Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan update: August 18, 2020

August 18, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Governor Tim Walz recently announced the appointment of Angie Dickison to serve as Executive Director of Broadband Development. She has been filing this position in an interim capacity since July 2019.

“Internet access is both an economic and quality of life issue,” said Governor Walz. “Angie is passionate about ensuring that all Minnesotans have high-speed internet access for work, learning, business, and health care, and she understands the importance of working together to achieve Minnesota’s goal of border-to-border high-speed internet access.”

“Broadband internet access is critical to helping our communities thrive, from businesses getting products to customers, to students logging on to do their homework. And during this time of crisis, ensuring that every Minnesotan has high-speed internet access is more important than ever,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “I am grateful that Angie is leading this work on behalf of all Minnesotans.”

As part of DEED’s Economic Development Division, the Office of Broadband Development is a key service in the state’s efforts to build stronger communities, and helps Minnesotans understand broadband options available and work together to improve availability and use of high speed broadband services. Since 2014, DEED has awarded over $105 million in broadband infrastructure grants to fund 140 projects across Minnesota, with the goal of border-to-border broadband access.

On August 7, Governor Walz issued a proclamation congratulating 23 cities, townships and counties across Minnesota as telecommuter-friendly communities. As the first group of communities participating in the new Telecommuter Forward! Program, they have committed to coordinating and partnering with broadband providers, realtors, economic development professionals, employers, employees, and other stakeholders to promote the availability of telecommuting options in their region.

Additionally, Governor Walz has directed all flags at state and federal buildings in Minnesota to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, August 19. He has directed flags to fly at half-staff on the 19^th of every month through 2020 to remember, mourn, and honor lives lost due to COVID-19.

Governor Walz’s full proclamation can be viewed here.

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread.
Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations.
Stay six feet away from others.
Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.