COVID - 19 Community Resources

Edina, Minn., April 23, 2021 – As Minnesota continues to navigate the challenges presented by COVID-19 pandemic, Edina has carefully and thoughtfully taken steps to reopen Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St., for in-person services, starting with service by appointment. Service by appointment helps reduce the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19 and ensures social distancing at City buildings.

In-person appointments are available for fingerprinting Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for Edina residents and teachers. Fingerprinting will be completed at the front desk of the Edina Police Department. Beginning May 4, homestead applications can be completed in-person with a staff member from the Assessing Division on Tuesdays from 1 for 4 p.m.

Athletic association mail pick up is also available Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. through curbside service, eliminating the need for customers to enter City Hall.

The City plans to eventually increase the services offered through appointments.

The City will use an application called No Wait Inside to offer appointment scheduling. To book an appointment, residents can visit EdinaMN.gov/Appointment, select the necessary "location" (department) and service, and enter their first name, last name, cell phone number and email address. Once an appointment is scheduled, customers will receive text messages or calls with instructions detailing how they should proceed, including appointment reminders and arrival confirmation. This new booking software allows customers to virtually check in when they arrive and receive notifications when it is time for them to pull up to the building or enter the Police Department.

For most services, the safest and most convenient way to do business with the City remains the same – online or through email and phone. Services like renewing dog licenses, applying for building permits, making payments and more can be done through the City’s website, EdinaMN.gov.

The City continues to monitor recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health regarding reopening procedures and public health guidelines.

Learn more about how to book an appointment at EdinaMN.gov/Appointments or contact City Management Fellow Risi Karim at RKarim@EdinaMN.gov.

For more information about the City’s response to COVID-19, visit EdinaMN.gov/Coronavirus.

Edina, Minn., Feb. 24, 2021 – Edina and communities around the country are in a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery: vaccinations. Local governments must ensure that residents have the information they need about how, when, where and why they would receive their COVID-19 vaccination.

To better understand how residents feel about the vaccine, the City has launched a COVID-19 vaccine survey with Polco at https://polco.us/s6h6sz. The survey asks questions that will allow community leaders to better understand residents’ information needs, behaviors and concerns related to COVID-19 vaccinations. It asks residents about issues such as their current plans for the vaccine, their willingness to get immunized, information about vaccine testing and distribution of the vaccine. The survey also asks residents for their opinions about herd immunity, vaccine promotion and the roles of federal and state governments in requiring vaccines.

Once you have answered the questions, you will be asked to provide your ZIP code to confirm where you live and your email address. This allows us to be sure we are hearing from each person only once and to know which general area of the city they live in. Your response will remain anonymous to the City, but your information will be securely stored on Polco.

“The survey only takes a few minutes to complete, but your answers will be very valuable to us as we plan future COVID-19 mass vaccination clinics with Bloomington Public Health,” said City Manager Scott Neal. “It was immediately clear residents want their voices heard when it comes to this topic as the City saw more than 500 responses to the survey in the first three days it was live.”

Surveys must be complete by March 14. For more information on Polco, visit polco.us. For more information on the City’s use of the survey, call the Communications Department, 952-826-0359.

Release courtesy Office of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov Peggy Flanagan

St. Paul, Minn., Feb. 24, 2021 – As part of the State of Minnesota’s COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program (CVP), Governor Tim Walz announced a new community vaccination site to launch this week at Mall of America in Bloomington. The large-scale, permanent site will be the fourth of its kind, joining sites in Minneapolis, Duluth and Rochester that launched last week. The Mall of America will serve approximately 8,190 pre-kindergarten through grade 12 educators, school staff, and child care workers in its first week.

“We’re continuing to build a reliable network of options for Minnesotans to access the vaccine,” said Governor Walz. “In addition to helping all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their vaccine through the Vaccine Connector, the site at the Mall of America expands the network to give more Minnesotans access to shots in their communities.”

The Bloomington site launch follows the announcement last week that more than one million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Minnesota as of February 19.

“More vaccine is still needed, but we will be ready when the federal government ramps up to meet the demand,” continued Governor Walz. “Just as Minnesota remains a leader in testing, so too are we setting the tone in community vaccination. We will continue to expand access until every Minnesotan has the opportunity to receive the vaccine, regardless of where they live.”

Staff in education and child care settings will be contacted directly if selected to sign up for vaccine appointments.

“Today we continue to move forward with our plan to expand access to teachers and child care providers, setting the stage for the day federal vaccine supply catches up with demand,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “We are determined to ensure every Minnesotan has the opportunity to access the vaccine, no matter where they call home.”

State of Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccination Background

To date, over 94,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered through the State of Minnesota’s community vaccination efforts since January 21. This includes over 23,000 doses at the state’s Community Vaccination Program’s (CVP) large-scale, permanent sites in Duluth, Minneapolis and Rochester since February 4.

In addition to the CVP, the state’s all-of-the-above approach to vaccine distribution bolsters the proven network of local health care providers, which is how most Minnesotans should expect to receive the vaccine once the federal government ramps up vaccine supply to meet demand.

Last week, Governor Tim Walz announced the launch of the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool that helps all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine.

Minnesotans can sign up at mn.gov/vaccineconnector. Minnesotans unable to sign up online can call 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone. Translation is available by phone in all languages. Minnesotans can call the translation hotline at 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone.

In addition to the Vaccine Connector, Minnesotans can search for local providers on the state’s vaccine finder map: https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/find-vaccine/locations/index.jsp

ST. PAUL, Minn., Feb. 18, 2021 — Today, Governor Tim Walz announced the launch of the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, a tool that helps all Minnesotans find out when, where, and how to get their COVID-19 vaccine. The Vaccine Connector is the next step of the state’s vaccination strategy to meet Minnesotans where they are and connect them to vaccine opportunities, no matter where they live or their personal circumstances.

The Walz-Flanagan Administration has worked relentlessly to develop a reliable and stable network of different ways Minnesotans can get vaccinated. The state has mobilized health care systems, local pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, local hospitals, local public health, and state-run community vaccination sites to make sure everyone will be able to get a vaccine when the federal government ships more doses. The Vaccine Connector will help connect Minnesotans to that network once it’s their turn to get a shot and will also improve the ability of communities of color to access the vaccine.

“We still have a frustratingly limited vaccine supply from the federal government, but every Minnesotan should know their chance to get a vaccine will come. Today, we are connecting them directly to that process,” said Governor Walz. “We need to make it as easy as possible for every Minnesotan to get the vaccine when it’s their turn – no matter where they live and no matter their personal circumstances. The options we’re providing will help make that happen.”

“The Vaccine Connector will play a vital role moving forward to help us connect each and every Minnesotan to a vaccine once they’re eligible,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “We are working hard to make sure folks in every community in Minnesota feel connected to our vaccine network and know how to get a vaccine safely and confidently once supply increases.”

Minnesotans who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to sign up for the COVID-19 Vaccine Connector, regardless of their current vaccine eligibility status. There will be no cost and no restricted time period for signing up.

Minnesotans can sign up at mn.gov/vaccineconnector. Minnesotans unable to sign up online can call 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone. Translation is available by phone in all languages. Minnesotans can call the translation hotline at 833-431-2053 for assistance signing up over the phone.

Minnesotans will provide basic information to sign up for the Vaccine Connector such as contact information, demographic data, medical history, and employment to determine their eligibility based on state guidelines. The State of Minnesota is committed to the equitable distribution of safe and effective vaccines for protection against COVID-19 and this form has included questions about gender identity, sexual orientation, race, cultural identification, and disabilities to help us track and measure equity and fairness throughout the vaccine distribution process. These questions do have the option to select “prefer not to answer” or “none of the above,” and selecting these answers will not prevent you from signing up for the Vaccine Connector.

When a Minnesotan becomes eligible to receive a vaccine under state guidelines, the Vaccine Connector will alert them of their eligibility, connect them to resources to schedule an appointment, and notify them if there are vaccination opportunities in their area. Minnesotans will still make appointments directly through a registered vaccinator, but the Connector is an easy way for Minnesotans to stay apprised of their eligibility and find opportunities to get a shot.

Minnesota is currently vaccinating health care workers, long-term care residents, pre-kindergarten through grade 12 educators, child care workers and people age 65 and over. All Minnesotans who have not been vaccinated should sign up for the Vaccine Connector. They will continue to hear about vaccination opportunities in a variety of different ways:

• Health care personnel will hear from their employer about when and where they can get vaccinated.

• Long-term care residents will hear from their facility about when and where they can get vaccinated.

• Adults 65+ who already registered through either the COVID-19 Vaccine Pilot Program or the COVID-19 Community Vaccination Program do not need to re-submit their information. When adults 65+ sign up for the Vaccine Connector, they will immediately be entered into the random selection process for the state’s Community Vaccination Program sites operating in Minneapolis, Duluth, and Rochester. If they are selected to receive their vaccine at one of these sites, they will be notified by text, email, or landline by the company that runs those sites, Vault Health. The state is continuing to partner with hundreds of local medical providers and pharmacies to provide shots to Minnesotans age 65 and older. Adults 65+ can use the Vaccine Locator map to find nearby vaccine distribution sites and make an appointment to receive a vaccine through the providers listed there. They can also contact their regular provider directly.

• Educators and child care providers who already completed the Minnesota COVID-19 Vaccine – Education and Child Care survey do not need to complete the Vaccine Connector form or re-submit their information. Educators, school staff, and child care workers will continue to hear from their local public health agency, employer, state-sponsored community vaccination site, or state vaccination partner about when and where they can get vaccinated.

Demand for vaccine still far exceeds supply, and Minnesotans should remain patient as more vaccine arrives in the weeks and months ahead. Every Minnesotan will have an opportunity to get vaccinated, it will just take time and the Vaccine Connector is another tool Minnesotans can use to be prepared.

Edina, Minn., Jan. 5, 2021 – The City of Edina’s first responders will begin to be vaccinated this week .

Bloomington Public Health is offering COVID-19 vaccine from Moderna to all certified emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians and paramedics across Bloomington, Edina and Richfield over the next few weeks. This group of individuals, including many police officers, are often first on the scene to provide lifesaving first aid, putting them at high risk of exposure to the novel coronavirus. These individuals are prioritized within Phase 1a of the vaccine rollout in Minnesota.

Nurses from Bloomington Public Health will administer vaccinations to these first responders at vaccination clinics at local fire stations.

Approximately 500 first responders across Bloomington, Edina and Richfield are eligible to receive their first dose of the vaccine during the initial vaccination clinics. Individuals working at the COVID-19 testing site in Bloomington are also eligible for the vaccine. Follow-up clinics will be scheduled to ensure these individuals receive their second dose of the vaccine in the correct timeframe. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is only fully effective with both doses of vaccine.

“Our firefighter/paramedics and law enforcement officers have been exceptionally vigilant to protect the public and themselves from COVID-19 for more than 10 months,” said Edina City Manager Scott Neal. “Vaccination is the next legal step in that vigilance. I am relieved that we are able to provide them this additional layer of protection so early in 2021.”

While the vaccines offer hope, the next few months could be among the most difficult of the pandemic. First responders continue to risk their health each day from potential exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. Leaders in the three cities want to ensure they can continue to protect the health and safety of all people across Bloomington, Edina and Richfield. Bloomington Public Health is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health regarding priority groups to vaccinate first, given limited vaccine supply.

“With two COVID-19 vaccines now rolling out, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Yet, due to initially limited supplies, it will be months before every person in our community who wants the vaccine can get it,” said Nick Kelley, Acting Public Health Administrator for Bloomington Public Health. “We urge everyone to keep practicing all the protective measures, including keeping your distance, wearing a mask, getting tested if you have symptoms or have been exposed, and staying home if you are sick.”

The Bloomington Public Health Division provides health services across Bloomington, Edina and Richfield. Learn more about the City of Edina’s COVID-19 response at EdinaMN.gov/coronavirus.

Edina, Minn., Oct. 16, 2020 – The Edina Senior Center is partnering with Bloomington Public Health to provide a free Senior Resource Drive-Thru Fair from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, at the Braemar Golf Course parking lot, 6364 John Harris Dr.

The City hopes the event helps Edina adults ages 55 and older stay connected through the COVID-19 pandemic and find local and regional resources.

“The Edina Senior Center is committed to community outreach efforts that provide support and resource awareness for the aging population,” said Edina Senior Center Recreation Supervisor Nicole Gorman. “By partnering with Bloomington Public Health, we are bringing agencies together to provide information and allow people a chance to participate in a safe event.”

Attendees will receive free items, resources and a smile from staff working the event as they drive through the route. While supplies last, a goody bag will be provided full of snacks, promotional items and donated prizes.

To support safety measures, guests will remain in their vehicles and face masks must be worn by participants and event workers. Masks will be provided to anyone who is in need.

For more information about the event or to view participating organizations, visit EdinaSeniorCenter.com. To view a complete list of current recreation activities, visit EdinaParks.com.

The State of Minnesota, in partnership with Normandale Community College, Minnesota National Guard and the City of Bloomington, will conduct a three-day COVID-19 testing event in a parking ramp at Normandale Community College, 9700 France Ave. S.

Testing will be held noon to 6 p.m. Sept. 29-Oct. 1. Capacity of testing is 600 people per day. Though walkups will be accommodated, it is recommended that participants pre-register to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Pre-register at www.primarybio.com/r/bloomington in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong or Karen.

Testing will be conducted as a drive-thru. Participants should enter from France Avenue at West 94^th Street and follow the road and signs to the parking garage on the west side of campus. The northern entrance/exit of the parking garage will be the main entrance. Participants will exit on the south side of the garage onto Collegeview Road.

Insurance is not required. Test results will be available within three days. Those with negative results will receive a text message or email. Those with positive test results will receive a phone call.

Edina, Minn., Sept. 8, 2020 – Absentee voting for the Nov. 3 General Election begins Sept. 18 at Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St.

All eligible voters in Edina can vote early by absentee either in person or by mail. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, voters are encouraged to vote by absentee ballot. To date, about half of registered voters have applied to vote by absentee ballot and will receive their ballots by mail. Ballots will be mailed starting Sept. 18 and can be dropped off at City Hall.

Those who prefer to vote in person must wear a mask and may not enter Edina City Hall if they have tested positive for COVID-19 or are symptomatic.

To ensure social distancing, a limited number of people will be allowed inside City Hall. Once capacity inside the building has been reached, voters will queue up outside under a tent. While outside, voters may fill out an absentee ballot application to speed the process.

A ballot drop-off area will be available outside of City Hall in a tent Sept. 24-Nov. 3 for voters to drop off their ballots without leaving their car. Voters who want to drop off ballots should enter the parking lot from West 50th Street and follow the signs to the drop-off tent. Those dropping off ballots will then exit on Grange Road.

Direct balloting, where a voter completes a ballot and puts it directly into the ballot counter, will be held at City Hall Oct. 27-Nov. 2.

For more information, visit EdinaMN.gov/Elections or call 952-826-0363.

To report violations by businesses: contact local law enforcement or one of the agencies listed below, if applicable.

• To ask questions or report violations of this Executive Order that relate to worker health and safety: Contact the Department of Labor and Industry by email at osha.compliance@state.mn.us or by phone at 651-284-5050 or 1-877-470-6742.
• To ask other workplace-related questions about this Executive Order: Contact the Department of Employment and Economic Development using the form on the following web page: Questions about Returning to Work.
• To report violations by restaurants and food service establishments, pools, or lodging services: contact the City of Edina Health Division at 952-826-0370.
• To report discrimination in relation to this Executive Order: Contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights at 1-833-454-0148 or submit a report at Report Discrimination Online.

For general questions about face covering requirements or COVID-19: Contact the Minnesota Department of Health by phone at 651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504, or submit an inquiry using the Have a Question? We're here to help online form.