Agenda - Council - 04/14/2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Mayor LeTourneau aye Councilmember Riley aye Councilmember Menth aye Councilmember Heinrich aye Councilmember Kuzma aye Councilmember Specht aye Councilmember Musgrove aye Motion carried. 4. COUNCIL BUSINESS 4.01: Receive an Update Regarding COVID-19 Fire Chief Kohner reviewed the staff report and provided an update regarding COVID-19. He reported that as of today there have been 18,822 tests for COVID-19 in Minnesota, with 576 of those returned positive. He stated that 92 of those patients required hospitalization and ten patients have died. He noted that seven of the ten people that passed away lived in a nursing home or assisted living facility. He advised that there has been one confirmed case in Ramsey. He stated that 85 percent of those that tested positive experienced mild symptoms and did not require hospitalization. He reported that police and fire continue to serve the community, while implementing additional safety measures. He stated that the State continues efforts to locate additional personal protective equipment and hospital beds. He reported that the purpose of the Stay at Home Order issued by Governor Walz is to limit the spread of the disease from person to person and prevent the healthcare system from being overwhelmed. He asked residents to take the six feet social distancing standard seriously and stay at home. City Administrator Ulrich provided an update on City staff activity, noting that essential employees remain onsite while other personnel have transitioned to working remotely. He stated that he has authorized continued closing of public and park facilities consistent with the County and School District through May 4, 2020. He reported that the City's local declaration of emergency runs through April 14th, and the City Council will consider whether to extend the local emergency at that time. He reported that an all staff meeting will be conducted electronically later in the week to address any questions as this moves forward. He stated that the Federal guidelines run through April 30th and the City will remain consistent with that. Councilmember Riley asked if this is the appropriate time to discuss the positions the City considers essential. City Administrator Ulrich confirmed that discussion would be a part of the next case. Mayor LeTourneau expressed appreciation for the work being completed by Fire Chief Kohner and City staff. City Council / March 30, 2020 Page 3 of 9