Category Archives: Agenda

Bylaws & Funding Plan

Bylaws & Funding Plan Approved

Thank you to everyone who weighed in on the new Armatage Neighborhood Association Bylaws and Funding Plan (also called a Plan Modification).

Both the new Bylaws and the Funding Plan that shifts $65,000 in funds from repaid home loans to the neighborhood’s community engagement and staffing reserves were approved by the ANA Board on October 19, 2021.

Read through the new bylaws here.

Public Comment Period

The ANA held a public comment period from September 15 – October 15 to get input from the community on the proposed Bylaws and Plan Modification. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive on both and gathered through an online voting form that was posted on this page and at the Meet Your Community Helpers event on September 25.

The ANA Board met to discuss the community feedback received and make a final vote to approve on October 19. Thank you to everyone who took the time to weigh in and make their voice heard!

Total Votes Received

  • Online form • 34
  • In-person • 15
  • Phone or email • 0

Bylaws Votes

  • Votes received • 39 (some respondents only weighed in on the Funding Plan)
  • Percentage in favor of the new Bylaws • 97.4%

Funding Plan

  • Votes received • 49
  • Percentage in favor of the Funding Plan • 97.9%

August 19, 2021 eNews

Aug 24 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s Monthly Meeting on Zoom! Due to scheduling, the ANA Board made the decision to hold this meeting a week later than usual and on Zoom. Register for the link at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Park Update – Jordan Nelson (6:35pm)
  • City Update – Council Member Linea Palmisano (6:40pm)
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen (7:00pm)
  • Final Edits & Approval of Equitable Engagement Template (7:20pm)
  • Future of Safety Rebate Program (7:30pm)
  • Coordinator Report (7:55pm)
    • Funds for District 6 Park Commissioner ($75), Charter Amendment Education ($150), and Ward 13 City Council Candidate Forums ($100)
    • Armatage Playground Celebration
  • Committee Action Needed (8:05pm)
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach: Funds for Sep 25 Event EQUITY signs
  • New Business (8:10pm)

Armatage Playground Reopening Celebration

Thursday, August 26
4:30-6:30pm

Join the Armatage Neighborhood Association (ANA), the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (MPRB), and Armatage Community School for a Playground Reopening Celebration! Enjoy free cold treats (donated by the ANA and Jonny Pops!) and celebrate with music and new play equipment!

Learn more about the planning process at bit.ly/armatagepark and read how neighborhood funds were used to make completing this project possible at armatage.org/armatage-park-play-area/

Cycle the Summer at Armatage: August 25

Minneapolis Parks will host a Cycle the Summer event for kids at Armatage Park on Wednesday, August 25 as part of their series of smaller, bike-focused events throughout the summer for people of all ages, backgrounds and riding abilities!

Learn more about the Cycle the Summer series and sign up for the August 25 Cycle the Summer event or the upcoming Biking Without Barriers events at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/cycle_the_summer/ 

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your donation goes toward supporting the ANA’s work in our community. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find signs at the Playground Reopening Celebration on Thursday, Aug 26 from 4:30-6:30pm at Armatage Park.

Summer Food Truck Night Thank You

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our Summer Food Truck Night on August 14! It was amazing to spend the evening outdoors enjoying good food, music and sunshine with neighbors. Huge thanks to our volunteers, vendors and partners for a great event!

Meet Your Community Helpers Event

Save the date for an outdoor event at Armatage Park with the helpers that serve our community including the Minneapolis Fire Department, Solid Waste & Recycling, USPS, EMTs and more!

There will be distanced demos, educational activities, a school supply drive and TRUCKS! More details to come at armatage.org.

Hennepin County Deconstruction Grants Available

To help divert waste from landfills, Hennepin County has grants available for up to $5,000 to deconstruct residential buildings. Property owners and developers are eligible to apply. Applicants must be a homeowner or developer in Hennepin County and the work must be on residential properties. Projects must meet the reuse and disposal criteria, the structure being demolished or renovated must have been built prior to 1970, and the size of structure or area of renovation must be 500 square feet or larger. Learn more and apply at https://www.hennepin.us/deconstruction

Get a Free COVID-19 Vaccine, Get $100

Haven’t gotten your COVID-19 yet? The strongest defense against the delta variant is through vaccination. Plus, the State of Minnesota is offering a $100 incentive for everyone age 12 and older who gets vaccinated by August 22.

Free COVID-19 vaccines are available at Minneapolis Health Department clinic. Walk-ins are welcome, and the vaccinations are free. You don’t need insurance, you don’t need an appointment and you don’t need an ID. Questions about the vaccines? Watch and share this video for 11 things you should know about COVID-19 vaccines.

Upcoming Free Clinics

  • Park Avenue United Methodist Church, 3400 Park Ave. 9 a.m. to noon, every Saturday
  • Steven’s Square Park, 1801 Stevens Ave. 4-7 p.m. Aug. 27

You can also sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong to get contacted about vaccine in your area.

Masks Required for Municipal Buildings

Here are our local mask requirements to follow in response to rising COVID-19 cases:

  • The City of Minneapolis now requires everyone over the age of two to wear a mask inside city municipal buildings.  Read more here.
  • For Hennepin County buildings, the requirement is that everyone age five and up wear a mask. See more about the Hennepin County guidlines here.
  • The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board now requires masks for all staff and visitors ages two and older in all its buildings. Read more here.

Rent and Housing Assistance as the Eviction Moratorium Ends

MN law now requires a property owner or manager who intends on filing an eviction for non-payment of rent to provide a written notice to their renter, along with information about rental assistance, 15 days before filing an eviction proceeding with the courts between now and Oct. 12.

This new law also prohibits a property owner or manager from evicting a renter if the renter has a pending application for COVID-19 emergency rental assistance at the state or local level until June 1, 2022. The renter must be able to prove that they’ve applied for rental assistance. Renters may apply for COVID-19 emergency rental assistance at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211.

If you have questions about your specific housing situation and how it relates to the end of the eviction moratorium, contact:

Free Pet Adoptions for Cats & Dogs Over 6 Months

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control is waiving adoption fees for cats and dogs over six months old currently at the shelter. Visit the City’s website for more information.

Adoption details

Come prepared

  • To adopt you must be 18 years old with a valid form of identification.
  • Minneapolis residents must also provide proof of their current address and of current rabies vaccines for other pets (cats, dogs or ferrets).
  • Cats and small critters must leave in a carrier. You can bring a carrier or buy a cardboard transport box at the shelter. Dogs must leave on a leash. You can bring a leash and collar, or the shelter will provide a slip lead.

August 24, 2021 Agenda

August 24, 2021 Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s Monthly Meeting on Zoom! Due to scheduling, the ANA Board made the decision to hold this meeting a week later than usual and on Zoom. Register for the link at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Park Update – Jordan Nelson (6:35pm)
  • City Update – Council Member Linea Palmisano (6:40pm)
  • Safety Update – Katie Blackwell, 5th Precinct Inspector, and Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist (7:00pm)
  • Final Edits & Approval of Equitable Engagement Template (7:20pm)
  • Future of Safety Rebate Program (7:30pm)
  • Coordinator Report (7:50pm)
    • Plan Mod Budget & Engagement Plan
    • Bylaws Updates & Separate Meeting: see the draft updated Bylaws here
    • Funds for District 6 Park Commissioner ($75), Charter Amendment Education ($150), and Ward 13 City Council Candidate Forums ($100)
  • Committee Action Needed (8:10pm)
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach: Funds for Sep 25 Event EQUITY signs
  • New Business (8:15pm)

July 15, 2021 eNews

July 20 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s OUTDOOR meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair if possible and plan to distance. In case of rain, our meeting will shift to Zoom. Register for the back-up Zoom link at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Armatage Equitable Engagement Fund and Plan Modification – Aryca Myers and Bob Cooper, City of Minneapolis
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Bookkeeping Candidate: Claire King – Judy Vecere, Treasurer
  • Equitable Engagement Plan Edits (Due Sept 1)
  • Coordinator Report:
    • Armatage Playground Celebration
    • Fall Programs and Newsletter Content:
    • Volunteers to Draft Fundraising Ask
  • Committee Action Needed:
    • Community Engagement: Funds for Aug 14 Event
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach: Funds for Sep 25 Event
    • Green Team
  • New Business

Summer Food Truck Night

Get ready for another Armatage neighborhood Food Truck Night! Five fabulous food trucks will be in the Armatage parking lot to take distanced orders. Enjoy live music from local band Unicorn! Swing by the ANA table for art activities, free kids books generously donated by Jump! and an All Are Welcome Lawn Sign. Bring your blanket or chairs and find a spot in the park to picnic.

More info including COVID-19 safety info is at armatage.org/summer-food-truck-night/

Household Hazardous Waste Events

Hennepin County is collecting household hazardous waste for residents to safely and properly dispose of unwanted household and lawn and garden products including paints, chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, batteries and fuels.  Residents must wear masks and remain in their vehicles.

Upcoming events in Minneapolis:

  • 9:00am – 4:00pm on July 30-31: Anthony Middle School, 5757 Irving Ave. S.
  • 9:00am – 4:00pm on August 13-14: South High School, 3131 19th Ave. S.

Visit Hennepin County’s household hazardous waste collection event webpage to learn what items you can bring to the event, review safety guidelines, and see all 2021 events.

New Solid Waste & Recycling Disposal Guide

There’s a NEW Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling Disposal Guide in town!  The City of Minneapolis has an easy-to-use, searchable website to get all your recycling and disposal “where does this go?” questions answered quickly and easily. Check it out at www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/disposal-guide/

Last Chance to Comment on Parks for All

Have you commented on the Parks for All Comprehensive Plan yet?  This week is your last chance before comment period ends this Sunday, July 18, 2021.

Your input is welcome whether you have been deeply involved in the planning process over the past two years or if you are hearing about this for the first time. There are numerous ways to learn about the plan and send feedback using the links below. Following the public comment period, the draft plan will be revised based on public input and presented to MPRB Commissioners for review and approval.

Share the Parks for All draft plan with your friends, family, neighbors or other networks using minneapolisparks.org/parksforalldraft or bit.ly/MPRBCompPlan.

Free the Deeds

Free the Deeds, an artist-driven initiative, is launching a city-wide project this month to build awareness of the history of racial covenants in housing in Minneapolis and to encourage action to repair the harm done by these covenants. Homeowners whose houses have a racial covenant will be encouraged to display a lawn sign in their yards that says “This house had a racial covenant” on one side and “Building equity, one deed at a time” on the other. Free the Deeds has been working with Armatage Reparations & Equity Action to launch this project.

All Minneapolis residents will have the chance to donate to down payment assistance for households who purchase homes through the African American Community Land Trust (AACLT), which focuses on significantly decreasing the historic racial disparities in the homeownership rate while increasing access to perpetually affordable homeownership in Minneapolis. Check out freethedeeds.org to learn more about what racial covenants were, how to find out if your home had one, and how to participate with this city-wide project.

National Night Out is August 3

National Night is just around the corner!  This year’s block events will likely look a little different due to COVID-19, but there are lots of ways to safely gather with your neighbors. Think about a BYO picnic dinner instead of a potluck, discuss safety guidelines (especially for neighbors who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated like children under 12), and offer activities that allow you to distance.

Apply here for your City of Minneapolis street closure permit by July 20. If your street isn’t eligible for closure, you can also host a neighborhood gathering in neighbors’ yards. Not sure if your block has a block leader? Contact our Crime Prevention Specialist, Jennifer Waisanen, at jennifer.waisanen@minneapolismn.gov and consider volunteering as a block leader. Learn more about block clubs at bit.ly/blockclubs

Block Leader Contact Info

We’re putting out another call for block leader contact information and need your help!  If you are an Armatage block leader and haven’t already done so, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Currently, city block leader info can’t be shared or accessed by neighborhood organizations so we’re working to build our own list. Thanks to the MANY of you who have already sent in your info! Interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work? Visit bit.ly/blockclubs

Free Business Advertising in Armatage Welcome Bags

Are you an Armatage neighborhood business that would like to advertise for FREE? Consider providing content for our new neighbor Welcome Bags!

The reusable bags contain useful information on our neighborhood, community involvement, area businesses and local government. Your contribution can include menus, brochures on your business, gift cards, coupons, branded trinkets, or even just business cards! It’s totally free contribute items for the Welcome Bags and you can also consider a tax deductible cash contribution to our non-profit organization to help support the cost of producing the bags. Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org to contribute!

Thank you from the Armatage Community Engagement Committee. Learn more about the Welcome Bag program at armatage.org/programs/welcome-bags/   Pic of our ANA VP Kevin outside Café Cerés.

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your donation goes toward supporting the ANA’s work in our community. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting) – neighbors are encouraged to join meetings:

  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting
  • Saturday, Aug 14 from 4:00-6:00pm at the Summer Food Truck Night

2021 Windom Community Turf Alternatives Garden Tour

Windom Alternative Turf Garden Tour: July 17

Our friends at the Windom Community Council will host a tour of turf alternative gardens in Windom on Saturday, July 17 from 9:00am-12:00pm! Come view tour front yards and chat with experts including Master Gardeners, a native plant expert from Wild Ones, staff from Metro Blooms, and a Naturalist.

The garden tour is self-guided. Social distancing is encouraged. The final location list is available at https://www.windommpls.org/2021-windom-turf-alternative-gardentour

Home Energy Squad & 0% Loan Programs

The Home Energy Squad helps homeowners increase energy savings and comfort throughout the year.  During a two hour visit, a crew of two energy experts will visit your home to conduct an assessment to reveal opportunities for energy savings and the installation of energy saving products such as LED bulbs, door weather-stripping, water savers and a programmable thermostat, at no extra cost. There is also the option of a no-cost virtual consultation.

To increase energy savings this summer, for a limited time Xcel Energy is offering FREE smart thermostats for customers that have central air and sign up for the AC Rewards program. To help with financing energy efficiency upgrades Minneapolis residents can also take advantage of a 0% loan program. Recently the loan term increased to 10 years and the maximum increased to $20,000. To schedule an appointment with the Home Energy Squad, call 651-328-6220 or visit mncee.org/hes

Take the Hennepin County Natural Resources Survey

We all play a role in protecting our natural resources, and Hennepin County needs to hear from you as they update the Natural Resources Strategic Plan. The updated plan will seek to better align with new county initiatives, shifting demographics, and changing landscapes. This is the first opportunity to incorporate the county’s climate and racial equity priorities into the foundation of the plan, and they will be seeking input from the community throughout the year-long plan development process to ensure your values and priorities are reflected.

Take the survey

Take Hennepin County’s survey here by August 1, 2021, to help shape priorities and let them know how you would like to be engaged in the update of the plan.

July 20, 2021 Meeting Agenda

July 20 Agenda

All are welcome to join our OUTDOOR Monthly Neighborhood Meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair if possible and plan to distance. In case of rain, our meeting will shift to Zoom. Register for the back-up Zoom link at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Armatage Equitable Engagement Fund and Plan Modification – Aryca Myers and Bob Cooper, City of Minneapolis (6:30pm)
  • Equitable Engagement Plan Edits (Due Sept 1) (7:10pm)
  • Bookkeeping Candidate: Claire King – Judy Vecere, Treasurer (7:30pm)
  • Coordinator Report: (7:40pm)
    • Armatage Playground Celebration
    • Fall Programs and Newsletter Content:
    • Volunteers to Draft Fundraising Ask
  • Committee Action Needed: (7:55pm)
    • Community Engagement: Funds for Aug 14 Event
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach: Funds for Sep 25 Event
  • New Business (8:10pm)

Please note that our Safety Update with Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist will be pushed to our August 24 Monthly Neighborhood Meeting.

June 10, 2021 eNews

June 15 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s OUTDOOR meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair if possible and plan to distance. In case of rain, our back-up will be Zoom. Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Officer Elections for President and Treasurer
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Armatage Park Playground Project – Francisca Pass, Project Designer
  • President’s Report: City Contract Budget
  • Treasurer’s Report: Accountant Search
  • Coordinator Report: City Policies, Equitable Engagement Plan and Nonpartisan Election Forums
  • 3 Minute Committee Updates:
    • Community Engagement
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Green Team
    • Policy & Finance
  • New Business

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign. Or, find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting):

  • TODAY (Thursday, June 10) after school, from 1:30-2:30pm
  • Saturday, June 12 from 8:00-9:00pm, just before our Movie in the Park, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off!
  • Tuesday, June 15 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting
  • Saturday, June 19 from 10:00-11:00am

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off at Armatage Park

Saturday, June 12 | dusk

Join the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and the Armatage Neighborhood Association for Ferris Bueller’s Day Off at Armatage Park on Saturday, June 12! Friendly neighborhood volunteers will be set-up to take lawn sign orders, answer questions, and share what the neighborhood is working on from 8:00-9:00pm and the movie starts at dusk.

Bring your blanket, bug spray and plan to distance to keep you and your neighbors safe. See the full list of Minneapolis Music & Movies at www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/music__movies/

Juneteenth

Thank you to Hennepin County Library for the following history of Juneteenth, which is now a new City holiday in Minneapolis!

Juneteenth is said to be the oldest African American celebration of emancipation from slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, but news of emancipation moved slowly. For the next 2½ years, enslaved Africans and Black abolitionists persevered in the struggle for freedom.

In Texas, formerly enslaved Africans celebrated their emancipation on June 19, 1865, and since then, Juneteenth has been remembered and celebrated as a holiday. From the late nineteenth century through today, typical Juneteenth celebrations across the country include parades, speeches by African American community leaders, singing of traditional songs such as “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and dancing.

Events to Commemorate Juneteenth

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board has a week of outdoor movies, discussions, music and family activities scheduled. Learn more at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/juneteenth/

Hennepin County Library has a great line-up of online events and videos at https://www.hclib.org/Juneteenth

Public Hearing on American Rescue Plan Act Funding

The City Council’s Committee of the Whole will hold an online public hearing 6:05pm Wednesday, June 16 on Mayor Jacob Frey’s spending proposal for the first round of $271 million in federal funding awarded to the City of Minneapolis through the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act.

This is an online public hearing and community members are encouraged to register to comment at the City Council’s Committee of the Whole Public Hearing on June 16 at 6:05pm. Learn how to participate in the public hearing here and review Mayor Frey’s spending proposal here.

Armatage Playground Construction Update

Construction has begun and things are sure looking different at Armatage Park! The new play area should be completed and ready for use around July 12-16. Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark

Project Designer Francisca Pass will be sharing a construction update and the ANA will discuss contributing neighborhood funds to the project at our Armatage Monthly Meeting this Tuesday, June 15 from 6:30-8:30pm, outdoors at Armatage Park.  All neighbors are welcome to attend – please join us!

Pools & Beach Season is Here

Pools, water parks and beaches are opening up for the season! With dozens of wading pools, 12 beaches, two water parks, and the nation’s first natural swimming pool, Minneapolis parks provide all kinds of water fun. Armatage Park’s pool is scheduled to open after school ends.

Find schedules for wading pools, the Webber Natural Swimming pool, water parks, beaches and water activities.

Armatage Safety Rebates

Did you know that the ANA offers $100 per household per calendar year to each Armatage household (both renters and homeowners) for security enhancements including items such as doorbell camera systems?

Learn more and apply for a rebate at armatage.org/security-rebate-program-for-residents/

Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive assistance with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.

Minnesota Vaccine Connector

With COVID-19 vaccines now approved for young people 12 to 15 years old, sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector and get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong. Getting vaccinated helps all of us get back to what we’ve missed sooner and safely.

Do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

June 15, 2021 Agenda

June 15, 2021 Monthly Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join our OUTDOOR meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair or blanket if possible, plan to distance, and look for us near the front door of the Armatage Community Center. In case of rain, our back-up will be Zoom. Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Officer Elections for President and Treasurer (6:35pm)
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist (6:40pm)
  • Armatage Park Playground Project- Francisca Pass, Project Designer (7:00pm)
    • Construction update
    • Funding gaps
    • ANA Park Improvement NRP Funds
  • President’s Report: City Contract Budget (7:30pm)
  • Treasurer’s Report: Accountant Search (7:40pm)
  • Coordinator Report: (7:50pm)
    • Bylaws/Policy Wizard
    • Equitable Engagement Plan
    • Nonpartisan Election Forums
  • Committee 3 Minute Updates: (8:00pm)
    • Community Engagement
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Green Team
    • Policy & Finance
  • New Business (8:15pm)

May 13, 2021 eNews

Armatage Annual Meeting

Tuesday, May 18
6:30-8:00pm | Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs to attend.

Why attend the Annual Meeting? GREAT question! You will be able to hear from the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action, connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene, enter to win one of six $25 gift cards to Armatage businesses (must be present to win), hear Board Election results, and learn what the ANA is doing for our community.

See below on how to vote in the Board Election through May 18!

Voting Open for the Board Election

Help elect the next Armatage Neighborhood Association Board by voting at armatage.org/2021boardelection/We have six fantastic candidates running this month.

Voting opened May 11 and runs through May 18 at 7:00pm. Election results will be announced at the Armatage Annual Meeting on May 18 (see above to sign up!). All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business/institution are eligible to vote. Click here to learn about the candidates and cast your vote!

Spring Tea & Blooms Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who attended our Spring Tea & Blooms event this past weekend!  We had a blast handing out take-home planting kits, giving away cookies donated by Café Cerés and free books from Jump! at 54th & Penn, and seeing neighbors after a long winter. Thanks to Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café for being part of the event and an especially huge thank you to our Community Engagement volunteer team!

Support Your Neighborhood

The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and engaging our community. Donations drive our work. Support the neighborhood through GiveMN here.

With funding from the City of Minneapolis to drop significantly next year, even a $5 donation makes a difference! Thank you for your support.

Minnesota Rent Help

RentHelpMN was created to help Minnesotans who have fallen behind on their rent or utility bills or fear that could happen. If you find yourself in this position, RentHelpMN is here to help. Eligible renters can receive assistance with rent and utility bills dated on or after March 13, 2020. If you qualify, you could receive up to 15 months of total assistance.

Find out if you qualify and apply at renthelpmn.org or by calling 211, which has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions from 8:00am until 8:00pm, Monday through Saturday.

Minnesota Vaccine Connector

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now approved for young people 12 to 15 years old!  Getting vaccinated helps all of us get back to what we’ve missed sooner and safely.  Signing up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector lets you get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong.

Do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or neighbors on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring you an Armatage Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the ANA, elected representatives, governmental services, local businesses, and a couple of fun items to welcome you.

  • Homeowners: be on the lookout for friendly ANA volunteers Ethan (pictured) or Kevin with a Welcome Bag with your name on it! They’ll swing by to do a masked, distanced drop-off.
  • Renters: if you are a renter who moved in during the past year or if you own a rental property in the neighborhood and have new tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

Neighbors are encouraged to join an Armatage Committee and get involved. Currently, meetings are held on Zoom or outdoors and distanced. Click on each group’s link below to learn more. Register to attend a meeting at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • The Green Team meets tonight (Thursday, May 13) from 7:00-8:15pm on Zoom.
  • Community Engagement next meets Thursday, June 3 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom.
  • Safety, Equity & Outreach next meets Saturday, June 5 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park (see more above). Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask.

Changes to COVID-19 Restrictions

Read about the state’s changing COVID-19 restrictions at https://mn.gov/covid19/stay-safe/overview/index.jsp

April 22, 2021 eNews

April 26 Meeting Agenda

The ANA postponed its April 20 meeting to better support our community, especially our BIPOC neighbors, after the verdict.  All are welcome to join next week’s rescheduled meeting. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Update from Armatage Park Director Jordan Nelson
  • Open Discussion on the Trial & Community Safety
  • 2021 Annual Meeting & Board Election
  • Leadership Roles & Transition Planning
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Armatage Play Area Update
    • Hennepin County Archives
    • City Funding Update
    • Mail
  • Committees – 3 Minute Updates:
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Community Engagement
    • Green Team

Register to Run for the ANA Board by May 9

Please consider running for the Armatage Neighborhood Association’s Board of Directors. Board members have a critical role in shaping our neighborhood nonprofit for years to come. These past weeks and months have reinforced how critical strong, local communities are.

Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to run for the board, including renters, seniors, residents with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color). Learn more about what’s involved and register to run by May 9 at https://armatage.org/2021boardelection/

Spring Tea & Blooms

Saturday, May 8
2:00-4:00pm | Armatage Park

Grab your mask and join us for afternoon tea at Armatage Park! Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café will take orders outside, soon-to-open neighborhood spot Café Cerés will share samples, and the ANA will give away take-home kids’ planting kits (supplies are limited). Pick up a free book from Jump! and complete a scavenger hunt and enter to win a gift card to a neighborhood business!

Thank you for following our safety guidelines by wearing a mask during the event, keeping 6 feet of distance from everyone outside of your household, and bringing your treats home or into the park to enjoy. In case of severe weather, cancellations will be posted on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.

Armatage Annual Meeting

Tuesday, May 18
6:30-8:00pm | Zoom

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting! Register at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs to hear from the leaders of Armatage Reparations & Equity Action, connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene who will each provide updates with time for questions, win a gift card to a local business, hear board election results, and learn what the ANA is doing for our community.

Online Board Election: May 11-18

Make your voice heard and vote in the Online Board Election from May 11 through May 18 at 7:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business/institutional representatives are able to vote in the election through an online form that will be posted at armatage.org on May 11. Please see above for more details on running for election!

Reflect Before You Post

With emotions running high, it is important to take a moment to reflect on our words and how they may affect your neighbors. Before hitting “post” consider:

  • How would you feel if someone directed your statement at your child/parent/significant other/etc.?
  • Would you share this point-of-view at work/church/public meeting?
  • Would you say this comment in-person to the individual or group of people you are referring to?

The ANA will continue to compile safety resources through the August trials at https://armatage.org/trial/

Community Safety Workshops

Nonviolent Peaceforce is holding Community Safety Training Workshops on April 24th, May 8th, and May 22nd from Saturday from 11:00am-5:00pm (optional breakfast will be provided for participants at 10:00am) located outdoors in the Little Earth Neighborhood (meet at Cedar Ave S & 24th St E, Minneapolis, MN 55404). All are welcome to register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CommunitySafetyWorkshop Wear a mask and plan to distance. Seating and lunch provided.

The Community Safety Training Workshops focus on preparing individuals and communities for handling community safety concerns and situations. The learning objectives are rooted in Unarmed Civilian Protection (UCP) and aim to supply participants with skills for approaching safety concerns and providing a safe space for the community. Learn more at https://www.nonviolentpeaceforce.org/articles/940-cst

911, 311 & New Minneapolis Tip Line

If you need assistance, there are a few different avenues to get help:

  • Call 911 for emergencies where someone’s safety is at risk that requires an immediate response from police, firefighters, or medics.
  • Call 612-673-5335 or text 847411 to report suspicious activity directly to MPD that doesn’t require an emergency response (example: reporting a fast-moving car without license plates or spotting something odd in an alley)
  • Call Minneapolis 311 at 311 or 612-673-3000 or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov for non-emergency concerns.

Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or someone on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring you an Armatage Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the ANA, elected representatives, governmental services, local businesses, and a couple of fun items to welcome you.

  • Homeowners: be on the lookout for friendly ANA volunteers Ethan (pictured) or Kevin with a Welcome Bag with your name on it! They’ll swing by to do a masked, distanced drop-off.
  • Renters: if you are a renter who moved in during the past year or if you own a rental property in the neighborhood and have new tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

Neighbors are encouraged to join an Armatage Committee and get involved. Currently, most meetings are held on Zoom. Click on each group’s link below to learn more. Register to attend a meeting at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs


Street Sweeping is Here

Street sweeping began this week. See the schedule and get ready to avoid a ticket and tow at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

April 15, 2021 eNews

April 20 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s meeting. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions
  • Update from Armatage Park Director Jordan Nelson
  • 2021 Annual Meeting & Board Election
  • Leadership Roles & Transition Planning
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Armatage Play Area Update
    • Hennepin County Archives
    • City Funding Update
    • Mail
  • Committees – 3 Minute Updates:
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Community Engagement
    • Green Team

Earth Day Clean-up at Armatage Park

Saturday, April 24
9:30am-12:00pm

The Armatage Green Team is partnering with the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board to host a modified Earth Day Clean-up this year! Pick up supplies for your do-it-yourself efforts at Armatage Park (or any of the participating Earth Day sites) on April 24 from 9:30 am to 12:00pm.

No registration is needed, just grab supplies (please wear a mask), practice social distancing, and head to a nearby park, trail or out into the neighborhood and pick up trash you see, while getting fresh air and exercise! Share pictures of your trash haul on our Facebook page – at @MPLSEarthDay using the hashtags #MplsDIYEarthDay and #armatage

Spring Tea & Blooms

Saturday, May 8
2:00-4:00pm | Armatage Park

Grab your mask and join us for afternoon tea at Armatage Park! Jinx Tea and Sparrow Café will take orders outside, soon-to-open neighborhood spot Café Cerés will share samples, and the ANA will give away take-home kids’ planting kits (supplies are limited). Pick up a free book from Jump! and complete a scavenger hunt and enter to win a gift card to a neighborhood business!

Thank you for following our safety guidelines by wearing a mask during the event, keeping 6 feet of distance from everyone outside of your household, and bringing your treats home or into the park to enjoy. In case of severe weather, cancellations will be posted on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter.


Pause Before You Post

As we get closer to the end of the trial, you may be on high alert for suspicious behavior. Take a moment to pause before sharing information on social media. Does your post:

  1. Focus on behavior and how/why you think it is suspicious (which might change depending on the time of day)?
  2. Provide a full description of the person/s involved, including clothing, as well as details about the location, vehicle, etc. to avoid over-generalizations?

Find more information on how to report concerns, mental health supports, and more safety resources at https://armatage.org/trial/.


911, 311 & New Minneapolis Tip Line

If you need assistance, there are a few different avenues to get help:

  • Call 911 for emergencies where someone’s safety is at risk that requires an immediate response from police, firefighters, or medics.
  • Call 612-673-5335 or text 847411 to report suspicious activity directly to MPD that doesn’t require an emergency response (example: reporting a fast-moving car without license plates or spotting something odd in an alley)
  • Call Minneapolis 311 at 311 or 612-673-3000 or email Minneapolis311@minneapolismn.gov for non-emergency concerns.


Upcoming Public Hearings

The City of Minneapolis has two upcoming public hearings related to Armatage businesses. Learn more on how to participate in each hearing and submit a comment below:

  1. April 20 at 1:30pm: Café Cerés’ Application for On-Sale Liquor with Sunday Sales, No Live Entertainment and Sidewalk Café License for their new location at 5401 Penn Ave S: https://www2.minneapolismn.gov/business-services/licenses-permits/business-licenses/cafe-ceres-public-hearing/#d.en.169513
  2. April 22 at 4:30pm: Wagner Greenhouses’ Application for a retaining wall variance to support the western edge of their property along Russell Ave (plantings will be replaced).  Contact Andrew Liska, Senior City Planner  at (612) 673-2264  or Andrew.Liska@minneapolismn.gov with questions or comments. More at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/meetings/


Get Ready for Street Sweeping

Street sweeping starts next Tuesday, April 20. See the schedule and get ready to avoid a ticket and tow at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Minnesota Vaccine Connector

ICYMI, all Minnesotans 16 years of age and older are now eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine. You can do your part now by continuing to help slow the spread of COVID-19: Wear a mask, wash your hands often, stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with, and stay home if you are sick. Doing all of these things will help keep people healthy until all Minnesotans have the opportunity to get vaccinated.

Sign up for the Minnesota COVID-19 vaccine connector in English, Spanish, Somali or Hmong to get updates on vaccine opportunities in our area.


Armatage Welcome Bags

Have you or someone on your block recently moved to Armatage? If so, we want to bring you an Armatage Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the ANA, elected representatives, governmental services, local businesses, and a couple of fun items to welcome you.

  • Homeowners: be on the lookout for friendly ANA volunteers Ethan (pictured) or Kevin with a Welcome Bag with your name on it! They’ll swing by to do a masked, distanced drop-off.
  • Renters: if you are a renter who moved in during the past year or if you own a rental property in the neighborhood and have new tenants, please reach out to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org and let us know where we can drop off a Welcome Bag!

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

Neighbors are encouraged to join an Armatage Committee and get involved. Currently, most meetings are held on Zoom. Click on each group’s link below to learn more. Register to attend a meeting at https://bit.ly/ANAmtgs


Safety, Equity & Outreach will next meet on Saturday, May 1 from 10:00-11:00am at Armatage Park. Kids welcome and plan to wear a mask. Please note the date change due to Spring Break, Passover and Easter.


Community Engagement next meets Thursday, May 6 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom.


The Green Team will next meet on Thursday, May 13 from 7:00-8:15pm.