Category Archives: City Budget

November 5, 2021 eNews

Collage of three houses shown at night. The top has an illuminated graveyard, the bottom left has lights on trees, along the sidewalk and a witch in the front yard, and the bottom right has a lit walkway, hay bale, pumpkins and skeletons in the front yard.

Halloween Decoration Tour Results

Thank you to our 15 fabulous participants and everyone who visited this year’s Halloween Tour!  The results are in – the houses that won for each category are listed below and voting was close! Huge thanks to Book Club for donating one of this year’s prizes!

  • Neighborhood Favorite (top): 5821 Sheridan Ave S
  • Spookiest (bottom left): 5621 Morgan Ave S
  • Best Use of Pumpkins (bottom right): 5937 Sheridan Ave S

Election Results

Looking for election results and voter turnout statistics?  Check out https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/results-data/

Thanks to everyone who voted in this year’s municipal election and special thanks to those of you who served as election judges!

Graphic with pink flowers and a blue backyard that says "Donate Today. The Armatage Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit."

Support the Armatage Neighborhood Association

The Safety Rebate Program. Spring and Fall Clean-ups. Holiday Tours. Welcome Bags. Free workshops and community conversations. Neighborhood events. Safety and green initiatives.

Over the past 30 years, your neighborhood association has worked hard to make Armatage a place where all feel welcome, empowered, and connected through safety initiatives,  annual  community-building events, environmental work, advocacy, and communications that keep you informed and engaged.

Consider making a tax-deductible donation to support the ANA’s work in our community at https://www.givemn.org/organization/Armatage-Neighborhood-Association  As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, donations to the ANA are tax-deductible and eligible for employer matches.

Carved pumpkin that has seen better days and is starting to compost on a front step.

Compost Your Pumpkins

When you’re done with your carved pumpkins and other gourds, you can put them in your green organics recycling cart. They don’t need to be bagged. Remember to remove any candles, etc.

If you haven’t signed up for organics recycling, you can put them with your other bagged yard waste for collection. Added synthetic materials such as paint, glitter or jewels make pumpkins non-compostable, and then they have to go in the black garbage cart.

Remember: Wrappers from Halloween candy go in the garbage. They are not recyclable or compostable. Learn more about organics recycling, yard waste collection, and more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/

Image of City of Minneapolis trash bin, recycling bin, and bags of yard waste set out for collection.

Yard Waste Collection Ends Soon!

The yard waste collection season is coming to an end! The final week of collection will be the week of November 15. Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/yard-waste/

Picture of a Minneapolis Streep Sweeping truck on a city street

Fall Street Sweeping

Watch the progress, look up your sweeping date, and get all your street sweeping questions answered at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Graphic with "Armatage Holiday Light Tour," which runs from Friday December 10 through Sunday, December 19 from 5-8pm. The background has holiday lights and a star.

Sign up for the Holiday Light Tour

If you live in Armatage and love to decorate for the holidays, sign up to be a part of the second annual Armatage Holiday Light Tour! Any winter holiday or theme is welcome!

By signing up you agree to have your decorations up during the tour and to have your address published on the tour map. Sign up by Tuesday, December 7 at 11:59pm at https://armatage.org/holidaylights/

Protect Your Children from Lead Poisoning

Get the facts, get your home tested, and get your child tested. If you’re responsible for a child 5 or younger, your home may be eligible for help making it safer for your children.

Lead exposure can put young children at risk for permanent damage to their brains and nervous systems, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and other serious health concerns. Protecting them from lead poisoning when they’re young helps them have a better, safer life growing up and as an adult.

Lead poisoning is 100% preventable. Most often windows are the worst location for lead paint hazards. This funding will help replace windows, windowsills, porch floors, staircases and other locations that have lead paint. We can also do other home safety work such as getting rid of lead paint hazards, cockroaches, mice, and asthma triggers; adding handrails and radon mitigation systems; and weatherizing.

For a free assessment and help getting hazards out of your home, call 612-673-2301. Find more information on the City website.

Graphic that states "Armatage Bylaws and Funding Plan Approved"

Bylaws & Funding Plan Approved

Thank you to everyone who weighed in on the new Armatage Neighborhood Association Bylaws and Funding Plan!  Community feedback gathered during the public comment period was overwhelmingly positive on both. The ANA Board met to discuss feedback and approved both documents on October 19. Learn more here.

Two men wearing masks are standing in front of and examining a map of the Minneapolis neighborhoods with ward boundaries.

Participate in Minneapolis Redistricting

After every census, Minneapolis updates the boundaries of its 13 City Council wards and six Park Board districts to reflect new population counts. The Redistricting Group, made up of 24 Minneapolis volunteers, builds the new maps with input from their communities. The Redistricting Group needs your help with the redistricting project to make sure all voices are heard.

Participate in the Redistricting Project

City Budget Review is Underway

Review of Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed 2022 City budget is underway by the City Council.  The proposed $1.599 billion budget includes a 5.45% levy increase. The mayor’s recommended City budget invests in affordable housing, youth programming, community safety, climate action and an inclusive economic recovery.  Learn more about the budget process at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/budget and save the date for upcoming public hearings:

  • Public hearings are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Nov. 16, 6:05 p.m. Dec. 1 and 6:05 p.m. Dec. 8.
  • Dec. 8: Council scheduled to vote on budget adoption

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

COVID-19 Vaccines are HERE for Kids 5-11

Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map to locate and contact providers about vaccines for kids ages 5-11.

October 28, 2021 eNews

Armatage Halloween Decoration Tour graphic with pumpkin. Tour dates are Friday 10/22 through Sun 10/31 from 6-8pm each night.

Halloween Decoration Tour

Enjoy the sights and frights around Armatage for our second annual Halloween Decoration Tour, which runs each night from 6:00-8:00pm through Sunday, October 31! Check out the tour map and plan your route at armatage.org/halloweentour/

Voting

Once you’ve checked out each tour stop, head back to armatage.org/halloweentour/ to vote for your favorites! The top display in each of the following categories wins a $50 gift card to an Armatage business: Best Use of Pumpkins, Spookiest and Neighborhood Favorite. In the spirit of fairness, please hold off on voting until you’ve visited every stop. Happy Halloween!

Carved pumpkin that has seen better days and is starting to compost on a front step.

Compost Your Pumpkins

When you’re done with your carved pumpkins and other gourds, you can put them in your green organics recycling cart. They don’t need to be bagged. Remember to remove any candles, etc.

If you haven’t signed up for organics recycling, you can put them with your other bagged yard waste for collection. Added synthetic materials such as paint, glitter or jewels make pumpkins non-compostable, and then they have to go in the black garbage cart.

Remember: Wrappers from Halloween candy go in the garbage. They are not recyclable or compostable. Learn more about organics recycling, yard waste collection, and more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/

Halloween Events at the Parks

The Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board is hosting free or low cost Halloween events this week. Click here to see a full list!

Picture of a Minneapolis Streep Sweeping truck on a city street

Fall Street Sweeping

Watch the progress, look up your sweeping date, and get all your street sweeping questions answered at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Comment on the E Line BRT Through October 31

Metro Transit is currently holding a public comment period through October 31 on the E Line Bus Rapid Transit proposed station locations.  The E Line BRT would run every 10 minutes each day and most of the evening and Route 6 would also see some changes.

Here is the current Route 6 map versus the proposed E Line/Route 6 map. Also to understand why certain bus stops are being phased out, here is a map showing ridership rates, before the pandemic.

There are a few ways to comment on the plan: 

Get Ready to Vote Early or on Election Day

The Minneapolis Early Vote Center at 980 East Hennepin Ave now has extended hours and is open to anyone who is eligible to vote in Minneapolis. Learn more at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/vote-early-in-person Here are the remaining hours to vote early:

  • 7:00am to 6:00pm on Thursday, October 28 and Friday, October 29
  • 9:00am to 4:00pm on Saturday, October 30
  • 12:00pm to 5:00pm on Sunday, October 31
  • 7:00am to 5:00pm on Monday, November 1, which is the last day the Early Vote Center is open

Fun Fact: Did you know that more people have now voted early in this year’s municipal election than voted early in any recent municipal elections in Minneapolis? As of yesterday, the City had received 17,000 early ballots for the Nov. 2 election. That’s higher than the total number of early ballots received for municipal elections in 2017 (12,174) and 2013 (5,023).

Ranked Choice Voting

Minneapolis voters will use ranked choice voting this fall to elect a mayor and members of the City Council, Board of Estimate and Taxation, and Park and Recreation Board. Ranked choice voting is a way of voting that eliminates the need for separate primary elections. Voters rank up to three candidates for each office. The ballot has three columns, and choices are made from left to right in those columns. Ranked choice voting in Minneapolis is used only for municipal elections. Learn more at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/ranked-choice-voting/

Quick Voting Links

Graphic that states "Armatage Bylaws and Funding Plan Approved"

Bylaws & Funding Plan Approved

Thank you to everyone who weighed in on the new Armatage Neighborhood Association Bylaws and Funding Plan!  Community feedback gathered during the public comment period was overwhelmingly positive on both. The ANA Board met to discuss feedback and approved both documents on October 19. Learn more here.

Candidate & Charter Forum Recordings

We teamed up with our neighboring communities to host informative, non-partisan City Council and Park Board candidate forums and an educational forum on the proposed charter amendments to help you get ready for Election Day on November 2! Links to recordings from each event are below:

LWV 2021 Voter Guide

The League of Women Voters Minneapolis has released its 2021 Voter Guide to help you be informed about the 2021 City of Minneapolis elections, learn how to register and vote, find a list of candidates/websites, and read the Charter Amendments language. Check out the guide at lwvmpls.org/2021-voters-guide-now-available/

Two men wearing masks are standing in front of and examining a map of the Minneapolis neighborhoods with ward boundaries.

Participate in Minneapolis Redistricting

After every census, Minneapolis updates the boundaries of its 13 City Council wards and six Park Board districts to reflect new population counts. The Redistricting Group, made up of 24 Minneapolis volunteers, builds the new maps with input from their communities. The Redistricting Group needs your help with the redistricting project to make sure all voices are heard.

Participate in the Redistricting Project

City Budget Review is Underway

Review of Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed 2022 City budget is underway by the City Council.  The proposed $1.599 billion budget includes a 5.45% levy increase. The mayor’s recommended City budget invests in affordable housing, youth programming, community safety, climate action and an inclusive economic recovery.  Learn more about the budget process at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/budget and save the date for upcoming public hearings:

  • Public hearings are scheduled for1:30 p.m. Nov. 16, 6:05 p.m. Dec. 1 and 6:05 p.m. Dec. 8.
  • Dec. 8: Council scheduled to vote on budget adoption

Roll up your sleeves Minnesota graphic showing a person with a mask and a bandaid to indicate recent vaccination.

COVID-19 Vaccines are Coming for Kids 5-11

Minnesota providers cannot begin vaccinating children until the CDC issues final recommendations, which could come later next week.

Once CDC has approved the vaccine for 5-11-year-olds and your child is eligible, Minnesota families can:

  • Check with their pediatrician or family medicine clinic about appointments;
  • Visit mn.gov/vaccine to use the Vaccine Locator Map to locate and contact providers near them;
  • Utilize the CDC’s Vaccine Finder at vaccines.gov to find pharmacies offering pediatric vaccinations; or
  • Look to your local school district for more information about vaccination opportunities in your child’s school.

October 22, 2021 eNews

October 19, 2021 Meeting Recap

The ANA heard an informative presentation on Southwest Voices, a new online news source focused on Southwest Minneapolis with a membership subscription model similar to public radio. A portion of every membership from Armatage residents will go to support the ANA.

Thank you to everyone who weighed in on the Bylaws & Funding Plan!  Based on the votes and comments received, the ANA Board voted to approve the new Bylaws and Funding Plan as drafted. See the final bylaws at https://armatage.org/anabylaws/  The ANA also voted to approve $4,000 for a scaled down rain garden program in 2022 that will focus on a bulk buy model with a couple slots reserved as scholarships for neighbors who cannot afford gardens.

Armatage Halloween Decoration Tour graphic with pumpkin. Tour dates are Friday 10/22 through Sun 10/31 from 6-8pm each night.

Halloween Decoration Tour Starts Tonight

Enjoy the sights and frights around Armatage for our second annual Halloween Decoration Tour, which runs each night from 6:00-8:00pm Friday, October 22 through Sunday, October 31! The tour map is now available at armatage.org/halloweentour/

Voting

Once you’ve checked out each tour stop, head back to armatage.org/halloweentour/ to vote for your favorites! The top display in each of the following categories wins a $50 gift card to an Armatage business: Best Use of Pumpkins, Spookiest and Neighborhood Favorite. In the spirit of fairness, please hold off on voting until you’ve visited every stop. Happy Halloween!

Picture of a Minneapolis Streep Sweeping truck on a city street

Street Sweeping Has Begun

Watch the progress, look up your sweeping date, and get all your street sweeping questions answered at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/getting-around/parking-driving/street-sweep/

Comment on the E Line BRT Through October 31

Metro Transit is currently holding a public comment period through October 31 on the E Line Bus Rapid Transit proposed station locations.  The E Line BRT would run every 10 minutes each day and most of the evening and Route 6 would also see some changes.

Here is the current Route 6 map versus the proposed E Line/Route 6 map. Also to understand why certain bus stops are being phased out, here is a map showing ridership rates, before the pandemic.

There are a few ways to comment on the plan: 

Halloween Events at the Parks

The Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board is hosting free or low cost Halloween events throughout the month. Click here to see a full list!

Candidate & Charter Forum Recordings

We teamed up with our neighboring communities to host informative, non-partisan City Council and Park Board candidate forums and an educational forum on the proposed charter amendments to help you get ready for Election Day on November 2! Links to recordings from each event are below:

LWV 2021 Voter Guide

The League of Women Voters Minneapolis has released its 2021 Voter Guide to help you be informed about the 2021 City of Minneapolis elections, learn how to register and vote, find a list of candidates/websites, and read the Charter Amendments language. Check out the guide at lwvmpls.org/2021-voters-guide-now-available/

Participate in Minneapolis Redistricting

After every census, Minneapolis updates the boundaries of its 13 City Council wards and six Park Board districts to reflect new population counts. The Redistricting Group, made up of 24 Minneapolis volunteers, builds the new maps with input from their communities. The Redistricting Group needs your help with the redistricting project to make sure all voices are heard.

Participate in the Redistricting Project

Woman cooking a meal

Create Meals, Not Waste: Join Hennepin County’s Stop Food Waste Challenge

We LOVE food, which leaves us wondering: why do we let so much of it go to waste? About 40% of food is wasted somewhere along the supply chain. Here in Hennepin County, we throw away enough edible food each year to fill Target Field 1.5 times (!!).

Join Hennepin County’s Stop Food Waste Challenge. Hennepin County can help you learn easy, practical skills that will help you stop wasting food, put more money in your pocket and create a healthier environment. Creating a meal plan, buying just what you need at the grocery store, cooking creatively and properly storing food can have a big effect on reducing the amount of food in your home that goes to waste.

Kid A Clutter Pickup Drive Van

Kid Clutter Pickup Drive This Month

Fall is here!  Clear out that outgrown kid stuff when the Kid Clutter Pickup Drive returns to Armatage on October 25 and 26.

Kid A picks up your used kid and baby stuff, pays you for the items that they resell, and donates everything else to great local non-profit organizations for you.

During their spring pickup drive, Kid A raised $682 for local school PTAs and collected more than 7,500 donated items for Tandem Family Resource Center, Arc’s Value Village, and Free Bikes 4 Kidz MN.

Turn your kid clutter into cash and community resources in one convenient pickup. Reserve a time at kidamarketplace.com/pickup-drive – but don’t wait, slots are limited!

City Budget Review is Underway

Review of Mayor Jacob Frey’s proposed 2022 City budget is underway by the City Council.  The proposed $1.599 billion budget includes a 5.45% levy increase. The mayor’s recommended City budget invests in affordable housing, youth programming, community safety, climate action and an inclusive economic recovery.  Learn more about the budget process at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/budget and save the date for upcoming public hearings:

  • Public hearings are scheduled for1:30 p.m. Nov. 16, 6:05 p.m. Dec. 1 and 6:05 p.m. Dec. 8.
  • Dec. 8: Council scheduled to vote on budget adoption

Get Ready for the November 2 Election

The Minneapolis Early Vote Center at 980 E. Hennepin Ave is open for voters who wish to cast their ballot early and in person. Minneapolis Elections & Voter Services has also begun mailing ballots to voters who have requested to vote early by mail. Learn more at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/vote-early-in-person  And see what’s on the ballot at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/ballot

Never voted early before? A new video shows you how easy it is to vote early. Follow typical Minneapolis voters Chad and Maya as they cast early ballots. Watch the video HERE.

Ranked Choice Voting

Minneapolis voters will use ranked choice voting this fall! Ranked choice voting is a way of voting that eliminates the need for separate primary elections. Voters rank up to three candidates for each office. The ballot has three columns, and choices are made from left to right in those columns. Ranked choice voting in Minneapolis is used only for municipal elections. Learn more at https://vote.minneapolismn.gov/ranked-choice-voting/

Voter Registration

The Office of the Secretary of State has a simple online tool that voters can use to see if they are registered to vote at their current address.

August 24, 2021 eNews

Aug 24 Meeting Recap

Thank you to all who joined the ANA Monthly Meeting this week!  5th Precinct Inspector Katie Blackwell, Crime Prevention Specialist Jennifer Waisanen, and Council Member Linea Palmisano all gave updates and answered questions. The investigation into the racist messages on milk jugs that have appeared around the neighborhood is ongoing.

The ANA Board approved a draft budget for an upcoming City Plan Modification, approved a final Equitable Engagement Template, and started sharing ideas for the future of the Safety Rebate Program as neighborhood funding starts to drop over the next few years. The Board also approved funds ($325) for 3-4 upcoming non-partisan Candidate Forums and Charter Amendment Educational Forums as well as for an interactive equity-focused activity at the Meet Your Community Helpers event in September ($225).

Postponed: Aug 26 Playground Reopening Celebration

Due to today’s stormy forecast, the Armatage Playground Reopening Celebration will be postponed to a date in September (TBD).  Stay tuned for the new date, which will be shared here, at armatage.org and on social media.  We’re excited to share free cold treats (donated by the ANA and Jonny Pops!) and celebrate the new play equipment with Armatage Elementary and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board soon!

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/

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, MPD, USPS, EMTs and more!

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

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 Meet Your Community Helpers event on September 25 from 2:00-5:00pm at Armatage Park.

The Mayor’s 2022 City Budget Proposal is Here

Mayor Frey has outlined his recommended City budget for 2022. The proposed $1.599 billion budget includes a 5.45% levy increase and a gradual $2.6 million increase for youth programming through the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, ongoing funding for the Office of Violence Prevention, and five recruit and cadet classes to bring new, community-oriented officers into the Minneapolis Police Department. The City Council will begin reviewing the proposed budget in mid-September.

Learn more about the budget proposal.

Minneapolis Public Schools Travel Reimbursement for Families

Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) is encouraging families who can transport their students to school on their own to do so. The district shared that sporadic school bus service is expected this fall due to a continuing shortage of bus drivers faced by school districts across the country. MPS will also offer travel reimbursements to families who are able to transport their students to and from school. Learn more at https://transportation.mpls.k12.mn.us/bus_reimbursement

Free COVID-19 Vaccines and $100 Gift Cards at the Fair

Haven’t gotten your COVID-19 yet? The strongest defense against the delta variant is through vaccination. The State of Minnesota will be offering $100 Visa gift cards on site to fairgoers who get their first FREE COVID-19 vaccine dose at the Community Vaccine Clinic at the Minnesota State Fair from Aug. 26 through Sept. 6.  No ID or insurance is needed – learn more here.

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. Learn more here.

Upcoming Free Clinics

  • Steven’s Square Park, 1801 Stevens Ave. 4-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 27. Pfizer (12 and older)
  • Park Avenue United Methodist Church, 3400 Park Ave. 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Aug. 28. Pfizer (12 and older)
  • RSA, 740 E Lake Street (former parking lot of Roberts Shoes at Chicago & Lake) 10-3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26. Pfizer (12 and over)
  • YMCA, 3335 Blaisdell Ave. 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26. Pfizer (12 and over)
  • Summit Academy IOC, 935 Olsen Memorial Hwy. 4-6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 27. Pfizer (12 and over)

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.

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:

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

July 8, 2021 eNews

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/

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.

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:

  • Saturday, July 10 from 10:00-11:00am at our Safety Equity & Outreach meeting
  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting

City Council Adopts American Rescue Plan Spending

The Minneapolis City Council voted July 2 to approve the first round of American Rescue Plan funding for the City of Minneapolis. The approved $102 million in funding features a strong emphasis on economic recovery, affordable housing, and community safety measures while piloting new programming like a Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) Pilot.

The majority of the $102 million will be distributed beginning in August 2021. Mayor Frey will put forward his proposal for allocating the remaining approximately $169 million later this year.

View the final approved funding plan.

See details of the impacted programs.

Fall Park Registration is Open

Registration is now open for fall activities, programs, and sports through the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board!  Check out youth programs and activities here.

There are also tons of adult sports league options to check out. Don’t have a team? Sign up as a Free Agent. Looking to make some extra cash? Consider becoming an adult sports official!

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 will be coming soon at www.windommpls.org/2021-turf-to-alternative-garden-tour

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.

Red Hot Art Events

Our friends at the Stevens Square Community Organization are holding 20 events across Stevens Square-Loring Heights from June to October that are free and open to all. That’s 20 chances to eat, dance, play, connect, and enjoy art all summer long! Visit https://www.stevenssquare.org/redhotart to learn more.

June 17, 2021 eNews

June 15 Meeting Recap

Thank you to everyone who attended our first outdoor meeting this week at Armatage Park!  Project Designer Francisca Pass gave an update on the Armatage Playground construction, which hit a couple delays and should now wrap up at the end of July. The ANA Board voted to spend $27,645.21 of its Park Improvement funds to cover the funding gap for the playground so it can be completed this summer. This donation from the neighborhood will go toward two more shade canopies and an accessible seesaw.

The Board also approved an amended budget for its 2021 Community Participation Program funding from the City of Minneapolis, discussed its upcoming application for the City’s new Equitable Engagement Fund, and approved $250 for live music at our upcoming Aug 14 Summer Food Truck Night.

Thank You, Rachel!

A huge thank you to our outgoing Accountant (and Armatage neighbor!), Rachel Ireland-Henry! We are very grateful for Rachel’s years of service with the ANA and wish her all the best in her new adventures!  If you see her around the neighborhood, please tell her thank you!

The ANA is in the midst of a search for a new contract Accountant and will share a position description with the neighborhood soon. Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org with questions.

Events to Commemorate Juneteenth

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

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

History of 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.

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 to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting):

  • Saturday, June 19 from 10:00-11:00am
  • Saturday, July 10 from 10:00-11:00am at our Safety Equity & Outreach meeting
  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting

Affordable Camps through Minneapolis Parks

Sign up your child ages 7-14 for Olympics Celebration, Summer Survivor or Sports Sampler camps beginning Monday, June 21

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is excited to offer new Neighborhood Day Camps this summer! Themed, all-day, weeklong camps are available throughout the summer for the low cost of $10 per child.

Visit bit.ly/NMplsDayCamps to learn more and sign up!

Free Hennepin County Food Waste Prevention Webinars

You’re invited to an upcoming webinar to help you learn how to make the most of their food with tips and tricks for shopping, storing, and cooking.

This webinar is part of Hennepin County’s goal to raise awareness of how much food is wasted and help our residents with saving money, setting a good example, and having a positive impact on the planet.  The webinars are about an hour long with time for questions. They are free of charge, but registration is required. The registration link is here and you have three options to attend:

  • Wednesday, June 23rd from 7-8 p.m.
  • Thursday June 24th from noon-1 p.m.
  • Friday June 25th from noon-1 p.m.

Armatage Playground Construction Update

Construction has begun and things are sure looking different at Armatage Park! The new estimate is that the play area should be completed and ready for use near the end of July. Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark and we will plan to hold a community celebration in August!

Cycle the Summer in Minneapolis Parks

Minneapolis Parks is hosting a series of smaller, bike-focused events throughout the summer for people of all ages, backgrounds and riding abilities to get on a bike! Learn more about the Cycle the Summer series and sign up for Cycling 101 youth events (August 25 will be at Armatage Park!) at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/cycle_the_summer/ 

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/

Summer Movie – Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Ferris Bueller’s Day Off last weekend!  It was so wonderful to spend the evening outside with neighbors (and a hefty number of June bugs). There are many more opportunities to distance and enjoy free music and movies this summer: see the full list  at www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/music__movies/

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.

 

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.

December 3, 2020 eNews

Armatage Holiday Light Tour

Enjoy the colorful city streets and light displays of our neighborhood this holiday season with our first-ever Holiday Light Tour, which starts next Friday, December 11 and runs each night from 5:00-8:00pm through Sunday, December 20. The tour is self-guided so look for the map at armatage.org next week!

Sign up for the Tour

Click here to register for the tour by Tuesday, December 8 at 11:59pm and be a bright spot in the neighborhood this season! Just like our Halloween Tour, we’ll ask visitors to vote for their favorites after visiting each stop on the tour. The three addresses with the most votes will each win a $50 gift card to an Armatage business!

Free COVID-19 Testing

The City of Minneapolis is offering free COVID-19 tests. Testing is encouraged and available to everyone, whether or not you have symptoms. For more info on what to expect, how to quarantine while you wait for results, when to expect results, and links to more testing sites visit http://www.minneapolismn.gov/coronavirus/coronavirus-testing

Sabathani Community Center, 310 E. 38th St.
Noon-4 p.m. Dec. 5, Dec. 19

Columbia Golf Course, 3300 Central Ave. NE
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 7, Dec. 13, Dec. 14, Dec. 20, Dec. 21

Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., Exhibit Room E
Noon-7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends starting Nov. 9
Make an appointment here.
Find instructions here.

Native American Community Clinic, 1213 E. Franklin Ave.
2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
Appointments required: Call 612-872-8086 to schedule an appointment.

Southside Community Health Services, 324 E. 35th St.
2-3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays
Appointments required: Call 612-821-3548 to schedule an appointment.
Same day testing can be done for health care workers, first responders and essential workers. Otherwise, expect to get your test results in about two-three business days.


Free Pet Adoptions at MACC in December

To help pets find their forever homes for the holidays, Minneapolis Animal Care & Control is waiving adoption fees for all adoptable animals during the month of December. Read more here.

Adoption details:

  • Browse adoptable animals at www2.minneapolismn.gov/animals/adopt.
  • Call 311 or 612-673-6222 to request an adoption appointment. All adoptions are being done by appointment to limit the spread of COVID-19.
  • Adopters must meet and spend time with the animal they want to adopt before completing adoption paperwork.
  • Minneapolis residents must purchase a City pet license.

Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling Survey

Got a few minutes? Take Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling’s survey on how your waste generation and purchasing behaviors have changed since March. The responses are anonymous and will serve as a guide for developing community outreach and educational messaging for 2021. The survey will close December 20 at 11:59 p.m. but don’t wait, fill it out today. Take the survey here.


COVID-19 Housing Assistance

Minnesota’s COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program helps cover housing expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities or other housing-related costs for eligible renters and homeowners in communities across the state. The 211 Helpline has dedicated multilingual staff to answer questions about the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and you can learn more in a few ways:

Hennepin County also continues to offer emergency rental assistance for residents with low incomes who have been financially harmed by COVID-19. Residents can learn more and apply at www.hennepin.us/rent-help

Reduce Waste this Holiday Season

Click here for Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling’s tips to reduce food waste, buy used, safely recycle items like broken strings of lights, opt for low-waste decor and more!

Neighborhoods 2020 Guidelines Approved

The City Council has approved Neighborhoods 2020 program guidelines for equity, funding, and governance among City-supported neighborhood organizations. These guidelines are designed to create equitable communities in which all people are valued, all communities are engaged, and leadership mirrors the diversity of the city.

Thank you to the MANY Armatage neighbors who took the time to comment on Neighborhoods 2020 and the future funding.  The current budget proposal provides less than .25 of 1% of the entire City budget to be divided between the 70 Minneapolis neighborhood organizations. There is just one remaining virtual public hearing for people to share their thoughts on the Mayor’s recommended 2021 City Budget.  See below on how to attend and speak or submit a comment for the public record.

Give Feedback on the Proposed 2020 Budget

Share your thoughts on Mayor Frey’s recommended 2021 City Budget by submitting a comment online or at the last virtual public hearing on Wednesday, December 9 at 6:05pm.

Learn how to participate in online public hearings here. Comments submitted online will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more. You can also watch a series of videos on the City’s budget process.

November 19, 2020 eNews

Support the Armatage Neighborhood!

Support your neighborhood nonprofit with a donation on Give to the Max Day! Small or large, every  donation helps us engage community members, advocate for the neighborhood, and serve as a critical connector between residents and local government.

Visit https://www.givemn.org/…/Armatage-Neighborhood-Association to donate.

Welcome to New Board Members!

Congratulations to Vikisha Goberdhan and Ethan Komoroski on being elected to the ANA Board!  And thanks to everyone who joined to vote in this month’s Special Election.

At the November 17 meeting, the ANA Board approved year-end expenses, discussed proposed changes to the board and committee expectations and renewed staffing contracts for our Coordinator, Lauren Anderson, and our Accountant, Rachel Ireland-Henry.

Armatage Holiday Light Tour

Enjoy the colorful city streets and light displays of the Armatage Neighborhood this holiday season with our first-ever Holiday Light Tour from 5:00-8:00pm on Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 20.

Sign up for the Tour

Click here to register for the tour by Tuesday, December 8 and be a bright spot in the neighborhood this season! By signing up you agree to have your address published on the tour map. Just like our Halloween Tour, we’ll ask visitors to vote for their favorites after visiting each stop on the tour. The three addresses with the most votes will each win a $50 gift card to an Armatage business!

Palmisano Presents Tonight!

Email josie.vautrin@minneapolismn.gov to attend Council Member Linea Palmisano’s community presentation and discussion on the Minneapolis’s proposed 2021 budget  tonight (Thursday, November 19) from 6:30-8:00pm.

Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling Survey

Got a few minutes? Take Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling’s survey on how your waste generation and purchasing behaviors have changed since March. The responses are anonymous and will serve as a guide for developing community outreach and educational messaging for 2021. The survey will close December 20 at 11:59 p.m. but don’t wait, fill it out today. Take the survey here.


Sign up for Snow Emergency Alerts

Snow season has arrived! Avoid a ticket and tow and help crews do a complete job plowing the streets by moving your car when a Snow Emergency is declared. In addition to the mailing the City of Mpls recently sent out to all residents, there are a few key things you can do to make sure you don’t miss a Snow Emergency alert:

Transforming Community Safety Survey Closes Friday

There’s just over a day left to provide your input on what community safety looks like and share your ideas about a new model of community safety for the City of Minneapolis. Your input will help inform efforts to expand and improve the public safety system, with the goal of ensuring that every single person in Minneapolis can trust they’ll be kept safe. Stay up to date on this process at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/community-safety/

Survey links:


COVID-19 Housing Assistance

Minnesota’s COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program helps cover housing expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities or other housing-related costs for eligible renters and homeowners in communities across the state. People in Minnesota interested in applying for assistance can call the Greater Twin Cities United Way’s 211 Resource Helpline at 651-291-0211, visiting 211unitedway.org or texting “MNRENT” or “MNHOME” to 898-211. The 211 Helpline has dedicated multilingual staff to answer questions about the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can also check the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program frequently asked questions.

Hennepin County also continues to offer emergency rental assistance for residents with low incomes who have been financially harmed by COVID-19. Residents can learn more and apply at www.hennepin.us/rent-help

Give Feedback on the Proposed 2020 Budget

Share your thoughts on Mayor Frey’s recommended 2021 City Budget by submitting a comment online or at an upcoming virtual public hearing:

  • 6:05pm on Wednesday, December 2
  • 6:05pm on Wednesday, December 9

Learn how to participate in online public hearings here. Comments submitted online will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more. You can also watch a series of videos on the City’s budget process.

New Stay Home Order Takes Effect Friday

Tomorrow (Friday, November 20), new statewide restrictions will go into effect to combat the dangerous spike in COVID-19 cases that has occurred this fall. Some of these changes include:

  • All bars and restaurants will end dine-in service and operate exclusively with takeout or delivery. This is a great opportunity to support our neighborhood businesses by getting take out!
  • Fitness centers and gyms will be closed.
  • Adult and youth sports practices and competitions will be paused (professional and collegiate sports will continue).
  • Minnesotans should not gather with anyone outside their immediate household, whether indoors or outdoors.
  • During the next four weeks, no person outside of the immediate household be brought into your home, except if certain exceptions apply.
  • Weddings, funerals, and other similar planned ceremonies can be held with the current rules in place, but all receptions and gatherings around these ceremonies must be canceled or postponed.

This is an incredibly challenging time for all. Learn more at https://mn.gov/covid19/for-minnesotans/stay-safe-mn/stay-safe-mn.jsp

November 13, 2020 eNews

November 17 Neighborhood Meeting Agenda

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Special Election for Open Board Seats (2)
  • Halloween Tour Recap and Requests for Holiday Light Tour
  • Supply Needs and Budget
  • 2021 Rain Garden Program
  • ANA Visioning and Expectations
  • 2021 Coordinator and Accountant Contracts

Register to attend the Armatage Monthly Neighborhood Meeting and get this month’s Zoom link here.


Run for the Armatage Neighborhood Association Board

Love our neighborhood and want to get more involved? The ANA will hold a special election for two open board seats at the November 17 meeting at 6:30pm on Zoom. To learn more about the duties, time commitment and to register to run in the Special Election, visit https://armatage.org/november-2020-special-election/ by Sunday, November 15 at 11:59pm.

A candidate guide will be published at armatage.org on November 16 and the vote will be conducted live via Zoom at the ANA Monthly Meeting on Tuesday, November 17 from 6:30-8:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated representatives of a neighborhood business or institution are eligible to vote at the meeting. Register for this month’s Zoom meeting link here.

Transforming Community Safety Survey

Provide your input on what community safety looks like and share your ideas about a new model of community safety for the City of Minneapolis. Here are links to the survey, which closes November 20:

Your input will help inform efforts to expand and improve the public safety system, with the goal of ensuring that every single person in Minneapolis can trust they’ll be kept safe. Learn more and stay up to date on this process at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/community-safety/

Palmisano Presents: Our City’s 2021 Proposed Budget

Email josie.vautrin@minneapolismn.gov to attend Council Member Linea Palmisano’s community presentation and discussion on the Minneapolis’s proposed 2021 budget this Thursday, November 19 from 6:30-8:00pm.

Give Feedback on the Proposed 2020 Budget

Share your thoughts on Mayor Frey’s recommended 2021 City Budget by submitting a comment online or at one of three upcoming online public hearings:

  • 10:00am on Monday, November 16
  • 6:05pm on Wednesday, December 2
  • 6:05pm on Wednesday, December 9

Learn how to participate in online public hearings here. Comments submitted online will be entered into the public record and shared with the mayor and council members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget on Wednesday, Dec. 9. Visit the City’s website to learn more about the mayor’s recommended budget, key dates in the approval process, FAQs and more. You can also watch a series of videos on the City’s budget process.

Public Hearing Notice

The City Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing to Amend Title 20 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances related to the Zoning Code on Monday, November 16, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. Community members may view the public hearing using the following options: Watch on Comcast Channel 14 or 799, CenturyLink Channel 8001 or 8501, or live on www.minneapolismn.gov/tv/citycounciltv. You can submit comments or participate by phone in the meeting by using the following website: www.minneapolismn.gov/meetings/index.htm.

If you have questions, please contact the City staff person listed below.  If you would like to submit comments, you may submit them via the link above or by emailing: Amber Turnquest, Principal Planner – 612-673-5166, Amber.Turnquest@minneapolismn.gov


Yard Waste Collection Ends Next Week

Winter might be here, but next week is your last chance to set out leaves, branches, pumpkins and more for yard waste collection. For details on how to bag and bundle your yard waste, visit http://www.minneapolismn.gov/solid-waste/yardwaste/index.htm

New Restrictions on Social Gatherings, Bars and Restaurants

Tonight (November 13) at 10:00pm, new statewide restrictions will go into effect to limit social gatherings, celebrations and the operations of bars, restaurants and event venues to combat the dangerous spike in COVID-19 cases that has occurred this fall. Some of these changes include:

  • Bar counter service: No seating or service at the bar or counter, unless the business only offers service at the counter.
    • For businesses that only offer service at the counter, customers may line up with a mask, staying six feet apart and then return to their seat.
    • Bar games that require standing are not permitted.
  • Indoor and outdoor capacity: 150-person limit. Customers must not exceed 50% of total capacity. All customers must be seated at tables.
  • Dine-in hours: Dine-in service must close between 10:00pm and 4:00am. Businesses may remain open for takeout and delivery.
  • Social gatherings: Gatherings must not exceed 10 people for both indoor and outdoor settings and are limited to members of only three households or less, including the host.

Additional limitations on celebrations, including wedding receptions, will go into effect soon afterwards.

  • Starting November 27, celebrations must end by 10:00pm and have no more than 50 attendees. The time restriction ends at 4:00am.
  • Starting December 11, celebrations must have fewer than 25 attendees. This does not apply to the actual wedding, funeral or similar planned ceremony, only the reception or celebration that accompanies the ceremony.
  • Read more at staysafe.mn.gov.