Minneapolis is powering down its city offices on Feb. 19 to give a nod to Presidents Day. In a statement released on the city's official website, all municipal buildings, including customer service hubs like Minneapolis 311 and the Minneapolis Service Center, will be dimming their lights for the national holiday. The break-in routine doesn’t apply to emergency services, however, with police and fire departments keeping their doors wide open in case of crises.
While the officials take a pause, the city's trash collectors won’t be hitting the brakes. With no halt in the usual garbage and recycling pick-up schedule, residents can expect their bins to be emptied on Presidents Day as if it were any other Monday, according to the city's announcement. But the Solid Waste & Recycling office is crossing off the calendar, which is not accepting phone calls. Those looking to toss out more significant waste might find themselves at a dead end, though, as the South Transfer Station will be closed.
Calling all early voters in Minneapolis – if you've marked Feb. 19 as the day to cast your ballot, you might want to reschedule. The Minneapolis Early Vote Center, crucial for those casting their votes ahead of time, will be taking a day off as confirmed by the city's announcement. More information, however, is up for grabs on the Elections & Voter Services website for those still eager to exercise their electoral muscle before the official day.
The city is also throwing a bone at drivers with downtown meters taking a holiday break. However, those parked at meters in some areas – think the university, park board, or private lots – might still find a ticket tucked under their windshield wipers even on Presidents Day. "Always read the information posted on the meter or pay station to be certain," the city warns those not interested in unwelcome surprises.
