Category Archives: City Budget

October 29, 2020 eNews

Armatage Halloween Tour Ends Saturday

Sunday, October 25 – Saturday, October 31
6:00pm – 8:00pm

There are just a few more chances to enjoy the sights and frights around Armatage for our first-ever Halloween Tour! The tour is self-guided, geared for all ages, and the map is available at armatage.org/halloweentour so you can plan your route. Please be respectful on your adventure and wear a mask and distance if you leave your vehicle.

After you’ve checked out every stop on the tour, head back to armatage.org/halloweentour and vote for your favorites in the following categories: Best Use of Pumpkins, Spookiest, and Neighborhood Favorite. The winning displays in each category will get a $50 gift card to an Armatage business. Open to all, even if you don’t live in Armatage.

The 2020 Election Ends on Tuesday, November 3

Voting looks pretty different this year due to COVID-19 but Minneapolis Elections and Voter Services has got you covered with safe drive through ballot drop-offs all over Minneapolis and two new early voting locations!

Have you voted yet?  If not, make your plan to return your absentee ballot and track that it was counted, vote early in person by November 2 at one of the four early vote centers in Minneapolis, or vote in person at your polling place next Tuesday. Visit vote.minneapolismn.gov or check out our resource page at https://armatage.org/2020election/ for all the info you need to vote safely.

Halloween Safety

Looking to celebrate Halloween in a safe, socially distant way? The City of Minneapolis has this handy graphic to help! We hope you check out the Armatage Halloween Tour as part of your safe holiday activities. If you do plan to trick or treat, follow these tips to keep you and your neighbors safe: 

  • Stay home and don’t hand out treats if you or anyone in your household feels sick.
  • Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth, avoid crowds, and keep 6+ feet of distance from other trick-or-treaters and neighbors.
  • Instead of a grab bowl or answering your door, have treats spaced out on a table in your yard or create a candy chute to deliver treats from a distance.
  • Visit www.halloween2020.org for more ideas from the Harvard Global Health Institute and stay safe!

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


Street Sweeping is Happening Now

Watch the progress. Sign up for notifications. Check for weather-related schedule changes. And learn the answers to all your street sweeping questions here.

Apply for a Minneapolis Board or Commission by Nov 1

Six major boards and commissions are seeking applications for people to help shape important City decisions. Most of the boards and commissions below meet between one and four times a month.

Examples of past board and commission work includes reviewing a proposed charter amendment related to the creation of a Department of Community Safety & Violence Prevention (Charter Commission), comparing national best practices with current MPD policies for officer interactions with those experiencing mental health crises (Police Conduct Oversight Commission), and reviewing zoning changes to allow new affordable housing options (Planning Commission).  Read more here.

Next Steps and Timeline

Now that the public comment period has closed on the Neighborhoods 2020 draft program guidelines, the City is reviewing the 244 public comments received and creating a summary. The comments and summary will be available on the Neighborhoods 2020 webpage before the City Council discusses the program guidelines, votes on November 13, and then discusses the funds needed to implement the program as designed during the City budget process.

Timeline of next steps:

  • Nov. 5: Public Health and Safety Committee public hearing and presentation.
  • Nov. 12: Budget Committee presentation to discuss the program allocations and base funding amounts.
  • Nov. 13: Full City Council vote.

Find City Council meeting calendars, agendas and decisions on the City of Minneapolis’ Legislative Information Management System (LIMS).

Apply for a Safety Rebate

The Armatage Neighborhood Association offers rebates to residents for up to $100 per calendar year for eligible home safety updates. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your exterior lighting, deadbolt locks, adding outdoor security cameras, check our list of eligible expenses and apply for a Safety Rebate before December 31 to take advantage of the 2020 program. If you’ve already gotten a rebate this year, you’ll have the opportunity to apply again in January.

The Resident Safety Rebate program is open to both renters and homeowners and the Business Safety Rebate program is open to any business operating in Armatage.

Borrow the Neighborhood Thermal Camera

As the weather gets colder, we all feel the drafts and air leaks at our homes, rentals and businesses a bit more. Thanks to a project in the neighborhood led by Armatage resident Milo Oien-Rochat, you can check out our neighborhood’s shared thermal camera to pinpoint temperature-related energy waste in your home, business, or apartment.

Visit armatage.org/programs/thermal-camera/ to learn more and sign up to get a quick tutorial and check out the camera this fall. This project was funded by the Armatage Mini Grant program.

Transforming Community Safety Engagement Plan

The City Council approved a community engagement plan to get feedback on improving our public safety system, alternatives to policing and police responses, public health-oriented violence prevention, and law enforcement reforms and/or changes to protocols and practices. The plan has four phases and is led by the Office of Violence Prevention (read more here):

  1. Phase One (October-December 2020): A community survey and public forums. Initial findings and a draft vision will be presented to the City Council in early December.
  2. Phase Two (January-March 2021): Public forums to review the goals established in the first phase plus a deeper dive into ideas for a new public safety model.
  3. Phase Three (April-May 2021): Opportunities to offer feedback on draft recommendations at public forums and online.
  4. Phase Four (June-July 2021): Finalize recommendations, incorporate feedback gathered throughout the engagement process, and give a final report to the City Council on strategies for building a new model for community safety.

Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness

Partners from the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County and State of Minnesota are coming together to help people experiencing homelessness find shelter as winter weather arrives. Here are a few facts – learn more and find phone numbers to call for shelter here.

  • In 2002, 1,300 people experiencing homelessness and counting have found permanent housing.
  • City, county, state and philanthropy will invest $55 million to open at least seven sites to provide emergency shelter, low-barrier housing and protective housing for people experiencing homelessness, as well as enhance existing shelters and expand support services and street outreach.
  • An additional 670 units of very affordable housing designated for people experiencing homelessness will have opened or begun construction by the end of this year.

July 16, 2020 eNews

July 21, 2020 Agenda

6:30-8:30pm | Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/94646891472

All meetings are open to community members. Please allow time to sign in at the link above.

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Officer Elections for Vice President & Secretary
  • Community Conversation Next Steps
    • Recap of June 9 and June 25 Conversations
    • Community Safety Survey
    • Where We Go Next
  • August Community Outreach:
    • Food Truck Night
    • Bike Parade?
    • Budget, Communications & Outreach Plan
  • Summer 2020 Print Newsletter
    • Content
    • Articles Due July 31
  • Other Business
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – Approved Via Email
  • Treasurer Report – Financials Emailed
  • Committee Updates
    • Green Team:
      • Native Plant Rebate Program
      • Adopt a Storm Drain Challenge
      • Litter Be Gone Clean-up
    • Complete Count:
      • Census Social Media Campaign wrap-up
    • Mini Grants:
      • Happy Hour 2 Min Recap
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Neighborhoods 2020
    • Board Member Info on Website
    • August ANA Meeting

Final Ward 13 Public Safety Conversation Tonight

Council Member Linea Palmisano is hosting the last in a series of virtual community dialogues on the future of public safety in our city tonight from 6:00-7:00pm. If you are able to participate, please sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449A9A628ABFC1-palmisano


Proposed City Charter Amendment

Learn more about the City Council’s proposed charter amendment at http://www2.minneapolismn.gov/charter/WCMSP-225116 If passed, it would create a new Community Safety & Violence Prevention Department and remove the Police Department from the Charter. The Charter Commission has one more public hearing on the amendment scheduled for next Tuesday, July 21 at 6:00pm.

Ways to comment:


Final Revised City Budget Public Hearing

The City Council’s Budget Committee will hold its final public hearing on proposed revisions to the City’s 2020 budget. Minneapolis faces a significant revenue shortfall as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and needs to make cuts to the City’s roughly $1.5 billion budget. Community members can engage and share their voices in this process during the second and last online public hearing this Wednesday, July 22 at 10:00am.

You can watch or participate in the online meetings. The City Council is scheduled to vote July 24 on a revised 2020 budget. For more information about the budget, visit the City’s website.

Mental Health Crisis and Non-Emergency Crime Surveys

The City of Minneapolis wants to hear from residents who have experienced and reported mental health emergencies and non-emergency crimes.  A team of residents and staff are redesigning the way calls are handled and hope to hear your perspectives on who responded, how you were treated, and if your needs were met to make real change in our communities. Surveys are open to all and responses are anonymous. Both close this Friday, July 17 at 11:59pm.

Click here for the mental health survey.
Click here for the non-emergency crime survey.

If you have questions, please email the Office of Performance & Innovation at innovate@minneapolismn.gov

Polling Location Changes

To keep voters safe, 50 polling locations throughout Minneapolis are changing for both the 2020 Primary and General Election. Of the 50 relocated polling places, 16 were in senior homes, high-rises and other residential sites and another 32 had insufficient space for people to keep at least 6 feet apart. Registered voters will receive a postcard in the mail with their new polling locations. You can also check the Minnesota Secretary of State’s polling place finder to see if your polling place has changed.

Vote by Mail

All Minnesota voters are eligible to vote by mail. This year in particular, we encourage you to stay safe and minimize direct contact with others while exercising your civic duty. It only takes a couple minutes to request ballots for both the August 11 primary and the general election. Ballots will arrive with postage-paid envelopes for return. Complete the vote by mail application online here.   You can track the status of your ballot or confirm that it was received back and accepted without problem.

Vote Early In-person

Visit the Minneapolis Early Vote Center (980 East Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis MN 55414) Monday-Friday between 8:00am and 4:30pm (Saturday hours start in August) to vote early in-person for the August 11 Primary.  Hours and details are posted at vote.minneapolismn.gov/events/ and please don’t forget your mask!


Free Activities and Programs in the Parks

Find activities you can enjoy solo, with others from your household, or while social distancing. From Family Recreation Saturdays from 2:00-4:00pm each week at Linden Hills Park, Fun on the Run youth activities each Wednesday from 1:00-4:00pm at Kenny Park, or Old Fashioned Outside Yard Games for all ages on Sundays from 4:00-5:00pm at Lyndale Farmstead, there are TONS of great distanced outdoor programs for kids and adults happening through the end of August.

For up-to-date listings, including virtual programs, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/summer2020


Emergency Rent Assistance & Evictions Suspended Through Aug 12

Hennepin County is still accepting applications for its emergency rent assistance program. Learn more and apply at www.hennepin.us/residents/human-services/emergency-rental-covid19

With the extension of MN’s peacetime emergency through August 12, evictions are suspended but rent is still due so please continue to share this resource widely.

Last Chance to Comment on Park Master Plans

You have one last chance to comment on two Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Master Plans that impact our area.  Click on each link below to learn more about the project, view the final plans, and submit your comments:


Be Counted in the Census

If you haven’t completed the 2020 Census yet, please take a few minutes to respond and remind your friends and family to do the same. Census data determines how billions of dollars in federal funding is allocated and impacts representation at the local, state, and national level.

Minnesota is currently leading the nation with a 71.5 percent response rate! You can help maintain our lead by responding online here, by phone, or by mail.

Upcoming Trainings on Resilience, Peace and Healing Racial Trauma

When terrible things happen, like racism, police brutality, and COVID-19, our peace has been stolen from us. Intro to STAR (Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience) for Cultural Competence trainings teach how to build culturally competent peace back into our lives and communities with justice for all.

2-hour online trainings are led by the Minnesota Peacebuilding Leadership Institute and are partially funded by the City of Minneapolis’ Office of Violence Prevention to promote racial trauma healing, resilience, and restorative justice for all who live, work, and/or play in Minneapolis. Pay-what-you-can up to $30. Minnesota social workers, teachers, and nurses can earn 2 hours of continuing education for $45.

Click the date/time link to register:
Friday, July 17, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST
Tuesday, July 21, 2020, 2pm – 4pm CST
Thursday, July 23, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST
Tuesday, July 28, 2020, 2pm – 4pm CST
Friday, July 31, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST


Pick up a Free 20 is Plenty Yard Sign

Did you know that both Minneapolis and Saint Paul are in the process of implementing new, lower speed limits to support safer streets? Starting this fall, the new speed limit will be 20 mph in both cities unless otherwise signed. Many busier streets already have new 25 mph speed limit signs installed. Learn more about new speed limits here.

To help get out the word out, you can pick up a free “20 is Plenty” yard sign at any Minneapolis Fire Station, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm from July 6 to July 24 while supplies last. Due to COVID-19, signs will be available outside the stations for no-contact pickup. Signs come with metal stands. Find your nearest fire station here.

National Night Out Postponed to Sept 15

ICYMI, National Night Out has been postponed until September 15 this year. Block leaders can register their event and request to close their street here for this annual nationwide event that encourages residents to get out in the community, hold block parties and get to know their neighbors.

July 8, 2020 eNews

Public Safety Conversations & Proposed Charter Amendment

Council Member Linea Palmisano is hosting several community dialogues virtually over the next week on the future of public safety in our city. Hour long calls are offered at different times to fit into your schedule and each has a limited capacity of participants. Sign up at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040449A9A628ABFC1-palmisano

Learn more about the City Council’s proposed charter amendment at http://www2.minneapolismn.gov/charter/WCMSP-225116 If passed, it would create a new Community Safety & Violence Prevention Department and remove the Police Department from the Charter. Submit comments and feedback directly to the Commission by emailing councilcomment@minneapolismn.gov or at the link above.

Next Armatage Virtual Happy Hour: July 14

Tuesday, July 14 | 8:00-9:00pm
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/502813335

Grab a snack or drink and join Armatage neighbors for our next Virtual Happy Hour on Zoom! This month is hosted by our Mini Grant Committee and the topic is what neighborhood project would you do with $1,000? Teens and older kids are encouraged to join and share their ideas. Anyone with a connection to Armatage can apply for a Mini Grant during our next funding round. Learn more about Virtual Happy Hours here.

Stay at Home & Vote by Mail

All Minnesota voters are eligible to vote by mail This year in particular, we encourage you to stay safe and minimize direct contact with others while exercising your civic duty. It only takes a couple minutes to request ballots for both the August 11 primary and the general election. Ballots will arrive with postage-paid envelopes for return. Complete the vote by mail application online here.

Vote early in-person

Early voting has also started for the August 11 State Primary. Visit the Minneapolis Early Vote Center (980 East Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis MN 55414) Monday-Friday between 8:00am and 4:30pm (Saturday hours start in August) if you prefer to vote early in-person. Schedules are posted at vote.minneapolismn.gov/events/ and don’t forget your mask!

Track my mail ballot

You can track the status of your ballot or confirm that it was received back and accepted without problem.


Pick up a Free 20 is Plenty Yard Sign

Did you know that both Minneapolis and Saint Paul are in the process of implementing new, lower speed limits to support safer streets? Starting this fall, the new speed limit will be 20 mph in both cities unless otherwise signed. Many busier streets already have new 25 mph speed limit signs installed. Learn more about new speed limits here.

To help get out the word out, you can pick up a free “20 is Plenty” yard sign at any Minneapolis Fire Station, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm from July 6 to July 24 while supplies last. Due to COVID-19, signs will be available outside the stations for no-contact pickup. Signs come with metal stands. Find your nearest fire station here.

Armatage Safety Rebate Program Turns Two!

Cheers to two years of the Armatage Safety Rebate program! Since starting in July 2018, we’ve given out 180 residential rebates and 3 business rebates and counting.

How it works: to increase neighborhood safety, the ANA provides a rebate for the first $100 in expenses for eligible home safety improvements per address per calendar year (no lifetime cap). The residential program is open to both renters and homeowners.  For businesses, the rebate is up to $1,000/ year for businesses ($2,000 lifetime cap). Learn more about eligible expenses and apply for a rebate at  https://armatage.org/programs/safety-rebate-program

Upcoming Trainings on Resilience, Peace and Healing Racial Trauma

When terrible things happen, like racism, police brutality, and COVID-19, our peace has been stolen from us. Intro to STAR (Strategies for Trauma Awareness and Resilience) for Cultural Competence trainings teach how to build culturally competent peace back into our lives and communities with justice for all.

2-hour online trainings are led by the Minnesota Peacebuilding Leadership Institute and are partially funded by the City of Minneapolis’ Office of Violence Prevention to promote racial trauma healing, resilience, and restorative justice for all who live, work, and/or play in Minneapolis. Pay-what-you-can up to $30. Minnesota social workers, teachers, and nurses can earn 2 hours of continuing education for $45.

Click the date/time link to register:
Tuesday, July 14, 2020, 2pm – 4pm CST
Friday, July 17, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST
Tuesday, July 21, 2020, 2pm – 4pm CST
Thursday, July 23, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST
Tuesday, July 28, 2020, 2pm – 4pm CST
Friday, July 31, 2020, 10am – 12pm CST


Revised City Budget Public Hearings

The City Council’s Budget Committee will hold two public hearings in July on proposed revisions to the City’s 2020 budget. Minneapolis faces a significant revenue shortfall as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and needs to make cuts to the City’s roughly $1.5 billion budget. Community members can engage and share their voices in this process during two online public hearings:

  • 6:05 pm Tuesday, July 14
  • 10:00 am Wednesday, July 22

You can watch or participate in the online meetings. The City Council is scheduled to vote July 24 on a revised 2020 budget. For more information about the City’s budget, visit the City’s website.

Minneapolis Minimum Wage Increases

The minimum wage in Minneapolis is now $11.75 for small employers (100 or fewer employees) and $13.25 for large employers (more than 100 employees).

For technical information or risk-free consultation, visit minimumwage.minneapolismn.gov or email minwage@minneapolismn.gov. For more in-depth advice for businesses, including expanded Business Technical Assistance Program legal services, email smallbusiness@minneapolismn.gov.


Emergency Rental Assistance Available

Hennepin County is still accepting applications for its emergency rental assistance program. Learn more and apply at www.hennepin.us/residents/human-services/emergency-rental-covid19 While evictions are suspended until July 13, rent is still due so please share this resource widely.


Select Minneapolis Wading Pools Now Open

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board has opened 18 wading pools across the city. Our closest options are MLK Park (41st & Nicollet) and Bryant Square Park (31st & Bryant). Click here to learn more about locations and hours, social distancing guidelines, and restroom info. 

National Night Out Postponed to Sept 15

Due to COVID-19, National Night Out has been postponed until September 15 this year. Block leaders can register their event and request to close their street here for this annual nationwide event that encourages residents to get out in the community, hold block parties and get to know their neighbors.

Donate Face Masks for Mask Drive Mondays

Minneapolis residents can still deliver homemade masks to their local fire station from 10:00am-2:00pm every Monday for Mask Drive Mondays.  Our closest fire stations are at 2810 W 50th St and 5410 Nicollet Ave S.

Please plan to stay 6 feet away from others when dropping off your donation. The City of Mpls will distribute the donated masks throughout Minneapolis to residents, organizations and businesses that are most in need.

Proposed Armatage Neighborhood Funding Cuts

The City of Minneapolis is considering a plan that would drastically reduce the annual funding for Armatage and many other neighborhoods. The last few months have reinforced how critical strong, local communities are and we believe there can be a better balance that will increase funding for equity while allowing small neighborhoods like Armatage to keep doors open.

We Need Your Help

The comment period deadline has been extended to September 30. Visit armatage.org/n2020 for a message you can copy and send to the Mpls City Council.

December 3, 2019 eNews

Support Armatage on #GivingTuesday

#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving celebrated on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. With so many nonprofit organizations doing incredible work, we hope you are able to find great causes to support today.

Help the ANA continue to serve our community by making a donation to our nonprofit organization today. Even a donation of $5 or more helps fund community programs right here in Armatage.

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Give Feedback on the Proposed City Budget

There are two more public hearings for people to share thoughts on Mayor Jacob Frey’s recommended 2020 City budget of $1.6 billion. The City’s revenues come from a variety of sources with property taxes accounting for about 23% of the budget.  Comments can also be submitted online to be shared with the Mayor and Council Members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget Wednesday, December 11.

Budget public hearings at City Hall:

  • December 4 at 6:00pm: Truth in Taxation hearing to get community input on the total levy amount.
  • December 11 at 6:00pm: Opportunity to respond to the City Council’s amendments, for Council to make any further changes based on that, and then a vote to adopt the 2020 budget.

Visit the City’s budget website to learn more about the budget and key dates and watch a video about how to participate in the budget process. You can also watch budget hearings on Minneapolis City Council TV. Tune to SD channel 14 or HD channel 799 on Comcast or SD channel 8001 or HD channel 8501 on CenturyLink. You can also watch archived meetings on the City of Minneapolis YouTube channel.

The 2020 Census is Hiring!

Check out one of the December 4 hiring events above or see the census job openings in Minnesota and apply here.

Check out what’s happening locally with the 2020 Census and sign up for updates at http://minneapolismn.gov/census/


3rd Annual International Festival

Sunday, December 8
1:00-5:00pm
Central Gym (3400 Fourth Ave. S)

The Minneapolis International Festival will be celebrating the different cultures in the City of Minneapolis and surrounding communities with music, dance, art, cultural learning booths, exhibits demonstrations, food AND MORE.

Admission is free.  Learn about all the many amazing cultures that make Minneapolis such a wonderful place to live. Visit the website to learn more about the event!

Tree Lights & Supply Drive for Crisis Nursery

While the ANA isn’t hosting a Tree lighting event this year, the annual neighborhood-sponsored holiday lights are up in Armatage Park along the east side of the building.

You can still drop off new, unopened formula, diapers, pull-ups, children’s toiletries, new with tags clothing and more to benefit the Greater Twin Cities Crisis Nursery now through December 20. Check out the Crisis Nursery’s full donation wish list here and look for a donation bin in the lobby of the Armatage Rec Center.


Snow Emergency Resources

Sign up now, stay informed throughout the season, and avoid getting ticketed or towed:

  • Hotline: Call the automated 612-348-SNOW hotline. The hotline includes information in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong.
  • The City’s website: Go to minneapolismn.gov/snow to find out whether a Snow Emergency has been declared in many languages. Also, check out the street lookup, which lets you put in an address or a neighborhood to see where you can park during a Snow Emergency.
  • Phone calls to residents: Minneapolis uses automated phone calls to notify residents when Snow Emergencies are declared. The system can place thousands of calls per hour. You can add your cellphone or unlisted landline number to the alert system by signing up at minneapolismn.gov/snow.
  • Social media: Like Minneapolis Snow Emergency on Facebook and Twitter.
  • Email and text: See minneapolismn.gov/snow/snow_esubscribe for more details.
  • Read more details here…


Comment on Public Works’ draft Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan

The City of Minneapolis is seeking public comment on the draft Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan for Public Works – a plan that identifies priorities for removing accessibility barriers in the City’s public right of way.

The City is accepting comments on the draft plan through Dec. 27. It is a supplemental plan to the City’s ADA Action Plan, a comprehensive policy document for the City of Minneapolis to comply with the Title II requirements of the ADA. The draft plan was last updated in 2012.

Open house on draft ADA Transition Plan for Public Works
4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16
Minneapolis Central Library, Doty Board Room, 300 Nicollet Mall

Read more…

Folks walking on a bustling Minnehaha Ave at Open Streets Lake + Minnehaha

What’s your vision for Open Streets Minneapolis?

Our Streets MN is partnering with the City of Minneapolis to reflect on Open Streets Minneapolis and evaluate how to make the events more meaningful and sustainable after the 2020 season. Could you let them know what you’d like to see in Open Streets Minneapolis events in 2021 and beyond? 

Click here to take the five question survey.

November 21, 2019 eNews

November 19 Meeting Recap

Welcome to new Armatage & Kenny Park Director, Jordan Nelson.  Jordan comes from Van Cleve Park near the University of Minnesota. We’d also like to extend a huge thank you to outgoing director Nikki Friederich who has been an wonderful leader for Armatage & Kenny and is moving to Creekview Park.

The ANA presented an overview of the draft funding plan, its community engagement efforts this fall, a summary of the feedback received, and the final proposed plan. Over the past 5 weeks, 160 community members weighed in on the funding plan with an overall approval rate of 89.4%.  Based on the comments received, the plan stayed consistent and the remaining $15,000 was allocated to the following priorities:

  • An extra $7,000 to Traffic Calming & Pedestrian Safety, bringing the plan total to $17,000,
  • $4,000 to Park Improvements (joining the $24,000 approved for parks in previous years by the ANA),
  • $4,000 to Environmental & Greening Programming.

The final plan was discussed and approved unanimously. It will now head to the City for legal review and final approval this winter. Please contact the ANA at 612.466.0296 or anacoordinator@armatage.org with any questions.


E Line Community Open House Tonight

Metro Transit will host an E Line Open House tonight, Thursday, November 21, from 4:00-6:00pm at Pershing Rec Center (3523 W 48th St).

Check out the interactive route map for the new Bus Rapid Transit E Line at https://www.metrotransit.org/e-line-engagement and comment at the Open House or via email at ELine@metrotransit.org.

Minnehaha Creek Community Open House Tonight

The Minnehaha Parkway Regional Trail Master Plan reconvenes tonight to review and discuss findings from a recently completed parkway traffic study. The master plan project paused in July to allow time for a study to be performed.

Thursday, November 21
6:00-8:00 pm
Windom South Recreation Center (5843 Wentworth Ave)

This meeting will provide space for the general public to converse with MPRB staff and the consultant team about the traffic study and the parkway west of Portland Avenue. The open house format does not include a formal presentation, so anyone can attend for any amount of time between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

Tree Lighting & Supply Drive for Crisis Nursery

While the ANA isn’t hosting a Tree lighting event this year, the annual neighborhood-sponsored holiday lights are up in Armatage Park along the east side of the building.

You can still drop off new, unopened formula, diapers, pull-ups, children’s toiletries, new with tags clothing and more to benefit the Greater Twin Cities Crisis Nursery now through December 20. Check out the Crisis Nursery’s full donation wish list here and look for a donation bin in the lobby of the Armatage Rec Center.

Theodore Wirth House Tours

Sunday, November 24
12:00-4:00pm
3954 Bryant Ave S,  in Lyndale Farmstead Park

The Theodore Wirth Home and his park planning offices in Lyndale Farmstead Park will be open to the public for FREE guided tours on Sunday, November 24 from 12:00-4:00pm. Volunteers with Minneapolis Parks Legacy Society, working in cooperation with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, would like to invite all of our neighbors to visit this historic site.

If you can’t make it this month, the house will be open again on December 8. Contact Joan at 612-275-8884 or joanberthiaume@msn.com with questions or for separate individual, group, and student tours, which may be scheduled by reservation only. Volunteers are appreciated.

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Give Feedback on the Proposed City Budget

There are two more public hearings for people to share thoughts on Mayor Jacob Frey’s recommended 2020 City budget of $1.6 billion. The City’s revenues come from a variety of sources with property taxes accounting for about 23% of the budget.  Comments can also be submitted online to be shared with the Mayor and Council Members. The City Council is scheduled to vote on adopting the budget Wednesday, December 11.

Budget public hearings at City Hall:

  • December 4 at 6:00pm: Truth in Taxation hearing to get community input on the total levy amount.
  • December 11 at 6:00pm: Opportunity to respond to the City Council’s amendments, for Council to make any further changes based on that, and then a vote to adopt the 2020 budget.

Visit the City’s budget website to learn more about the budget and key dates and watch a video about how to participate in the budget process. You can also watch budget hearings on Minneapolis City Council TV. Tune to SD channel 14 or HD channel 799 on Comcast or SD channel 8001 or HD channel 8501 on CenturyLink. You can also watch archived meetings on the City of Minneapolis YouTube channel.

Adopt A Storm Drain

Fall is an important time to keep leaves out of the gutter so they don’t get rush down the storm drain each time it rains. In the storm drain, leaves get carried to the Creek and eventually to Lake Hiawatha, adding the phosphorus that causes algae blooms.

If you haven’t already, consider the Adopt a Drain program and sign up to keep one or more storm drains on your street clear so that only water goes into it. You can adopt any drain that hasn’t already been adopted, even if it isn’t in front of your house! This interactive website helps you locate drains near you and adopt any that you choose: https://www.adopt-a-drain.org/ There are MANY drains that still need to be adopted in Armatage (shown in yellow below):

If you need assistance adopting a drain OR if you would like a friendly neighborhood volunteer to assist you the first time you set out to clean your storm drain, please contact the ANA at anacoordinator@armatage.org. The ANA’s Green Team will also provide the next twenty people who sign up to Adopt-a-Drain with a free pair of gloves to wear when cleaning your drain. Email us to pick yours up!  Huge thanks to ANA Green Team member Linda Ridlehuber for this article!


Census 2020 is Hiring

The 2020 Census is just around the corner and the Census Bureau is hiring to fill office and field representative positions. See the census job openings in Minnesota and apply here.

Check out what’s happening locally with the 2020 Census and sign up for updates at http://minneapolismn.gov/census/

December 15, 2015 Minutes

Armatage Neighborhood Association Meeting

Meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by board vice president Kelly Falsani

ANA board members in attendance: Kelly Falsani, Sarah Broich, Judy Vecere, Jeff Forss, Bri Keeney, Laurel Luxenberg, Steve Johnson, Tara Brown

Others in attendance: Nikki Lindberg- ANA Coordinator, Councilmember Linea Palmisano, Matt Perry, 3 interested neighbors- Ryan, Dave DeNamur, Mary Curtain

City Council Update

Councilmember Palmisano attended meeting. She began by reminding us that she welcomes communication through 311 or email. She described her role and role of her staff. She stated they try to have a representative from the Ward 13 office at every 2 of 3 neighborhood meetings.

Updates:

City Council adopted 2016 budget last week- Councilmember stated she works hard to be accountable with tax dollars. She is especially pleased with: money toward Domestic Violence Initiative (pilot of this was successful- now the program can continue), increase for auditor’s office- will help with better, more secure technology services, 13 million to affordable housing, money toward employment programs/job training/alternatives to college, extra training for police, extra money for next presidential election to prevent long lines, make the process efficient (also added 2 new precincts), money for additional housing inspectors in construction code services dept.

Voted 10-3 to scrap working families agenda in October. Instead, established workplace regulations partnership to create recommendations for the council; they will report back to council by end of February. The first meeting was last Friday; was not well publicized- council office will get schedule of future meetings out- these are public meetings.

Committee Updates

Community Engagement

  • Think about working definition of community engagement for ANA- Bri shared the current language of our Bylaws
  • There was a discussion about what we mean by community engagement (follow through, action, spectrum of community engagement, inclusiveness- reaching out to different groups
  • Talked about keeping in mind the larger context of the city’s definition
  • Maybe focusing on underrepresented groups
  • Discussed specific goals and ideas:
    • Targeted speaker each month- to attempt to reach out to different communities of folks; track attendance and follow up with folks who participate- get contact info; Perhaps a theme for each monthly meeting
    • Emergency Preparedness might be a topic of interest for an event- Jeff thought this was brilliant (CPR could fall in this category)
    • 2x a year social hour for board/meet the board happy hour
    • Continue welcome bag/packet for new residents
    • Idea to personally introduce ourselves to new neighbors
  • Bri would like to finalize goals at our next meeting

Park Update

  • Warming Housing not open- rink dependent on weather
  • Lake Harriet Kite festival is weather dependent
  • Fire on Ice is 1/22- will adjust to weather accordingly
  • Online basketball registration went well

Coordinator Update

  • January Newsletter- send newsletter ideas to Nikki. Nikki will email draft out to board before printing. Some ideas suggested were: organics, blurb on community engagement, “New Years resolution” proposal to the neighborhood to get more involved, ask neighbors to give reasons they love the neighborhood, For new residents: map of neighborhood small businesses
  • Matt Perry talked about SWBA (provides this the neighborhood small business info already)- suggested a note about this in newsletter and talked about a new app that SWBA has developed (Experiencesouthwest.com/xswapp)
  • Encourage folks to use # (most popular is #armatage)

Secretary Report

November Minutes were approved via email

New Business

Matt Perry gave update on working families agenda; he clarified some things about the workgroup- it is only about paid sick time. Matt is collecting feedback from local businesses regarding this (predicts this will be burdensome for small businesses and new businesses). Will present findings at a future meeting.

Reminded the group again that the new SWBA app is available

Nikki L announced she is now also Windom’s coordinator.

Laurel motioned to adjourn; seconded by Tara. Motioned carried. Adjourned at 7:25.

September 18, 2015 eNews

September Meeting Highlights

  • City Council Update: Linea Palmisano was present to give some updates, including:
  • Safety Committee Update: Block leader recruitment continues. Only 16 blocks in Armatage don’t have a block leader at this point (watch for a listing of open blocks in the October Safety News).
  • Community Engagement Committee Update: Engagement ideas were gathered, including: the ANA hosting a social hour; supporting a winter festival; more activities (perhaps in partnership with the park) for kids and adults, specifically older adults; etc. More to come!
  • Summer Festival Committee Update: Overall the event was deemed a success. Thanks to Mother Nature for her support, as well as a big shout out to all our volunteers, sponsors and board members for helping make it all happen. Feedback has been collected through the Survey Monkey and direct comments, and will be reviewed as plans for 2016 get underway.
  • Other Business:
    • We welcomed three new members to the ANA board! That brings our board membership to 10 (out of a maximum 11). We continue to encourage involvement, if not on the board, on one of the above mentioned committees!
    • The ANA is considering a micro grant program. This type of program has been done in other neighborhoods such as East Harriet and Fulton, supporting such activities bully prevention workshops, Earth and Arbor Day celebrations, hosting a household hazardous waste drop-off site, etc. More to come.
    • The board received notice that Kwan’s Chinese (at 54th and Penn) has begun the application process for a beer and wine license. The new owner has “received wonderful welcoming support from our customers.” They are also considering adding outdoor seating in the near future.
    • Information about solar garden programs was shared. At this point the board would like to learn more about the pros and cons of these programs, to see if this is something we think would be a good fit for our community.

Experience Southwest

The Nicollet-East Harriet Business Association (NEHBA) would like to introduce you to our new name. Taking a cue from our expanded service area and our popular “Experience Southwest” brand, the organization is excited to announce its new name: the Southwest Business Association (SWBA). (Also you can follow them on Facebook and Twitter!)

FixIt Fund

This home improvement loan co-op brings together resources from partnering neighborhoods to offer low-interest home improvement loans to our residents. The initial phase restricted fund access with monies put into the “pot” by each neighborhood being only available to their neighborhood residents. Armatage was the largest contributor to this program, but currently has the lowest participation rate. Soon our funds with be co-mingled, and people from all four neighborhoods will access to the merged dollars from all four neighborhood associations.

Openings on City Boards

Applications are now being accepted for a number of open boards and commissions positions that the City Council and Mayor will appoint this fall. Board and commission members in the City of Minneapolis provide valuable insights, help shape key policy decisions and provide community-based input into administration of services. The City is seeking applicants with a diversity of backgrounds and experiences to strengthen the work of the City.

There are open positions on the following City boards and commissions:

Applications will be reviewed beginning October 23, 2015. However, the positions are open until filled. Visit the City’s website for a list of appointment opportunities, position descriptions and to apply:
www.minneapolismn.gov/boards/openings/index.htm.

September 10, 2105 eNews

ANA Meeting

Sept 15 at 6:30

Current Agenda*

  • Welcome
  • City Council Update
  • Park Update
  • Committee Updates
    • Safety Update
    • Community Engagement
    • Summer Festival Recap
  • Coordinator Update
    • FixIt Loan Update
    • October Newsletter
    • Future of newsletter
    • Board development
  • Treasurer Report
  • Secretary Report
  • New Business
    • New board members
    • Micro loan program
    • Kwan’s on-sale application
    • Solar gardens

*Please submit agenda items at least 3 days in advance.

Airport Changes

Starting August 27, the FAA announced that, weather permitting, it would begin allowing limited use of Runway 35 for arriving aircraft at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) after having temporarily suspended arrivals on that runway a month ago due to changes in safety requirements. The procedures being tested do not create new flight paths; however, residents who became accustomed to the suspension of Runway 35 arrivals will observe arrival activity once again now that the suspension is lifted.

Proposed 2016 Hennepin County budget
includes 4.5% property tax levy increase

“The proposed budget represents thoughtful consideration about the current and future needs of Hennepin County,” Hennepin County Administrator David Hough said to the board. “The proposed budget you will consider today and in the coming months, reflects our recommendations on how to best position the county for the future and maintain or enhance our commitment to serve residents.”

In November, property owners will receive a notice that shows the impact of the county maximum levy on their properties, as well as the impact of taxes proposed by other local units of government, such as cities and school districts.

2016 Budget Hearing Schedule

The board will hold a series of public hearings on the proposed 2016 budget in the County Board Room of the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis. Some meetings have already taken place, but many are still scheduled, including:

Monday, September 14, 9 a.m. to noon
Budget Hearing for Public Safety

Tuesday, September 22, 1:30 p.m.
County Board adopts 2016 maximum tax levy and budget.

Friday, September 25, 9 a.m. to noon
Budget Hearing for Health Human Services and Public Health (follow-up if needed)

Monday, November 2, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Capital Budgeting Task Force (CBTF) Report/Capital Presentation/Fees

Tuesday, December 1, 6 p.m.
Board holds Truth-in-Taxation public meeting

Thursday, December 10, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Budget Amendments

Friday, December 11, 10 a.m. to noon
Budget Amendments

Friday, December 11, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (if needed)
Budget Amendments

Tuesday, December 15, 1:30 p.m.
County Board will approve the 2016 budget and levy at its regularly scheduled board meeting.

 

Back to School Time

  • Volunteer MPS actively works to support the learning and achievement of all students in Minneapolis Public Schools. They provide training to community volunteers who engage in meaningful volunteer assignments that meet a demonstrated need in our schools. Check out opportunities and programs online.
  • The Board of Education invites you to take the online survey and share the characteristics you look for in the next MPS superintendent. The online survey is available now through September 17th and is accessible in Spanish, Somali, Hmong, and English. CLICK HERE to take the Community Superintendent Search Survey. More details about the process are available online.
  • Do you need before or after school childcare? If so, Rec Plus provides affordable childcare for children ages 5-12 (must be in grades K-6) at neighborhood recreation centers. Activities include games and sports, arts and crafts, homework help, field trips and nutritious snacks.
  • We understand homework can be hard but our homework help program is here to HELP you!  Reduce your stress and stop in for Homework Help – it is free, offered throughout the city with varying hours, though not at Armatage park at this time.

Minneapolis Park & Recreation

  • Field trips to your kids favorite destinations
  • Create a gingerbread house
  • Brush up on art history with a hands-on program
  • Party yourself in shape at Zumba
  • Learn a new instrument
  • Make it a playdate at Preschool Drop-In Playtime

All this and more through our neighborhood parks. Check it all out in the MPRB fall activity guide.

Minneapolis Bike Tour
Sept 20

The Minneapolis Bike Tour is a family oriented, recreational tour which takes place on Sunday, September 20, 2015 at 8 am. The tour is great for all ages and abilities and spans the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway System. The Minneapolis Bike Tour was created to bring cyclists together and support bike related initiatives. Proceeds from the Minneapolis Bike Tour will benefit bike safety and education events for Minneapolis youth as well as bike trail improvement projects throughout the system.

Washburn Games
Sept 27

The Washburn Games is a noncompetitive sports sampler for children ages 4-12. The Games features over 20 different sports, a great way for kids to test our what sports they like before they are signed up for a sport they don’t like! Besides getting active, youngsters also have the opportunity to learn about community giving. Children are encouraged to raise funds before the event to support local nonprofit Washburn Center for Children, Minnesota’s leading children’s mental health facility.  Children who raise $100 or more are entered into a fun prize drawing, including Water Park of America tickets, passes Wild Mountain, and a $1,000 educational scholarship. All children who come to the Games will receive a medal, T-shirt and goodie bag! It’s day full of family fun, community building and getting active!

The event will be held on Sunday, September 27th between 1:30-4:30 PM. It will be held at Bryn Mawr Meadows, located at 400 Morgan Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55405. There is a $10 registration fee and readers can sign up and learn more at www.washburngames.org .

Understanding Traffic Circles

Traffic circles are becoming more and more prevalent as cities look to install low-maintenance, bicycle-friendly traffic calming devices. A traffic circle is a small, circular island (much smaller than an actual roundabout) at the center of the intersection that slows traffic, causing vehicles to maneuver around the circle. Armatage residents have likely seen the traffic circle recently installed at 58th & Upton as part of the Upton bicycle boulevard project. At 40th & Zenith, a traffic circle is being tested to control speeds on Zenith and prevent additional right-angle crashes. The test consists of yield signs facing all legs of the intersection, orange delineators for the circle itself, and signage in the center of the intersection directing traffic to move in a counter-clockwise direction (to the right). This test circle will be removed before winter snow removal activities begin. If you have comments about the circle, I encourage you to call 311 to share your thoughts.

The maneuvering around traffic circles, however, is still new to many of us. The key point to remember is this: all cars must slow on approach and yield to vehicles already in the traffic circle. If you’d like a refresher on how to drive safely around a traffic circle, check out the diagram below, and watch this video (while the diagram and the video covers roundabout use, most of the principles still apply).