NOTE: This page is an ARCHIVE of KAZU's online coverage, of March 13-22, 2020.
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. 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.