online or calling 833-431-2053. Those who live in targeted zip codes closest to the State Fairgrounds site can still make appointments anytime through June 9. Vaccines are free and no insurance or government ID is required.

   • Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health has opened its large COVID-19 vaccination clinics to the general public. Public Health is now offering the two-dose Moderna vaccine for those 18 years and older at three clinics each week including, Oxford Community Center, Wellstone Community Center, and New Brighton Community Center. Registration is available online or individuals can call Ramsey County Public Health’s vaccine phone line at 651-266-1190 (Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) with questions or to get help.

     In addition to the Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health clinics, COVID vaccine is available at several sites operated by the state and federal government, health care clinics and pharmacies. Vaccines are free and no insurance or government ID is required. 
      

   • Beginning May 10, a portion of Mississippi River Boulevard, and the adjoining shared bike and pedestrian trail will be closed to all bike, pedestrian and vehicle traffic for construction of the Mississippi River Boulevard Crossing project at Highland Bridge. The road and trail closure will be located between Ford Parkway and Magoffin Avenue, and is expected to reopen fall 2021. 

   • The US Small Business Administration (SBA)’s Minnesota Office is hosting webinars to learn more about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Register for one of the offered times below:

     • May 3 at 4 p.m. This session is specifically for Hmong/Hmoob applicants.
     • May 4 at 10 a.m. 
     • May 6 at 4 p.m. 
     • May 10 at 4 p.m.

     Registration for the SBA application portal will begin at tomorrow, April 30 at 8 a.m. Applications will open on Monday, May 3 at 11 a.m. The SBA is prioritizing processing and funding applications from women, veterans, or socially and economically disadvantaged individuals for the first 21 days, but all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

   • If you missed the parking study webinars you can still watch the presentations and add your voice. Comments are due May 2 at 5 p.m.
      
   • Cultural STAR applications are now open. Loans and grants are available for arts and cultural special projects, capital projects, and organizational development. Learn more at an upcoming online information session, May 3 at 4 p.m. Applications are due May 14 at 4 p.m.

   • This week is the final week of scheduled community healing circles to support health and wellbeing. The final virtual session is tonight, April 29 at 6 p.m. The final in-person session will be at Ramsey County Library in Maplewood, tomorrow, April 30 at 3:30 p.m. (and will be youth focused).

   • Recordings are available of this month's community conversations with Ramsey County. Community members and staff discussed three areas of the county’s COVID-19 response: food security and basic needs, employment support, and the Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team.

   ---

   April 26

   • Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers from across the entire city who showed up for the 35th Annual Citywide Spring Cleanup to pick up litter in our parks and help keep the environment clean and beautiful. Thank you to our incredible site hosts and community participants for making this important event so successful. You can continue to help keep our City beautiful by making a commitment to recycle more. Choose a new item to recycle that you’ve previously thrown away, such as toilet paper rolls and empty aerosol cans, or try putting a recycling bin in a room where there wasn’t one before! Find more ideas on how you can #RecycleSmart. 

   • RentHelpMN is available for COVID-19 emergency rent and utility bill assistance. Eligible renters can receive help with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. RentHelpMN is currently prioritizing renters who owe back rent. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance. Apply for RentHelpMN or find more information online or call 211. The 211 helpline has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions about RentHelpMN 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

   • The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is seeking community feedback to plan future improvements.

     • Learn more about the two-year construction project on I-94 between Western Ave. and Mounds Blvd. and on I-35E between I-94 and University Ave. scheduled to begin this summer. Find out how this work could impact you, ways to stay informed, and plan ahead for changes. Attend a virtual open house on April 27 at noon or April 28 at 4 p.m. More information is available on MnDOT's project site. 

     • Highway 5/East 7th Street and Highway 61/Arcade Street. This potential work will include pavement resurfacing, repairing sidewalks, driveways, and trails, updating curb ramps, replacing traffic signals, adding pedestrian lighting and other upgrades to improve accessibility for everyone who uses the road. Review the interactive online map, complete the online survey, and attend a virtual public meeting on April 29 at 5 p.m. or May 3 at noon. (A recording of the public meetings will be posted on MnDOT’s project site for those unable to attend a live virtual meeting.)

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   April 22, 2021

   • The City of Saint Paul will hold the 35th annual Citywide Spring Cleanup and launch a national, app-based plastic pollution initiative this Saturday, April 24. Individuals and groups of all ages can register online to clean-up a local park. 

   • We Read Brave, now it’s time to Talk Brave with one another. Saint Paul Public Library asked Minneapolis-based author, Junauda Petrus-Nasah, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and Latrese Johnson and Moises Meza from partner Irreducible Grace Foundation to sit down together to Talk Brave about themes found in this year’s Read Brave main book selection by Petrus-Nasah, "The Stars and the Blackness Between Them". Join a live premiere on April 24 at 7 p.m. of their conversation on owning our stories, healing, accountability, and more. The link will be emailed prior to April 24.

   • The City of Saint Paul announced the names of four new city park spaces located within the Highland Bridge development project at the former Ford Motor Company site in Highland Park. Name ideas were submitted during an open call to the public for suggestions as part of the community engagement process. Final selections were made based on feedback and input from members of the Dakota community and the Saint Paul Youth Commission and received support from the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Commission. 
     

     The four park names are as follows:

     • Gateway Park (A reference to the location of the park as an important entry point to the city and the Highland Bridge development)
     • Assembly Union Park (In recognition of the site’s industrial history and those who worked at Ford Motor Company, and specifically the importance of the workforce within the union labor movement and as contributing members of the surrounding communities)
     • Uŋči Makȟa Park (“Mother Earth” in Dakota) Pronounced oon-CHEE Ma-KAH
     • Míča Park (abbreviation for “coyote” in Dakota) Pronounced MEE-cha
     • Construction on the new parks is slated to begin later this year. 
        
   • Poems wanted for the 2021 Sidewalk Poetry Contest. Saint Paul community members can submit short poems for the contest. Selected poems will be stamped into new residential sidewalks by Saint Paul Public Works for all to enjoy. The entry deadline has been extended until May 2. 

   • Saint Paul Public School's Summer Learning Programs give Saint Paul students opportunities to learn new things and strengthen current academic skills. Prepare for the upcoming school year through active, fun, hands-on activities, and make progress toward graduation. All programs are free. 

   ---

   April 19, 2021

   • Learn about Saint Paul Public Works' recommendation on the west corridor of the Capital City Bikeway. The video presentation includes Public Works’ recommendation, project history, evaluation of the three options, discussion of the interim and long-term design concepts, and next steps. Please share any comments about the project or recommendation through the online comment form, open through April 25. 

   • The City of Saint Paul is hiring. View our job listings for current jobs or subscribe to our POSTED! newsletter to get weekly updates on employment opportunities with the City.
      
   • Volunteer to clean up a neighborhood park or street with the 35th annual Citywide Spring Cleanup this Saturday, April 24. Individuals and groups of all ages can register online to pick up litter. Public health guidelines will be observed during this event, including limits on the number of participants per site and current guidelines for face coverings and social distancing. NEW THIS YEAR: Be part of an important community science project using the "Marine Debris Tracker" smartphone app. More details on the Citywide Spring Cleanup webpage. 
      
   • The City of Saint Paul has been working closely with the City of Minneapolis and surrounding agencies in preparing for the Chauvin trial. Learn more about the City's preparations, business and community resources, and other related information.

   Upcoming virtual and in-person webinars, townhalls, and community conversations:

   • Saint Paul's minimum parking requirements. 
     • Tomorrow, April 20 at noon (RSVP)

   • Ramsey County's series of CARES funding and future priorities community conversations. 

     • Tomorrow, April 20 at 4 p.m. - Employment support

     • April 27 at 4 p.m. - Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team

   • Future city parks in the Highland Bridge development. 
     • Tomorrow, April 20 at 6 p.m. (Please join early to download the WebEx app.) (Join here)
        
   • Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission's  (PCIARC) Virtual Youth Townhall
     • April 22 at 4:30 p.m. (RSVP online or contact the PCIARC Coordinator, Julian Roby, at 651-266-8970 or civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us.) 

   • Ramsey County's virtual community conversation about the COVID-19 vaccine with Dr. Lynne Ogawa and the COVID-19 Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team.

     • April 28 at 4 p.m.

   • Community healing circles to support health and wellbeing. 
     • Virtual and in-person options offered on various days, times, and locations throughout the month of April

   Vaccine Updates

   • NEW! The State of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program is expanding further as Governor Walz announced a new vaccination site in Lino Lakes at the former YMCA. The large-scale Lino Lakes site is the ninth permanent community vaccination site in Minnesota, joining Minneapolis, Duluth, Rochester, Bloomington, Saint Paul, St. Cloud, Mankato and Oakdale.
      
   • NEW! The State of Minnesota has now administered over 3 million COVID-19 doses. 50% of Minnesotan adults have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Minnesota continues to lead the nation in doses administered.

   ---

   April 15, 2021

   • Yesterday, Mayor Carter announced closures of four city streets to vehicle traffic to support physically distant outdoor activities this spring and summer. The closures support walking and biking in and around three City of Saint Paul parks areas including Como Regional Park, Phalen Regional Park and Cherokee Regional Park, as well as the southbound vehicle lane along Mississippi River Boulevard. The following streets will be closed to vehicle traffic starting tomorrow, Friday, April 16, through mid-July.
     • Como Regional Park -- East Como Lake Drive from East Como Boulevard to Lexington Parkway
     • Phalen Regional Park -- East Shore Drive from Johnson Parkway to Arlington Avenue
     • Cherokee Regional Park -- Cherokee Heights Boulevard from Baker/Chippewa to Annapolis
     • Mississippi River Boulevard – Mississippi River Boulevard from Ford Parkway to Pelham Boulevard (southbound vehicle traffic lane will be closed to vehicles, northbound vehicle lane will remain open to vehicle traffic and driveway access)

   • DEADLINE TONIGHT! Share your feedback on the City of Saint Paul's Kellogg/3^rd Street Bridge reconstruction project. View four short videos about the project and complete the feedback form by tonight, April 15.
      
   • DEADLINE TOMORROW! Help determine the future of the former Hillcrest golf course by adding your voice. Learn more about the final scenarios, watch a video, and add to the ideas board. Responses must be submitted by tomorrow, April 16.

   • Ramsey County will host a series of CARES funding and future priorities community conversations to discuss three areas of the county’s COVID-19 response. Staff will share how CARES Act funds were rapidly invested into the community and collect feedback on how additional relief funding should be invested in these areas:

     • April 19 - Food security and basic needs

     • April 20 - Employment support

     • April 27 - Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team

   • Upcoming and current volunteer opportunities in Saint Paul.
     • Volunteer to cleanup a neighborhood park or street with the 35th annual Citywide Spring Cleanup on April 24. Individuals and groups of all ages can register online to pick up litter that has recently become exposed due to the melting snow. Public health guidelines will be observed during this event, including limits on the number of participants per site and current guidelines for face coverings and social distancing. 
     • Support Saint Paul's community members who need a helping hand with Neighbors Helping Neighbors and Listening House. Flexible volunteer hours are available at two sites, Listening House and Freedom House, both located near downtown Saint Paul. Volunteers have the opportunity to help in the kitchen, assist with laundry, organize donations, offer support to guests, and more. Socially distanced options are available. Sign up for these volunteer spots or to be connected with other community volunteer organizations. 

   • #RecycleSmart by keeping shredded paper out of your City of Saint Paul recycling cart. Shredded paper can either be bagged and placed in your garbage cart or dropped off for recycling at one of many local shredding businesses.

   ---

   April 13, 2021

   • Vaccinations are by appointment only so Saint Paul residents living in any of the zip codes listed below should sign up to be notified about vaccine appointments at the fairgrounds via the Vaccine Connector. Minnesotans can call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 to schedule appointments over the phone. This line is available in multiple languages and can assist with ADA accommodations. All registrants will receive a free Metro Transit pass in their appointment confirmation. There will be no cost and Minnesotans will not need to provide an ID or medical insurance to be vaccinated. 
     • 55101, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55106, 55107, 55109, 55113, 55117, 55118, 55119, 55122, 55124, 55126, 55127, 55128, 55130, 55144, 55146, 55155, 55303, 55304, 55306, 55337, 55343, 55344, 55369, 55404, 55405, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55414, 55415, 55418, 55420, 55421, 55422, 55423, 55425, 55426, 55427, 55428, 55429, 55430, 55432, 55433, 55443, 55444, 55445, 55448, 55454, 55455, 55467.
        
   • Help determine the future of the former Hillcrest golf course by adding your voice. Learn more about the final scenarios, watch a video, and add to the ideas board. Responses must be submitted by April 16.

   • Highland Bridge updates. 

     • Join Councilmember Tolbert and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation for a virtual open house on Tuesday, April 20 at 6 p.m. about the future city parks in the Highland Bridge development. (Please join early to download the WebEx app.)

     • Public Art St. Paul is currently seeking applicants for an artist selection committee who will choose the artists responsible for creating public art on the Highland Bridge site. Applications are due by Sunday, April 18. This opportunity is open to all Saint Paul residents.

   • The 2021 Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC) will host a Virtual Youth Townhall on April 22 at 4:30 p.m. The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. The Virtual Town Hall will focus on youth engagement and participation in the PCIARC process, allow for the youth to meet PCIARC Commissioners, and provide feedback on plans for the future. Register for the virtual event online or contact the PCIARC Coordinator, Julian Roby, at 651-266-8970 or civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 
      
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation's summer camp registration is now open.  Offering a variety of fun, safe, and structured activities for youth and teens, these full day and half day camps are designed to allow youth to connect with their peers, stay active, and engage in their community. Offerings will include arts and crafts, sports and fitness, outdoor adventures, nature exploration, games and technology, and more! 
     

     Saint Paul Parks and Recreation summer camps will adhere to the CDC and MN Department of Health guidance on COVID-19. Programs offered may require modifications based on future public health recommendations. Register online or over the phone by contacting the recreation center directly.

     Summer activities for adults and seniors are also now open. 

   • It's time to update Saint Paul's minimum parking requirements. Learn more about the impacts of today's parking code, and how we can fix it by attending an upcoming webinar:
     • Thursday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. (RSVP)
     • Tuesday, April 20 at noon (RSVP)
     • Public comment is being accepted until May 2 at 5 p.m.
        
   • Cultural STAR applications are now open. Loans and grants are available for arts and cultural special projects, capital projects, and organizational development. Learn more at an upcoming online information session:
     • Tomorrow, Wednesday, April 14 at 11 a.m. 
     • Tuesday, April 20 at 5:30 p.m.
     • Thursday, April 29 at 1 p.m.
     • Monday, May 3 at 4 p.m.
     • Applications are due May 14 at 4 p.m.

   ---

   April 8, 2021

   • Minnesota will receive a federal Community Vaccination Clinic, located at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Vaccinations will begin at the Fairgrounds on April 14 (by appointment only) and serve Minnesotans living in the highest Social Vulnerability Index zip codes near the Fairgrounds, including:

     55101, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55106, 55107, 55109, 55113, 55117, 55118, 55119, 55122, 55124, 55126, 55127, 55128, 55130, 55144, 55146, 55155, 55303, 55304, 55306, 55337, 55343, 55344, 55369, 55404, 55405, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55414, 55415, 55418, 55420, 55421, 55422, 55423, 55425, 55426, 55427, 55428, 55429, 55430, 55432, 55433, 55443, 55444, 55445, 55448, 55454, 55455, 55467.

     Saint Paul residents living in any of the zip codes listed above should sign up to be notified about vaccine appointments on the Vaccine Connector. Minnesotans can call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 for language assistance and any questions about signing up for the Connector. There will be no cost and Minnesotans will not need to provide an ID or medical insurance to be vaccinated.

   • Tonight, April 8 at 6 p.m., the Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Ramsey County will host "Mapping Prejudice – Ramsey County Mapping Project." The Mapping Prejudice project is mapping racial covenants in the Twin Cities and have recently finished researching the property records of Ramsey County. Representatives of Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and the Saint Paul Housing Redevelopment Authority will join the presentation. Register online on Ramsey County’s website.
      
   • Share your feedback on the City of Saint Paul's Kellogg/3^rd Street Bridge reconstruction project. View four short videos about the project and complete the feedback form by April 15.
      
   • Poems wanted! Saint Paul community members can submit short poems for the 2021 Sidewalk Poetry Contest, a collaboration between the City of Saint Paul, Public Art Saint Paul, and Saint Paul Almanac. Entries will be accepted until April 25. Selected poems will be stamped into new residential sidewalks by Saint Paul Public Works for all to enjoy. 
      
   • Spring amenities are opening around Saint Paul.
     • Golf at Highland National, Phalen, Como and the Highland driving range has resumed. Tee times can be made online. Public health guidelines are in place.
     • Como Zoo and Conservatory's Spring Flower Show is in full bloom through May 2 at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory Sunken Garden. Advanced reservations and face coverings are required for all visits to the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. 
     • Outdoor courts and skate parks have reopened for the season. Use Saint Paul Parks and Recreation's amenities map to find an outdoor court near you. 

   ---

   April 5, 2021

   • Governor Tim Walz and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that Minnesota will receive a federal Community Vaccination Clinic, located at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The site will administer a combination of Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson doses, which will result in over 100,000 total people being vaccinated during the eight-week period. The doses administered at the Fairgrounds will be in addition to Minnesota’s regular statewide vaccine allocations. Minnesotans living in the zip codes near the Fairgrounds with the highest scores on the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index will be eligible for appointments at this site.

     Last week, Minnesota reached the milestone of 1 million Minnesotans who have completed the vaccination series. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a person is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the last required dose of vaccine.

   • Open Book Meetings for Ramsey County 2021 Property Valuations. Annual property valuation notices and tax statements for 2021 were mailed to Ramsey County property owners in mid-March. Property owners should review their value notice carefully and appeal the value now if there are questions or have a disagreement about the notice. Due to COVID-19, the 2021 open book meetings will be held via phone today, April 5 until 7 p.m. and tomorrow, April 6, from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please call Ramsey County at 651-266-2131 if you have any questions or wish to appeal. A video to learn more about how taxes are determined, how to read your statement and how to resolve questions is available in English, Hmoob, Karen, Soomali and Español. 

   • Community healing circles to support health and wellbeing begin today, April 5, and will run throughout the month. A series of virtual and in-person community healing circles are being held for residents, businesses, and community organizations to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer, the civil unrest that followed in our neighborhoods, and the ongoing trial. These healing circles, organized in partnership with Ramsey County, are one way we are supporting the health and wellbeing of our community during these difficult times. 
      
   • The Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Ramsey County will host "Mapping Prejudice – Ramsey County Mapping Project" at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 8. The Mapping Prejudice project is mapping racial covenants in the Twin Cities and have recently finished researching the property records of Ramsey County. Representatives of Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and the Saint Paul Housing Redevelopment Authority will join the presentation. Register online on Ramsey County’s website.
      
   • Support Saint Paul restaurants with #DineSaintPaul. We love our Saint Paul restaurants, and they need our continued support to keep our city thriving. We have partnered with Visit Saint Paul to encourage the community to dine-in, dine-out, get takeout & delivery from your favorite restaurants. Download their free app to unlock deals around town at restaurants, shops, attractions & more! Follow Visit Saint Paul on Facebook or visit their website, to stay up to date on ways you can #DineSaintPaul and support our neighborhood restaurants. 

   ---

   April 1, 2021

   • Volunteer to cleanup a neighborhood park or street with the 35th annual Citywide Spring Cleanup. Individuals and groups of all ages come together to pick up litter that has recently become exposed due to the melting snow. Register online, then drop by your selected cleanup site any time between 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. on April 24 to check in with your site hosts and pick-up bags and gloves. Public health guidelines will be observed during this event, including limits on the number of participants per site and current guidelines for face coverings and social distancing. 

   • Saint Paul Public Library is hosting a community self-care interactive workshop. On Saturday, April 3 at 10:30 a.m., join youth trained in mind-body wellness from one of this year’s Read Brave partners, the Irreducible Grace Foundation, for an interactive workshop. They will teach self-care tools using their own personal narratives. This workshop will equip participants with practices to calm their body and set them up with simple and effective tools to use at school and at home. Come dressed to move (with your camera on if possible)! This workshop is offered as part of Read Brave, Saint Paul Public Library’s citywide reading initiative. 

   • The Saint Paul Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Ramsey County will host "Mapping Prejudice – Ramsey County Mapping Project" at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 8. The Mapping Prejudice project is mapping racial covenants in the Twin Cities and have recently finished researching the property records of Ramsey County. Representatives of Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and the Saint Paul Housing Redevelopment Authority will join the presentation. Register online on Ramsey County’s website.
      
   • Community healing circles to support health and wellbeing begin April 5. A series of virtual and in-person community healing circles are being held for residents, businesses, and community organizations to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer, the civil unrest that followed in our neighborhoods, and the ongoing trial. These healing circles, organized in partnership with Ramsey County, are at the center of the county's trial response plan and one of the ways we support the health and wellbeing of our community during these difficult times. 
      
   • Ramsey County is offering a virtual town hall on April 2 to learn about the different stages and procedures of criminal trials in Minnesota. Participants can submit questions in advance by email or ask them during the event. This event is sponsored by the Ramsey County Black Excellence Employee Resource Group, and the Ramsey County Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team.

8. March 2021

   March 29, 2021

   • All Minnesotans age 16 and older will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccines beginning tomorrow, March 30. The final eligibility expansion comes as the federal government has promised an increased supply of vaccine by April. Learn who is getting vaccinated to find out if you can get a vaccine. Minnesota currently ranks first state in the nation for percentage of vaccine distributed administered (88.55%). Minnesota has consistently ranked in the top 10 states for percentage of vaccine doses administered for nearly one month.
   • New COVID-19 rental assistance program. The City of Saint Paul is partnering with the State of Minnesota on a new rental assistance program called COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance, which is operating under the banner of RentHelpMN. It will help eligible renters with overdue rent since April 2020, up to three months of upcoming rent at a time, and related utility payments. The program will be open for applications in the coming weeks. 
     

     Minnesota Housing will be hosting two information sessions to help landlords and renters get ready for program launch. Click the links to register.

     • Tomorrow, March 30 from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. 
     • Wednesday, March 31 from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. 

   • Annual property valuation notices and tax statements for 2021 were mailed to Ramsey County property owners in mid-March. Valuation notices include your property classification, estimated market value and taxable market value, which is used to determine property taxes payable in 2022. A video to learn more about how taxes are determined, how to read your statement and how to resolve questions is available in English, Hmoob, Karen, Soomali and Español. Review your value notice carefully and appeal your value now if you have questions or disagree with your notice. Due to COVID-19, the 2021 open book meetings will be held via phone April 5-6.

   • The 2021 Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC) will host a Virtual Youth Townhall on April 22 at 4:30 p.m.The PCIARC makes disciplinary and policy recommendations to the Saint Paul Chief of Police on civilian initiated police conduct complaints. The Virtual Town Hall will focus on youth engagement and participation in the PCIARC process, allow for the youth to meet PCIARC Commissioners, and provide feedback on plans for the future. Register for the virtual event online or contact the PCIARC Coordinator, Julian Roby, at 651-266-8970 or civilianreview@ci.stpaul.mn.us. 
      
   • Spring Break travel guidelines. With spring break around the corner, please remember to follow the CDC's guidance for travelers. Travel increases your chance of spreading and getting COVID-19. Delay travel and stay home to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, even if you are vaccinated. If you must travel, take steps to protect yourself and others. 

     If you're looking for something fun to do over Spring Break, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is offering full-day and half-day programs next week, April 5-9 (the week of Saint Paul Public Schools spring break) for grades 1-5. Registration is required.

   ---

   March 25, 2021

   • Community healing circles to support health and wellbeing. A series of virtual and in-person community healing circles are being held for residents, businesses, and community organizations to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer, the civil unrest that followed in our neighborhoods, and the ongoing trial. These healing circles, organized in partnership with Ramsey County, are at the center of the county's trial response plan and one of the ways we support the health and wellbeing of our community during these difficult times. 

   • Ramsey County is offering virtual town halls on March 29 and April 2 to learn about the different stages and procedures of criminal trials in Minnesota. Participants can submit questions in advance by email or ask them during the event. This event is sponsored by the Ramsey County Black Excellence Employee Resource Group, and the Ramsey County Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team.

   • Join us in supporting our local restaurants as we #DineSaintPaul. We have partnered with Visit Saint Paul to encourage the community to dine-in, dine-out, get takeout & delivery from your favorite restaurants. Watch this video featuring a variety of Saint Paul food establishments and highlighting the support of our communities. Learn more about how you can support local restaurants.
      
   • Saint Paul has begun it's citywide spring street sweeping. The early snow melt has allowed Saint Paul Public Works to start its annual spring residential street sweeping this week and should continue for approximately four weeks (weather permitting). Here's what businesses and residents should do to help the citywide sweeping efforts:  
     • Move vehicles and follow all posted “No Parking” signs. The City will post temporary “No Parking” signs 24 hours in advance of sweeping operations.
     • Do not push any materials, including leaves, grass or debris into the street. Please properly bag and dispose of any leaves, dirt and grass clippings. For details on household organics recycling visit stpaul.gov/organics.
     • Do not put garbage or recycling carts in the street. Please make sure carts are only placed on the boulevard, not the street.
     • Adopt A Drain. Residents can help protect our waterways by adopting a storm drain (or two) in their neighborhood by keeping it free of debris. Learn more at www.stpaul.gov/adoptadrain
     • View the interactive spring sweeping schedule map to find out when your street is scheduled for sweeping.
        
   • Share your feedback on the City of Saint Paul's Kellogg/3^rd Street Bridge reconstruction project. View four short videos about the project and complete the feedback form by April 15.
      
   • Spring Break travel guidelines. With spring break around the corner, please remember to follow the CDC's guidance for travelers. Travel increases your chance of spreading and getting COVID-19. Delay travel and stay home to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, even if you are vaccinated. If you must travel, take steps to protect yourself and others.  If you're looking for something fun to do over Spring Break, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is offering full-day and half-day programs April 5-9 (the week of Saint Paul Public Schools spring break) for grades 1-5. Registration is required.

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   March 22, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced last week that Minnesota has administered more than two million COVID-19 vaccine doses. Minnesota continues to rank in the top ten among states for the percentage of doses received that have been administered. Public health officials urge Minnesotans to remain vigilant and continue following critical safety measures of social distancing, masking, washing hands, and getting tested when needed.

   ---

   March 18, 2021

   • Construction Connection to the Community Initiative is offering businesses affected by civil unrest free services. Services include:
     • Preparedness checklists (in English, Hmong, Spanish, Somali and Vietnamese)
     • Boarding
     • Business assessment
     • Site evaluation
     • Connections to BIPOC vendors and suppliers

   The initiative is also actively recruiting BIPOC contractors and volunteers. 
    

   • The City of Saint Paul Community First Public Safety Commission is working to re-envision emergency response in Saint Paul. RSVP and join the conversation this Saturday, March 20 at 2 p.m. for a virtual town hall led by the Citizens League. 
   • Neighborhood STAR provides loans and grants for capital improvement projects. All public, private, non-profit or for-profit entities located or doing business in Sant Paul are eligible to apply. Funding can be used for permanently affixed, physical (bricks and mortar) enhancements which strengthen and/or improve Saint Paul neighborhoods, including but not limited to:
     • • Commercial and/or housing rehabilitation
       • Parks
       • Streetscape projects
       • Creative placemaking/place keeping
       • Economic development activities

   Applications are due March 24 at 4 p.m.

   ---

   March 15, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced updates to "turn the dials" on COVID-19 health guidelines. Changes to the Stay Safe Plan went into effect today at noon. Minnesotans can begin safely gathering with more friends and loved ones, support Minnesota’s small businesses, and visit large venues. To keep Minnesotans safe, several safety measures will remain in place, including continuing to wear masks and keeping a distance of at least 6 feet away from members of other households.

   • Saint Paul Public Library is inviting community members of all ages to “Read Brave” with their citywide reading program. This year's topic, "Owning our Stories: Rising Together for a Better Saint Paul," centers Read Brave's books, conversations, and book-based events on themes of self-worth, racial healing, reconciliation, liberation, and accountability. Readers can get the books through the Library, including no-wait e-book and e-audiobook options through its Libby app. Get started with “4 Ways to Read Brave.” 

   • Improvements ahead: Learn about Hwy 5 projects. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is planning safety and accessibility improvements along Hwy 5/Minnehaha Ave. and Hwy 5/Stillwater Rd. in St. Paul and Maplewood. Improvements to be completed in 2023 include:

     • Road resurfacing
     • Sidewalk repairs
     • Updating sidewalk curb ramps
     • Adding curb extensions or “bump-outs”
     • Replacing traffic signals and adding pedestrian lighting

     Learn more and ask questions during an upcoming virtual open house. These virtual meetings will include a brief presentation and time to ask questions. RSVP to either of the sessions below to learn more.

     • Thursday, March 18 at noon 
     • Tuesday, March 23 at 5 p.m. 
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is offering half day and full day no school day youth offerings for grades 1-5. Upcoming programming dates on March 26 and April 5-9. Advance registration is required.

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   March 11, 2021

   • Minnesota has expanded eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine. People with specific underlying health conditions, targeted essential workers and people with rare conditions or disabilities that put them at higher risk of severe illness will be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Healthcare providers can offer available appointments to other eligible Minnesotans. All Minnesotans who have not been vaccinated should sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector to stay updated on eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine and connect to local vaccine opportunities when they become available.

   • Join us as we invite community members to learn more about Administrative Citations and Capitol Improvement Budget (CIB) projects.  
     • Administrative Citations: Your input will help inform our work to develop this new policy.
       • Monday, March 15 at 6 p.m
     • Capitol Improvement Budget projects: City departments are submitting proposals for projects to improve the quality of life in our community. Your input will help inform the committee's recommendation to Mayor Carter and the City Council. Click the links below to RSVP for any of the following sessions and share your feedback via an online survey. 
       • Monday, March 15 at 7 p.m. - Parks and Recreation
       • Thursday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. - Police, Fire, and Libraries
       • Monday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m. - Public Works

   • Support Saint Paul's community members who need a helping hand with Neighbors Helping Neighbors and Listening House. Flexible volunteer hours are available at two sites, Listening House and Freedom House, both located near downtown Saint Paul. Volunteers have the opportunity to help in the kitchen, assist with laundry, organize donations, offer support to guests, and more. Socially distanced options are available. Sign up for these volunteer spots or to be connected with other community volunteer organizations. 

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   March 8, 2021

   • New vaccination data published. Last week, the Walz-Flanagan Administration announced publication of vaccination data by race and ethnicity made possible through the groundbreaking partnership between the State of Minnesota and the Minnesota Electronic Health Record (EHR) Consortium. This unique and innovative collaboration between public health and health systems is the first statewide effort of its kind in the United States. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has been collaborating with the EHR Consortium throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to identify and address disparities in COVID-19 testing. Race and ethnicity data will be published and updated weekly on the State of Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Data Dashboard. 

   • The City of Saint Paul is working closely with the City of Minneapolis and surrounding agencies to prepare for the upcoming Chauvin trial. Learn more about the City's preparations, business and community resources, and other related information.

   • Join us as we invite community members to learn more about Administrative Citations. Your input will help inform our work to develop this new policy. Click the links below to RSVP for one of the following sessions: 
     • Wednesday, March 10 at 8 a.m
     • Monday, March 15 at 6 p.m

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   March 4, 2021

   • The first Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine doses have arrived in Minnesota. As of Wednesday, the Centers for Disease Control ranks Minnesota third among states for the percentage of doses received and that have been administered. Minnesota continues its vaccine distribution plan with the current outline for who is getting vaccinated.
   • Sign up for updates from the Minnesota Judicial Branch on the State of MN vs Chauvin case. The webpage includes all public documents filed in the case and other information. The City of Minneapolis also has information on the upcoming trial.
   • Help us name the Highland Bridge parks. Four parks have been designed and will be constructed in the Highland Bridge development in Saint Paul. The community has helped to shape the final designs and now the City is seeking input for unique names that relate to the place, the history, and the hope for the future of the public spaces. Some general topics for inspiration:
     • Native American history of the site
     • History of the area
     • Industry and the Ford assembly plant
     • Ecology, nature and water
     • Sustainability
       Review the park designs and submit ideas by March 12.
   • Need help understanding changes to the US Small Business Administration's (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)? SBA is hosting webinars to help:
     • Black and African-American Small Business Owners: Friday, March 5 at noon
     • Hispanic Small Business Owners: Friday, March 5 at 1 p.m.
     • Veterans, Self-Employed Business Owners, Independent Contractors, and Sole Proprietors: Saturday, March 6 at 1 p.m.
     • LGBTQ Business Owners, Youth Entrepreneurs, Restaurant Owners: Monday, March 8 at 2 p.m.
       SBA is only offering loans to businesses with 20 or less employees and sole proprietors through March 9 at 4 p.m. (Previous deadline was March 10.)
   • New tenant protections effective March 1. S.A.F.E. Housing Saint Paul, the City's tenant protections ordinance, passed in July 2020 and went in to effect on March 1, 2021. Renters and property owners can visit StPaul.gov/SAFE for trainings, resources, and guidance.

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   March 1, 2021

   • Neighborhood STAR provides loans and grants for capital improvement projects. All public, private, non-profit or for-profit entities located or doing business in Sant Paul are eligible to apply. Applications are due March 24 at 4 p.m. Funding can be used for permanently affixed, physical (bricks and mortar) enhancements which strengthen and/or improve Saint Paul neighborhoods, including but not limited to:
     • Commercial and/or housing rehabilitation
     • Parks
     • Streetscape projects
     • Creative placemaking/place keeping
     • Economic development activities
   • Last week Como Park Zoo & Conservatory welcomed their new polar bear, Nan. She is 26 years old and is being introduced to the current polar bear resident, Neil, who is 25 years old. While Neil and Nan are not a breeding couple, they will provide each other with companionship, and will serve as excellent animal ambassadors for polar bears. You can visit Nan, Neil, and all the other zoo animals by making a reservation. Welcome to the Saint Paul family, Nan!
   • Metro Transit is looking for ways to improve the customer experience on Route 3, which connects downtown Saint Paul to downtown Minneapolis. As part of their Better Bus Route Program, Metro Transit wants residents, businesses and riders feedback on a variety of issues to improve riders experiences by reducing stops, improving accessibility, and providing more shelters. Watch this video about the proposed changes. Metro Transit is asking customers to provide feedback in an online survey by March 12. Saint Paul School Information and Resources Below are useful resources for families to utilize for school-days and non-school days.

   Saint Paul School Information and Resources

   • It's school choice season at Saint Paul Public Schools. Applications are open for the 2021-2022 school year. Find the right school for your child, plus information about how and when to apply, frequently asked questions, virtual open house dates, and what's new for next year. School priority application deadline is March 5.
   • Saint Paul Public Schools is offering Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) for families. Providing education in child development and parent/child relationships for families with children from birth through age 5, ECFE has been mostly virtual during the pandemic. Online drop-in classes are offered Monday through Thursday, and a new face-to-face, socially distanced option is coming soon to the Wheelock Early Learning Center on the East Side.
   • Saint Paul Charter Schools are holding a virtual Charter School Fair on March 20 from 9 a.m.-Noon. Visit with 21 participating schools and learn more about their programs. They invite you to explore the websites and resources beforehand for each participating school.
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation offers after school and no school day youth offerings for grades 1-5 and Pre-K. Programs will follow CDC and MN Department of Health guidance on COVID-19. Advance registration is required.
     • Rec Check: This popular free, after-school program runs 2-6 p.m. when Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) are in session. Rec Check is open for youth who live or attend school in Saint Paul. Registration is available at 19 sites.
     • No School Days: These free, fun programs are offered when SPPS are not in session. (Upcoming programming dates on March 26 and April 5-9.)
     • Recreation for Preschoolers: Recreation for Preschoolers encourages children to play, socialize, and grow from daily lesson plans that prioritize educational experiences and recreation. Summer 2021 information is now available.

9. February 2021

   February 25, 2021

   • Latest projected timeline for Minnesota vaccine distribution. Governor Walz announced today that Minnesota will remain focused on vaccinating most of the states seniors before expanding eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine. Minnesotans can learn about who is getting vaccinated and are encouraged to sign up for the Vaccine Connector to stay informed on their eligibility and get connected to vaccine opportunities once they become eligible.
   • Help us name the Highland Bridge parks. Four parks have been designed and will be constructed in the Highland Bridge development in Saint Paul. The community has helped to shape the final designs and now the City is seeking input for unique names that relate to the place, the history, and the hope for the future of the public spaces. Some general topics for inspiration:
     • Native American history of the site
     • History of the area
     • Industry and the Ford assembly plant
     • Ecology, nature and water
     • Sustainability
       Review the park designs and submit ideas by March 12.
   • Changes are coming to the US Small Business Administrations (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
     • In order to reach the smallest businesses, SBA will only offer loans to businesses with 20 or less employees and sole proprietors through March 10.
     • More financial support for sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals.
     • Elimination of both the non-fraud felony conviction and student loan debt delinquency restrictions for small business owners.
     • More clarity around allowed use of Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for application.

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   February 22, 2021

   • Applications for Right Track, Saint Paul's youth employment program, are due Feb. 28. There are only four virtual open house dates remaining before applications are due Sunday, Feb. 28. Saint Paul Public Library is offering in-person help for youth completing their online application. Call 651-793-1699 for information or to make an appointment at any of these four locations:
     • Daytons Bluff Library, Feb. 23 between 3-7 p.m.
     • Rice Street Library, Feb. 25 between 3-5 p.m.
     • Rondo Library, Feb. 23 between 3-7 p.m.
     • Sun Ray Library, Feb. 25 between 3-7 p.m.
   • Additional Saint Paul Parks and Recreation amenities are re-opening. Reservations are required. Please review the re-opening guidelines and procedures on the website in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and staff.
     • Open Gym Times
     • Tot Times 
     • Rice and Arlington Batting Cages
     • Fitness Centers and Walking Tracks 
     • Pickleball 
   • Remember to shovel your sidewalks. While the City of Saint Paul has not called a snow emergency, we have received some dustings of snow lately. Property owners and managers are responsible for keeping the sidewalks around their properties clear of snow and ice. Residents rely on clear sidewalks to safely navigate their neighborhoods. If you know a neighbor who is not able to shovel their walks, consider shoveling it for them. Fill out a volunteer form through Neighbors Helping Neighbors to be connected to organizations helping with neighborhood snow removal.
   • Participate in the Metro Regional Interactive Virtual Transportation Career Fair on Feb. 23 from 2-5 p.m. This career fair allows job seekers the opportunity to exchange their resume directly with hiring managers and interact with employers by chat or video interviewing. Employers in attendance are seeking new and experienced drivers. Using a mobile phone, portable device or computer, visit the career fair website and create a user profile to register.
   • Governor Walz announced the launch of the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool that helps all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine. When a Minnesotan becomes eligible to receive a vaccine under state guidelines, the Vaccine Connector will:
     • Alert them when they're eligible.
     • Connect them to appointment scheduling resources.
     • Notify them of vaccination opportunities in their area.

     Minnesotans who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, regardless of their current vaccine eligibility status. There will be no cost and no restricted time period for signing up. Minnesotans unable to sign up online can call 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone. Translation service is available by phone.

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   February 18, 2021

   • Governor Walz announced the launch of the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool that helps all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine. When a Minnesotan becomes eligible to receive a vaccine under state guidelines, the Vaccine Connector will:
     • Alert them when they're eligible.
     • Connect them to appointment scheduling resources.
     • Notify them of vaccination opportunities in their area.

     Minnesotans who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, regardless of their current vaccine eligibility status. There will be no cost and no restricted time period for signing up. Minnesotans unable to sign up online can call 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone. Translation service is available by phone.

   • Governor Walz announced updates on COVID-19 health guidelines. Changes to the Stay Safe Plan went into effect on Feb. 13.
     • Gyms and fitness studios: Gym capacity remains capped at 25% but maximum capacity increases to 250, with masks and six feet of physical distancing between individuals. Classes increase to 25 people, only if distancing can be observed.
     • Entertainment venues: Movie theaters, bowling alleys, museums, and other indoor entertainment venues remains capped at 25% capacity but maximum capacity increases to 250, with masks required. Outdoor venues also remain at 25% capacity (up to 250 people) and masks are recommended. No food service after 11 p.m.
     • Bars, restaurants, and breweries: Indoor service remains capped at 50% capacity but maximum capacity increases to 250. Outdoor dining will follow the same guidance. All establishments may now stay open to 11 p.m. Delivery, window, walk-up, or drive-up service is open and encouraged.
     • Receptions, celebrations, and private parties: If food and drink are served, events are limited at 25% capacity, with a maximum of 50 people. If there is no food or drink, indoor event venue guidelines apply. 
     • Schools: As soon as Feb. 22, all Minnesota middle and high schools can opt to bring students back for hybrid or in-person learning, with social distancing and safety precautions in place. By March 8, the governor said he expects all schools to offer some form of in-person learning. Learn about Saint Paul Public Schools' (SPPS) plan to reopen and the updated Safe Learning Plan for all schools across Minnesota.
   • Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is available for families with children who miss free/reduced-price meals at school because of distance or hybrid learning due to COVID-19 during the 2020-2021 school year. You do not need to fill out an application to receive P-EBT, but your child must be receiving benefits from the free or reduced-price school meal program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/food support/EBT), Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP/Cash) or Tribal TANF. If you think your child qualifies, act now to sign up for one of these programs. P-EBT will begin to be issued in late March 2021 and is not subject to public charge rules.
   • Help protect the environment and celebrate #NationalBatteryDay on Feb. 18 by keeping batteries out of your recycling and trash containers. Batteries and electronics can damage equipment and harm workers collecting and sorting your recycling. Batteries are especially dangerous as they can start fires at recycling facilities. Recycle smart by taking your batteries and electronics to approved drop-off sites. Learn more about recycling batteries and other recycling tips for Ramsey County.

   Career Resources

   • Applications for Right Track, Saint Paul's youth employment program, are due Feb. 28. Saint Paul Public Library is offering in-person help for youth completing their online application. Call 651-793-1699 for information or to make an appointment at any of these four locations:

     • Daytons Bluff Library, Tuesdays between 3-7 p.m.
     • Rice Street Library, Thursdays between 3-5 p.m.
     • Rondo Library, Tuesdays between 3-7 p.m.
     • Sun Ray Library, Thursdays between 3-7 p.m.

       Right Track is offering virtual open house dates for applicants to ask questions and learn more about the program.

   • Saint Paul Public Library Career Lab offers support on writing cover letters and resumes, troubleshooting technology for remote work or virtual interviews, recommendations for job search boards and career fairs, and more. In-person and virtual options are available. (Appointments are required for in-person support.)
   • Ramsey County's Community Career Labs now offer virtual job seeker services for those who prefer to connect remotely. Six in-person labs also provide reservation-based computer access, printing and copying, digital literacy programs, job search and resume assistance, and other workforce support programs.

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   February 11, 2021

    

   • Applications for Right Track, Saint Paul's youth employment program, are due Feb. 28. Saint Paul Public Library is offering in-person help for youth completing their online application. Call 651-793-1699 for information or to make an appointment at any of these four locations:
     • Dayton’s Bluff Library, Tuesdays between 3-7 p.m.
     • Rice Street Library, Thursdays between 3-5 p.m.
     • Rondo Library, Tuesdays between 3-7 p.m.
     • Sun Ray Library, Thursdays between 3-7 p.m.

       Right Track is offering virtual open house dates for applicants to ask questions and learn more about the program.

   • Additional Saint Paul Parks and Recreation amenities are re-opening. Reservations are required. Please review the re-opening guidelines and procedures on the website in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and staff.
     • Rice and Arlington Batting Cages
     • Fitness Centers and Walking Tracks
     • Pickleball
   • Metro Transit is looking for ways to improve the customer experience on Route 3, which connects downtown Saint Paul to downtown Minneapolis. As part of their Better Bus Route Program, Metro Transit wants residents, businesses and riders feedback on a variety of issues to improve riders’ experiences by reducing stops, improving accessibility, and providing more shelters. Watch this video about the proposed changes. Metro Transit is asking customers to provide feedback in an online survey by March 12.

   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation offers after school and no school day youth offerings for grades 1-5. Programs will follow CDC and MN Department of Health guidance on COVID-19. Advanced registration is required.
     • Rec Check: This popular free, after-school program runs 2-6 p.m. when Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) are in session. Rec Check is open for youth who live or attend school in Saint Paul. The next session begins Feb. 16 and registration is available at 19 sites.
     • No School Days: These free, fun programs are offered when SPPS are not in session. (Upcoming programming dates on Feb. 15 and Mar. 26).

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   February 8, 2021

   • Virtual Career Lab offered by Saint Paul Public Library provides services to Saint Paul residents as they seek employment, build career skills, and navigate career transitions. This new virtual option has call-in hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-4 p.m. No appointments are needed; call 651-266-7029, and one of our Technology Skills Instructors will assist you over the phone. Resources include:
     • Tips on writing your resume or cover letter
     • Job search boards/career fairs
     • Setting up/troubleshooting your technology for remote work/virtual interviews
     • Referrals to adult education classes and digital literacy assessments
     • Career Labs also offer in-person support (appointments required)
   • Small business loans available. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and the Paycheck Protection Program to all qualified small business owners. Both applications are open until further notice.

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   February 4, 2021

   • Right Track applications are now open. Right Track brings together the City of Saint Paul, the Saint Paul Public Schools, local businesses, and community-based organizations to provide employment opportunities and professional skills training for youth. Review the eligibility requirements and submit an application by Feb. 28.
   • DEADLINE TOMORROW! Ramsey County is accepting applications for round 4 of the Small Business Relief Fund through Friday, Feb. 5.
   • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation has a variety of amenities re-opening as well as upcoming after school and no school day programs for grades 1-5.
     • Amenities re-opening. Reservations are required. Please review the re-opening guidelines and procedures on the website in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and staff.
       • Fitness Centers and Walking Tracks
       • Pickleball
     • Upcoming youth offerings for grades 1-5.
       • Rec Check: This popular free, after-school program runs 2-6 p.m. when Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) is in session. Rec Check is open for youth who live or attend school in Saint Paul. The next session begins Feb. 16 and registration is available at 19 sites.
       • No School Days: These free, fun programs are offered when SPPS are not in session. (Upcoming programming dates on Feb. 15 and Mar. 26). Advanced registration is required.
   • Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) is offering Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) for families. Providing education in child development and parent/child relationships for families with children from birth through age 5, ECFE has been mostly virtual during the pandemic. Online drop-in classes are offered Monday through Thursday, and a new face-to-face, socially distanced option is coming soon to the Wheelock Early Learning Center on the East Side.
   • Minnesota’s new COVID-19 vaccine locator map connects people age 65+ to vaccination opportunities. This tool is intended to help Minnesotans more easily find and connect with local vaccine providers in their area. There is still a limited amount of vaccine, so appointments may not be available everywhere. While the map is currently for seniors, it will expand as more Minnesotans become eligible.
   • The State of Minnesota has launched a public vaccine data dashboard to detail the progress of COVID-19 vaccine allocation, distribution, and administration across Minnesota. The dashboard provides a visual and user-friendly way to view key vaccination data for our state.

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   February 1, 2021

   • Support Saint Paul's unsheltered community members with Neighbors Helping Neighbors and Listening House. Enjoy flexible volunteer hours at Listening House and Freedom House near downtown Saint Paul. Volunteers have the opportunity to help in the kitchen, assist with donations, offer support to guests, and more. Socially distanced options are available. Sign up spots are available now.
   • Last week, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced it passed 1 million tests administered through the state’s community testing sites. There are currently more than 20 testing sites located around the state, all of which offer no-barrier access to testing. (In all, Minnesota has conducted more than 6.4 million tests since the start of the pandemic, which include test done through private health care systems, long-term care facilities, and other settings.)
   • Ramsey County is accepting applications for round 4 of the Small Business Relief Fund starting today through Friday, Feb. 5.
   • Ramsey County's Interview Skills Workshop happening on Feb. 3. Free employment services and trainings are available to all members of the public through Ramsey County Workforce Solutions and their service partner, CareerForce. Extra support and assistance programs are also available for residents that meet eligibility guidelines.
   • The State of Minnesota has launched a public vaccine data dashboard to detail the progress of COVID-19 vaccine allocation, distribution, and administration across Minnesota. The dashboard provides a visual and user-friendly way to view key vaccination data for our state.

10. January 2021

    January 28, 2021

    • A variety of federal, state and county assistance is available for business owners.
      • NEW! Ramsey County will accept applications for Round 4 of the Small Business Relief Fund starting next Monday, Feb. 1 through Friday, Feb. 5.
      • DEADLINE TOMORROW! The State of Minnesota has financial assistance available for convention centers and movie theaters. Applications for both programs are due on Friday, Jan. 29. Learn more about these programs and other assistance.
      • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting new Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications from all qualified small businesses, including agricultural businesses, and private nonprofit organizations.
      • The SBA has opened another round of the Paycheck Protection Program. To promote access for smaller lenders and their customers, SBA is currently only accepting loan applications from participating community financial institutions (CFIs).
    • Saint Paul Parks & Recreation's Rec Reimagined webpage is your one-stop shop for in-person, virtual, and self-led programming options. From ice rinks, to Como Zoo reservations, to outdoor adventures in our parks, check out the variety of ways to stay connected, healthy, and active during this time.

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    January 25, 2021

    • Saint Paul Public Library is open for Library Express with notary services available. Stop in and check out books, music, DVDs and more. The library offers express internet, print, copy, fax, and scanning services. In addition, notary services are available at most Saint Paul Public Library locations for $1 per notarized signature. Please call your local library branch to check availability.
    • New State and Federal business assistance is available.
      • The State of Minnesota has financial assistance available for convention centers and movie theaters. Applications for both programs are due on Friday, Jan. 29. Learn more about these programs and other assistance.
      • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting new Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications from all qualified small businesses, including agricultural businesses, and private nonprofit organizations.
      • The SBA has opened another round of the Paycheck Protection Program. To promote access for smaller lenders and their customers, SBA is currently only accepting loan applications from participating community financial institutions (CFIs).

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    January 21, 2021

    • One million meals served to Saint Paul families in need. Ensuring access to the resources our children and families need to thrive is vital, especially in this pandemic. To address the COVID-19-induced food insecurity, we expanded our free family meals program so that everyone has access to healthy and affordable meals. Together with our community partners, we provided over 1 million meals in 2020 and will continue to be there for families in need.
    • The State of Minnesota has launched a public vaccine data dashboard to detail the progress of COVID-19 vaccine allocation, distribution, and administration across Minnesota. The dashboard provides a visual and user-friendly way to view key vaccination data for our state.
    • Ramsey County job seeker workshops. Free employment services and trainings are available to all members of the public through Ramsey County Workforce Solutions and their service partner, CareerForce. Extra support and assistance programs are also available for residents that meet eligibility guidelines. 

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    January 14, 2021

    • As you enjoy our shared outdoor spaces, please remember to follow current public health guidance on distancing and masks. Especially at busy locations like ice rinks and ski areas where space is more limited, we must ALL do our part to #StaySafeMN and help prevent further spread of the virus.
      • Maintain distance from participants who are not part of your group.
      • Face coverings are strongly recommended.
      • Do not visit the park if you are sick, have symptoms of COVID-19, or are at a higher risk of illness. 
    • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation facilities are now open.
      • Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is open and taking reservations. Current health guidelines will be followed, including taking reservations to limit capacity, requiring masks, and staying at least four flamingos or one polar bear away from other guests. If you're not ready to visit the Zoo in person, watch Como Live videos for educational zookeeper and gardener talks.
      • Great River Water Park has reopened for water aerobics, lap swim, and open swim. Advance reservations and payments are required and can be made online or by calling 651-642-0650. All public health guidelines will be followed and are outlined on the website.
    • Saint Paul Parks and Recreation offers free, fun programs when Saint Paul Public Schools are not in session. Register at one of the 17 sites offering half-day programming on these no school days. Programs will follow CDC and MN Department of Health guidance on COVID-19.
    • New State and Federal business assistance is available.
      • The State of Minnesota has financial assistance available for convention centers and movie theaters. Applications for both programs are due on Friday, Jan. 29. Learn more about these programs and other assistance on DEED's website.
      • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting new Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications from all qualified small businesses, including agricultural businesses, and private nonprofit organizations.
      • The SBA has opened another round of the Paycheck Protection Program. To promote access for smaller lenders and their customers, SBA is currently only accepting loan applications from participating community financial institutions (CFIs).
    • Applications are being accepted for the Planning Commission. Ideal candidates will live in Ward 1 (Summit-University, Frogtown), Ward 5 (North End, Como, Payne-Phalen) or Ward 7 (Dayton’s Bluff, East View, Conway/Battle Creek/Highwood Hills). Applications are due Tuesday, Jan. 19.
    • Saint Paul Public Works now has a Snow Emergency parking map. To help you know when and where to park during a snow emergency, please use our new, interactive Snow Emergency parking map to find your exact location by address, landmark or geolocation. This web-based map works across all platforms and will show you the current Snow Emergency status and what “parking phase” is in effect. Remember to subscribe to Snow Emergency email and texts alerts (available in English, Spanish, Hmong, or Somali).

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    January 11, 2021

    • Rebuilding Together Twin Cities is accepting applications for a variety of home improvement projects for low income residents. If you are interested in applying for no cost home repairs or Safe at Home modifications, please review eligibility criteria and complete an application by Jan. 15. For questions, visit their website or call 651-776-4273. Learn about other home and business relief efforts with:
      • Ramsey County's Energy Assistance program
      • Xcel Energy's Pandemic and Civil Unrest Recovery program
      • Environment Initiative's Clean Air Assistance Project
    • Ways to help your community in 2021. Saint Paul’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors program not only connects volunteers with community partners, but also has a vast collection of resources for those needing aid during the COVID-19 pandemic, including public health information, household assistance (including free meals and housing aid), small business loans, and language resources.

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    January 7, 2021

    • Let's stay healthy together. In Saint Paul, we share a commitment to ensuring no one gets left behind by the COVID-19 pandemic – but we still have work to do together. Join us in continuing our fight against the spread of the virus in our community. Watch Mayor Carter’s message about staying healthy together.
    • Governor Walz announced updates on COVID-19 health guidelines. Changes to the Stay Safe Plan will go into effect on Jan. 11.
    • Ramsey County is following federal and state guidelines to distribute COVID-19 vaccine in phases. We are currently in Phase 1A of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)’s vaccine distribution plan. Eventually, all Minnesotans who want to be vaccinated will be able to do so. More information at ramseycounty.us/COVIDvaccine.

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    January 4, 2021

    • Ski and ice rink openings. Como Park Ski Center is now open and cross country ski trail grooming has begun. Rentals are available at Como Park Ski Center and reservations must be made in advance for all equipment rentals. Walk-ups for equipment rentals will not be allowed. Ice rinks are open, but remain dependent on the weather and public health guidelines. Public health guidance requires a 12 foot distance between skaters who are not part of the same household. Warming houses will not be available. Outdoor benches will be available for changing skates and taking breaks.