Post Date: 03/25/2020 6:05 PM

A message from City Manager Patrick Hentges

The City of Mankato has been preparing for the possibility that residents would need to shelter in place, so it's been a priority to ensure essential services are provided if this would happen. The city's Continuity of Operations Plan helps keep necessary city work moving forward, so residents can be confident that critical first-response areas such as police, fire, water and wastewater utilities, public works operations and street maintenance continue. In addition, other staff continue to work remotely and can be reached by email or phone.



View answers to frequently asked questions about Governor Tim Walz's Stay at Home Executive Order: The Minnesota Model, which begins 11:59 p.m., Friday, March 27 and lasts to Friday, April 10. It's important to note that there are some exceptions to the executive order, and residents may leave their homes to pick up essential items--groceries or food, prescriptions and gas. People may also go to work if job is determined to be essential; and delivery and carry-out from local restaurant businesses can continue.



Safety and health of staff and the community continue to be a priority. We will keep the public informed as the situation changes. Please contact me by email or 507-387-8695; or Deputy City Manager Alison Zelms at 507-387-8609 any time we can be of service.



A message from Mayor Najwa Massad

Our community, state, nation and world are experiencing a situation unlike anything we’ve been through before. As we prepare for upcoming shelter in place, we understand how impactful it can be. It’s important to remember that doing so is for everyone’s health and safety—your families, friends and neighbors. We realize that many have questions unable to be answered at this time. I know the indescribable feeling to be in a situation where it feels like all hope is lost, and there’s no way out.



However, I also know we will get through this by supporting each other. Family, friends and neighbors need to come together during this unprecedented time. I encourage everyone to think of others who may need assistance. Help an elderly neighbor with picking up groceries or medications. Support essential businesses still able to offer their services. Be selfless, and be kind. Every act makes a difference.



Please know that the City of Mankato is working hard to help ensure necessary city services continue. Public safety continues to respond to calls, water treatment staff work to ensure high quality drinking water, wastewater staff continues to provide service not only to Mankato, but also six other jurisdictions. These are just a few of the many ongoing city efforts. I’m confident the work done by the city will continue, and important information will be shared as needed. Please make sure to check the city’s website at mankatomn.gov, or call 311 or 507-387-8600.



It’s also important to share that there’s on-going collaboration between local businesses, health care and not-profit organizations. Together, they are actively partnering to identify and meet essential needs and help ensure best outcomes for the community. We are united, strong and resilient.



Be safe. Be strong. Be kind.