Message From Eden Prairie Mayor

Press release from the City of Eden Prairie:

July 22, 2020

"This afternoon Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order requiring face coverings throughout the state of Minnesota. Effective Saturday, July 25, face masks must be worn in all indoor public spaces and businesses. More details about the executive order and other useful information is available at mn.gov/COVID19.

As Mayor of Eden Prairie, I enthusiastically welcome this mandate. Council members have heard from residents with feelings on both sides of the subject for several weeks. As a result, I had called for a special meeting Thursday, July 23, to vote on an ordinance requiring face coverings in Eden Prairie. With the Governor’s executive order now in place, this meeting is no longer necessary.

A statewide mask mandate will be more effective with slowing the spread of coronavirus, especially as schools, colleges and universities are carefully planning a safe return to educating our children this fall. It also helps our businesses during this time of economic uncertainty. The mask mandate could prevent a surge in cases resulting in our state’s reopening of commerce moving backwards, which is what we unfortunately see happening in other parts of the country. It is essential we take every precaution to avoid that happening here.

The evolution of this pandemic has revealed wearing face coverings and physical distancing are crucial for slowing the spread of the disease. Combined with frequent hand-washing, science tells us the risk of infection is greatly reduced when these simple preventive measures are followed. I know Eden Prairie residents will continue doing their part to make a difference and save lives by wearing masks. I already see it whenever I’m out in public, and I’m proud of our community for the many sacrifices and inconveniences we’ve dutifully endured for the greater good.

And as we look to the future, I would like to express my deepest thoughts and condolences to members of our community who have lost friends and family members to this dreadful disease. So many lives spanning all age groups and demographics have been taken prematurely by COVID-19. The thought of being isolated from a loved one who is sick and dying is unbearable, and not being able to say goodbye in a traditional manner is absolutely heartbreaking. Please know, although we can’t gather together in our typical fashion right now, your Eden Prairie community is strong and we are here to support you in every way we can.

If you still don’t know someone who has been affected by this virus, you will eventually. Please wear a mask indoors and anywhere physical distancing isn’t possible. Maintain 6 feet of distance. Wash your hands often. Stay home if you’re sick. These simple actions are a necessary part of our lives until COVID-19 is no longer a threat — they will protect you, your family and our entire community."

Thanks for doing your part,

Mayor Ron Case

This press release was produced by the City of Eden Prairie. The views expressed here are the author’s own.