The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends the use of cloth face coverings, especially in hotspots of the coronavirus. The state of California also recommends the use of face coverings, which can be homemade.
All Californians are under orders from Governor Gavin Newsom to stay home in light of the coronavirus. Santa Cruz County and Monterey County health officers have extended their shelter in place orders for local residents through May 3.
This blog post will be updated periodically with new information about coronavirus. Scroll down for older information.
On Friday, March 13, President Trump declared a "national emergency." On March 29, President Trump said social distancing guidelines will remain in place until April 30.
HELPFUL LINKS
California Department of Public Health
Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency
Monterey County Health Department
COVID-19 Dashboard by Johns Hopkins University
California Public Media COVID-19 Tracker
HELPLINES & CALL CENTERS
Santa Cruz County COVID-19 hotline: 831-454-4242 or text “COVID19” to 211211
Monterey County COVID-19 hotline: 831-755-4521 or 211
Natividad Hospital bilingual hotline: 831-772-7365
Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System bilingual hotline: 831-755-0793
Montage Health COVID-19 hotline: 831-622-8001
SUNDAY, APRIL 5
MONTEREY BAY AREA
6:45pm
The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership has compiled a list of resources for renters:
Local:
Monterey County Resource Guide from United Way Monterey County
Links and Resources from the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz
Counseling Services from Tenant Sanctuary
California Rural Legal Services Watsonville Office (also serves San Benito County)
State:
Tenant Rights, Laws and Protections from the Department of Housing and Urban Development
Landlord Tenant Disputes from The Department of Justice of Attorney General
COVID-19 California Eviction Protections video from Legal Services of Northern California (English, Spanish)
National:
Summary and Analysis of Federal CARES Act Eviction Moratorium from the National Housing Law Project provides a comprehensive overview of the protections for renters and homeowners that are included in this federal policy, which was passed on March 28, 2020. It also outlines which types of housing are covered.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
6:15pm
The Santa Clara Convention Center, which was transformed into one of California’s first active Field Respite Centers, started serving their first patients over the weekend. This facility was created to increase the area’s healthcare capacity to meet the needs of residents who’ve tested positive for COVID-19.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
6:05pm
As of April 5, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency has reported 69 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among residents. One resident has died from complications of the virus and nine have been hospitalized.
MONTEREY COUNTY
6:40pm
The Artichoke Festival is hosting a drive-up food drive on Thursday, April 9 to help the Food Bank for Monterey County. People can drop off non-perishable food items to either the Prunedale Chevron (8695 prunedale North Road) or Giant Artichoke Fruit Stand and Deli (11221 Merritt St, Castroville) between 1pm and 7pm.
6:30am
MST, or the Monterey-Salinas Transit, announced Saturday that a contract employee had tested positive for COVID-19. The contractor had been working as a driver for the MST RIDES program. He began self-isolation after feeling ill. The last time the individual was interacting with other employees or passengers was on Sunday, March 29. According to MST, contact information for people who were potentially exposed was reported to the Monterey County Health Department.
6:25pm
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has launched a series of online programming called Museum to You.
6:20pm
In Monterey County, there will be limited park and open space available during Easter weekend, April 11 and 12. Parks are traditionally popular spots during Easter weekend, but county officials say there must be precautions in place this year due to COVID-19. Rangers will monitor social distancing and group size requirements, which are ten people or less. There will be a single point of entry at parks and no barbeques allowed.
5:50pm
As of April 4, the Monterey County Health Department has reported 62 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents. Two residents have died, 15 have been hospitalized and ten have recovered from the virus.
CALIFORNIA
5:30pm
As of April 4, 2020, the California Department of Public Health reports there are a total of 13,438 positive cases and 319 deaths in California. Local health departments have reported 197 confirmed positive cases among health care workers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 160 cases
- Age 18-49: 6,610 cases
- Age 50-64: 3,653 cases
- Age 65 and older: 2,966 cases
- Unknown/Missing: 49 cases
Gender of all confirmed positive cases:
- Female: 6,349 cases
- Male: 6,876 cases
- Unknown: 213 cases
SATURDAY, APRIL 4
MONTEREY COUNTY
10:15am
As of April 2, there are 57 confirmed COVID-19 cases among Monterey County residents, according to the Monterey County Department of Public Health.
FRIDAY, APRIL 3
CALIFORNIA
5:15pm
California State Parks announced additional temporary closures of parks. A list of closures can be found here.
1:15pm
According to the California Department of Public Health, as of April 2, 2020, there are a total of 10,701 positive cases and 237 deaths in California. Local health departments have reported 156 confirmed cases among health care workers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 120 cases
- Age 18-49: 5,302 cases
- Age 50-64: 2,879 cases
- Age 65 and older: 2,342 cases
- Unknown/Missing: 58 cases
Gender of all confirmed positive cases:
- Female: 5,015 cases
- Male: 5,547 cases
- Unknown: 139 cases
2:40pm
Central Coast YMCA is focusing on providing childcare for essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes children of health care workers, first responders, agricultural workers, grocery store employees, and delivery drivers. Click here for more information.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
3:15pm
According to the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, as of April 1, there are 59 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including one death. Nine people have been hospitalized. Click here for the county's new web page, which includes more information about the cases.
3pm
The Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce conducted an anonymous survey to collect data and information about the impact of COVID-19 on county businesses. They received over 250 responses. Nearly 90 percent of the responders were small businesses with 10 employees or less. The survey found that the top five needs were tax relief, unemployment insurance, SBA loans at low interest rates, deadline extensions for filing tax returns and grants or other immediate financial assistance. Nearly a quarter of responders said their early estimates of revenue loss is over $50,000. Based on these results, the chamber plans to create programs to help.
11:30am
The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office is stepping up enforcement of the shelter in place order. The Sheriff’s Office will be assigning deputies to a Beaches and Parks Contact Team. While officials say most people are complying with the social distancing requirements, some are still not following the rules, particularly at beaches and parks. To report any violations of the shelter in place order, call the tip line at 831-454-7747. Violation of the order is a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine, imprisonment or both.
Also, deputies and correctional officers will now wear N95 face masks when working with individuals to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.
MONTEREY COUNTY
5:2opm
Pacific Grove City Council passed a moratorium on evictions due to inability to pay rent for both residential and commercial places during the COVID-19 pandemic.
4:20pm
The Monterey County Health Officer is extending the county’s shelter in place order through May 3rd. This aligns Monterey County with Santa Cruz County and multiple Bay Area counties. The new and stricter order takes effect tonight (Friday night) and comes with a greater emphasis on ensuring people are working from home and new restrictions on social distancing. For example, memorial services must be limited to ten people. Click here to read the order.
2:30pm
Monterey County Health Officer Dr. Edward Moreno said there’s evidence the shelter in place orders are effective in slowing down COVID-19 cases in the county. He said cases are currently doubling every five days instead of every two days, which was the case when the county’s outbreak began. Dr. Moreno is encouraging people to continue to follow social distancing guidelines and stay at home orders.
Dr. Moreno said of the 53 Monterey County residents who have tested positive for COVID-19 so far (as of April 1), eight have diabetes. He said it's especially important for those with preexisting conditions or underlying diseases to stay home.
Dr. Moreno said if anyone chooses to cover their face, they’re protecting others. He said there are people in Monterey County who are infectious but don’t have symptoms. If that person covers their face, it could help limit the spread of COVID-19. He added face coverings do not replace social distancing or stay at home guidelines.
Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner Henry Gonzales has been observing farmworkers in the field. He said social distancing is a problem when crews are harvesting behind machines or riding the bus together. Gonzales observed some employers providing masks and gloves. He said ag companies have been meeting to try and figure out the best approaches to keeping the workforce healthy and safe. More information is anticipated in the future.
2:20pm
Monterey councilmembers will discuss rent deferral during their next city council meeting on Tuesday. They will consider deferment for 60 days, which would result in a slight increase in future rents to recover the costs. This program is expected to cost the city about $770,000 for the two-month (60 days) period.
The City of Monterey is working with the National Guard to start distributing ready to eat meals at El Estero for the homeless. They’re hoping this could begin next week.
2:05pm
The Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System is launching a program called SVMHS Community and Staff Support Project. In light of a significant decrease in full staffing levels due to stay at home orders, SVMHS is re-assigning its workforce to support families, at risk populations and non-profit organizations in need of workers. SVMHS staff who sign up will receive their regular pay and benefits for that community service. Organizations with work opportunities can submit a request here.
2pm
Everyone’s Harvest is asking the public to help out so that their Pacific Grove and Marina farmers’ markets can continue running. They’re reminding shoppers to not come to the market if you don’t feel well, do your shopping as quickly as possible, maintain at least 6 feet of separation, and use gloves and face coverings whenever possible.
1:20pm
UNITE HERE Local 483, which serves the Monterey Peninsula, says more than 1,450 of their 1,500 members have no job at this time. COVID-19 has been devastating to the hospitality industry, one of the region’s top employers. The union has set up a support fund for hospitality workers in need on the Peninsula. People can donate online, or make checks to Action Council of Monterey County re: local 483, 295 Main St. Suite 500, Salinas, Ca 93901.
11:40am
The City of Pacific Grove is working to make sure the public exercises responsibly. The City is posting informational signs at local beaches, trails and parks to encourage appropriate behavior and help ensure these open spaces can continue to stay open.
City of Pacific Grove residents are encouraged to watch city council meetings live on the city’s website byclicking here or on Peninsula Channel 25. Residents can also listen in and make comments via phone. Call 877-853-5247 or 888-788-0099 US Toll-free (Meeting ID: 546459502#). To make a comment, press *9 when prompted by the Mayor.
11:15am
Monterey County leaders will host a joint Salinas-North County COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall meeting on Monday, April 6, at 4pm. Supervisor Luis Alejo, Salinas Mayor Joe Gunter and Salinas Councilman Scott Davis will co-host the meeting. Participants can log into Zoom.us or call in at 669-900-6833 and use meeting ID 941 549 679 for access.
THURSDAY, APRIL 2
CALIFORNIA
5:30pm
The California Department of Public Health announced Thursday evening that as of April 1, there are a total of 9,191 positive cases and 203 deaths in California. Local health departments have reported 138 confirmed postive cases in health care workers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 101 cases
- Age 18-49: 4,604 cases
- Age 50-64: 2,429 cases
- Age 65 and older: 2,007 cases
- Unknown/Missing: 50 cases
Gender of all confirmed positive cases:
- Female: 4,254 cases
- Male: 4,806 cases
- Unknown: 131 cases
12:45pm
The University of California has eased admission requirements to help prospective and newly admitted students during the coronavius crisis. The measures include suspending letter grade requirements for classes taken in winter, spring or summer terms of 2020 and suspending standardized tests requirements.
11:55am
The Bureau of Land Management has decided to temporarily close all developed campgrounds and recreation sites across California to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. These closures will remain in effect until further notice. Dispersed camping and trails remain open to enjoy as long as people do so responsibly and follow social distancing guidelines. Click here for more information.
11:30am
Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, who represents California’s 18th Congressional District, announced that the Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded over $10.5 million in grant funding to cities and counties located in the district in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding will help local governments provide shelter for the homeless, provide resources to those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and help preserve affordable housing. The city of Santa Cruz will receive $353,464. The funding was authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
10am
The California Department of Public Health has released new guidelines for cloth face masks. Public health officials say social distancing and hand washing are still the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Officials say wearing a cloth mask could help by reminding others to keep their distance and could help reduce transmission from those who may be infected but don’t have symptoms. The state does not recommend use of N-95 or surgical masks since those are needed for health care workers. Click here for the guidance.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
4pm
Santa Cruz County officials are reassuring local residents that parks and other recreation areas remain open through the shelter-in-place order. Officials are asking everyone to be safe and maintain social distancing. Sharing of sports equipment is only allowed between members of the same household and the use of high-touch playground equipment is prohibited.
2pm
Santa Cruz County public health officials are working hard to expand care capacity in Santa Cruz County. They’re also working to identify locations for alternative care sites. The county’s testing capacity is increasing, particularly for high-risk groups. Officials say some labs now have expedited testing for health care workers and those who are in the hospital.
Officials say Santa Cruz County’s shelter-in-place order through May 3rd won’t be lifted until there’s a significant decline in cases. They anticipate cases will climb in about two to three weeks.
The county is encouraging businesses to post information about what steps they are taking in terms of social distancing guidelines. Click here for a formatted document that businesses can fill out. Posting this information has become a requirement for businesses in the Bay Area.
1:45pm
The Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency says as of Thursday morning, there are 57 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including one death. A majority of the cases are in the 18 to 64 age group. One of the cases is a pediatric case under 18.
12:30pm
Click here for virtual activites offered by the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH).
12pm
Santa Cruz County officials recently provided more information about vacation rentals during shelter-in-place orders. Vacation rentals, including those through Airbnb, VRBO and other platforms are not allowed to operate during this time because they are not an essential business. They may be allowed to operate under certain circumstances, such as providing housing for traveling emergency and public safety personnel, medical personnel, essential workers or for families attending to the critical medical needs of local relatives.
MONTEREY COUNTY
7:30pm
As of April 1, the Monterey County Health Department has reported 53 confirmed COVID-19 cases among Monterey County residents, including two deaths. Nine people have been hospitalized and five people have recovered from the virus. Twenty-seven of the cases are in the Salinas area, 19 are in the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur region and 7 are in North and South Monterey County. Click here for more case information.
3pm
As museums offer online activities, California State University Monterey Bay marine scientists are offering virtual underwater tours. You can join the California Undersea Imagery Archive for dives around the Monterey Bay. We have a link on our blog post.
1:25pm
City of Monterey leaders say custodial crews have been working hard to clean public restrooms and other public facilities.
The City of Monterey is postponing the Monterey Gala at the end of May. It is part of Monterey’s celebration of the city’s 250th birthday. The party in front of Colton Hall scheduled for June 3rd, Monterey's birthday, is still on for now. City officials expressed determination to hold the event while complying with whatever safety measures may be in place at the time. Monterey’s birthday is June 3rd, 1770.
Monterey County has completed a resource guide for the community. This guide includes information on unemployment, government assistance, food banks and more.
12:30pm
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is offering free learning activities to support students during this time. The education team created more than a week of science materials for students in grades K-12. Today (Thursday), the Aquarium also launched free online courses about tidepools and thinking like a scientist. To enroll, click on the link and click "enroll for free." The Aquarium also has more activites broken up by grade level here.
12:20pm
Staff at Monterey County Free Libraries are working to create 3D printed masks for health care workers during the coronavirus crisis. The libraries’ two 3D printers are running all day. It takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to make one complete mask. They’re being made from a pattern that’s accepted by many hospitals. The printers are also being programmed to make door knob covers.
11:35am
Monterey County officials say as of 11:59pm, March 31, there are 48 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents, with two deaths. Nine people have been hospitalized. Twenty-five of the cases are in the Salinas area, 17 are in the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur region and 6 are in the North and South County regions.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1
CALIFORNIA
5:15pm
The State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has announced $100 million in funding for local educational agencies. The funding was included in Senate Bill 117, one of two COVID-19 emergency bills passed by the California Legislature on March 17.
These funds will allow district administrators to ensure that sites are properly cleaned and sanitized, keep school staff safe, provide nutritious meals, and focus on implementing a distance learning infrastructure that is equitable and accessible to all students.
4:40pm
According to the California Department of Public Health 8,155 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state. That includes 127 health care workers. 171 people have died and more than 90,000 tests have been conducted.
11:20am
April 1 is Census Day. Monterey County is currently at a 32.5% response rate and Santa Cruz County’s response rate is 38.5%. Census workers are encouraging the public to complete the census online or via the phone (English: 844-330-2020 or Spanish: 844-468-2020).
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
3pm
Santa Clara County is reporting 66 new cases of COVID-19 on April 1. The county has seen a total of 32 deaths and 956 people test positive of the virus.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
8pm
Although the Governor extended the election certification deadline to April 23, local results are complete. Santa Cruz County Clerk Gail Pellerin certified the results of the March 3rd primary on April 1. The county's turnout was 63.54 percent. According to the elections department, there was a record number of registered voters in Santa Cruz County, 163,526. Click here for the certified results.And click here for the final election results report for Monterey County.
3:10pm
Santa Cruz County is reporting, as of early April 1, 54 cases of COVID-19 in the community. The first death from the virus was reported on March 29.
2:45pm
Second Harvest Food Bank will host another drive through community food distribution on Friday, April 3, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville. The distribution will be between the hours of 9am – 1pm. Residents of Santa Cruz County can come and receive a bag of pantry items and a bag of produce. The food bank says they can provide food for up to three families per car, serving up to 3,000 families. ID is required.
11:30am
Santa Cruz County Office of Education has announced that they will extend the period of school closures through May 5th, 2020 to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to the maximum extent possible.
10:50am
The County of Santa Cruz and partner cities have established a task force to oversee homeless services during the COVID-19 pandemic. They will focus on minimizing the spread of the disease by isolating sick and vulnerable individuals. The collaborative effort aims to ensure that homeless individuals will be connected with safe shelter and services to ensure their health and the health of the community at large.
The taskforce has already reached a lease agreement on a private hotel/motel facility, and is ready to scale up with additional lease agreements if and when the need arises.
The task force has also requested 5,600 MREs (meals ready-to-eat) from the State for distribution to people experiencing homelessness.
In addition, the City of Santa Cruz has completed steps to provide resources to people experiencing homelessness, including hiring a Homelessness Manager and coordinating temporary food distribution with Santa Cruz City Schools to provide 75 meals daily to local persons experiencing homelessness.
MONTEREY COUNTY
4:30pm
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has launched “Museum To You” - a digital museum experience which they say includes programs for all different ages and interests.
2:30pm
The city of Monterey is taking advantage of the empty roads to increase road improvements and resurfacing many roads.
The city of Monterey is working with the national guard to increase hand washing and clean water stations. They say this is particularly important in helping the homeless population.
1:40pm
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office says all new inmates are being put into isolation for 14 days before being moved to general population. This is to try to prevent the spread of COVID-19. On February 1, the jail started screening and testing the temperature of every person entering the facility. They also suspended visitation of March 18.
The Monterey County jail is trying to cut down transportation between their facility and the courts. They are making use of teleconferencing and jury trials have been suspended.
The jails current population is in the low 700s. They have capacity for 825.
1:25pm
The Monterey County Department of Social Services has seen an uptick in applications for aid. They have seen more people applying for Medi-Cal and Cal-Fresh.
Social Services are still serving constituents and are encouraging those with non-emergencies to get in touch via the phone or online.
They are negotiating with two motels/hotels in Marina to secure a lease for the local homeless population.
1pm
The Monterey County Health Officer has announced a second death due to complications from COVID-19. This adult had underlying medical conditions.
As of Tuesday, March 30, Monterey County has 42 confirmed cases of COVID-19. 616 tests have been conducted among residents. On March 20, the first death from the virus was announced. A breakdown of age groups and geographical information can be found at these links in english and spanish.
The county is anticipating cases will peak towards the end of April.
9:50am
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District has announced that they will continue with distance/online learning until June 5, 2020. It comes after the State Superintendent of Schools said in a statement late Tuesday, March 31, “Due to the current safety concerns and needs for ongoing social distancing, it currently appears that our students will not be able to return to school campuses before the end of the school year.”
TUESDAY, MARCH 31
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
8:20pm
On Tuesday, March 31, the health officer of Santa Cruz County announced an extension of their shelter-in-place order. The new Order is currently set to last until Sunday, May 3, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. The County Health Officer may choose to shorten or extend the time period. How long the restrictions are in place will depend on what the County Health Officer decides is necessary to protect public health. This new order is in effect throughout the entire County of Santa Cruz, including each city.
3pm
As of Tuesday morning, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency says there are 49 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with one death reported last weekend, in Santa Cruz County.
MONTEREY COUNTY
7:30pm
There are 42 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents as of 11:59pm, March 30.
4:45pm
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) is working with the Salvation Army and Meals on Wheels, both of Salinas, to deliver meals to seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yesterday, MST’s COVID-19 Community Support Task Force, a team of 7 volunteers, delivered just over 50 meals on behalf of the two organizations. MST plans to continue this every weekday.
3:30pm
The City of Monterey is asking residents, businesses and nonprofits to donate new N95-rated masks if they have spare ones. These masks are used by firefighters, police officers and public works staff. Starting tomorrow (Wednesday), donations can be dropped off in front of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Monday through Friday, between 9am and 4pm. Only new masks, sealed in unopened packaging, will be accepted. We have more details on our blog post. If you need help getting to the drop off site, you can call 831-646-3760.
3:05pm
Hartnell College announced Tuesday that due to the ongoing public health threat from COVID-19, Hartnell will continue online instruction through the summer 2020 session.
2:55pm
According to the Monterey County Health Department, there are 40 confirmed COVID-19 cases among Monterey County residents at this time. The County has a chart that shows the age groups, gender, region of residence, exposure risk, and clinical information of the individuals who've tested positive. Another graph shows laboratory testing informartion. Click here for the County's web page.
CALIFORNIA
7:15pm
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said on Tuesday that it appears students will not be able to return to school campuses before the end of the school year. The California Department of Education suggests schools prepare for distance learning through the rest of the school year.
In light of that announcement, the Monterey County Office of Education has decided to extend school facility closures through the end of the school year. Distance learning will continue through then.
3:35pm
Governor Gavin Newsom has granted more relief for business taxpayers. The California Department of Tax and Fee Administion announced Tuesday that all small businesses will have an additional three months to file returns and pay taxes administered by the department. Click here for more information.
3:15pm
Health Officers in seven Bay Area jurisdictions are extending a previous stay-at-home order through May 3 to reduce future impact on local hospitals. According to the County of Santa Clara Emergency Operations Center, there has been a significant increase in the number of cases across the region, which is straining resources. The extended order requires people to stay home. Essential activities, such as grocery shopping, are allowed.
2:30pm
According to the California Department of Public Health, as of March 30, there are a total of 6,932 positive cases and 150 deaths in California.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 73 cases
- Age 18-49: 3,529 cases
- Age 50-64: 1,765cases
- Age 65 and older: 1,531 cases
- Unknown/Missing: 34 cases
Gender of all confirmed positive cases:
- Female: 3,155 cases
- Male: 3,666 cases
- Unknown: 111 cases
MONDAY, MARCH 30
CALIFORNIA
2:50pm
COVID-19 in California by the Numbers
The California Department of Public Health says the State now has 5,763 confirmed cases as of Sunday, March 29. This is up from 4,643 reported on March 27. There have been 135 deaths. Approximately 83,800 tested have been conducted in the State.
In order to better focus public health resources on the changing needs of California communities, the state is no longer collecting information about how individuals contracted COVID-19. Community transmission of COVID-19 has been identified in California since late February, and since early March, most of the confirmed cases in the state were not related to travel outside of the United States.
California is no longer including the death of the one non-California resident. That death is being included in another state’s tally.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
Age 0-17: 65 cases
Age 18-49: 2,973 cases
Age 50-64: 1,447 cases
Age 65+: 1,252 cases
Unknown: 26 cases
Gender of all confirmed positive cases:
Female: 2,581 cases
Male: 3,083 cases
Non-binary: 0 cases
Unknown: 99 cases
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
2:30pm
Santa Clara County announced more than 200 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, March 30 (some of these cases include cases not previously reported). The total number of people who have died from the virus has reached 28 and almost 850 people have tested positive for COVID-19.
1:15pm
Santa Clara County along with six other Bay Area jurisdictions have announced that they will soon be extending their shelter-in-place orders until at least May 1, 2020. They expect to be making an official announcement in the next few days. This is being done in order to slow the spread of the COVID-19 disease.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
2:45pm
As of Monday. March 30th, Santa Cruz County has 45 confirmed cases of COVID-19. On Sunday, March 29, the county announced the first death of a resident due to complications related to the virus.
10:25am
To assist residents struggling with financial hardship during the novel coronavirus pandemic, Santa Cruz County is offering a special COVID-19 Penalty Waiver Form for late fees and interest due on property taxes. They add that tax due dates including the April 10, 2020 installment date are established under State law and cannot be changed by local governments. However, they say existing State law does allow for late fee and penalty waivers to be considered for “situations beyond the taxpayer’s control.”
In Monterey County they have a similar provision in place. Their message is that the April 10 deadline must remain in place to ensure that essential county, city, school and special district services can continue. They add if you can pay your property taxes on time, you are obligated to do so.
MONTEREY COUNTY
2:30pm
Natividad Hospital in Salinas is opening an isolation unit on March 30, for patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19 and those under investigation of having the virus. They have so far conducted 250 tests and 10 people have tested positive. They are confident that if there is a significant surge over the next few weeks they’ll be able to cope with the increased cases.
1:10pm
The city of Monterey public library will be starting virtual events tomorrow.
1:05pm
Residents of the city of Monterey are being encouraged to register for text alerts from the city. Text "93940" to "888777" or register cell phones atalertmontereycounty.org
1pm
The city of Monterey is reminding and urging the public to go for walks in their neighbourhoods. They say if you have to drive to walk you are doing too much. They have also closed a boat ramp in the harbor used by leisure fishermen. The industrial fishing industry is operating as normal as they are deemed essential.
12:50pm
The city of Pacific Grove has announced that the State is demobilizing Asilomar as a quarantine facility. A number of passengers from the Grand Princess cruise line were quarantined at the location recently. The city says the Office of Emergency Services (OES) has no plans to reorganize Asilomar as an isolation facility. Asilomar will remain closed as a conference center for now. The city added that all the passengers staying at Asilomar completed 14 days of isolation.
110 workers from the Asilomar Hotel and Conference Center will receive back pay for the time they were furloughed when the State converted the location to a quarantine site. They will be paid as long as the facility is closed - until April 15th.
10:30am
The SPCA Monterey County is urging the public with pets to create a plan for those pets in case you get sick. They say discuss this with your family to ensure your animals will be well cared for in the event of an emergency. Other tips include preparing a pet supply kit which has things like contact information, vaccination records and any medications.
10:15am
Monterey County Supervisor Jane Parker is hosting a “hot topics” virtual meeting on Monday, March 30, from 5:30 - 6:30pm. Parker will be joined by county staff who can share details about the local emergency operations response to the novel coronavirus and the 'shelter-in-place' order that is working to slow the rate of transmission and illness.
From your Computer:
https://montereycty.zoom.us/j/402565563
From your telephone:
669-900-6833
meeting code is 402 565 563#
SUNDAY, MARCH 29
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
5:15pm
As of Sunday afternoon, there are 44 confirmed COVID-19 cases among Santa Cruz County residents and one death.
10am
The Santa Cruz County Public Health Division announced the county's first death from the coronavirus Sunday morning. The resident who died was a man in his early 70s with an underlying health condition. He was admitted to a local hospital on March 19 with a fever and shortness of breath symptoms, and then tested positive for COVID-19. The man died on March 28. According to the Public Health Division, the man worked in both Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties, but had not recently traveled. Public Health believes the infection was acquired through community spread.
Santa Cruz County now has 41 confirmed cases, with the vast majority between the ages of 18 and 65 years old. For local information on COVID-19, click here, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211. Residents may also call (831) 454-4242 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., seven days a week.
MONTEREY COUNTY
5:15pm
As of 11am, March 29, there are 36 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents. The county has now released an age and location chart of the cases. Click here for that information.
CALIFORNIA
10am
California State Parks announced Sunday it is temporarily closing vehicle access at all 280 state parks to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). On Saturday, many parks continued to experience high visitation.
COVID-19 in California by the Numbers
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 27. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
4,643 – Positive cases
101 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
- 923 – Community-acquired cases
- 3,720 – Cases acquired through person-to-person transmission, travel (including cruise ship passengers), repatriation, or under investigation.
- This includes 73 health care workers.
- This includes 73 health care workers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 54 cases
- Age 18-49: 2,368 cases
- Age 50-64: 1,184 cases
- Age 65+: 1,016 cases
- Unknown: 21 case
FRIDAY, MARCH 27
CALIFORNIA
3:50pm
COVID-19 in California by the Numbers
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 26. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
3,801 – Positive cases
78 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
- 1,083 – Community-acquired cases
- 2,718 – Cases acquired through person-to-person transmission, travel (including cruise ship passengers), repatriation, or under investigation.
- This includes 48 health care workers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 45 cases
- Age 18-49: 1,906 cases
- Age 50-64: 967 cases
- Age 65+: 847 cases
- Unknown: 36 cases
3:35pm
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced Friday that the California Department of Education (CDE) received a preliminary waiver of statewide school testing from the federal government. CDE and the California State Board of Education (SBE) formally requested this wavier in a letter yesterday. A formal approval is expected in the coming weeks.
“During the current COVID-19 public health crisis we are all facing right now, we don’t want our districts worrying about testing requirements or students worrying about testing,” said Thurmond.
MONTEREY COUNTY
3:40pm
Monterey County officials say residents can call 211 for information on the coronavirus. Officials say use of the hotline has increased about 200 percent since the coronavirus outbreak. Information in about 60 languages is available through 211.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
4pm
The city of Santa Cruz along with California State Parks will be closing parking lots along West Cliff Drive beginning tomorrow, March 28, to reduce the density of visitors and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
4pm
Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz County is now producing 3-D printed masks and field shields for local medical providers. The Cabrillo College Makerspace is deemed essential during the coronavirus crisis and staying open to produce this Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Payson McNett, a Cabrillo College art studio instructor, initiated the idea. His face shield design comes from Joseph Prusa, a 3-D printer designer and manufacturer. The designs for these masks are on the Billings Clinic foundation website.
9:15am
Given the COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders, the City of Santa Cruz has launched a Virtual Recreation resource web page for all ages. It includes five categories: Fun for Seniors, Fun Outside, Fun at Home, Arts and Culture and Local Resources. For more information, click here.
THURSDAY, MARCH 26
The U.S. Small Business Administration heeded Congressman Jimmy Panetta’s call for Spanish-language resources online.
CALIFORNIA
5:10pm
California State Parks today announced it is temporarily closing vehicle access to 59 additional state parks and beaches to avoid dangerous visitation surges and help prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). A list of closures can be found online here.
1:20pm
Statewide Cases, Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 25. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
3,006 – Positive cases
65 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
- 886 – Community-acquired cases
- 2,120 – Cases acquired through person-to-person transmission, travel (including cruise ship passengers), repatriation, or under investigation. This includes 42 health care wokers.
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 37 cases
· Age 18-49: 1,505 cases
· Age 50-64: 764 cases
· Age 65+: 678 cases
· Unknown: 22 cases
MONTEREY COUNTY
2:15pm
Monterey County schools have a new target date for re-opening. On Thursday, the Monterey County Office of Education announced that most schools don't anticipate returning any earlier than Monday, May 4. If state and local shelter-in-place orders are lifted sooner that May 4, communities will be notified of schools returning to session at least one week prior.
12:45pm
Natividad, a hospital and trauma center located in Salinas, now has a bilingual hotline to answer questions from the Monterey County community about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The number for the Natividad Coronavirus Hotline is (831) 772-7365. Natividad nurses are available to speak with you in English or Spanish from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, seven days a week. Patients who have COVID-19 symptoms, including fever, cough and shortness of breath, are encouraged to call ahead to the hotline.
12:30pm
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MST service in Monterey County has been reduced or, in some cases, suspended.
12:10pm
In Monterey, City Council approved an eviction moratorium Wednesday night to protect renters during the coronavirus pandemic. The city’s housing office plans to create a video on this to help inform the public.
The City of Monterey is working with the Red Cross to coordinate blood drives. The city is considering the Monterey Sports Center as a potential location. The Red Cross has reported a blood shortage.
11:20am
As of Thursday morning, there's been no change in the number of COVID-19 cases in Monterey County since Wednesday. The county still reports 24 cases. One death was reported on March 21.
10:35am
Monterey County officials say many businesses are still not sure whether they should open or close given the statewide and local shelter-in-place orders. The County now has a list of essential business types posted on the Monterey County Health Department’s COVID-19 webpage.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
3:35pm
The Pajaro Valley Unified School District has decided to extend their schools closure to May 5.
12:20pm
The City of Santa Cruz has enacted changes and practices related to sanitation protocol. There will be increased trash pickups to help limit contamination during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Residents may place an extra bag of trash on top of or next to their garbage bins for pick up at no extra cost through April 10. Personal hygiene products like face masks, tissues and paper towels should never be placed in blue recycling bins.
Recycling questions are easily answered through the ‘What Goes Where’ guide available on mobile phone and on the City website here. City of Santa Cruz wastewater staff are also finding products like make-up removal pad and cleaning wipes, which cause big problems for sewer backups. THese items belong in the trash.
11:20am
There's been a jump in the number of COVID-19 cases in Santa Cruz County. As of Thursday, the number of people who have tested positive reached 32. The county says no deaths have been reported at this time.
10:30am
Santa Cruz County has established a safe, online system for donating personal protective equipment, or PPE for short.
Those wishing to donate (organizations, businesses or individuals) with surplus PPE supplies can visit this website to fill out a short online form.
Here’s what the county is looking for:
• Eye protection, such as goggles and face shields
• Antibacterial and disinfecting wipes, typically alcohol or bleach based (unopened). NO baby wipes.
• N-95 and surgical masks (in unopened containers/boxes)
• Medical gowns: Disposable gowns, as well as cloth surgical and hospital gowns in good condition
Any donations will be prioritized and distributed according to medical need within Santa Cruz County.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
3:45pm
As of 5pm March 25, the number of cases in Santa Clara County has reached more than 540, with 19 deaths. More than 150 have been hospitalized.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25
CALIFORNIA
3:00pm
COVID-19 in California
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 24. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
2,535 – Positive cases
53 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
707 – Community-acquired cases
1,828 – Cases acquired through person-to-person transmission, travel (including cruise ship passengers), repatriation, or under investigation. This includes 35 health care workers.
MONTEREY BAY AREA
3:15pm
California American Water says scammers have been targeting utility providers’ customers with incorrect information about COVID-19 and drinking water. They say thesafeguards they already take to protect water quality are effective to protect against viruses, including COVID-19.
1:45pm
Congressman Jimmy Panetta is hosting a telephone town hall Wednesday evening, March 25, at 6 pm on the local and federal response to COVID-19. Panetta will be joined by local health professionals.
English line: (888) 400-1932
Spanish line: (888) 400-9342
MONTEREY COUNTY
3:15pm
As of Tuesday, March 24, there have been 24 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents. This includes:
9 Travel-related
6 Person-to-person transmission (contacts to known cases either in a home, business or health care setting)
4 Community transmission
5 Under investigation
Monterey County officials say COVID-19 is not confined to one section of the county. They say the public should assume people in their neighborhood are infected.
1:50pm
At this time, the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula says the only donation items they can accept are unopened boxes of hospital grade N-95 masks, surgical masks, and gowns. The hospital says you can also help by donating food to local food banks, sending flowers or an e-card to a patient, social distancing and staying home.
11am
Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS) says its hospital has an ample stockpile of N95 masks for frontline health care workers to meet the needs of an extended pandemic. But because supplies of protective equipment are so scarce nationwide, they are accepting donations from the public. SVMHS says recent donations from the local business community of N95 masks, boxes of Nitrile gloves, and even some Tyvex suits, will help meet the future demands of treating COVID-19 patients.
They are directing people with unused masks that meet N95 criteria, to call 831-755-0772. SVMHS staff will coordinate with the caller and answer questions about donations being accepted.
9:45am
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District will again partner with the Food Bank of Monterey County, the Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County and the cities of Marina & Seaside to bring food to families in need. On Friday, March 27, food distribution will take place at Los Arboles Middle School and Seaside High School beginning at 9am and running until all food is distributed. The event is open to all and drive-up is encouraged.
9:50am
The annual Artichoke Festival has been postponed from May 30-31 to August 8-9. It will take place at the Monterey County Fairgrounds & Event Center in Monterey. The festival celebrates the harvest of California’s state vegetable and raises money for local nonprofits.
The City of Monterey also encourages residents to reach out to the following agencies for additional services or information:
- United Way 2-1-1 helps refer services for food, clothing, housing, mental health services, job training, veteran’s assistance and more, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in 170 languages.
- Alliance on Aging connects older adults with services, including Medicare questions, food and home delivered meals, transportation coordination, caregivers, counseling and more, Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. by calling (831) 655-1334.
- Monterey County Social Services can connect older adults with a “Worker of the Day” who will help provide services by calling 1-800-510-2020.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
4:15pm:
Dignity Health Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz County says it has the supplies and equipment needed to effectively manage the care of any suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients and are continuously assessing the volume of supplies at their hospital. They are though accepting donations of:
Masks (N95, surgical masks)
Gowns/protective wear (surgical/hospital type)
Disinfectant wipes
Hand sanitizer
Donation bins are located near the main hospital entrance at 1555 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz, CA. Donation hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have any questions, please call the Dominican Hospital Foundation at 831 462 7712
3:00pm
Second Harvest Food Bank will host a drive through community food distribution on Friday, March 27, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville. The distribution will be between the hours of 9am – 1pm.
Residents of Santa Cruz County can come and receive a bag of pantry items and a bag of produce.
10:20am
Law Enforcement agencies across Santa Cruz County are receiving calls from concerned residents reporting violations of social distancing and shelter-in-place orders. While voluntary compliance will first be sought, the Santa Cruz Law Enforcement Chief’s Association wants to remind people that violation of the county or state order is a misdemeanor.
9:55am
Santa Cruz City Council approved an emergency ordinance on March 24 that protects residential and commercial tenants from evictions due to economic losses related to the coronavirus pandemic.
TUESDAY, MARCH 24
UNITED STATES
9:30am
While 2020 Census field operations have been suspended until April 1 due to COVID-19, the public is strongly encouraged to respond to the Census online. People can also respond by phone or mail. Getting an accurate count of the population is important because the results help determine federal funding for local communities and determine how seats in U.S. House of Representatives are divided across the 50 states.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
4:15pm:
The Santa Clara Convention Center, in the heart of Silicon Valley, is being set up as a Federal Medical Station (FMS). The county said the station is currently under construction and will include beds, supplies, and medicines for up to 250 individuals and will serve less-acute COVID-19 cases.
12:10pm
The total number of people who have died for COVID-19 in Santa Clara County has reached 16. As of Tuesday, March 24, 375 people have tested positive for the virus. 125 people have been hospitalized.
12:00pm
Seven Bay area jurisdictions, including Santa Clara County, have orderedlaboratories testing for COVID-19 to report more comprehensive testing data to state and local authorities. Laboratories must now report results of tests for all residents of each jurisdiction to the ordering health care provider. Currently, labs are reporting only positive results.
10:30am
Santa Clara County Public Health have released a statement saying they strongly support expanding the availability of testing for COVID-19. In the statement they say the current lack of widespread testing capacity nationwide and locally has significantly hampered their ability to monitor the epidemic, to focus mitigation measures, and to inform individual peop?le of their infection status. You can read the full statement here.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
12:30pm
As of Tuesday, March 24, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Santa Cruz County has reached 24. No deaths have been reported.
11:50am
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors have unanimously passed a moratorium on residential and commercial evictions. The eviction moratorium will remain in place through May 31, 2020. Commercial and residential tenants are still obligated to pay rent, and the eviction moratorium does not absolve tenants of any financial obligation under ongoing leases or other tenancy agreements.
9:25am
The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is assuring customers that the District’s tap water remains safe to drink during the COVID-19 pandemic.
MONTEREY COUNTY
4:30pm
The Monterey Regional Waste Management District (MRWMD) is asking the public to be extra careful when throwing trash away, especially if someone in the household has tested positive or is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. They are asking the public to bag trash before placing it in the cart to prevent the spread of the virus. This is for the safety and health of the trash haulers, truckers and landfill and transfer station workers who may come into contact with the trash.
They are also encouraging the public to recycle. Saying with a surge in home deliveries, it’s important to recycle cardboard boxes so new boxes can be created.
4:00pm
The city of Monterey will Wednesday, March 25, look to adopt an urgent ordinance to temporarily prohibit residential and commercial evictions related to COVID-19.
11:45am
As of Tuesday, March 23, the number of positive COVID-19 cases in Monterey County has risen to 20. On Saturday, March 21, the Monterey County Health Department announced the county’s first death due to complications from the virus. 271 people have been tested.
The county has a new information hotline. The number is 831-755-4521. This is staffed Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm.
10:20am
The SPCA for Monterey County has set up a Pet Food Bank to support pet owners in need in the community. Their wish liston Amazon includes food that is in stock and ready to ship, but add that they’ll accept any brand, any size, and food for any type of pet.
9:15am
The Monterey County Health Officer says all public and private golf courses must close immediately due to Monterey County’s Shelter in Place Order. Essential staff may continue to report to work.
9:20am
As of Tuesday morning, Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS) has sent 101 potential cases to the Monterey County Health Department for testing. SVMHS received 10 positive results, two of which required hospitalization.
This is an update of four positive results since Saturday.
CALIFORNIA
2:45pm
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 23. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
2,102 – Positive cases (This includes 31 health care workers).
40 – Deaths (including one non-California resident) *Increase occurred over a period of two days.
531 – Community-acquired cases
1,571 – Cases acquired through person-to-person transmission, travel (including cruise ship passengers), repatriation, or under investigation.
10:15am
California State Parks are taking additional safety measures to reduce crowds and help prevent the spread of COVID-19 . It comes after many state parks and beaches received record visitation over the weekend. They are closing vehicular traffic at some park units. For those wishing to take a break in the outdoors, public health officials are advising the public to walk, run, hike and bike in local neighborhoods and walk to parks. A list of closures can be found online.
MONDAY MARCH, 23
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
5:20pm
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department announced Monday March 23, three new deaths from COVID-19, bringing the total number of people who have died from the virus to 13. They have confirmed 321 positive cases of COVID-19 in the county. Over 100 people have been hospitalized.
MONTEREY COUNTY
5:30pm
The Monterey County Government Center (168 W Alisal, Salinas) is adjusting its hours to protect the public and government employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Monday, March 23, the center will be open to the public from 9am - 1pm and limited access (doors locked) will take place from 1pm - 5pm.
11:30am
The city of Monterey’s Police department has shared a video appealing to the public to follow the current shelter-in-place rules. They are addressing the enforcement of the shelter-in-place order with an educational emphasis. They say all the businesses they have contacted have voluntarily complied. But add, that if there is non-compliance, the police department will criminally cite and forward that information to the District Attorney's Office.
11:00am
As of Monday, March 23, Monterey County has 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19. On Saturday, March 21, the Monterey County Health Department announced the county’s first death due to complications from the virus. 271 people have been tested.
10:00am
Beginning Monday, March 23, Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula will no longer allow visitors to inpatients and or during outpatient services, except in very limited circumstances. The new policy is intended to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19 to patients and staff.
Exceptions will be made in these very limited cases:
One birth partner for patients in labor
One parent or guardian for NICU and pediatric patients
One parent if patient is a minor seen in the Emergency Department or in an outpatient appointment
End-of-life patient visits will be at the discretion of the nursing supervisor
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
3pm
To help protect the health and welfare of local health care workers, the County of Santa Cruz is releasing nearly all of its recently acquired stockpile of 27,000 N95 masks to local critical health care facilities. Five percent of the stockpile will be reserved for unanticipated future critical needs.
9:50am
Santa Cruz County is asking travellers and residents to avoid beach gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The county says while outdoor exercise is encouraged, large gatherings are a violation of local and state orders meant to protect the health and safety of all Californians. They add that with more State Parks than any other county, and 32 miles of beaches, Santa Cruz County offers plenty of outdoor opportunities to maintain health and well-being in compliance with social distancing guidelines.
CALIFORNIA
5:15pm
In a press conference Monday afternoon California Governor Gavin Newson said the state currently has 75,000 hospital beds available but 50,000 more are needed. The governor said to reach that number they are asking hospitals to increase their surge plans by 40%. They are also identifying assets such as fairgrounds or convention centers that can be converted.
The state is expanding its efforts to procure more PPE or personal protective equipment. They anticipate approximately one billion gloves will be needed over the next three months.
Newsom pleaded with the young and healthy to think about the elderly. This is after beaches and parks were packed this past weekend with many Californians not taking social distancing seriously.
10:15am
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 22. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
1,733 – Positive cases
27 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 25 cases
· Age 18-49: 837 cases
· Age 50-64: 442 cases
· Age 65+: 415 cases
· Unknown: 14 cases
10:00am
The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration’s (CDTFA) Field Offices and Motor Carrier Office across the state have temporarily closed their public counters to ensure the health and safety of CDTFA’s customers and team members. Customer Service Center, Phone and Video Appointments, and Online Resources Available
SUNDAY, MARCH 22
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
6:55pm
Santa Cruz County is working to increase shelter capacity for unhoused County residents impacted by the coronavirus. It also released new guidelines for homeless service providers. Governor Gavin Newsom has allocated $50 million to house homeless individuals and has identified nearly 1,000 potential sites across the state for isolation placements. Santa Cruz County is working to secure 90 hotel or motel rooms and is also working with the County Administrative Office and Human Services Department to try and find additional capacity.
MONTEREY COUNTY
7:20pm
As of Sunday, March 22, Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS) has received 6 positive results out of the 64 cases they’ve sent to the Monterey County Health Department for testing. One patient required hospitalization.
6:30pm
As of Saturday, March 21, there are 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents.
6:40pm
Monterey County’s Public Health Laboratory began testing for COVID-19 on March 6 and has performed over 270 tests to date.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
6:20pm
The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department announced two new deaths from COVID-19 Sunday evening, bringing the total number of deaths to 10 in Santa Clara County. The ninth death was an adult woman in her 60s. She passed away on Saturday, March 21. The tenth death was an adult woman in her 40s who was hospitalized on Monday, March 16, and passed away on Saturday, March 21. The total number of cases in Santa Clara County is now more than 300.
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
1pm
Note: The following numbers reflect information received from local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 21. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
1,468 – Positive cases
27 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
Ages of all confirmed positive cases: 1,468
- Age 0-17: 23 cases
- Age 18-64: 1066 cases
- Age 65+: 369 cases
- Unknown: 10 cases
SATURDAY, MARCH 21
MONTEREY COUNTY
3:35pm
On Saturday, March 21, the Monterey County Health Department announced the county’s first death from COVID-19. The adult individual was hospitalized and had an underlying health condition that predisposed the individual to having more severe disease, according to officials. There are now 11 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Monterey County residents, at least 2 of which appear to have been acquired locally.
6:55pm
Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula announced its first patient who has tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, March 21.
The patient is now in self-quarantine at home. The Monterey County Health Department will determine whether this case was community-acquired, related to travel, or acquired from direct contact with a known case.
As of Saturday, Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula has sent 75 cases to the county for COVID-testing, with 59 of those coming back with negative results, 15 results are pending.
COVID-19 in California by the Numbers
Note: The following numbers reflect information received from local health jurisdictions as of 2 p.m. PDT March 20. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
1,224 – Positive cases
23 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 19 cases
- Age 18-64: 876 cases
- Age 65+: 321 cases
- Unknown: 8 cases
FRIDAY, MARCH 20
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
11:25am
Note: The following numbers reflect information received by local health jurisdictions as of 6 p.m. PDT March 19. More current numbers may be available from local health jurisdictions.
1,006 – Positive cases
19 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 18 cases
· Age 18-64: 711 cases
· Age 65+: 273 cases
· Unknown: 4 cases
MONTEREY COUNTY
3:15pm
On Friday, Monterey County leaders and multiple agriculture industry associations came together to enhance safety measures for agricultural workers. They endorsed an advisory for agricultural worker protection during the coronavirus crisis, such as requiring workers to not come to work if they are ill. We have a link to that advisory on our website.
Agricultural workers are exempt from stay at home orders because their industry is an “essential” business. The county’s new advisory aims to enhance the health and safety of these workers. County officials say Monterey County is the first county in the state to create this type of model advisory.
1:55pm
Monterey County’s Public Health Laboratory began testing for COVID-19 on March 6 and has performed 202 tests to date.
12:05pm
According to Monterey County Public Health, five people in Monterey County have tested positive for COVID-19 as of Friday, March 20.
According to Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System officials, four of the cases are travel related and the fifth is someone who is related to one of the travelers. One of the patients is at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. SVMHS officials say they have enough respirators and masks on-hand, but officials are concerned about re-supplying them long-term.
SVMHS has activated a hotline at the hospital for the public to call and ask questions related to COVID-19. The hotline is staffed with bilingual nurses. It will operate seven days a week, from 7am to 11pm. The hotline number is 831-755-0793.
SVMHS clinical personnel are now conducting drive-up COVID-19 screening. The screening area is located near the Emergency Department entrance. Anyone with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should call the hospital prior to arrival.
12pm
Beginning Friday, March 20, Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula is limiting the number of visitors per patient to one in order to reduce the transmission of respiratory illness such as flu and COVID-19 to patients and staff.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
2:55pm
The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Santa Cruz County reached 15 on Friday, March 19. The county has updated its website to provide the most up-to-date information regarding essential services to the community during this time.
Click here for frequently-asked-questions about April property tax payments.
9:25am
The Santa Cruz City Council will consider an ordinance at their March 24 meeting that would protect local renters and commercial businesses from evictions during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Monterey City Council will consider a similar measure during their next meeting.
The Monterey County Board of Supervisors already voted for a moratorium on evictions regarding failure to pay rent.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
1:55pm
The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department announced two new deaths from COVID-19 on Friday, March 20, bringing the total number of deaths to eight in Santa Clara County. The seventh death was an adult male in his 80s who was hospitalized on Tuesday, March 3 and passed away on Tuesday, March 17. The eighth death was an adult male in his 70s. The Public Health Department expresses our condolences to the families and friends of the deceased.
UNITED STATES
9am
The income tax filing date has moved from April 15 to July 15 due to coronavirus. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced the extended date Friday.
THURSDAY, MARCH 19
3:45pm
Santa Cruz County has launched a COVID -19 informational call center. If you have questions, please call (831) 454-4242 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday-Friday. FAQs in english and spanish can be found at this link.
The Santa Cruz County Office for Economic Development is hosting a free webinar to provide current information, guidance and resources for local businesses. The Zoom webinar will be held Friday March 20th at 3pm. Here is the Zoom link. It will also be shown on CommunityTV and streamed on the County’s Facebook page.
3:30pm
Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital have reported their first two confirmed cases of COVID-19. These cases are different and in addition to the two cases reported earlier this week by Monterey County Health Department.
3pm
The Marina and Pacific Grove Farmers’ Markets will be open this week.They are working closely with community partners, and closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation to continue providing a critical resource for local, healthy produce.
The Monterey-Salinas Transit or MST have declared a fiscal emergency. This gives the transit agency access to up to $250,000 to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
11:45am
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA by the Numbers (as of 6 p.m. PDT March 18, 2020).
675 – Positive cases
16 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 13 cases
· Age 18-64: 448 cases
· Age 65+: 209 cases
· Unknown: 5 cases
11:30am
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county has reached 14.
11am
MONTEREY COUNTY
Respiratory virus screening tents are operational at the Community Hospital on the Monterey Peninsula, Natividad Hospital and Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
4:50pm
According to City of Santa Cruz officials, fire departments throughout Santa Cruz County are testing Quick Response Vehicles (QRVs) to better respond to calls and protect residents and first responders during this time. These vehicles are staffed with trained responders from all Santa Cruz County fire agencies.
To maintain the availability of critical emergency resources, the public should consider the following before calling 911:
1. If you are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, flu-like symptoms) consider home isolation and self-treatment.
2. If you need treatment for mild symptoms of COVID-19, call your primary care physician or local clinic for instructions.
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA by the Numbers (as of 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on March 17, 2020):
13 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
598 – Positive cases
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 13 cases
- Age 18-64: 392 cases
- Age 65+: 188 cases
- Unknown: 5 cases
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
11am
The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department announced one new death from COVID-19, bringing the total number of deaths to six in Santa Clara County. An adult male in his 60s was hospitalized on Thursday, March 5 and passed away on Tuesday, March 17.
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
Assemblymember Mark Stone, who represents California’s 29th Assembly District, says the Assembly has adjourned until April 13. However, Stone said staff remains available to constituents.
“Though our offices will be physically closed to prevent unnecessary exposure, here are the ways you can contact us.”
Santa Clara County constituents: (408) 782-0647
Santa Cruz County constituents: (831) 425-1503
Monterey County constituents: (831) 649-2832
You can also message us HERE.
2-1-1 for Local Assistance
2-1-1 is a free, 24-hour telephone number that offers support with health and human services, utility assistance, housing and shelter, child care, legal assistance, mental health and counseling, and other vital resources.
MONTEREY COUNTY
10am
The Peninsula Animal Hospital in Pacific Grove is considered an essential service. It will remain open for medical care of pets.
The SPCA for Monterey County says adoptions are currently available by appointment to ensure social distancing guidelines. Click here for the latest information from SPCA.
TUESDAY, MARCH 17
CALIFORNIA
7:25pm
California State Parks has temporarily closed all campgrounds in the state park system to slow the spread of COVID-19. Non-campground outdoors areas, including trails and beaches, remain open.
SAN BENITO COUNTY
7pm
San Benito County residents are under “shelter-in-place” orders. The county health officer issued the order Tuesday, March 17. It goes into effect at 12:01am Wednesday, March 18 and will continue until April 7, or further notice. San Benito County announced its first death from COVID-19 on Tuesday. According to the county, the person who passed away was an adult male in his 60s with underlying health conditions who had recently traveled to Thailand. San Benito County has four COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday.
MONTEREY COUNTY
6:50pm
The Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula is restricting some visitors to protect patients from COVID-19.
Beginning Wednesday, March 18, all visitors to Community Hospital:
- Will check in at the front entrance. People going to inpatient areas will be issued a temporary identification sticker
- Patients will be permitted only two visitors at a time
In addition, we are maintaining these restrictions that were previously introduced:
- Must be 14 years of age or older
- Have no respiratory-illness symptoms
- No known or suspected exposure to a person with COVID-19
- No travel to an area considered high-risk for COVID-19
People with chronic disease or who are over the age of 65 are discouraged from visiting the hospital.
5pm
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department is announcing one new death from COVID-19, bringing the total number of deaths to five in Santa Clara County. An adult man in his 50s who was hospitalized on Saturday, March 9 passed away on Tuesday, March 17.
MONTEREY COUNTY
3pm
With the confirmation of Monterey County’s first two cases of COVID-19 and increasing cases statewide, Public Health Officer Dr. Ed Moreno is issuing a Shelter in Place Order for all residents of Monterey County
The order limits activity, travel and business functions to the most essential needs. Essential businesses and operations should remain open.
This order does not affect essential government services - services to protect the health, safety and welfare of communities. It also makes provision for the agricultural community and fieldworkers who keep food in our markets and on our table, and provide other products for personal consumption.
Public health investigations are still underway, but the Monterey County Health Department believes infections were likely acquired during international travel. The individuals are recovering at home in isolation.
2:30pm
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) have announced that energy, water, sewer, and communications companies under CPUC jurisdiction will be stopping customer disconnections for non-payment. They say this is as a result of the State of Emergency called by Gov. Gavin Newsom due to COVID-19.
2pm
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office say they are taking a “practical” approach to shelter-in-place order currently in place in the county. Officers are focusing on education and communication. Deputies are discouraging public gatherings and contacting local businesses to give direction.
The Santa Cruz County Clerk’s office is providing services by appointment only. The services include passports; marriage licenses and ceremonies; professional registrations; and other filings. Please contact 831-454-2060 to book an appointment.
11:20am
All In-Shape clubs are temporarily closed.
10:40am
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA by the Numbers (as of 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on March 16, 2020, according to California Dept. of Public Health):
11 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
472 – Positive cases
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 7 cases
- Age 18-64: 300 cases
- Age 65+: 160 cases
- Unknown: 5 cases
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
1:55pm
As of Tuesday afternoon, Santa Cruz County has 13 confirmed COVID-19 cases, according to the county health services agency.
10am
The Pajaro Valley Unified School District has closed their schools through April 10.
MONTEREY COUNTY
12pm
To date, Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS) collected throat and nose swabs from eight people and sent the specimens to the Monterey County Health Department for testing. All eight results were negative for COVID-19.
11:30am
According to Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams’ office, the number of people currently quarantined at Asilomar has increased from 12 to 19. People staying there were passengers on the Grand Princess cruise ship, which experienced an outbreak. The ship recently moved to a remote dock in San Francisco.
11:20am
According to City of Monterey officials, as of Tuesday morning, the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula had tested 38 people for coronavirus. None so far have tested positive.
The Monterey Sports Center and the Monterey Library are both doing deep-cleaning. The library is closed but still accepting book returns. Those books are being sanitized.
10am
In Pacific Grove, Lighthouse 4 Cinemas will close for a minimum of two weeks.
MONDAY, MARCH 16
8:45pm
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA by the Numbers (as of 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on March 15, 2020, according to California Dept. of Public Health):
6 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
392 – Positive cases
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
- Age 0-17: 6 cases
- Age 18-64: 246 cases
- Age 65+: 135 cases
- Unknown: 5 cases
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department announced two more deaths Monday from COVID-19. That brings the total number of deaths in Santa Clara County to four. According to the department, an adult man in his 80s passed away on Sunday, March 15. An adult man in his 50s also passed away on Sunday. The county has a total of 138 cases, as of Monday night.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
The Superior Court of Santa Cruz County is reducing their services to adhere to guidelines. The Court has already excused jurors scheduled for this week. Traffic violation matters have been postponed several weeks.
4:15pm
The Santa Cruz County Health Officer has issued an order to shelter-in-place effective 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7. Residents are being ordered to stay at home or at a safe location, and limit public activities to essential services.
4pm
The Community Foundation for Monterey County has created a COVID-19 relief fund. The fund aims to address the immediate and longer-term needs of the region’s most vulnerable residents who will be impacted by the coronavirus.
3:30pm
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
The city of Santa Cruz has implemented some strategies to slow the spread of COVID-19 in their community. This includes suspending public fire station visits; having the Economic Development Department work remotely; and reducing the counter service hours at Public Works to 7am to noon.
Police, fire, water, wastewater, building inspections, and trash collection will though remain operational.
2:15pm
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
Public health officers of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties announced, with the City of Berkeley, a legal order directing their respective residents to shelter at home for three weeks beginning March 17.
The order limits activity, travel and business functions to only the most essential needs.
The shelter-at-home order follows new data of increasing local transmission of COVID-19, including 258 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with 4 deaths shared by the seven jurisdictions, as of March 15.
10:30am
MONTEREY COUNTY
The Marina Coast Water District is reassuring the public that there is no indication that transmission of COVID-19 can occur via drinking water supplies. They say as a precaution, the District chlorinates its drinking water and maintains a safe disinfection residual in the system to ensure protection against viruses and bacteria.
9:30am
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
As of March 16, Santa Cruz County has nine confirmed cases of COVID-19
Santa Cruz County will be continuing with certain operations for the foreseeable future. These include services such as vital records, marriage licenses, health inspections, building permits, food support, child protective services and health and wellness delivery. Some changes have been implemented, such as enhanced cleaning, social distancing at public counters, and reminding the public that many services including building permit application and tax payments, are available online.
SANTA CLARA COUNTY
7:45am
Gilroy Mayor Roland Velasco announced in a Facebook post Sunday night that Gilroy has two confirmed COVID-19 cases. Velasco said both patients are elderly and that unfortunately one of the patients has died. Santa Clara County has more than 110 confirmed cases with two deaths.
SUNDAY, March 15, 2020
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA (as of 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on March 14, 2020):
6pm
6 – Deaths (including one non-California resident)
335 – Positive cases
Ages of all confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 6 cases
· Age 18-64: 210 cases
· Age 65+: 116 cases
· Unknown: 3 cases
MONTEREY COUNTY
7:15pm
Monterey County school districts will continue to offer free meals to children and youth despite the school closures. Click here for a link to which schools are offering meals and when.
In Carmel, the Carmel Music Society has canceled the concert scheduled for March 22 with Benjamin Grosvenor.
In Salinas, Hartnell Community College will move to mostly online instruction beginning March 23 through at least April 4. College athletic events are suspended. The swimming pool, gym and fitness center will close to public use through at least April 5. The Hartnell Child Development Center will remain open during sprin break, March 16-20, but will close March 23 through at least April 3. Early Education Center on the Alisal campus, which is privately run, will be open next week until further notice.
In Seaside, Cal State Monterey Bay is closing the Otter Sports Center and the Aquatic Center.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
In Wastonville, the Pajaro Valley Unified School District in conjunction with the Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance are working to ensure students who rely on school meals continue to receive those benefits. 16 schools will distribute meals; families can drive up or walk up and take meals off campus. Meals and groceries will be free to district families during the school closure.
The City of Santa Cruz has decided to close select city facilities. Click here for a list.
FRIDAY, MARCH 13
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
1:00pm
247 Positive cases (this does not include passengers from the Grand Princess cruise ship currently docked in Oakland)
Of all the confirmed positive cases:
· Age 0-17: 4 cases
· Age 18 – 64: 143 cases
· Age 65+: 98 cases
· Unknown: 2 cases
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
6:15pm
Multiple City of Santa Cruz meetings are being canceled. Click here for the latest.
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, or MAH, is closing today through March 22.
1:10pm
Santa Cruz County Parks is cancelling all programs, events, activities in facilities and any rentals from March 16 through March 30. Simpkins Family Swim Center will remain open.
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education has decided to close all public schools in the county for the week of March 16-20. Officials will reassess whether a longer closure is needed later on.
In Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will temporarily close from March 13 to March 27.
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center will be closed through at least March 22.
Santa Cruz Symphony has canceled its March concert.
MONTEREY COUNTY
6:15pm
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will be closed through March 28.
The World Theater at Cal State Monterey Bay has rescheduled the performances of Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles to the fall of 2020 and Lula Washington Dance Theatre to spring of 2021.
Monterey County Free Libraries is also closing all branches beginning March 16.
3pm
The Monterey County Board of Supervisors meeting will still take place Tuesday, March 17. But the county is encouraging people to tune in remotely.
- You are strongly encouraged to observe the live stream of the Board of Supervisors meetings at http://monterey.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=19 or http://www.mgtvonline.com/
- If you choose not to attend the Board of Supervisors meeting but wish to make a comment on a specific agenda item, please submit your comment via email by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday prior to the Board meeting. Please submit your comment to the Clerk of the Board at cob@co.monterey.ca.us. Your comment will be placed into the record at the Board meeting.
- If you are watching the live stream of the Board meeting and wish to make either a general public comment or to comment on a specific agenda item as it is being heard, please submit your comment, limited to 250 words or less, to the Clerk of the Board at publiccomment@co.monterey.ca.us. Every effort will be made to read your comment into the record, but some comments may not be read due to time limitations. Comments received after an agenda item will be made part of the record if received prior to the end of the meeting.
- If you attend the Board of Supervisors meeting in person, you will be required to maintain appropriate social distancing, ie, maintain a 6-foot distance between yourself and other individuals.
- Additional seating with audio of the Board meeting will be available in the Monterey Room on the 2nd floor of the County Government Center.
2:15pm
The Monterey County Office of Education has decided to close all public schools and extracurricular activities. The closures begin March 16 and will last through March 31.
1:10pm
In Pacific Grove, the 63rd Annual Good Old Days festival has been cancelled.
In Big Sur, the 35th Annual Big Sur International Marathon, originally scheduled for April 26, will be postponed to a later date this summer of fall.
The Big Sur Multi-Agency Advisory Council meeting that was scheduled for March 20 has been cancelled.
The KAZU Movie Club is cancelled for the month of March.
In Carmel, the Sunset Cultural Center has decided to close to the public beginning 5 p.m. Friday, March 13 through the remainder of March.
Monterey's Tuesday Farmers' Market has been canceled for two weeks and then they will reassess.
In Monterey, the Monterey Sports Center is temporarily closing between March 14 and March 31. The Center will be streaming free fitness classes to the public beginning in late March. Monterey Parks will remain open.
MONTEREY RECREATION
- Monterey Recreation Office at 546 Dutra Street will close to the public. Please call 831.646.3866, montereyrecreation@monterey.org for more information.
- Monterey Recreation Preschool Programs offered by the City, located at Hilltop, Casanova Oak Knoll and El Estero Park Centers will close.
- Scholze Park Center - Facility closed. All classes and rentals cancelled. The Meals on Wheels Senior Lunch Program will offer to-go boxes or home delivery only and the Monterey County Food Bank Produce Distribution will offer outside pick-up only.
- Hilltop Park Center - Facility closed. Preschool, all classes and rentals are cancelled.
- Casanova Oak Knoll Park Center - Facility closed. Preschool, all classes and rentals are cancelled. The Stay-N-Play Afterschool Program may reopen on Monday, March 30 only if MPUSD is back in session.
- El Estero Park Center - Facility closed and Preschool, all classes and rentals are cancelled.
- Field Sports - All Monterey Recreation Sports Leagues, Camps and Programs for youth and adults are cancelled.
- Community Center Facility Rentals, Athletic Field, Outdoor BBQ/Picnic and Group Beach Permit Reservations:
- All indoor facility rentals are cancelled at the four Monterey Community Centers.
- Athletic Field Reservations with less than 250 people are allowed.
- Group BBQ/Picnic Permit reservations with less than 250 people are allowed.
- Beach Permit Reservations from private and corporate groups with less than 250 people are allowed. This does not include the Monterey Beach House, which is privately operated.
MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY
- The Library, Bookmobile, and Library Community Room will be closed.
- Ask a Librarian service is available via e-mail, phone, and Twitter. Provides information about City services, insights on research help, and information about Library collections and services. Questions can be sent to refdesk@monterey.org , (831) 646-3933, or direct message on Twitter to @montereylibrary.
- In-person inquiries for general City business or reference questions can be taken to a Library staff member who will be stationed at the Monterey Police Department, 351 Madison Street, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. starting on Monday, March 16.
- The Library’s Giant Book Sale, scheduled for March 27 & 28, is cancelled.
MUSEUMS
- All City museums, including Colton Hall Museum, will be closed.
- Colton Hall Music Series concerts are cancelled.
MONTEREY CONFERENCE CENTER
- All conferences and meetings with over 250 attendees have voluntarily cancelled through March 31 by the event organizers.
- The City is encouraging conferences and rentals to comply with State guidelines.
MONTEREY FIRE DEPARTMENT
- Fire services will continue in Monterey and other communities served by the Monterey Fire Department, including Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Sand City, Presidio of Monterey, Naval Postgraduate School, La Mesa Village, and Monterey Regional Airport.
- All public education programs suspended, including public fire station visits and participation in the City of Pacific Grove’s Good Old Days Event.
- Fire Prevention Inspections will continue with enhanced measures to minimize exposure.
MONTEREY POLICE DEPARTMENT
- Police Services remain open for business with enhanced measures to minimize exposure.
- All public education programs suspended, including Police Department tours.
CITY OFFICES
- The following Departments and Divisions remain open for business with enhanced measures to minimize exposure to staff and the community: City Manager’s Office, Planning Office, Housing Office, Building Inspection Office, Engineering Division, Harbor Division, Parking Division, Finance Department, and Human Resources Department.
PUBLIC CITY MEETINGS
- The frequency and length of public meetings, including the City Council, boards and commissions, will be minimized. Non-urgent and non-essential City business with expected public feedback will be postponed.
- Individuals attending public meetings in person will be required to maintain appropriate social distancing, (i.e., maintain a 6-foot distance) and free of symptoms related to COVID-19.
- Members of the public strongly encouraged to observe the live stream of the City Council and other Boards and Commission meetings at https://monterey.org/tv
- If you choose not to attend a City Council meeting but wish to make a comment on a specific agenda item, please submit your comment via email by 5:00 p.m. on the Monday prior to the meeting. Please submit your comment to the City Clerk at cityclerk@monterey.org. Your comment will be placed into the record at the meeting.
- Meetings streamed live and rebroadcast include the Monterey City Council, Planning Commission, Architectural Review Board, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Neighborhood Community Improvement Program (https://www.monterey.org/City-Hall/Boards-Commissions-and-Committees)
EVENTS CANCELLED
- Transportation Adaptation Plan Workshop, March 18
- Cutting Day and Horticulture Faire, March 21
- Monterey Public Library Giant Book Sale, March 27 & 28
- Spring Egg Hunt, April 11
THURSDAY, MARCH 12
7pm
COVID-19 IN CALIFORNIA
198 Positive cases (this does not include passengers from the Grand Princess cruise ship currently docked in Oakland)
Of all the confirmed positive cases:
Age 0 – 17: 4 cases
Age 18 – 64: 113 cases
Age 65+: 79 cases
Unknown: 2 cases
MONTEREY COUNTY
No residents have tested positive for COVID-19 in Monterey County at this time.
In Seaside, Cal State Monterey Bay officials have decided to suspend classes beginning Friday, March 13 through March 19. That will give faculty and staff time to prepare for a transition to virtual classrooms. Beginning March 20, lecture and discussion courses will be held online. Most campus services will remain open, including housing, dining halls and computer labs.
In Monterey, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has temporarily closed. People will not be able to visit the Aquarium until March 27, at the earliest.
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District will remain open for now, but is implementing social distancing measures. Those measures include rescheduling assemblies, performances, field trips, etc.
The Middlebury Institute for International Studies will move courses online following their spring break. Beginning March 23, all courses will be conducted remotely for the rest of the semester.
In Carmel, the Carmel Unified School District will close 11 schools, including preschools and after school care beginning Friday, March 13 through March 27. Remote instruction will begin on March 18.
In Pacific Grove, 12 people from the Grand Princess Cruise Ship that’s docked in Oakland are being quarantined at Asilomar Conference Grounds. State officials are looking after them.
The Panetta Institute for Public Policy has rescheduled their March 16 lecture program. The program, An Economy on Borrowed Money, will be held at a later date. The Institute hopes their other planned programs will proceed as normal.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
In Santa Cruz County, a total of seven residents have tested positive for COVID-19. The county is now considered to have community spread.
One of the patients is associated with Rio Del Mar Elementary in Aptos. In light of this, Rio Del Mar Elementary in Atpos has closed until March 16.
In Santa Cruz, University of California, Santa Cruz has suspended in-person classes. Lecture courses and seminars will be held online. These measures will remain in place through at least April 3.
