March 2022

Emergency Executive Order 2022-16

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on March 7, 2022 pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-1 declaring a Peacetime State of Emergency to authorize all necessary resources to be used in support of the COVID-19 response. This Executive Order has expired; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29 and Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations have become widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago, including about one-in-ten who do not think their finances will ever recover. Furthermore, almost half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting … the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; … and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”; and

WHEREAS, during the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Orders:

The following Executive Orders are extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above-listed Executive Orders remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2022-17

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on March 10, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-1 declaring a Peacetime State of Emergency to authorize all necessary resources to be used in support of the COVID-19 response. This Executive Order has expired; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29 and Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code 13.06(c) gives the Mayor the authority to issue emergency executive orders and provides that “by like proclamation the mayor may modify or rescind any such regulation”; and

WHEREAS, on February 24, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, I rescinded Executive Order 2022-11 related to face coverings in City-Licensed Businesses and City-Controlled Property and replaced it with Executive Order 2022-14 which required the following:

Regulations:

  1. Individuals, regardless of vaccine status, at City-Controlled Property: Must wear a face covering indoors at all times. Employees who are not in a congregate setting and are alone in their assigned workspace may refrain from wearing a face covering.
  2. Individuals are not required to wear a face covering while outdoors, unless at an activity specifically designated and posted by the City as requiring a face covering.
  3. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff competing or performing at indoor spaces that are controlled by the City of Saint Paul are not subject to this regulation.
  4. All Businesses: Strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained; and

WHEREAS, at that time, the City of Saint Paul maintained the above-described face covering requirement in order to continue evaluating the spread of COVID-19 by monitoring case rates, positivity rates, hospitalizations, and vaccination rates; and

WHEREAS, amid promising downward trends of case rates, positivity rates, and hospitalizations in Ramsey County, data available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of March 3, 2022 shows that the Community Level related to risk is Low, the reported cases per 100,000 is 118.11, hospital admissions per 100,000 are 6.1, and percentage of hospital beds occupied are at 5.9%; and

WHEREAS, these promising public health metric trends, combined with 81% of those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine (5 and older) in Ramsey County having received at least one dose, demonstrate progress toward ending this pandemic; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control determines the COVID Community Level in Ramsey County is Low as of March 10, 2022, based on COVID-19 hospital admissions, inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients, and total new COVID-19 cases in the past seven days; and

WHEREAS, while not required, masks are strongly encouraged for all residents of the City of Saint Paul whether on City-Controlled Property, in a City-Licensed Business or other facility, regardless of vaccine status when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Executive Order 2022-14, related to face coverings in City-Controlled Property is rescinded.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect immediately on March 10, 2022 following my signature.


Extending City of Saint Paul Emergency Declaration COVID-19 March 13, 2022

WHEREAS, Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly known as COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that a local emergency existed within Saint Paul, effective March 15, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-550 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 15, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on June 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 10, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-874 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on September 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective September 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 9, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1249 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until December 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on November 30, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 30, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1652 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until March 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on March 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective March 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 3, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-326 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 1, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on June 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 2, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-852 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on August 31, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective August 31, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1305 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until November 30, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on November 29, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 29, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1749 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-five days, until Wednesday, January 5, 2022; and

WHEREAS, on January 3, 2022, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective January 3, 2022, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on January 5, 2022, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 22-63, approved that declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-five days, until Sunday, February 13, 2022; and

WHEREAS, on February 9, 2022, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 22-238, approved the declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-three days, until Sunday, March 13, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges to our City; and

WHEREAS, as of March 7, 2022 there were 122,295 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ramsey County, and 1,308 COVID-19 related deaths; and

WHEREAS, amid promising downward trends of case rates, positivity rates, and hospitalizations in Ramsey County, data available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of March 3, 2022, provides that the reported cases per 100,000 is 118.11, hospital admissions per 100,000 are 6.1, and percentage of hospital beds occupied are at 5.9%; and

WHEREAS, these promising public health metric trends, combined with the fact that 81% of those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine (5 and older) in Ramsey County have received at least one vaccine dose, demonstrates progress toward ending this pandemic; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control now determined the COVID Community Level in Ramsey County is Low as of March 10, 2022, based on COVID-19 hospital admissions, inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients, and total new COVID-19 cases in the past seven days; and

WHEREAS, due to the Low COVID Community Level in Ramsey County, on March 10, 2022, I signed EO 2022-17 rescinding EO 2022-14 relating to face coverings in City-Controlled Property; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges to our City, especially related to the negative economic impacts of the pandemic; and

WHEREAS, the now 24-month public health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul, causing an economic crisis; and

WHEREAS, many businesses are still utilizing and dependent on City COVID business support measures and removal of these business supports now would further harm these fragile and struggling businesses; and

WHEREAS, as Small Business Pulse Survey - MN Small Business reported:

Over 3 week period of February 14th – March 6th:

  • A greater percentage of businesses reported equal to or less level revenue generation in 2022 than 2021;
  • A much larger percentage in 2022 than 2021 (52% versus 35%) of businesses reported supplier delays and difficulties in finding alternative suppliers;
  • A greater percentage of businesses reported equal to or less hours;

Over the last 3 weeks:

  • There was nearly a 10% increase in businesses reporting difficulties hiring paid staff; and

WHEREAS, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) most-recent data on the impact of COVID-19 in Minnesota includes:

  • The percentage of Minnesota Residents who reported difficulty paying for usual household expenses in the last 7 days:
    • 30.4% responded “not at all difficult”
    • 21.5% responded “a little difficult”
    • 28.6% responded “somewhat difficult”
    • 19.5% responded “very difficult”
  • The percentage of households who were unable to pay an energy bill or unable to pay the full bill amount:
    • 11.4% responded “almost every month”
    • 16.0% responded “some months”
    • 30.5% responded “1 or two months”
    • 42.1% responded “never”
  • The percentage of households who reported a likelihood of leaving their home due to eviction in next two months:
    • 6.6% responded “very likely”
    • 26.0% responded “somewhat likely”
    • 14.8% responded “not very likely”
    • 52.7% responded “not likely at all”

WHEREAS, it is likely that the DEED statistics under-represent the impact in Saint Paul. During the course of the pandemic, small businesses in metropolitan areas have been hit harder than those in rural areas. According to a report by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), The Effects Of The COVID-19 Pandemic On Small Businesses (released March 2, 2021), in April 2020, the number of people in metropolitan areas who were working and self-employed was 21 percent lower than in April 2019. Outside of those areas, the decline was only 13 percent. In subsequent months, the decline in metropolitan areas continued to exceed the decline outside of metropolitan areas; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 3 in 5 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, due to the present economic crisis, as articulated above, it remains necessary for the City to provide economic support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency, I have exercised executive authority through more than 111 Executive Orders to provide relief and further prepare our City for the COVID- 19 Pandemic; and

WHEREAS, these Executive Orders remain in effect only as long as the emergency continues; and

WHEREAS, the necessary resources to respond to and recover from this pandemic will exceed resources available within the City, and additional resources will be needed from Ramsey County, and state and federal sources;

NOW, THEREFORE, MAYOR MELVIN CARTER III, OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL DECLARES, REQUESTS, AND DIRECTS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, declares that a local emergency continues to exist within Saint Paul, on March 13, 2022, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13. This declaration supersedes all prior declarations. 
  2. Directs City departments to review ordinance and regulatory requirements, operations, civil and legal proceedings, events, and resources that can and should be adjusted or suspended, or to enact emergency regulations to support and protect the residents and businesses of Saint Paul as they grapple with the negative economic impacts of the pandemic.
  3. Directs the Saint Paul Director of Emergency Management to request and coordinate appropriate aid and resources from surrounding jurisdictions, the Ramsey County Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the State of Minnesota, as needed.
  4. Requests the City Council convene at its earliest convenience to discuss the situation and this declaration. This state of local emergency may not be continued for a period in excess of three days except by or with the consent of the Council of the City of Saint Paul.
  5. Orders that this declaration be given prompt and general publicity and that it be filed promptly by the City Clerk.

Emergency Executive Order 2022-18

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on March 14, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control now determined the COVID Community Level in Ramsey County is Low as of March 10, 2022, based on COVID-19 hospital admissions, inpatient beds occupied by COVID-19 patients, and total new COVID-19 cases in the past seven days; and

WHEREAS, due to the Low COVID Community Level in Ramsey County, on March 10, 2022, I signed EO 2022-17 rescinding EO 2022-14 relating to face coverings in City- Controlled Property; and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges to our City, especially related to the negative economic impacts of the pandemic; and

WHEREAS, the now 24-month public health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul, causing an economic crisis; and

WHEREAS, many businesses are still utilizing and dependent on City COVID business support measures and removal of these business supports now would further harm these fragile and struggling businesses; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued Executive Orders relating to Food Halls, and the original basis for this order has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Order:

  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above listed Executive Order remains in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.

February 2022

Extending City of Saint Paul Emergency Declaration COVID-19, February 8, 2022

WHEREAS, Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly known as COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that a local emergency existed within Saint Paul, effective March 15, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-550 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 15, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on June 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 10, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-874 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on September 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective September 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 9, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1249 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until December 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on November 30, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 30, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1652 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until March 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on March 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective March 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 3, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-326 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 1, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on June 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes  12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 2, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-852 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on August 31, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective August 31, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1305 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until November 30, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on November 29, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes  12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 29, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1749 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-five days, until Wednesday, January 5, 2022; and

WHEREAS, on January 3, 2022, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes 12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective January 3, 2022, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on January 5, 2022, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 22-63, approved that declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-five days, until Sunday, February 13, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges to our City. As of February 8, 2022, there was 117,587 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ramsey County, and 1,258 COVID-19 related deaths; and

WHEREAS, even though vaccinations have become widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the nation and City; and

WHEREAS, the Delta variant is more contagious than previous variants, has been causing more severe illness than prior variants, and fully vaccinated people with Delta variant breakthrough infections can spread the virus to others; and

WHEREAS, infections from the fast-spreading Delta variant have spread north to the Midwest and Mountain states this fall and Minnesota's rate of new infections has at recent times been the highest in the nation; and

WHEREAS, in recent weeks, Minnesota, in particular, has been under a surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitals have been up to 97% full; and

WHEREAS, the Omicron variant has been found in Minnesota and internationally has been spreading faster than any other previous variant; and

WHEREAS, the now 22-month health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s (DEED) most-recent data on the impact of COVID-19:

  • business applications are down 31.25%;
  • 21% of small businesses have had an overall large negative impact and 41% have had a moderate negative impact;
  • 40.4% of households with children under 5 have had a childcare disruption in the last 4 weeks;
  • 15.1% of households have been unable to pay an energy bill in the last 12 months; and
  • 15.6% of households are behind or mortgage or rent payments and the risk of eviction or foreclosure is either somewhat or very likely.

WHEREAS, it is likely that the DEED statistics under-represent the impact in Saint Paul. During the course of the pandemic, small businesses in metropolitan areas have been hit harder than those in rural areas. According to a report by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), The Effects Of The COVID-19 Pandemic On Small Businesses (released March 2, 2021), in April 2020, the number of people in metropolitan areas who were working and self-employed was 21 percent lower than in April 2019. Outside of those areas, the decline was only 13 percent. In subsequent months, the decline in metropolitan areas continued to exceed the decline outside of metropolitan areas; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 3 in 5 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities COVID-19 Hardship Watch, “[w]hile the economy has added jobs in recent months, there were still 5.0 million fewer jobs in September 2021 than in February 2020. The majority of jobs lost in the crisis have been in industries that pay low average wages, with the lowest-paying industries accounting for 30 percent of all jobs but 56 percent of the jobs lost from February 2020 to September 2021, according to the latest month of Labor Department employment data. Jobs were down nearly twice as much in low-paying industries (5.3 percent) as in medium-wage industries (3.2 percent) and more than six times as much as in highwage industries (0.8 percent) during this period; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul residents, it remains necessary for the City to provide economic support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency, I have exercised executive authority through more than 80 Executive Orders to provide relief and further prepare our City for the COVID-19 Pandemic; and

WHEREAS, these Executive Orders remain in effect only as long as the emergency continues; and

WHEREAS, the necessary resources to respond to and recover from this pandemic will exceed those resources available within the City, and additional resources will be needed from Ramsey County, and state and federal sources;

NOW, THEREFORE, MAYOR MELVIN CARTER III, OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL DECLARES, REQUESTS, AND DIRECTS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes  12.29, declares that a local emergency continues to exist within Saint Paul, on February 8, 2022, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statutes, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13. This declaration supersedes all prior declarations.
  2. Directs City departments to review ordinance and regulatory requirements, operations, civil and legal proceedings, events, and resources that can and should be adjusted or suspended, or to enact emergency regulations to support the residents of Saint Paul during the pandemic.
  3. Directs the Saint Paul Director of Emergency Management to request and coordinate appropriate aid and resources from surrounding jurisdictions, the Ramsey County Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the State of Minnesota, as needed.
  4. Declares, under Minn. Stat.13D.021, that in-person meetings of the boards, commissions, and committees of public bodies under the Mayor’s jurisdiction are not practical or prudent because of the COVID-19 health pandemic. This does not include the Saint Paul City Council.
  5. Requests the City Council convene at its earliest convenience to discuss the situation and this declaration. This state of local emergency may not be continued for a period in excess of three days except by or with the consent of the Council of the City of Saint Paul.
  6. Orders that this declaration be given prompt and general publicity and that it be filed promptly by the City Clerk.

Emergency Executive Order February 7, 2022, 2022-9

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-9

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 7, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

Even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City.

COVID-19 infection is transmitted predominately by inhalation of respiratory droplets. Studies show that masks and face coverings block the release of respiratory droplets into the environment and can also reduce the wearer’s exposure to droplets from others because COVID- 19 viral particles spread between people more readily indoors and when people are closer together for longer periods of time indoors. Inside activities, and in particular inside activities where individuals gather without masks, and where individuals gather for extended periods, or both, increase the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19.

Studies have indicated and public health experts have concluded that indoor dining is a significant driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because it is not possible to wear a mask while eating or drinking.

The WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised all individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, especially the Delta and Omicron variants, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well- fitting masks, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.

Businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors. According to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started.

In addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul residents, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Orders:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above listed Executive Orders remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order February 10, 2022, 2022-10

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-10 (RESCINDING EO 2022-5)

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 10, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-01 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. That Executive Order has expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Emergency Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

Saint Paul Legislative Code 13.06(c) gives the Mayor the authority to issue emergency executive orders and provides that “by like proclamation the mayor may modify or rescind any such regulation.”

On January 13, 2022, I issued Emergency Executive Order 2022-5 requiring (with exceptions) that, any licensed business that is a space of public accommodation in the City of Saint Paul during any time that food and/or drink is sold or served indoors for consumption onsite limit admission of patrons to the area of the licensed premises where food and/or drink is being consumed, to only those persons who furnish proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 test obtained within seventy-two (72) hours of entry.

Executive Order 2022-5 was necessary to address a surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the Delta and Omicron variants, identified by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) as variants of concern. Current CDC data for Ramsey County over the past 7 days shows a 57.8% drop in cases, and a 37.89% decline in new hospital admissions.

These encouraging downward trends in case counts and hospital admissions, combined with 80% of residents ages 5 and up in Ramsey County having now received at least one dose of a vaccine, demonstrate our ongoing progress in this pandemic. As the City continues to monitor data with Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health, Executive Order 2022-3, regarding masking requirements at City-controlled facilities, and in businesses licensed by the City of Saint Paul remains in place.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby rescind Emergency Executive Order 2022-5, effective on February 10, 2022.


Emergency Executive Order February 14, 2022, 2022-11

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-11

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 14, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 declaring a Peacetime State of Emergency to authorize all necessary resources to be used in support of the COVID-19 response. This Executive Order has expired; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed over the past seven days, serious threats to the health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”; and

WHEREAS, during the course of the Declared Emergency, I issued Executive Order 2022-3 (face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities and City-licensed businesses), and the original basis for this order has not changed;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend Executive Order 2022-3 (face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities and City-licensed businesses) without amendment.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order February 23, 2022, 2022-12

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-12

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 23, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020, and which has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”; and

WHEREAS, buildings and residences in downtown Saint Paul are connected by a robust skyway system which allows downtown residents to move between buildings and provides downtown residents with access to essential businesses; and

WHEREAS, the hours of the skyway system are governed by Saint Paul Legislative Code section 140.10, which sets the General Hours of Operation and requires that “all parts of the skyway system shall be open to the public every day between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.”; and

WHEREAS, compliance with the skyway hours of operation requires monitoring by both Saint Paul Police and building owners;

WHEREAS, on April 9, 2020, I issued Emergency Executive Order 2020-5 to allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible at 7 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, based on the easing of COVID restrictions statewide, the fact that the spread of COVID-19 had slowed, and the wide availability of vaccines and the recommendation of skyway stakeholders, I issued Executive Order 2021-23, which adjusted the skyway closure hours to keep the skyways open longer; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-23 was rescinded and replaced with Executive Order 2021- 40, which allowed for an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system is permitted to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 11:00 p.m., provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-40 was extended by Executive Order 2021-44, which was set to expire on January 14, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-44 was extended by Executive Order 2022-6, which was set to expire on February 23, 2022 and which would return skyway hours to normal; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted; and

WHEREAS, on December 16, 2021, representatives from the Department of Safety and Inspections met with representatives from SPPD, Downtown Alliance, BOMA, and Skyway Easement Property Owners and discussed that due to COVID cases resurgence a comprehensive and coordinated Skyway security and maintenance effort was not yet ready to move to adding additional hours; and

WHEREAS, a request was made to retain the current Skyway Hours of 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby renew the following Emergency Executive Order in order to keep the current Skyway Hours in place:

  • Executive Order 2022-6 is extended to retain the current Skyway Hours and allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 11:00 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above listed Executive Order will remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order February 23, 2022, 2022-13

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-13

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 23, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenges to our City. Even though vaccinations have become widely available, it is now recommended that all fully vaccinated individuals receive a booster shot; and serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the nation and City. The Delta variant is more contagious than previous variants, has been causing more severe illness than prior variants, and fully vaccinated people with Delta variant breakthrough infections can spread the virus to others. The Omicron variant has been spreading faster than any other previous variant. The now 21-month health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

Given limited revenue generation over the past 2 years, limited funds will slow business owners’ ability to re-open and/or re-tool to achieve business operations to better their financial situation. Businesses have been further impacted by staffing shortages (e.g. immediate (due to COVID cases) or longer term (due to hiring challenges) and supply chain challenges.

Effective January 19th, the Mayor Signed Executive Order 2022-5 requiring proof of vaccination or negative test result to enter City-licensed businesses who sell/serve food and/or beverages for consumption on premise. In order to assist with any financial impacts of that order, and the impact of the pandemic in general, Mayor Carter intends to reduce license fees for licensed business included in Executive Order 2022-5 in the form of a 25% license fee reduction and 3 months deferral on upcoming renewal payments.

On December 22, 2021, the Council adopted Ord. 21-65 increasing business license fees by 1.5%. Ord. 21-65 which took effect on February 5, 2022 and raised license fees for many of these businesses.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, in an effort to ease the financial burden and aid in the recovery of Saint Paul businesses impacted by Minnesota Governor Walz’s Executive Orders, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

  • License holders for the license types listed below will be given:
    • The 2022 license fee will remain at the 2021 rate for business licenses.
    • A 25% one-time reduction from the 2021 rate as reflected in Chapter 310 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code on their next annual license fees.
    • A one-time, ninety-day extension of the due date for payment of their next renewal license fees for all license holders whose renewal date is before May 1, 2022.
  • This Executive Order applies to the following license types:
    • Bowling Centers
    • Cabaret, Dance/Rental Halls
    • Entertainment (A, B, & C)
    • Liquor
      • Microdistillery Cocktail Room
      • Liquor Catering
      • Liquor On Sale (All)
      • Liquor-Outdoor Service Area (Patio & Sidewalk)
      • Malt On Sale (All)
    • Theaters and Movie Theaters
    • Wine On Sale

I FURTHER REQUEST, that the Saint Paul City Council take immediate action by Ordinance to extend this Emergency Executive Order for 1 year so all impacted businesses will have the 2022 license fee set at the 2021 rate, receive a 25% reduction of their next annual license fee, and businesses with annual license fees due prior to May 1, 2022 will receive a ninety-day extension of the next due date of those fees.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order February 24, 2022, 2022-14

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-14

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 24, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-1 declaring a Peacetime State of Emergency to authorize all necessary resources to be used in support of the COVID-19 response. This Executive Order has expired; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29 and Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code 13.06(c) gives the Mayor the authority to issue emergency executive orders and provides that “by like proclamation the mayor may modify or rescind any such regulation”; and

WHEREAS, on February 15, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, I issued Executive Order 2022-11, which required the following:

  1. Individuals, regardless of vaccine status, at City-Controlled Property: Must wear a face covering indoors at all times. Employees who are not in a congregate setting and are alone in their assigned workspace may refrain from wearing a face covering.
  2. Individuals are not required to wear a face covering while outdoors, unless at an activity specifically designated and posted by the City as requiring a face covering.
  3. Businesses Licensed by the City of Saint Paul: Must require all Individuals to wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking.
  4. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff competing or performing at indoor spaces that are licensed or controlled by the City of Saint Paul are not subject to this regulation.
  5. All Businesses: Strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.; and

WHEREAS, at that time, the City of Saint Paul maintained the above-described face covering requirement in order to continue evaluating the spread of COVID-19 by monitoring case rates, positivity rates, hospitalizations, and vaccination rates; and

WHEREAS, according to data available as of February 24, 2022, case rates, positivity rates, and hospitalizations in Ramsey County have continued to decline deeply. Current data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Protection for Ramsey County over the past seven days show a 56.36% decline in cases and a 14.71% decline in new hospital admissions, while current data from Saint Paul Ramsey County Public Health shows that the positivity rate in Ramsey County is 6.27%; and

WHEREAS, these promising public health metric trends, combined with 81% of those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine (5 and older) in Ramsey County having received at least one dose, demonstrate progress toward ending this pandemic;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Executive Order 2022-11, related to face coverings in City-Controlled Property and City-Licensed Businesses, is rescinded and replaced with this Executive Order on the below-listed effective date.

Regulations:

  1. Individuals, regardless of vaccine status, at City-Controlled Property: Must wear a face covering indoors at all times. Employees who are not in a congregate setting and are alone in their assigned workspace may refrain from wearing a face covering.
  2. Individuals are not required to wear a face covering while outdoors, unless at an activity specifically designated and posted by the City as requiring a face covering.
  3. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff competing or performing at indoor spaces that are controlled by the City of Saint Paul are not subject to this regulation.
  4. All Businesses: Strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.

Terms:

  1. Individual: all persons except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.
  2. City-Controlled Property: includes park facilities, libraries, and City offices and workplaces.
  3. Face Covering: includes manufactured or homemade cloth face coverings. Face coverings must fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth. Face coverings are not required to be medical-grade masks.

Enforcement:

  1. Any Individual who fails to comply with this requirement will be asked to leave any City-controlled property. Any individual who subsequently refuses to leave said property upon request will be deemed to be trespassing and may be subject to criminal penalties as provided by law.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect immediately on February 24, 2022 following my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order February 28, 2022, 2022-15

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-15

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on February 28, 2022 pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-1 declaring a Peacetime State of Emergency to authorize all necessary resources to be used in support of the COVID-19 response. This Executive Order has expired; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID- 19 pandemic pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 12.29 and Saint Paul Legislative Code section 13.06, which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses and individuals continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City has increased its efforts to get individuals into shelter, which is putting a strain on shelter space; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Legislative Code chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”; and

WHEREAS, earlier this winter, the National Weather Service (“NWS”) forecasted a potent storm system which was forecasted to entail multiple hazards, including but not limited to:

  • Strong winds 30-40 mph, with gusts to 60 mph and tornadoes possible;
  • Minor snow accumulation; and
  • Record warmth to sub-freezing temperatures which could result in flash freeze and icy spots on roads; and

WHEREAS, these and similar hazards are likely to occur throughout the winter and will place individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness at extreme risk.

WHEREAS, Ordinance 20-36, Section 2 allows “City officials authorized to arrange for the use of Freedom House as a temporary day-use service facility and winter weather sheltering facility for the unsheltered” but does not address severe weather such as tornadoes or high wind; and

WHEREAS, the City has approved an expansion capacity for other shelters available to homeless individuals currently during cold weather emergencies; and

WHEREAS, during the course of the Declared Emergency, I issued Executive Order 2022-7 (relating to extreme weather emergencies), and the original basis for this order has not changed;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend Executive Order 2022-7 (relating to extreme weather emergencies) without amendment. Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.

January 2022

Extending City of Saint Paul Emergency Declaration COVID-19 January 3, 2022

WHEREAS, Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly known as COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that a local emergency existed within Saint Paul, effective March 15, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in Res 20-550 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 15, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on June 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 10, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-874 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on September 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective September 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 9, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1249 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until December 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on November 30, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 30, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1652 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until March 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on March 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective March 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 3, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-326 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 1, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on June 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 2, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-852 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on August 31, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective August 31, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1305 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until November 30, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on November 29, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 29, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1749 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for thirty-five days, until Wednesday, January 5 2021; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenge to our City. As of January 3, 2022, there were 82,602 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ramsey County, and 1,073 COVID-19 related deaths; and

WHEREAS, even though vaccinations have become widely available, it is now recommended that all fully vaccinated individuals receive a booster shot if; and serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the nation and City; and

WHEREAS, the Delta variant is more contagious than previous variants, has been causing more severe illness than prior variants, and fully vaccinated people with Delta variant breakthrough infections can spread the virus to others; and

WHEREAS, infections from the fast-spreading Delta variant have spread north to the Midwest and Mountain states this fall and Minnesota's rate of new infections has at recent times been the highest in the nation; and

WHEREAS, in recent weeks, Minnesota, in particular, has been under a surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitals have been up to 97% full; and

WHEREAS, the Omicron variant has been found in Minnesota and internationally has been spreading faster than any other previous variant; and

WHEREAS, the now 21-month health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, according to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s most-recent data on the impact of COVID-19:

  • business applications are down 10.31%,
  • 19% of small businesses have had an overall large negative impact and 24% have had a moderate negative impact,
  • 30% of households with children under 5 have had a childcare disruption in the last 4 weeks,
  • 11% of households have been unable to pay an energy bill in the last 12 months,
  • 34.3% of households are behind or mortgage or rent payments and the risk of eviction or foreclosure is either somewhat or very likely

WHEREAS, it is likely that the DEED statistics under-represent the impact in Saint Paul. During the course of the pandemic, small businesses in metropolitan areas have been hit harder than those in rural areas. According to a report by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) The Effects Of The COVID-19 Pandemic On Small Businesses (released March 2, 2021), in April 2020, the number of people in metropolitan areas who were working and self-employed was 21 percent lower than in April 2019. Outside of those areas, the decline was only 13 percent. In subsequent months, the decline in metropolitan areas continued to exceed the decline outside of metropolitan areas; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 3 in 5 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities COVID-19 Hardship Watch, “[w]hile the economy has added jobs in recent months, there were still 5.0 million fewer jobs in September 2021 than in February 2020. The majority of jobs lost in the crisis have been in industries that pay low average wages, with the lowest-paying industries accounting for 30 percent of all jobs but 56 percent of the jobs lost from February 2020 to September 2021, according to the latest month of Labor Department employment data. Jobs were down nearly twice as much in low-paying industries (5.3 percent) as in medium-wage industries (3.2 percent) and more than six times as much as in high-wage industries (0.8 percent) during this period; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in- ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul residents, it remains necessary for the City to provide economic support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency, I have exercised executive authority through more than 80 Executive Orders to provide relief and further prepare our City for the COVID- 19 Pandemic; and

WHEREAS, these Executive Orders remain in effect only as long as the emergency continues; and

WHEREAS, the necessary resources to respond to and recover from this pandemic will exceed those resources available within the City, and additional resources will be needed from Ramsey County, and state and federal sources;

NOW, THEREFORE, MAYOR MELVIN CARTER III, OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL DECLARES, REQUESTS, AND DIRECTS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, declares that a local emergency continues to exist within Saint Paul, on January 3, 2022, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13. This declaration supersedes all prior declarations.
  2. Directs City departments to review ordinance and regulatory requirements, operations, civil and legal proceedings, events, and resources that can and should be adjusted or suspended, or to enact emergency regulations to support the residents of Saint Paul during the pandemic.
  3. Directs the Saint Paul Director of Emergency Management to request and coordinate appropriate aid and resources from surrounding jurisdictions, the Ramsey County Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the State of Minnesota, as needed.
  4. Declares, under Minn. Stat. § 13D.021, that in-person meetings of the boards, commissions, and committees of public bodies under the Mayor’s jurisdiction are not practical or prudent because of the COVID-19 health pandemic. This does not include the Saint Paul City Council.
  5. Declares that the Inauguration event to be held on January 3, 2022, will be subject to a requirement that all individuals attending the event provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event.
  6. Requests the City Council convene at its earliest convenience to discuss the situation and this declaration. This state of local emergency may not be continued for a period in excess of three days except by or with the consent of the Council of the City of Saint Paul.
  7. Orders that this declaration be given prompt and general publicity and that it be filed promptly by the City Clerk.

Executive Order January 3, 2022, 2022-1

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-1

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 3, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-43 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Order:

The following Executive Order is extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-43 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 5, 2022, 2022-2

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-2

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 5 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-01 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. That Executive Order has expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Emergency Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted. The Omicron variant accounts for 68% of the cases in Minnesota.

Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been more than 5,617 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 1,090 COVID-19 deaths in Ramsey County. Case rates are now at an extremely high level of approximately 536 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people per day in Ramsey County, which places Ramsey County in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s high transmission category (which includes any location over 100 or more cases per 100,000). The positivity rate in Ramsey County is currently more than 13%.

COVID-19 infection is transmitted predominately by inhalation of respiratory droplets and studies show that masks and face coverings block the release of respiratory droplets into the environment and can also reduce the wearer’s exposure to droplets from others because COVID-19 viral particles spread between people more readily indoors and when people are closer together for longer periods of time indoors. Inside activities, and in particular inside activities where individuals gather without masks and where individuals gather for extended periods, or both, increase the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19. Studies have indicated and public health experts have concluded that indoor dining is a significant driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because it is not possible to wear a mask while eating or drinking.

The WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised all individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, especially the Delta and Omicron variants, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well-fitting masks, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Executive Order 2022-1, related to masks in City-controlled property, is rescinded and replaced with this Executive Order on the below-listed effective date.

Regulations:

  1. Individuals at City-Controlled Property: Must wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.
  2. Businesses Licensed by the City of Saint Paul: Must require all Individuals to wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking.
  3. All Businesses: Strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.

Terms:

  1. Individual: all persons except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.
  2. City-Controlled Property: includes park facilities, libraries, and City offices and workplaces.
  3. Face Covering: includes manufactured or homemade cloth face coverings. Face coverings must fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth. Face coverings are not required to be medical-grade masks.

Enforcement:

  1. Any Individual who fails to comply with this requirement will be asked to leave any City-controlled property. Any individual who subsequently refuses to leave said property upon request will be deemed to be trespassing and may be subject to criminal penalties as provided by law.
  2. Any business licensed by the City of Saint Paul found in violation of this requirement may face adverse licensing action and penalties under Chapter 310 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect at 5:00 pm on January 6, 2022 following my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 5, 2022, 2022-3

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-3

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 5, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-01 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. That Executive Order has expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Emergency Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted. The Omicron variant accounts for 68% of the cases in Minnesota.

Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been more than 5,617 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 1,090 COVID-19 deaths in Ramsey County. Case rates are now at an extremely high level of approximately 536 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people per day in Ramsey County, which places Ramsey County in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s high transmission category (which includes any location over 100 or more cases per 100,000). The positivity rate in Ramsey County is currently more than 13%.

COVID-19 infection is transmitted predominately by inhalation of respiratory droplets and studies show that masks and face coverings block the release of respiratory droplets into the environment and can also reduce the wearer’s exposure to droplets from others because COVID-19 viral particles spread between people more readily indoors and when people are closer together for longer periods of time indoors. Inside activities, and in particular inside activities where individuals gather without masks and where individuals gather for extended periods, or both, increase the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19. Studies have indicated and public health experts have concluded that indoor dining is a significant driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because it is not possible to wear a mask while eating or drinking.

The WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised all individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, especially the Delta and Omicron variants, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well-fitting masks, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Executive Orders 2022-1, and 2022-2 related to mask requirements are rescinded and replaced with this Executive Order on the below-listed effective date.

Regulations:

  1. Individuals, regardless of vaccine status, at City-Controlled Property: Must wear a face covering indoors at all times. Employees who are not in a congregate setting and are alone in their assigned workspace may refrain from wearing a face covering.
  2. Individuals are not required to wear a face covering while outdoors, unless at an activity specifically designated and posted by the City as requiring a face covering.
  3. Businesses Licensed by the City of Saint Paul: Must require all Individuals to wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking.
  4. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff competing or performing at indoor spaces that are licensed or controlled by the City of Saint Paul are not subject to this regulation.
  5. All Businesses: Strongly encouraged to continue to require that all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained.

Terms:

  1. Individual: all persons except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.
  2. City-Controlled Property: includes park facilities, libraries, and City offices and workplaces.
  3. Congregate setting: an environment where a number of people work, meet, or gather in close proximity for either a limited or extended period of time. Any specific regulations for individual City-controlled spaces will be published on the City website and posted at each location.
  4. Face Covering: includes manufactured or homemade cloth face coverings. Face coverings must fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth. Face coverings are not required to be medical-grade masks, but are strongly encouraged.

Enforcement:

  1. Any Individual who fails to comply with this requirement will be asked to leave any City-controlled property. Any individual who subsequently refuses to leave said property upon request will be deemed to be trespassing and may be subject to criminal penalties as provided by law.
  2. Any business licensed by the City of Saint Paul found in violation of this requirement may face adverse licensing action and penalties under Chapter 310 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect at 5:00 pm on January 6, 2022 following my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 12, 2022, 2022-4

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-4

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 12, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-01 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. That Executive Order has expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Emergency Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted. The Omicron variant accounts for 68% of the cases in Minnesota.

Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been more than 5,617 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 1,090 COVID-19 deaths in Ramsey County. Case rates are now at an extremely high level of approximately 536 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people per day in Ramsey County, which places Ramsey County in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s high transmission category (which includes any location over 100 or more cases per 100,000). The positivity rate in Ramsey County is currently more than 13%.

COVID-19 infection is transmitted predominately by inhalation of respiratory droplets and studies show that face coverings block the release of respiratory droplets into the environment and can also reduce the wearer’s exposure to droplets from others because COVID-19 viral particles spread between people more readily indoors and when people are closer together for longer periods of time indoors. Inside activities, and in particular inside activities where individuals gather without face coverings and where individuals gather for extended periods, or both, increase the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19. Studies have indicated and public health experts have concluded that indoor dining is a significant driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because it is not possible to wear a face covering while eating or drinking.

The WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised all individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, especially the Delta and Omicron variants, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well-fitting face coverings, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated. Safe, highly effective COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available in the United States. Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine is a medically accepted and recommended form of prophylactic treatment that dramatically reduces the likelihood of experiencing a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, and recent studies show that available COVID-19 vaccines also reduce asymptomatic infection and transmission. COVID-19 vaccines are now readily available for all eligible individuals five years of age and older, while those four years of age and under remain ineligible for vaccination and therefore subject to greater exposure of infection and transmission. Broad distribution and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines is essential to ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies.”

Executive Order 2022-3 includes the requirement that businesses licensed by the City of Saint Paul must, regardless of vaccine status, require all Individuals to wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking. This order is in addition to that order and will help protect the safety of patrons of licensed establishments who are permitted to remove masks to eat or drink.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Regulations

  1. Effective January 19, 2022, any licensed business that is a space of public accommodation in the City of Saint Paul during any time that food and/or drink is sold or served indoors for consumption onsite shall limit admission of patrons to the area of the licensed premises where food and/or drink is being consumed, to only those persons who furnish proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or a negative COVID- 19 test obtained within seventy-two (72) hours of entry.
  2. Effective January 26, 2022, any licensed business, during any time that a ticketed event is being held, that is a space of public accommodation in the City of Saint Paul during any time that food and/or drink is sold or served indoors for consumption onsite shall limit admission of patrons to the area of the licensed premises where food and/or drink is being consumed, to only those persons who furnish proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 test obtained within seventy-two (72) hours of entry.
  3. This regulation shall not prevent any business from establishing more strict requirements for its workforce, contractors, volunteers, customers or clientele, including requiring all persons onsite to be vaccinated (to the extent otherwise permitted under applicable law).
  4. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff (such as coaches, trainers, road crew, and similar supportive staff) competing or performing at any space of public accommodation subject to this regulation are not subject to the regulation, provided that the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  5. Any facility hosting an event or activity (on a one-time or ongoing basis) that holds a license issued by the City of Saint Paul is not subject to these requirements for a specific event if no food or beverages will be consumed at the event and the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  6. All employers of businesses that are spaces public accommodation subject to this Regulation shall comply with OSHA standards 1910.501(e) and (g), as existing on the date of issuance of this Emergency Regulation, relating to employee vaccination status and testing at covered locations, regardless of the number of their employees.

Definitions

  1. A licensed business that is a space of public accommodation means an entity that holds a City license that is a business, or an educational, refreshment, entertainment, or recreation facility, or an institution of any kind, whose goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations are extended, offered, sold, or otherwise made available to the public.
  2. Proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 means presentation of a CDC-provided card, photograph of card, other government-approved record of vaccination, or an application approved by a governmental entity (e.g. Docket) to hold immunization information in conjunction with any photo identification that includes a photograph and name of the individual. A photo identification is not required for individuals under the age of 18.
  3. Completed Vaccination Series means two weeks following completion of any CDC approved vaccination series, including: • A 2-dose series of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), or • A single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine).
  4. A negative COVID-19 test means an email, printout or screen shot with the name of the individual and the test result showing the date of the test in conjunction with any photo identification that includes a photograph and name of the individual. A photo identification is not required for individuals under the age of 18. At-home tests do not meet this requirement.
  5. Face covering includes manufactured or homemade cloth face masks. Face coverings must fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth. Face coverings are not required to be medical-grade masks, but medical-grade masks are strongly encouraged.
  6. A ticketed event is an event where all patrons must obtain a ticket to attend the event and tickets were available for purchase at least 14 days in advance of the event.
  7. Supplemental COVID-19 safety measures include:
    a. Requiring face coverings be worn by all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.
    b. Make masks available for staff and attendees.
    c. Providing sufficient hand sanitizer and hand washing facilities.
    d. Following CDC-recommended cleaning protocols.
    e. Maintaining as much social distancing as possible.
    f. Maximize indoor air ventilation.

Exemptions

  1. Individuals under the age of 5.
  2. The pedestrian skyway system as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code chapter 140.
  3. Any educational facility for students and staff during school hours.
  4. Any location providing COVID-19 vaccinations or testing provided that the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  5. Any location hosting a Naturalization ceremony during the ceremony provided that no food or beverages are provided or consumed the facility follows all COVID-19 safety measures.
  6. Grocery stores, convenience stores, or other establishments that primarily sell food or other articles for offsite use, except in seated dining areas within those stores.
  7. Any portion of a location that is outdoors, meaning the area is fully open to the outside on two or more sides, regardless of whether the area has a ceiling or roof.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect on January 19, 2022 and January 26, 2022 for ticketed events following my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after January 19, 2022 or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 13, 2022, 2022-5

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-5 (Amending 2022-4)

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 13, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-01 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19 pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. That Executive Order has expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Emergency Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted. The Omicron variant accounts for 68% of the cases in Minnesota.

Since the beginning of the pandemic there have been more than 5,617 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 1,090 COVID-19 deaths in Ramsey County. Case rates are now at an extremely high level of approximately 536 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people per day in Ramsey County, which places Ramsey County in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s high transmission category (which includes any location over 100 or more cases per 100,000). The positivity rate in Ramsey County is currently more than 13%.

COVID-19 infection is transmitted predominately by inhalation of respiratory droplets and studies show that face coverings block the release of respiratory droplets into the environment and can also reduce the wearer’s exposure to droplets from others because COVID-19 viral particles spread between people more readily indoors and when people are closer together for longer periods of time indoors. Inside activities, and in particular inside activities where individuals gather without face coverings and where individuals gather for extended periods, or both, increase the likelihood of the spread of COVID-19. Studies have indicated and public health experts have concluded that indoor dining is a significant driver of the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because it is not possible to wear a face covering while eating or drinking.

The WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised all individuals to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, especially the Delta and Omicron variants, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well-fitting face coverings, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated. Safe, highly effective COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available in the United States. Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine is a medically accepted and recommended form of prophylactic treatment that dramatically reduces the likelihood of experiencing a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, and recent studies show that available COVID-19 vaccines also reduce asymptomatic infection and transmission. COVID-19 vaccines are now readily available for all eligible individuals five years of age and older, while those four years of age and under remain ineligible for vaccination and therefore subject to greater exposure of infection and transmission. Broad distribution and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines is essential to ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies.”

Executive Order 2022-3 includes the requirement that businesses licensed by the City of Saint Paul must, regardless of vaccine status, require all Individuals to wear a face covering indoors at all times when social distancing of at least 6 feet is not maintained, except for temporary removal of face covering when eating or drinking. This order is in addition to that order and will help protect the safety of patrons of licensed establishments who are permitted to remove masks to eat or drink.

Executive Order 2022-4 included a requirement that businesses subject to that order would comply with certain OSHA requirements that were stayed by the United States Supreme Court in National Federation of Independent Business v. Department of Labor, 595 U. S. ____ (2022). NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

Regulations

  1. Effective January 19, 2022, any licensed business that is a space of public accommodation in the City of Saint Paul during any time that food and/or drink is sold or served indoors for consumption onsite shall limit admission of patrons to the area of the licensed premises where food and/or drink is being consumed, to only those persons who furnish proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or a negative COVID- 19 test obtained within seventy-two (72) hours of entry.
  2. Effective January 26, 2022, any licensed business, during any time that a ticketed event is being held, that is a space of public accommodation in the City of Saint Paul during any time that food and/or drink is sold or served indoors for consumption onsite shall limit admission of patrons to the area of the licensed premises where food and/or drink is being consumed, to only those persons who furnish proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 test obtained within seventy-two (72) hours of entry.
  3. This regulation shall not prevent any business from establishing more strict requirements for its workforce, contractors, volunteers, customers or clientele, including requiring all persons onsite to be vaccinated (to the extent otherwise permitted under applicable law).
  4. Athletes, performers, and supporting staff (such as coaches, trainers, road crew, and similar supportive staff) competing or performing at any space of public accommodation subject to this regulation are not subject to the regulation, provided that the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  5. Any facility hosting an event or activity (on a one-time or ongoing basis) that holds a license issued by the City of Saint Paul is not subject to these requirements for a specific event if no food or beverages will be consumed at the event and the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  6. All employers of businesses that are spaces public accommodation subject to this Regulation shall comply with OSHA standards 1910.501(e) and (g), as existing on the date of issuance of this Emergency Regulation, relating to employee vaccination status and testing at covered locations, regardless of the number of their employees.

Definitions

  1. A licensed business that is a space of public accommodation means an entity that holds a City license that is a business, or an educational, refreshment, entertainment, or recreation facility, or an institution of any kind, whose goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations are extended, offered, sold, or otherwise made available to the public.
  2. Proof of a completed vaccination series against COVID-19 means presentation of a CDC-provided card, photograph of card, other government-approved record of vaccination, or an application approved by a governmental entity (e.g. Docket) to hold immunization information in conjunction with any photo identification that includes a photograph and name of the individual. A photo identification is not required for individuals under the age of 18.
  3. Completed Vaccination Series means two weeks following completion of any CDC approved vaccination series, including:
    • A 2-dose series of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), or
    • A single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine).
  4. A negative COVID-19 test means an email, printout or screen shot with the name of the individual and the test result showing the date of the test in conjunction with any photo identification that includes a photograph and name of the individual. A photo identification is not required for individuals under the age of 18. At-home tests do not meet this requirement.
  5. Face covering includes manufactured or homemade cloth face masks. Face coverings must fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth. Face coverings are not required to be medical-grade masks, but medical-grade masks are strongly encouraged.
  6. A ticketed event is an event where all patrons must obtain a ticket to attend the event and tickets were available for purchase at least 14 days in advance of the event.
  7. Supplemental COVID-19 safety measures include:
    a. Requiring face coverings be worn by all individuals, regardless of vaccine status, except young children at risk of suffocation and persons who cannot medically tolerate wearing a face covering.
    b. Make masks available for staff and attendees.
    c. Providing sufficient hand sanitizer and hand washing facilities.
    d. Following CDC-recommended cleaning protocols.
    e. Maintaining as much social distancing as possible.
    f. Maximize indoor air ventilation.

Exemptions

  1. Individuals under the age of 5.
  2. The pedestrian skyway system as defined in Saint Paul Legislative Code chapter 140.
  3. Any educational facility for students and staff during school hours.
  4. Any location providing COVID-19 vaccinations or testing provided that the facility follows all supplemental COVID-19 safety measures.
  5. Any location hosting a Naturalization ceremony during the ceremony provided that no food or beverages are provided or consumed the facility follows all COVID-19 safety measures.
  6. Grocery stores, convenience stores, or other establishments that primarily sell food or other articles for offsite use, except in seated dining areas within those stores.
  7. Any portion of a location that is outdoors, meaning the area is fully open to the outside on two or more sides, regardless of whether the area has a ceiling or roof.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order will take effect on January 19, 2022 and January 26, 2022 for ticketed events following my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after January 19, 2022 or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 14, 2022, 2022-6

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-6

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 14, 2022, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020, and which has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies; and

WHEREAS, buildings and residences in downtown Saint Paul are connected by a robust skyway system which allows downtown residents to move between buildings and provides downtown residents with access to essential businesses; and

WHEREAS, the hours of the skyway system are governed by Saint Paul Legislative Code §140.10 which sets the General Hours of Operation and requires that “all parts of the skyway system shall be open to the public every day between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.”; and

WHEREAS, compliance with the skyway hours of operation requires monitoring by both Saint Paul Police and building owners;

WHEREAS, on April 9, 2020 I issued Emergency Executive Order 2020-5 to allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible at 7 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, based on the easing of COVID restrictions statewide, the fact that the spread of COVID-19 had slowed, and the wide availability of vaccines and the recommendation of skyway stakeholders I issued Executive Order 2021-23 which adjusted the skyway closure hours keeping the skyways open longer; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-23 was rescinded and replaced with Executive Order 2021-40 which allowed for an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system is permitted to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 11:00 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-40 was extended by Executive Order 2021-44 and was set to expire on January 14, 2022 which would return Skyway Hours to normal; and

WHEREAS, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) identified new variants of the COVID-19 virus which are present in the United States and medical experts determined that some of these variants are significantly more contagious than previously known variants. The COVID-19 Delta variant has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” due to its high transmissibility and continues to account for a large number of new cases sequenced in Minnesota and Ramsey County, thereby substantially increasing the potential risk of infection and the spread of the virus through the community. The COVID-19 Omicron variant, which has been identified in Ramsey County, has been determined by the CDC to be a “variant of concern” and appears to be easily transmitted. The Omicron variant accounts for 68% of the cases in Minnesota; and

WHEREAS, on December 16, 2021, representatives from the Department of Safety and Inspections met with representatives from SPPD, Downtown Alliance, BOMA and Skyway Easement Property Owners and discussed that due to COVID cases resurgence a comprehensive and coordinated Skyway security and maintenance effort was not yet ready to move to adding additional hours; and

WHEREAS, a request was made to retain the current Skyway Hours of 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby renew the following Emergency Executive Order in order to keep the current Skyway Hours in place:

  • Executive Order 2021-44 is extended to retain the current Skyway Hours and allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 11:00 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above listed Executive Order will remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 20, 2022, 2022-7

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-7

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 20, 2022 pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City.

WHEREAS, businesses and individuals continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

WHEREAS, due to the COVID 19 pandemic, the City has increased its efforts to get individuals into shelter, which is putting a strain on shelter space.

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

WHEREAS, earlier this winter, the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasted a potent storm system which was forecasted to entail multiple hazards:

  • Strong winds 30-40 mph, with gusts to 60 mph and tornadoes possible.
  • Minor snow accumulation.
  • Record warmth to sub-freezing temperatures which could result in flash freeze and icy spots on roads.

These and similar hazards are likely to occur throughout the winter and will place individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness at extreme risk.

WHEREAS, Ordinance 20-36, Section 2 allows “City officials authorized to arrange for the use of Freedom House as a temporary day-use service facility and winter weather sheltering facility for the unsheltered” but does not address severe weather such as tornadoes or high winds.

WHEREAS, the City has approved an expansion capacity for other shelters available to homeless individuals currently during cold weather emergencies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

  1. During any Extreme Weather Emergency, where there is an increased risk of harm due to weather conditions including heavy rainfall that may lead to general or localized flooding, tornadoes, blizzard conditions, high winds, or extreme cold or heat, shelters serving individuals or families are not required to seek permission from the City of Saint Paul to expand capacity to allow unsheltered or homeless individuals or families a safe place indoors during the described extreme weather emergency.
  2. Ordinance 20-36 is amended to allow emergency overnight use of shelters during any Extreme Weather Emergency including but not limited to December 15 and 16, 2021.
  3. The Mayor requests that all shelters serving unsheltered or homeless individuals or families expand their occupancy to accommodate such above-described extreme weather emergencies.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Executive Order January 21, 2022, 2022-8

EMERGENCY EXECUTIVE ORDER 2022-8

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on January 21, 2022 pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting … “the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; … and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Orders:

The following Executive Orders are extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above listed Executive Orders remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first.

December 2021

Emergency Executive Order 2021-44

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, December 14, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020, and which has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”; and

WHEREAS, buildings and residences in downtown Saint Paul are connected by a robust skyway system which allows downtown residents to move between buildings and provides downtown residents with access to essential businesses; and

WHEREAS, the hours of the skyway system are governed by Saint Paul Legislative Code §140.10 which sets the General Hours of Operation and requires that “all parts of the skyway system shall be open to the public every day between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.”; and

WHEREAS, compliance with the skyway hours of operation requires monitoring by both Saint Paul Police and building owners;

WHEREAS, on April 9, 2020 I issued Emergency Executive Order 2020-5 to allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible at 7 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, based on the easing of COVID restrictions statewide, the fact that the spread of COVID-19 had slowed, and the wide availability of vaccines and the recommendation of skyway stakeholders I issued Executive Order 2021-23 which adjusted the skyway closure hours keeping the skyways open longer; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-23 has been extended and expires on November 6, 2021; and

WHEREAS representatives from the Department of Safety and Inspections met with representatives from BOMA, Downtown Alliance, Skyway Governance Advisory Committee and the SPPD on October 14, 2021 and the group of stakeholders concurred on a recommendation to expand the operating hours of the skyway to 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily in response to and in support of the entertainment, sports, and dining venues returning to strong levels of activity; and

WHEREAS, the 11:00 p.m. skyway closing matches the Downtown Ambassadors Program hours; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order: The following Executive Order is extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-40 (Skyway Hours)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire on January 14, 2022.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-45

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on December 14, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting … “the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; … and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

The following Executive Orders are extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-46

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on December 15, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City.

WHEREAS, businesses and individuals continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

WHEREAS, due to the COVID 19 pandemic, the City has increased its efforts to get individuals into shelter, which is putting a strain on shelter space.

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

WHERAS, the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast shows an unprecedented outbreak of severe thunderstorms is likely this evening between 5pm and 9pm in our region. This potent storm system will move through eastern Minnesota into Wisconsin, and is forecasted to entail multiple hazards:

  • Strong winds 30-40 mph, with gusts to 60 mph and tornadoes possible.
  • Minor snow accumulation.
  • Record warmth to sub-freezing temperatures - Wednesday through Wednesday night could result in flash freeze and icy spots on roads.

The impacted region includes Saint Paul and the Twin Cities. The NWS has identified a slight risk of severe thunderstorms for the Twin Cities with main hazards including damaging winds (15% probability), tornadoes (5% probability), and W to NW winds 30-40 mph with gusts to 60 mph possible this evening through Wednesday night.

WHEREAS, Ordinance 20-36, Section 2 allows “City officials authorized to arrange for the use of Freedom House as a temporary day-use service facility and winter weather sheltering facility for the unsheltered” but does not address severe weather such as tornadoes or high winds.

WHEREAS, the City has approved an expansion capacity for other shelters available to homeless individuals currently during cold weather emergencies.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

  1. During any Extreme Weather Emergency, where there is an increased risk of harm due to weather conditions including heavy rainfall that may lead to general or localized flooding, tornadoes, blizzard conditions, high winds, or extreme cold or heat, shelters serving individuals or families are not required to seek permission from the City of Saint Paul to expand capacity to allow unsheltered or homeless individuals or families a safe place indoors during the described extreme weather emergency.
  2. Ordinance 20-36 is amended to allow emergency overnight use of Freedom House for up to twenty (20) individuals overnight pursuant to the prior approval of the City during any Extreme Weather Emergency including but not limited to December 15 and 16, 2021.
  3. The Mayor requests that all shelters serving unsheltered or homeless individuals or families expand their occupancy to the limits previously approved by the City to accommodate such above-described extreme weather emergencies.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-47

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on December 28, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting …the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies…and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Orders:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-48

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on December 29, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has now expired.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting …the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies…and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

On December 28, 2021, I signed Executive Order 2021-47 extending all of the above-listed Executive Orders for forty days, including Executive Order 2020-44, which should have had an expiration date of January 1, 2022.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby extend the following Emergency Executive Orders:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, the above-listed Executive Orders remain in effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after the effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which they relate, whichever occurs first. Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code) is extended and will expire on January 1, 2022.

November 2021

Emergency Executive Order 2021-40

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, November 5, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020, and which has been extended and remains in effect; and

WHEREAS, Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies; and

WHEREAS, buildings and residences in downtown Saint Paul are connected by a robust skyway system which allows downtown residents to move between buildings and provides downtown residents with access to essential businesses; and

WHEREAS, the hours of the skyway system are governed by Saint Paul Legislative Code §140.10 which sets the General Hours of Operation and requires that “all parts of the skyway system shall be open to the public every day between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.”; and

WHEREAS, compliance with the skyway hours of operation requires monitoring by both Saint Paul Police and building owners;

WHEREAS, on April 9, 2020 I issued Emergency Executive Order 2020-5 to allow an individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible at 7 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations; and

WHEREAS, based on the easing of COVID restrictions statewide, the fact that the spread of COVID-19 had slowed, and the wide availability of vaccines and the recommendation of skyway stakeholders I issued Executive Order 2021-23 which adjusted the skyway closure hours keeping the skyways open longer; and

WHEREAS, Executive Order 2021-23 has been extended and expires on November 6, 2021; and

WHEREAS representatives from the Department of Safety and Inspections met with representatives from BOMA, Downtown Alliance, Skyway Governance Advisory Committee and the SPPD on October 14, 2021 and the group of stakeholders concurred on a recommendation to expand the operating hours of the skyway to 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily in response to and in support of the entertainment, sports, and dining venues returning to strong levels of activity; and

WHEREAS, the 11:00 p.m. skyway closing matches the Downtown Ambassadors Program hours; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

  • Executive Order 2021-23 is rescinded and replaced with this order.
  • An individual with responsibility for a portion of the skyway system is permitted to close their portion of the skyway for which they are responsible no earlier than 11:00 p.m. provided that notice of the revised skyway hours are posted in conspicuous locations.

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first. 


Emergency Executive Order 2021-41

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, November 5, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting … “the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; … and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

The following Executive Orders are extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-24 (allowing inactive business licenses)
  • Executive Order 2020-38 (waiver of zoning requirements for emergency shelters)
  • Executive Order 2021-3 (regulating third-party food platforms)
  • Executive Order 2021-22 (waiving requirements for certain outdoor uses)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-42

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on November 19, 2021, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting …the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies…and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Orders:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-43

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on November 24, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-39 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

The following Executive Order is extended without amendment:

  • Executive Order 2021-39 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Extending City of Saint Paul Emergency Declaration COVID-19 November 29, 2021

WHEREAS, Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly known as COVID-19, a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person; and

WHEREAS, on March 15, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that a local emergency existed within Saint Paul, effective March 15, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in Res 20-550 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 15, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on June 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 10, 2020, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-874 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on September 8, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective September 8, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 9, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1249 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until December 8, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on November 30, 2020, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective November 30, 2020, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2020 the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 20-1652 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until March 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on March 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective March 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on March 3, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-326 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until June 1, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on June 1, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective June 1, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on June 2, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-852 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until September 2, 2021; and

WHEREAS, on August 31, 2021, I declared under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, that the local emergency continued to exist within Saint Paul, effective August 31, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13; and

WHEREAS, on September 1, 2021, the Saint Paul City Council, in RES 21-1305 approved that declaration and extended the emergency for ninety days, until November 30, 2021; and

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present unprecedented and rapidly evolving challenge to our City. As of November 29, 2021, there were 73,399 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ramsey County, and 1,005 COVID-19 related deaths; and

WHEREAS, even though vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the nation and City; and

WHEREAS, the Delta variant is more contagious than previous variants, may cause more severe illness than prior variants, and fully vaccinated people with Delta variant breakthrough infections can spread the virus to others; and

WHEREAS, infections from the fast-spreading Delta variant have spread north to the Midwest and Mountain states this fall and Minnesota's rate of new infections has at recent times been the highest in the nation; and

WHEREAS, in recent weeks, hospitals have been up to 97% full; and

WHEREAS, the now 20-month health emergency has impacted the residents and businesses of Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, small businesses in metropolitan areas have been hit harder than those in rural areas. According to a report by the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) The Effects Of The COVID-19 Pandemic On Small Businesses (released March 2, 2021), in April 2020, the number of people in metropolitan areas who were working and self-employed was 21 percent lower than in April 2019. Outside of those areas, the decline was only 13 percent. In subsequent months, the decline in metropolitan areas continued to exceed the decline outside of metropolitan areas; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 3 in 5 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities COVID-19 Hardship Watch, “[w]hile the economy has added jobs in recent months, there were still 5.0 million fewer jobs in September 2021 than in February 2020. The majority of jobs lost in the crisis have been in industries that pay low average wages, with the lowest-paying industries accounting for 30 percent of all jobs but 56 percent of the jobs lost from February 2020 to September 2021, according to the latest month of Labor Department employment data. Jobs were down nearly twice as much in low-paying industries (5.3 percent) as in medium-wage industries (3.2 percent) and more than six times as much as in high-wage industries (0.8 percent) during this period; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in- ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency, I have exercised executive authority through more than 80 Executive Orders to provide relief and further prepare our City for the COVID-19 Pandemic; and

WHEREAS, these Executive Orders remain in effect only as long as the emergency continues; and

WHEREAS, the necessary resources to respond to and recover from this pandemic will exceed those resources available within the City, and additional resources will be needed from Ramsey County, and state and federal sources;

NOW, THEREFORE, MAYOR MELVIN CARTER III, OF THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL DECLARES, REQUESTS, AND DIRECTS AS FOLLOWS:

  1. Under the authority given in Minnesota Statutes §12.29, declares that a local emergency continues to exist within Saint Paul, on November 29, 2021, with all the powers and responsibilities attending thereto as provided by Chapter 12, Minnesota Statute, and Saint Paul Legislative Code, Chapter 13.
  2. Directs City departments to review ordinance and regulatory requirements, operations, civil and legal proceedings, events, and resources that can and should be adjusted or suspended, or to enact emergency regulations to support the residents of Saint Paul during the pandemic.
  3. Directs the Saint Paul Director of Emergency Management to request and coordinate appropriate aid and resources from surrounding jurisdictions, the Ramsey County Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the State of Minnesota, as needed.
  4. Declares, under Minn. Stat. § 13D.021, that in-person meetings of the City Council and other public bodies under the Mayor’s jurisdiction are not practical or prudent because of the COVID-19 health pandemic.
  5. Requests the City Council convene at its earliest convenience to discuss the situation and this declaration. This state of local emergency may not be continued for a period in excess of three days except by or with the consent of the Council of the City of Saint Paul.
  6. Orders that this declaration be given prompt and general publicity and that it be filed promptly by the City Clerk.

October 2021


Emergency Executive Order 2021-38

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul,on October 12, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting… “the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)
  • Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Orders:

  • Executive Order 2020-3 (Emergency Pandemic Leave)
  • Executive Order 2020-4 (Alternative Care Sites)  Executive Order 2020-29 (Waiving signature requirements for zoning petitions)
  • Executive Order 2020-33 (Food Halls)
  • Executive Order 2020-44 (Delaying effective date for Plastic Packaging §236 Leg Code)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.


Emergency Executive Order 2021-39

I, Melvin Carter III, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, on October 18, pursuant to Saint Paul Legislative Code Section 13.06, do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

On March 13, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-10 Declaring a Peacetime Emergency and Coordinating Minnesota’s Strategy to Protect Minnesotans from COVID-19” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.31, Subd. 2. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

On March 15, 2020, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter issued an Emergency Declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic” pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 12.29; which the City Council consented to on March 17, 2020. This Declaration has been extended and remains in effect.

WHEREAS, even though the spread of COVID-19 has slowed, and vaccinations are becoming widely available, serious threats to health and safety of persons and other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt in the City; and

WHEREAS, businesses continue to suffer the economic impacts of the pandemic and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future; and

WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 2 in 3 small businesses in Minnesota report at least a moderate negative impact on their business from the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, leisure and hospitality are some of the hardest hit sectors; and

WHEREAS, according to a Pew Center survey published March 5, 2021, among those who say their financial situation has gotten worse during the pandemic, 44% think it will take them three years or more to get back to where they were a year ago – including about one-in-ten who don’t think their finances will ever recover. Also, about half of workers who personally lost wages during the pandemic (49%) are still earning less money than before the coronavirus outbreak started; and

WHEREAS, in addition to action necessary to safeguard the health and safety of Saint Paul citizens, it remains necessary for the City to provide support to individuals and businesses alike to ensure that Saint Paul recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and

Saint Paul Leg. Code Chapter 13.06(b) provides that, “whenever necessary to meet an emergency … the mayor may by executive order promulgate regulations … for which adequate regulations have not been adopted … respecting the conduct of persons and the use of property during emergencies; the repair, maintenance and safeguarding of essential public services; emergency health, fire and safety regulations; and all other matters which are required to protect public safety, health and welfare in emergencies”.

During the course of the Declared Emergency, I have issued several Executive Orders, and the original basis for these orders has not changed:

  • Executive Order 2021-36 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melvin Carter, Mayor of the City of Saint Paul, do hereby issue the following Emergency Executive Order:

  • Executive Order 2021-36 (Face covering requirement indoors at City-controlled facilities)

Pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code, this Executive Order is in immediate effect upon my signature and, if not sooner rescinded or later extended, shall expire at the end of forty (40) days after its effective date or at the end of the declared local emergency to which it relates, whichever occurs first.

2021 Emergency Executive Orders

2020 Emergency Executive Orders

Last Edited: October 28, 2022