Coronavirus COVID-19 Information

The “coronavirus” or “COVID-19” continues to generate concern globally, domestically and locally. The City of Menifee is integrated into the emergency management functions and oversight of the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department. The City of Menifee as a local government agency remains closely engaged with our County Health and emergency management partners. The City encourages residents to monitor Riverside County Public Health for the latest updates in our region, which also includes informational videos and links to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for national and international updates.
The City recommends the following protective measures against the coronavirus published by WHO and the CDC.
Current Riverside County Status: WIDESPREAD "PURPLE TIER"
All residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1 for Coronavirus assistance and information.
City of Menifee Questions Service Line: (951) 672-9673
Essential Service Price Gouging Complaint Hotline:
(951) 955-0764
Price Gouging Complaint Form
The SBDC is providing daily webinars for the Small Business Community on information as it relates to funding information during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Topics will include but are not limited to:
- The Economic Injury Disaster Loan
- Payroll Protection Program
- Disaster Bridge Loan
- 7a Forgiveness Program
Information is changing and updating daily and the SBDC wants to make sure Small Business owners are being provided the most up to date factual information as to what is available for funding.
The webinar will be 30-40 minutes daily with a brief Q&A after.
Please click here to register.
The City of Menifee has pivoted to use the State's Resilience Roadmap to ensure that we can adapt and reopen together as quickly and safely as possible under the State's order. The State determines when and how each county may reopen based on a county's ability to meet the State's criteria. The State has said that some counties may reopen faster if they are able to show greater progress.
Counties that have met the readiness criteria prescribed by the California Department of Public Health can open additional businesses as outlined on the County Variance page.
The City of Menifee is currently in the midst of PURPLE Tier or Widespread Visit the Industry Guidelines Page for additional information!
To ask General COVID-19 questions, or find out about Food Nutrition programs available, please contact the Menfiee COVID-19 questions service line at (951) 672-9673.
To report concerns about non-essential businesses and activities, please contact Code Enforcement at (951) 672-6777. Or complete an online complain form with the County Department of Environmental Health: www.rivcoeh.org/Contactus/Complaint
Please do not call 9-1-1 to report violations.
To report concerns about restaurant cleanliness/potential germ spread, please contact Riverside County Environmental Health at (888) 722-4234.
City Hall is open virtually but closed to public walk-ins. Please call the Virtual Front Desk at
(951) 672-6777 Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm.
Zero Stop Shop Permit Center is open virtually, please contact the Community Development Department for more information (951) 672-6777.
For information about testing for COVID-19 (Coronavirus), please contact your healthcare provider or visit rivcoph.org/coronavirus to locate a community testing location.
To report price gouging on an item of 10% or more before the proclamation of a state emergency, please visit Riverside District Attorney’s Office at rivcoda.org/report or call (951) 955-0764.
Below are links to the organizations with the most current and accurate information related to COVID-19
World: World Health Organization
Nation: The Center For Disease Control
State: California Department of Public Health
May 8, 2020 Governor Newsom Releases Updated Industry Guidance
May 8, 2020 Governor Newsom Issues Executive Order to Protect Public Health by Mailing Every Registered..
May 8, 2020 Governor Newsom Issues Executive Order on Extending Deadlines Impacted by COVID-19
May 4, 2020 Executive Order N-60-20
April 2, 2020 Governors Order Protecting homes, small businesses from water shutoffs
April 2, 2020 Order for 90-day Extension for Small Businesses to Pay Sales Taxes
March 30, 2020 Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order Providing Relief to California Small Businesses
March 30, 2020 Order Expanding Healthcare Workforce
March 27, 2020 CA Order for 60 Days Relief from Residential Eviction
March 19, 2020 Stay At Home Order
March 4, 2020 California State of Emergency
County: Riverside County Public Health
April 6, 2020 Public Health Officer Extends Order on Short-Term Lodging Restrictions to June 19
April 6, 2020 Amended Gathering and Face Covering Order
March 30, 2020 Medical Donations and Medical Volunteers Needed to Prepare for COVID-19 Surge
March 27, 2020 Riverside County Order on Short Term Rentals
March 27, 2020 COVID-19 Scams (Safeguard Yourself)
March 27, 2020 City Urges Compliance with Stay-at-Home Order by Governor
March 16, 2020 Order Canceling All Gatherings with Expected Presence Above 10 individuals (Supersedes March 12 Order)
March 16, 2020 Press Release Regarding First 2 Deaths
March 12, 2020 Order Canceling Events Greater than 250 attendees from County Public Health
March 12, 2020 Press Release regarding "Large Events Canceled" from County Public Health
Senior Center Guidance and Community Services Guidance from County Public Health
Event Guidance from County Public Health
Menifee Curbside Pick-Up & Takeout Restaurants
Senior Shopping Hours for Menifee Stores
Essential Critical Infrastructure and What it Means (Updated 2.0)
COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions Concerning State and Local Orders
Health Resources
California Department of Public Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Employment Resources
Labor & Workforce Development Agency
Labor Commissioner’s Office FAQs
Department of Fair Employment and Housing
Business Resources
Menifee Business Resource Toolkit
Business (Small Business Development Center) Resource Guide
CA FAQ’s for Essential Businesses
COVID-19 SBDC FREE Business Webinars
Small Business Administration Restaurant Guide
Economic Injury Disaster Loan FAQ
There is a variety of Food Pantry's that are dedicated to alleviating hunger and malnutrition in the Menifee Valley.
In the midst of COVID-19, providing food and nutrition to families is more important than ever. The following is a list of Food Pantries throughout Menifee Valley that are providing relief.
Menifee Community Cupboard
Menifee Valley Community Cupboard is a private community based non-profit charitable organization providing emergency food assistance at no cost to Menifee Valley residents in need. Eligibility for the emergency food program is based on need and residence.
Clients must provide all information and documentation requested by the Cupboard to establish eligibility.
To apply, click here
For more information, please call (951)672-3078 or visit mvcupboard.org
Great Plates Delivered: Home Meals for Seniors
Riverside County is currently enrolling seniors age 65 and better, in the Governor's "Great Plates Delivered" program.
To lean more, or to sign up please call 1 (800) 510-2020 or visit rcaging.org/Covid-19/Great-Plates-Delievered-Program
Disclaimer: If you have already signed up for any other meal program, note that only one meal program at a time can be accessed.
Restaurants: Riverside County is currently accepting inquiries from businesses interested in participating in the Great Plates program.
For more information or if interested please call 1 (800) 510-2020 or email restaurantsdeliver@rivco.org
OC Food Bank
The OC Food Bank works with nearly 400 local charities, soup kitchens, and community organizations to end hunger and malnutrition. The OC Food Bank provides donated food, USDA commodities, and purchased food to non-profit agencies in Orange County that serve low-income families and individuals. Annually, the OC Food Bank is able to distribute more than 20 million pounds of food.
For more information, please call (714)867-6670 or visit ocfoodbank.org
A few of the programs the OC Food Bank operates include:
Food for Seniors Program: Our Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides nutrient-rich foods contained in a monthly food package to the low-income elderly (60+). CAPOC personnel distributes over 23,000 food boxes each month at 55 distribution sites in Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties.
Emergency Food Assistance Program: The Emergency Food Assistance Program distributes United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) commodities to eligible low-income individuals and households. The program provides nutrition assistance to relieve situations of emergency and distress through the provision of food to the poor.
Emergency Food and Shelter Program: The OC Food Bank receives funds for the purchase of food items not readily available through other sources. This includes food items purchased to meet the unique needs of homeless people and culturally appropriate food items purchased for Orange County’s large Southeast Asian population.
Farm 2 Family: California grows more fruits and vegetables than any other state – yet for many low-income households, fresh produce is simply out of reach. Farm to Family bridges the gap between our state’s surplus produce and people in need. Farmers arrange to ship their surplus produce directly from the fields to our OC Food Bank. We then distribute the produce through our network of schools, churches, senior centers, soup kitchens, and other community venues.
Donated Food Program: Food industry manufactures, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers donate food and personal care products to the OC Food Bank. Companies, schools, faith communities, and service organizations also conduct Food Drives collecting food for vulnerable families served by the OC Food Bank.
Senior Nutrition Information
For all seniors who are in need of food, meal pick-ups are provided Monday-Friday at the Senior Center, 12:00 pm-2:00 pm at 29995 Evans Road, Menifee, CA.
Please contact the Senior Center at (951) 672-9673 for more information and to register for this program.
In response to COVID-19, the following utility companies have created programs to assist customers:
SoCalGas has launched the “SoCalGas CAREs” Campaign to Bring Awareness to CARE Assistance Program for Customers Facing Financial Hardship due to COVID-19. To access this information, click here or call (877)238-0092.
To access information regarding Southern California Edison and their response to COVID-19, click here or call 1-800-655-4555.
To access information regarding Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) and their response to COVID-19, click here or call (951)928-3777.
To access information regarding Waste Management and their response to COVID-19, click here or call (866)909-4458.
Riverside Transit Agency Revisions:
Updates:
- Face masks required on all buses
- 7 day a week Sunday-service-schedule
- Slimmed-down version of regular service routes
- Entrance and exit through the rear of larger buses
- Maximum of 10 riders per bus to practice social distancing
- Stop at Hwy 74 and Briggs Rd. removed
- Dial a ride is still in service
Additional:
- Stay home except for essential needs and services
- Cover your cough or sneeze
- Maintain Physical distance of 6 ft. whenever outside of the house
- Avoid touching your face and shaking hands with others
- Stay away from work, school, or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough
For additional information, click here or call (951) 565-5002.
The City of Menifee formalized a Proclamation of Local Emergency on March 18, based on the rapidly evolving challenges to slow the spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
By order of the Health Officer of the County of Riverside, all gatherings of at least 10 or more prohibited, and orders that gatherings with fewer than 10 people must have enough available room to maintain six feet of space between attendees (known as social distancing), regardless of venue. This order does not apply to healthcare facilities, grocery stores, daycare centers, restaurants serving take-out, county, city or other governments with essential services. READ MORE
Below are related documents for reference:
- Menifee Virtual Business Permit Center
- Order Prohibiting Social Gatherings Canceled of 10 or more
- City of Menifee Statement to Coronavirus Outbreak
- Order Canceling Events Greater than 250 attendees from County Public Health
- Press Release regarding "Large Events Canceled" from County Public Health
- Senior Center Guidance and Community Services Guidance from County Public Health
- Event Guidance from County Public Health
- City of Menifee Cancels Community Services Commissions and Committees
All Parking Lots to City Parks and Recreational Facilities are Closed until further notice:
All parking lots to City parks and City recreational facilities are closed effective Tuesday, April 7, 2020, until further notice. As a reminder, all City facilities, skate parks, and playgrounds are closed, however, parks and trails remain open while social distancing is practiced. A full list of closed recreational facilities is located on the City’s’ website.
The World Health Organization’s Declaration that the spread of the 2019 Novel coronavirus, now referred to as COVID-19, has reached pandemic status prompted federal, state and regional public health organizations to implement orders and guidelines to limit the spread of the disease.
By order of Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Public Health Officer, Riverside University Health Systems-Public Health, all events with expected attendance above 250 individuals are canceled/postponed within Riverside County starting March 12, regardless of venue.
In addition to the order, RUHS Public Health has published guidance for gatherings below 250 attendees to self-assess events. This guidance includes the unique risk COVID-19 can pose to the elderly and sick. The full order of the Riverside County Public Health Officer, and guidance for community events, is available below.
Events Postponed: The City will make every effort to reschedule events later in the year, if feasible. The following community events are being postponed:
- Postponed date TBD - Menifee Better Together
- Postponed date TBD - Audie Murphy Skate Park (30376 Lone Pine Rd)
- Postponed date TBD - All Senior Center, Lazy Creek Center and contract classes, programs, activities, and facility rentals
- Cancelled - Springfest
- Postponed date TBD -Centennial Park Grand Opening
- Postponed date TBD - Music and Arts Festival
- Postponed date TBD - Multi-cultural Festival
The following Community Services meetings have been postponed:
- Youth Leaders of Menifee
The City of Menifee continues to be in regular communication with Riverside University Health Systems-Public Health, as well as federal and state agencies. The rapidly changing COVID-19 situation is evolving daily.
For all seniors who are dependent on meals at the Senior Center, an opportunity will be provided for meal pick-up for the day or the week starting Monday, March 16th at 12 - 2 pm at 29995 Evans Road, Menifee, CA. Contact the Senior Center at (951) 672-9673 for more information.
- Senior Center Guidance and Community Services Guidance from County Public Health
- Senior Shopping Hours for Menifee Stores
- City of Menifee Answers Call for Seniors Meals partnering with Local Food Bank
For a full list of Senior Resources including how to report concerns regarding health and safety, senior shopping hours and more, click here.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1.
Please call 2-1-1 for assistance, questions or to find resources in Riverside County no matter the situation.
Warmline Helpline: If you are requesting non-crisis, emotional and preventative care support, please call (855) 845-7415. The Warmline Helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Child Abuse Hotline: If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please call 1-800-442-4918. The Child Abuse Hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Riverside County Crisis and Suicide Helpline: If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, COVID-19 related anxiety or any other emotional crisis, please call (951)686-HELP (4537). Help is available in English, Spanish, and 120 other languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Adult Protective Services (APS): To report dependent adult and elder abuse of individuals in Riverside County, whether it be physical abuse, sexual abuse, self-neglect, abandonment, financial abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect by others, please call 1-800-491-7123. The APS Helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
SAFE Family Justice Center: If you are in need of services relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, child and elder abuse, please call (951)304-5680. This is a safe, confidential, and secure assistance line.
Disaster Distress Helpline: If you or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others, please call 1-800-958-5990. The Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: If you are experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship, please call 1-800-799-7233. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NAMI Helpline: If you are in need of any mental health resources, support or have general questions, please call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), Monday through Friday from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm ET or email info@nami.org.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: If you are experiencing an emotional crisis or suicidal thoughts, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Lifeline provides 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Veterans Crisis Line - The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text. Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. VA Medical Centers offer mental health and substance abuse treatment, including services for combat-related stress and readjustment issues. 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week
You can also visit veteranscrisisline.net to chat online
If you or your family is in need of anything while your spouse is deployed, please call your Family Readiness Officer (FRO) at your home base. To reach the nearest County Veteran Service Office from anywhere in the state of California, please call 844-737-8838.
Homeless Veterans: (877) 424-3838
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are a Servicemember, Veteran or surviving spouse looking for a home loan. | Home loan guaranty and programs to buy, build, repair, retain or adapt a home. | Home loans to help buy, build, repair, retain or improve. | For more information on the VA Home Loan program call (877) 827-3702, to contact the nearest VA Regional Loan Center, or visit benefits.va.gov | Please visit benefits.va.gov or call (877) 827-3702 |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are a currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate student. | Funding provided through the CARES Act for universities to provide special grants for unmet financial need and extra expenses caused by COVID-19. | The federal grants offered through the CARES Act provide aid to students needing financial assistance for school in the midst of COVID-19. | The existing Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) program, under the Department of Education, is administered directly by the financial aid office at each participating school. Not all schools participate. Students must check with their school’s financial aid office to find out if the school offers the FSEOG program. | Additional information regarding these grants can be found online at studentaid.gov |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are currently enrolled in school and were receiving work-study grants and actively working in a work-study job prior to COVID-19 | Relief provided through the CARES Act that offers funding for students in work-study programs that were impacted by COVID-19. | The federal work-study program provides part-time jobs to students with financial needs allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program is offered through the Department of Education and administered directly by the financial aid office at participating schools. | Students in the program may be eligible for payment for lost wages due to COVID-19. Eligible students may be paid all or part of the wages they would have made had they continued working. | Students who believe they are eligible should contact their school’s financial aid office. Additional information about this program can be found online at studentaid.gov |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you have lost your job or have had your hours reduced for reasons related to COVID-19 | Funding provided through the CARES Act for training and support services administered by the Department of Labor (DOL). | These programs benefit a wide range of individuals, including but not limited to, dislocated workers, seniors, farmworkers, veterans, disabled, youth, etc. The programs are aimed to improve the employment prospects of these individuals and are designed to increase workers’ employability and earnings. | The programs are delivered through the states and tailored to local economies. Additional information about these programs can be found online at dol.gov | Find information on local training programs by contacting your local American Job Center or contacting Employment and Training Administration's toll-free helpline at 1-877-US2-JOBS. |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are 65 years of age and older, or a young adult with disabilities. | The CARES Act provides enhanced Medicare coverage for COVID-19 related services, including lab tests, medically necessary hospitalizations, and telehealth services. | Expanded coverage of telehealth services for all qualifying Medicare recipients. | Additional informational about eligibility, types of coverage, out of pocket costs, and services provided can be found online at medicare.gov | Apply online at ssa.gov |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are a struggling homeowner seeking mortgage relief during the COVID-19 Pandemic. | Cares Act relief options for all federally backed mortgages. | Options and assistance for individuals seeking mortgage and rental relief. | Click Here to get information on what your options are for mortgage and rental relief. | Contact your local loan servicer. You may have to wait on the line to speak to your mortgage servicer as call volumes are especially high due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure that you have your account number handy when you call. For homeowners with mortgages covered by the CARES Act, you only need to explain that you have a pandemic-related financial hardship. |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you have federal student loans | CARES Act relief provided to federal student loan borrowers during the COVID-19 national emergency. | Borrowers of these specific loans may temporarily stop making payments until September 30, 2020 | To learn more about automatic deferral, interest, and eligibility visit studentaid.gov | Contact your loan servicer or visit studentaid.gov |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If your small business is in need of assistance for workforce costs, rent payments, operational costs, and marketing costs. | Facebook has created a small business grant that is set to give $100 million in cash grants and ad credits | Free grant money to businesses experiencing challenged from COVID-19 | Please visit Facebook.com | To apply, please visit Facebook.com |
Why | What | Benefits | More Information | How to file |
---|---|---|---|---|
If you are a restaurant employee who has been adversely impacted by COVID-19, whether through a loss of wages or loss of employment | Grants provided to restaurant employees for essential expenses | Each approved grant is for $500, per person | Learn more at refr.us | Please apply at refr.us |
Press Releases
October 28, 2020
City of Menifee Provides Additional Relief for Menifee Small Businesses Amid Wave of State Mandated Closures and Restrictions
August 21, 2020
Riverside County elementary schools can apply for waiver starting Monday to hold in-person classes
August 17, 2020
City Offers Process to Support Personal Services Business to Temporarily Relocate Operations Outside
August 5, 2020
Public health officer issues statement on school waiver process
July 24, 2020
Riverside County to give out 10 million masks as part of ‘Masks are Medicine’ campaign
July 17, 2020
City of Menifee Enhances Virtual Online Services for Residents/Businesses
June 18, 2020
Menifee City Hall to Reopen, using Governor's Guidelines on June 22
June 11, 2020
More businesses set to reopen Friday
May 26, 2020
Houses of worship to reopen in Riverside County following statewide guidance
May 20, 2020
Menifee CARES: Disaster Recovery Initiative
May 14, 2020
Fake letter claims coronavirus test needed for CalFresh, Medi-Cal
April 30, 2020
Board signals cancellation of all local public health orders in Riverside County
April 20, 2020
Residential and Commercial projects experience COVID-19 Impacts
April 20, 2020
Residential and Commercial Projects Experience COVID-19 Impacts
April 18, 2020
Governor Newsom Announces New Initiatives to Support California Workers Impacted by COVID-19
October 28, 2020
Menifee Promotes “Early” Holiday Shopping with new BINGO Game Promotion!
August 17, 2020
City partners with local businesses in “Menifee Forward” shop local campaign amid recovery efforts
August 3, 2020
State fixing technical issue causing lag in case reporting
June 18, 2020
City of Menifee provides additional relief for Menifee small businesses
July 13, 2020
More businesses required to move activities outdoors or close
May 22, 2020
State approves Riverside County’s readiness to move to accelerated stage 2
May 15, 2020
City of Menifee Recognize May as Small Business Month
May 14, 2020
City of Menifee to hold Historic Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Display on June 27
April 29, 2020
Golf Courses (Extending Order until June 19)
April 20, 2020
Park Restrictions Modified by New County Order
April 20, 2020
Golf courses and some outdoor activities may reopen with restrictions
April 18, 2020
Governor Newsom Announces Paid Sick Leave Benefits for Food Sector Workers
March 23, 2020
City of Menifee Extends Business License Renewal Date Amid COVID-19
April 18, 2020
Riverside County Public Health Official Clarify’s Faith-Based Services in Public Gathering Order
April 20, 2020
Golf Restrictions Modified by New County Order
October 28, 2020
Menifee K.E.E.P Business Walk 2020 Reports Hopeful Business Confidence
August 11, 2020
Quake swarm is warning for residents and businesses to prepare
June 29, 2020
Bars ordered closed in Riverside County in response to upswing in coronavirus cases
June 17, 2020
Additional personal care businesses to reopen Friday with enhanced safety measures in place
June 22, 2020
Riverside County to begin coronavirus antibody testing as part of prevalence study
May 22, 2020
City of Menifee Offers Temporary Program to Expand Outdoor Dining Spaces
May 15, 2020
Great Plates Delivered Program in Menifee
April 29, 2020
Health Officer orders amended; face coverings, social distancing continues
April 20, 2020
COMM'R Lara Orders Insurance Companies to Refund..
April 17, 2020
Faith Based Services Modified Order
March 23, 2020
City of Menifee Launches Virtual City Hall and ZERO STOP SHOP for Development
March 23, 2020
City of Menifee Answers Calls for Senior Meals Partnering with Local Food Bank
February 28, 2020
Coronavirus Monitoring
March 5, 2020
Coronavirus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
April 20, 2020
Insurance Companies to Refund Premiums to Drivers & Businesses Affected
Informational Videos
00:01 [Music] Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Well, we want to take a deeper dive on the new recommendation from Dr [Leung at] Kaiser, the public health officer for the county of Riverside, on this new cover your face... And the new campaign is to stay in place maintain your space, and cover your face.
00:24 So we have Dr Leung from Riverside University Health System to further explain exactly what this means in terms of this new recommendation Dr Leung to cover your face, right?
00:35 Dr. Geoffrey Leung: Right, so with this new recommendation we... are advising that all individuals in Riverside county when leaving the home, uh, for any essential activity that might include grocery shopping or going to work if you're an essential worker...
00:51 That those individuals cover their face including their nose and their mouth... And, and, that can actually help to decrease the chances of that individual getting other people sick.
01:00 For instance if I have Covid-19 but I don't have symptoms and I don't have cough. By wearing a bandanna or a scarf I would decrease the chances of getting people around me sick.
01:10 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Exactly and for example Dr Leung; I have this scarf from home and this is something that I could easily put over my nose and my mouth as an example...
01:20 But there are many things that you can find at home already what are some examples of people, you know, at home they might have some scarves handkerchiefs. They may be able to make their own I guess, right?
01:34 Dr. Geoffrey Leung: So for covering the face are you can use... a... a fabric. You could use scarves, bandanas, gators, ski masks.
01:44 And the main reason is we want to save the medical masks for our health care workers.
01:50 There is a shortage of medical masks so we want to save the N95s and the surgical masks for those people who are working directly on the front lines with patients.
01:58 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Yeah, these are some great examples of things that you can do it home. Again we want to make sure that you're covering your face but also, along with that, that you're not going out and buying the mask that the medical professionals need right now.
02:12 So again it's; stay in place, maintain your space. The six feet of social distancing, and now the recommendation from Drs at Kaiser to also cover your face when going out for essential tasks.
02:22 Again like doctor Leung pointed out; work, pharmacy, groceries. Things like that correct?
02:29 Dr. Geoffrey Leung: Right
02:30 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Great, and again all that information is online, available to you at https://rivcoph.org/coronavirus
00:00 Jeff Wyman, Assistant City Manager: That's alright. Well I think we'll get moving forward here. Good afternoon
00:05 everybody. I'd like to welcome you all to this virtual Menifee community update,
00:10 and I'd like to thank you for joining us
00:12 today. Whether you're by video or by phone. My name is Jeff Wyman and I am the
00:17 assistant city manager for the city of Menifee. First of all I would like to
00:21 acknowledge our City Council for their leadership. Mayor Bill Zimmerman, Mayor Pro Tem Matt Liesemeyer and council
00:29 members Greg August, Lesa Sobic, and Dean
00:33 Deines. Some of which have joined us on
00:35 this event today. For a little background the city of Menifee has been working diligently during these unprecedented
00:43 times to provide information about Covid-19 and what the city is working on... Michelle, if you could advance a slide.
00:59 To this end the city has created public service videos and flyers, established a dedicated web-page regarding Covid-19,
01:07 sent out information guides, held developer oriented webinars, and been out on the forefront of business outreach
01:16 surveys and programs just to name a few.
01:20 This community update is the latest in the city's efforts to help the community stay informed. Next slide, please
01:30 Today we'll be covering several areas of interest including the city's response to the Covid-19 public health
01:37 emergency. Some of the impacts the city's emergency operations center (or EOC). On the public safety side, we will hear from
01:47 both the Riverside County Sheriff's Department and the Menifee police chief, as well as our Cal Fire Battalion Chief
01:54 And we will also hear from our development and economic development departments. And with that I'll be moving
02:02 forward, and I'll turn it over to the city of Menifee City Manager, Armondo Villa
02:10 Menifee City Manager, Armondo Villa: So, thank you so much Jeff for the introduction and thank you so much for
02:15 all those that decided to participate today. I see a good number of people that are joining us today
02:20 Again, thank you, thank you, for participating and we hope that you take the time to provide some comments and
02:28 feedback on how we're doing through the pandemic. And I want to take you through
02:34 an overview of this disease and how the world was introduced to the disease so... Next slide please.
02:43 As an overview, many of you know that we started noticing right about the turn of the year that this was a serious
02:53 problem worldwide. And on January 30th the World Health Organization declared it as an outbreak. And we saw our first
03:02 case, first go from case, right around February 26th. And right after that most local governments and states started to
03:14 do a lot of meetings... a lot of talking about what to do with this pandemic. On March 4th the state of California
03:24 actually declared a state of emergency and the County Riverside County declared local emergency on the March peak. And
03:34 the month of March was probably one of the most difficult months for all local governments and states because it was a
03:42 series of meetings back to back to try to decipher what this meant to to us and what it... what the impact would be on our
03:50 community so we started to see the disease... they need taken more serious and
03:58 on March 16 our County Health Officer issued some pretty strict rules followed by the city of Menifee declaring a state
04:07 of emergency. And our governor declaring some pretty pretty harsh stay-at-home orders on March 19th
04:14 So let's talk a little bit about the last three dates because that's kind of the foundation of how we're operating
04:22 over for weeks, so (next, slide please) as you know the governor issued order number 33
04:31 - 20 which was implemented on March 19th. That comes with a very straight stay-at-home order and almost requiring
04:42 us, every... every resident of California, to stay home so that we can minimize the spread of the disease with the exception
04:50 of those workers that work in critical infrastructure sectors. So I know many of you see a lot of people out there
04:56 driving around and and going to work. A lot of those are critical infrastructure worker sectors; like people that work in
05:04 banks, people that work in food stores, and restaurants. Those are considered critical, critical, sectors. And then
05:13 following that, the Riverside County Public Health Officer issued a very restrictive order restricting gatherings
05:22 of 10 or more people. That meant that a lot of our programming... a lot of our city programs, events need to be cancelled because we wanted to avoid and minimize
05:32 the transmission of the disease. At the same time make sure that we comply with the county order, with the exception
05:41 again, restrictions are non-essential businesses. Most of the businesses needed to be closed and that came with
05:47 requirements to make everybody wear their protective gear and social distancing. In our City Council actually
05:55 recognized the danger and adopted a resolution 2869 which allowed us to impliment the county order and governor's order and also be
06:09 able to move fast and try to come up with ways to mitigate to our residents... to mitigate the spread of the disease. So
06:16 (next slide) I want to spend a little bit of time talking about this slide, but I want to make sure that people understand
06:24 that this is in no way a reflection of how the city will implement a future restrictions as it is only a snapshot of
06:34 how the Covid-19 viruse has impacted our city. If I can explain. The blue line there, the blue line is the number
06:45 of confirmed cases in our city. It... We started tracking that right about the time that we adopted the emergency
06:55 resolution (which is of March 16th) so it was from zero and fast forward to today Tuesday April 28th we have about a
07:05 hundred confirmed cases. Let's go to the bottom line here. The Green Line, the Green Line is the number of people that
07:16 have actually died from the disease. So we started at zero when when we implemented the emergency ordinance and
07:24 right now we have approximately 30 people it could have actually died from the disease. So the the middle line
07:31 represents the... the dead and the tracking of weekly cases that have been identified, obviously the aggregate is the blue line,
07:42 but as you can see the number of weekly confirmed cases has been declining since April 13th. Again I think it's too early
07:51 for us to surmise what that means. I think there's a lot more science that needs to be applied to this to for us to
07:59 be able to think that were we're out of the woods with the disease, but we are starting to see that the... all these
08:08 restrictions about wearing protective gear and social distance are... are starting to actually help us. So I wanted
08:17 to graph this out because every city is different, a lot of cities are tracking a little bit different and I'm pretty sure
08:23 the county is doing a countywide tracking of how the disease is impacting the residents of the county and they'll
08:31 be coming up with more requirements and probably amended orders pretty soon here.
08:38 So with that, we put together a very comprehensive list and set of information for you. Some of the things
08:47 that the city has been doing over the last four weeks to try to mitigate the impacts to the community and try to come up with ways
08:55 to allow residents to understand what this is. And some of the some of the... some of the things that... that we in the
09:02 federal government has done to help residents cope with the impacts of Covid-19. So at this point I'd like to
09:10 introduce Sam Rodriguez. She's going to present to you some of the some of the implement... implementation that we've
09:18 done over the last four weeks. So, Sam thank you.
09:22 Sam Rodriguez, Senior Management Analyst: Thank You Armando. Um, good afternoon everybody my name is Samantha Rodriguez
09:27 Senior management analyst with the city of Menifee, here to go over the different actions that we've taken in our
09:33 Emergency Operations Center and how that translates to the Covid-19 response. Next slide please? A story of our EOC activation
09:44 during this incident our city began monitoring the Covid-19 incident on February 26 and our Emergency Operations
09:51 Center was activated on March 12. We're currently in level 2 of the EOC activation thresholds, which means that
09:58 we're actively managing the incident with our existing resources. If we were to exceed our available resources and need
10:05 to reach out to other agencies for help then our EOC activation level would escalate to level 1, but right now we've
10:12 been maintaining level 2 for the past 4 to 6 weeks of this incident utilizing our existing resources. Next... next slide
10:22 please. Oh, never mind, sorry it's getting ahead of myself. This slide talks about what EOC operations look like in the Emergency
10:30 Operations Center. There's different functions; from management (which is PIO and policymaking) all the way to finance
10:37 and logistics. Under a typical situation these functions are happening physically in the EOC. each of these branches are
10:44 staffed with personnel and their routing different workflows so that pertain to the incident while considering the
10:50 implications of Covid-19 and the need to maintain social distancing. We had to accommodate our EOC operations to meet
10:58 those social distancing requirements. What that means is that we're operating our EOC remotely. All of these functions
11:04 are happening online and through virtual methods. For example if we had to route resource requests, those would come through
11:11 finance and logistics and be done online and signed electronically. For training, before we fully activated our EOC we met
11:20 one-on-one with all city staff in an attempt to make sure that everybody understands the positions that they are
11:26 assigned during an EOC. So we did position-specific training 101 with staff before the incident started. And
11:33 then during the incident we did ran hrough some pre-planning scenarios, which means what-if scenarios. Basically
11:40 if a testing site were to open in our city, what would that look like and how would we work that through the different
11:45 functions of the EOC remotely. And we also work through if the number of deaths in our city doubled, what would that look like,
11:52 what agencies would we have to reach out to to secure additional resources. So even though we're working through the
11:59 EOC remotely we're still doing ongoing training and making sure that we're able to respond. Next slide please
12:06 For IOC plans and reporting before the incident... Before this pandemic started our city had an Emergency Operations
12:15 plan which covers all the hazards that we face as a city. Everything from fire, floods to pandemics. On the pandemic
12:22 portion of the Emergency Operations plan was about a page long. When the Covid incident happened we had to significantly expand that section to
12:30 accommodate our needs as a city because it's our first time as an agency facing an incident like this
12:35 And so that's why we developed a pandemic response plan at the beginning of this incident that talked about
12:41 things like infection control measures, steps that we can take as a city to disinfect and increase cleaning methods,
12:49 and then also outreach on efforts. Once we activated our EOC we created an actual incident action plan, which is
12:57 basically a guidance document to help us get through each operational period. Right now our EOC is in seven-day
13:03 operational periods and this guide covers everything from individual assignments for people assigned to the EOC to safety messages and weather forecasts. Because
13:13 , um, at any time we can have multiple incidents overlapping. We could have a wildfire at the same time as the pandemic so we need to have a plan in
13:20 place to address that. If that were to happen situation summaries are sent out daily. This is a very high-level summary
13:27 of how this incident specifically impacts our city. This is sent out in order for us to maintain situational awareness and monitor the incident
13:36 outside of this detailed incident action plan. And then at the conclusion of the incident we will develop an after-action
13:43 report. This is critical because it gives us an opportunity, as a city, to meet and talk about lessons learned. Um, every
13:51 incident is unique. And we can use the lessons learned from this incident to apply to future incidents and revise our
13:57 EOP to make sure we are continuing to grow and adjust to the needs of our city. Next? So this slide compares
14:06 the county public health orders from when we first declared the local emergency to what we're seeing now
14:12 Basically we're saying that school closures have extended to the end of the year. Um, stay at home orders expanded.
14:18 They originally applied to vulnerable populations and now apply to the general population, with the exception of
14:24 going out for essential services, and then face coverings are now required for everyone outside the home. Where
14:30 initially they were required if you had an underlying health condition. Next slide. This summarizes regional response,
14:39 it gives you a glimpse of what the region was doing at the time that our city declared a local emergency versus
14:45 what it looks like now. And, as you can see, the local emergency declarations almost doubled, the EOCs that are
14:53 activated regionally doubled as well. And then we're seeing an increase in the amount of city hall closures, stay at
15:00 home orders and testing sites have increased. And then we now have FMS sites, which is federal medical station sites
15:08 Next? Menifee's response is also changed since we first declared the local emergency on 3-18, um. City hall at that
15:17 time was open, now it is closed, and in a virtual setting where a lot of our staff are telecommuting and adhering to social
15:24 distancing protocols. Our EOC status went from level 03, which was basically monitoring remotely, to level 02. Which
15:33 means that we're actively ready to respond to the incident and we have a fully functional DOC (Department
15:38 Operations Center). Which is where all of our food distribution activities are occurring and we are also engaging with
15:44 their PIO food distribution and code enforcement who are regulating our essential and non-essential businesses
15:51 Next
15:54 Um, in regards to the Covid stats, um, you can see that the cases have increased substantially since we began monitoring
16:01 this incident but it is important to know that we're also seeing a huge increase in the number of recovered cases. And the numbers on this slide
16:09 reflect the data yesterday. But just as an example, um, from last night alone we had an increase in 207 cases but we also
16:17 had 46 recovered cases increase. So, as we're seeing cases increase we're also seeing increases in recovered cases
16:24 Sometimes it's 50 recovered for every 100, but there has even been an increase of 200 at one point in time. We're going
16:33 to continue to see an increase in cases as testing expands but we are noticing that the numbers were beginning to
16:38 stabilize. We're starting to see that the number of hospitalizations are going down. We need to start looking for a
16:44 number of cases going down or staying the same. For example the city of Menifee had a hundred cases yesterday, a hundred
16:50 cases remain today. Those are the numbers that were looking for before we can confidently determine if we've flattened
16:56 the curve. Next? So what does the future activity of the EOC look like? Um, basically our public health orders from the state,
17:06 those are active until revised or rescinded by the governor. We just found out today that the public health orders
17:12 from the county, um, expire on June 19th. So those have been extended from the April 30th that we were ordered... that we
17:19 were currently under. So we will continue to monitor the public health orders that are coming out and then, um, we will
17:28 monitor and then respond to it as necessary. In regards to EOC activation, the EOC will remain active. The
17:35 activation levels will adjust as needed to adjust to the incident. For example if we exceed our available resources we
17:42 could escalate the EOC to a level 1. If we're able if we see a decline in cases on gradual reopening we could deescalate
17:49 our EOC to a lower level like a management watch. But we don't completely deactivate the EOC until the incident
17:56 concludes and at that time we start entering into the recovery phase. Um, it is worth noting that recovery is ongoing
18:02 That happens during the incident as we're tracking our expenses for potential reimbursement and then at the conclusion of the
18:09 incident we file with Cal OES and FEMA for reimbursement of eligible expenses.
18:13 Next please
18:17 So I do want to end my portion of the presentation with some reminders for our community. As we're going through this
18:24 together it's so important to stay in place as often as possible... only going out for essential activities. We want to make sure that if you are going
18:33 out for essential activities such as purchasing food or medical supplies that you're going out and having face coverings while out in public. Um, when
18:40 out in public, or around others, maintain six feet of separation at all times. And that social distancing is
18:46 imperative for us to flatten the curve. And then properly dispose of all PPE personal protective equipment, this
18:53 includes gloves, disposable face coverings, and also any sanitation wipes that you may use to disinfect shopping
18:59 carts. We're noticing an increase of these items being improperly disposed of in parking lots and that's a threat to
19:05 our community and our environment. And they can ultimately end up in our waterways. So it's so important that we do our part to not only protect
19:12 ourselves and others but to properly dispose of PPE. Next. That's it, thank you guys so much
19:26 [Music]
19:33 Bill Stens, Lieutenant: Okay, I am lieutenant Bill Stens with Versailles Sheriff's Department. Can you change the slide for me, please. Um, like I said.
19:45 I'm Bill Stens with the Versailles Sheriff's Department, assigned to the Paris station. Overseeing the daily law
19:50 enforcement operations in the city of Menifee since the inception of governer Newsom's Covid-19 executive order to self sequester
19:57 The Sheriff's Department has continued to conduct business as usual. Although the department has implemented
20:03 some changes to protect personnel from potential exposure the deputies have continued to proudly represent the city of Menifee
20:09 and have continued to provide us with service. At the beginning of this crisis the
20:14 city manager, Armondo Villa, asked me how the Sheriff's Department would continue to serve the city of Menifee if there was a Covid
20:19 outbreak at the Paris station. I explained with a department our size (we have approximately 3,764 full employees,
20:29 and of those 1829 are sworn law enforcement officers) we would simply pull personnel from other stations bureaus and facilities to supplement our station
20:37 personnel, to ensure uninterrupted service. I'm happy to report as of today we have not had a single recorded Covid-19 case at our station and despite this
20:48 Sheriff Bianco transferred 19 deputies and one community service officer to our station to ensure adequate
20:53 staffing. With this increase of personnel the good citizens... and the good citizens
of Menifee adhering to all sequester orders
21:01 the Sheriff's Department has been able to actively participate in community outreach and educational programs and even on a few occasions we were able to put a
21:08 smile on a young child's face by participating in birthday parades. Within the city of Menifee the Riverside County
21:14 Sheriff Department; especially while assigned to patrol, traffic enforcement, investigations, special enforcement, and crime prevention
21:21 means. Each of these divisions has a specific roll in protecting the citizens of Menifee. During the Covid-19 crisis the
21:29 Sheriff's Department has seen the overall call volume in the city of Menifee decrease by about 20 calls per day, down from an average of about 130 calls to about 120 calls. However
21:40 and unfortunately, domestic violence, and vehicle theft calls have been trending upward. Our traffic deputies have been taking enforcement action on the most
21:47 egregious traffic violations, ensuring the safe, smooth flow of traffic throughout the city and conducting traffic collision investigations. The
21:55 Special Enforcement Team has been addressing quality of life issues, and the Crime Prevention Unit has been partnering with the Menifee code enforcement officers and park rangers providing education in the importance of compliance with the governers' orders
22:19 In conclusion I'd like to thank the citizens of Menifee for their willingnes to comply with the orders of Governor Newsom's and the Riverside county Public Health Officer, Dr Kaiser.
22:22 Cooperation with these orders is the foundation of ensuring the safety of all Menifee residents. This enables all aspects of Public Safety and medical professionals to continue to provide you
22:25 with the exceptional service you are accustomed to receiving. I would like to ask everyone to continue doing their
22:30 part to keep our great community safe. You understand this is a difficult time and everyone wants to return to
22:35 normal. But a little bit more sacrifice may prevent a second wave of this virus. We will get through this together,
22:41 stay home and stay safe, thank you.
22:45 [Music]
22:48 Pat Walsh, Chief of Police: Thank You lieutenant Stens. This is Chief Pat Walsh. I wanted first off to thank the
22:53 the Riverside County Sheriff's department for keeping us safe during these times. Just my part of this presentation is to let
23:01 everybody know that the new Menifee Police Department is not slowing down in our efforts to create the police
23:08 department. As you see here on April 13th I swore in nine police sergeants, one lieutenant, and one services manager. So we have a total of 17 employees currently
23:21 We have 44 police officer candidates in background. Now I speak to them as often as I can, I call them, all
23:33 of them are still in and excited to come here and work for us in Menifee. So we will be opening our doors July 1st 2020
23:43 I've had a conversation with the sheriff and he's prepared to redeploy his deputies. And I just wanted to make sure that he
23:52 understands that we are still going full steam ahead. Next slide. We've got a new sign, we turned the the old city hall into
24:03 the police department. We continue to work on this building, we have moved into the the main building. Here, you see here
24:12 we're outfitting some modular buildings for locker rooms. And the building behind this one we are creating a property room
24:23 for our evidence will be taking once we go live July 1st. So again just so everybody knows the Menifee Police
24:31 Department will be actively policing Menifee July 1st, 2020. And that's it for me.
24:45 Mark League, Battalion Chief: Thank you Chief Walsh. Good afternoon city of Menifee. Uh, Mark League battalion Chief, Cal Fire, Riverside County Fire Department. Next slide
24:56 Very early on Cal Fire Riverside County Fire Chief, along with his Staff Chief Shawn Newman, took a very aggressive and
25:04 proactive approach to the Covid-19 that was developing in Wuhan. Beginning in late January and into early February of
25:18 2020 Cal Fire Riverside County Fire Department began to monitor the emerging coronavirus epidemic. This activated
25:28 several resources within our agency to start developing plans, to not only protect the firefighters of Riverside
25:35 County Fire Department, but the community. And continue our responses to the community. What did this... what does this
25:42 mean? Increase in personal protective equipment was number one. While we always are responding and protecting ourselves,
25:51 the appropriate personal protective equipment... We knew early on that we were going to have to have access to an
25:58 increased level and numbers of personal protective equipment. Outside of our local purchases that we normally make on a daily basis,
26:08 we've also accessed the national stockpile. On March 8th, 2020, the first algorithm was pushed out to the
26:17 firefighters. And what does that mean? And so, this algorithm identified and made aware to the firefighters some type
26:27 of change in our response. And changing the responses, not necessarily that we aren't going to respond, but when we do
26:36 respond, our approach is going to be a little bit different. Instead of a three-person fire engine that shows up to your house, all
26:44 three members walking into the home. We wanted to do our part by one, not only wearing personal protective equipment,
26:50 but maybe only sending... Depending on the call type; one rescuer, one firefighter into the home. If that person that called
26:59 911 one wasn't able to actually make it outside themselves. These were some of the things within this algorithm that
27:06 was pushed out to the firefighters, to not only protect them, but the community. In addition to the
27:13 response algorithm, it also identified documentation that we would be utilizing within our image trend program. This also
27:22 gave the county an ability to track positive Covid-19 or, uh, possible Covid-19 patients. That algorithm has changed
27:32 several times over the weeks but stays somewhat the same. Again, firefighters are going to be responding as we always have
27:42 Our approach to some of these call types may be a little bit different. In addition to the algorithm there have been some changes in our 9-1-1 system
27:53 as a whole. Our emergency medical dispatching developed some Covid-19 screening questions. So, what does this mean? When a person activates the 9-1-1 system
28:07 the dispatcher not only goes through the set set of questions per the emergency medical dispatching system, but an added
28:13 feature within that has been developed to screen for patients that potentially have some type of signs and symptoms of
28:23 Covid-19 flu. This information is then punched out to the firefighters, they're given that information firsthand. Via our CAD system (our computer-aided dispatch), and
28:36 this gives them an opportunity to know that, hey, the person that they are responding to may or may not have some
28:43 type of flu symptoms. In addition, uh, to the changes to our 9-1-1 system are to our skilled nursing facilities and jails
28:51 Within the county historically when you call 9-1-1 one you will get a Riverside County Fire Department response and a response from our ambulance provider
29:04 Today, based upon the reason for the 9-1-1 call and the type of call screened by the emergency medical dispatching system,
29:13 our response to the skilled nursing facilities and the jail's have changed. You may not get a response from the fire
29:20 department based upon the call type and maybe only get an ambulance that responds. And that's on a lower level type of a
29:26 medical emergency. Public access to our fire stations is limited. And while we will make sure that everybody that
29:36 knocks on the door of a fire station is greeted, the access into the fire station has been limited. This is not only for
29:44 our day-to-day business but for our school presentations and general fire station tours. Overall call... call volume
29:56 for the Riverside County Fire Department countywide and with... within the city of Menifee is down. Now we're seeing about a...
30:05 100 call to 125 call decrease for service countywide. We... we believe that that is because people are staying home
30:16 People are not out and about and that creates less call volume. While we are seeing an increase in our call types
30:26 based upon the emergency medical dispatch screening questions, an increase in positive Covid-19 patients or patients that are exhibiting the signs
30:35 of flu, this is only because of the recognition that's out there. People that are out getting tested, obviously this is
30:42 very, very... this is known worldwide. And people are exhibiting the signs of the flu and letting us know upon calling
30:49 9-1-1. Next... next screen. In addition to
30:56 our fire operations our Fire Prevention Bureau permit and inspection section within the city is still very active
31:03 Online electronic submissions of all plans are being accepted. And while the Fire Prevention Bureau still is taking
31:13 paper... paper copies of the plans, electronic submissions are recommended.
31:20 The paper copies are subject to a 72-hour quarantine due to the pandemic. In addition the Fire Prevention Bureau
31:29 is also still conducting all inspections. With the exception of; daycare facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and assisted living communities
31:36 Next slide.
31:43 As always staying safe throughout the pandemic has been the Fire Chief's number-one goal. The Covid-19 pandemic is a... is a fluid process
31:50 Cal Fire Riverside County Fire Department has provided daily updates on the current status of the pandemic to
31:56 all employees. Continued measures to provide all employees with appropriate PPE remains to be the top priority, not
32:03 only protecting our employees but protecting the community when we respond
32:08 Early proactive measures contributed to Cal Fire Riverside County Fire Department personnel's continued state
32:15 of good health throughout this pandemic. And as it stands today we do not have a single firefighter within the Cal Fire
32:20 Riverside County Fire Department that has tested positive or had a Covid-19 response. Cal Fire Riverside County Fire
32:29 Department employees continued diligence to provide our community with excellent care has contributed to flattening the
32:35 curve in Riverside County. Thank you
32:38 That's all I have
32:45 Cheryl Kitzerow, Community Development Director: Good afternoon everyone, my name is Cheryl Kitzerow, I'm the Community
32:49 Development Director here for the city of Menifee. I wanted to provide an update on the processes that the development
32:57 team have implemented in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Also on the call is our city engineer and public works director
33:06 Jonathan Smith, as well as our building manager Craig Carlson. Next slide please.
33:11 So before I share this very, very, short video. This video is to highlight our
33:18 zero-stop-shop. To show you how to access information on the city's website regarding planning applications submittals,
33:28 building permit applications submittals, engineering applications submittals, and permit issuance. So Michelle can you
33:36 please play this video?
33:40 [Music]
34:07 Thank you. Next slide, please? So my message for the community is that we are still here for you. The development team
34:17 has not experienced the slowdown in development activities and we are committed to keeping projects moving forward and conducting business as usual
34:27 via our virtual operations. So on our website each of the departments under that virtual City Hall functionality has
34:36 provided information on how to submit plans to us electronically. We are all available via email and we are routing
34:46 plans electronically and reviewing them electronically as well. For payment of application fees and permit fees, you can
34:55 do that via credit card over the phone. We have worked with our finance team to remove the credit card limit so that we
35:03 can take payments for all of your projects. We are, along with our fire colleagues, also quarantining any hard
35:13 plans that do come in. So we are encouraging electronic plan submmittal.
35:18 If hard plans do need to be submitted we encourage them to come in via mail, um,
35:23 there are some plan types, like mylars, that would need to be dropped off. And just know that those would be
35:30 quarantined for 72 hours, so there would be a slight delay on processing those. We are also doing permit issuance and
35:39 sign-offs electronically. We are continuing with our occupancy inspections for, um, both the commercial and residential
35:47 projects that are moving forward in town. We are doing those inspections, following social distancing protocols, and then I'll
35:55 leave you with... We are continuing to do meetings with developers, due diligence meetings, our regular standing design
36:05 review committee meetings, and then as well as our Planning Commission meetings
36:10 Next slide? Thank you
36:13 Jonathan Nicks, Community Services Director: Good afternoon everyone this
36:19 is Jonathan Nicks, I'm the Community Services Director for the city of Menifee. Next slide please, Michelle? As our city manager mentioned earlier we've...
36:29 Because of what's going on and social distancing, we've had to postpone or cancel a lot of our regular activities, a
lot of our recreational activities. But
36:37 we really focused our efforts on making sure that everyone in the community who might have been negatively impacted by a
36:44 lot of the shutdowns has access to food. Primarily our senior citizens. So, seniors are allowed to come to the
36:53 Kay Ceniceros Senior Center and on a drive-up service get food. We've distributed 5,658 meals since March 16th. And so over the last
37:04 month and a half we've been providing a lot of meals to seniors. We've also had a monthly Food Box program, we actually
37:10 just had a distribution yesterday. So if you were driving down Newport between Murietta and Evans Road and you saw a
37:16 long line of cars that was us giving out those food boxes. So, we had two distributions in March and yesterday we
37:22 provided 1034 boxes of food for seniors. Now if you're not a senior citizen but you have been impacted and you need some help you can come down to
37:31 the Kay Ceniceros Senior Center on Fridays and we provide weekend meal packs. So that's two lunches and a breakfast to any individual that needs
37:39 food help. And also, we're even partnering as a Menifee Community Cupboard, they're over there over in Sun City in the Cherry Hills Plaza and
37:47 through a grant with the city they have available five thousand pounds of food for those that are most in need. So contact them, Menifee Valley Community Cupboard
37:54 If you need any other services please call our service line, that is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5
38:00 p.m. We have all the information on how to prequalify for all these meal programs and we also have information
38:06 for all the food programs that the schools are providing. So if you're not sure which school has food or what days
38:12 they are providing, give us a call. And we also have a lot of other service lines available for... if you're a veteran in the city or if you need assistance
38:20 connecting with economic development on some of the small business programs. We have all that information so please call that service line
38:27 Next slide please Michelle? Also I noticed that in the chat there is a few questions about; "Are parks open? Can we even go outside?". So for a while the park
38:37 parking lots were closed. There was an order that was released early last week that permitted us to open those back up
38:43 So you are permitted to go out to the park and get some exercise. You can hike, bike, ride your horse, run, and walk. But please don't use... don't have any contact
38:57 sports. So don't... no soccer, football, things like that. You can do pickleball, tennis, things where you can maintain
39:03 social distance. And also no group activities or gatherings. So people like to have parties and go to the picnic shelters,
39:11 we're asking people not to do that. I know that's a little bit of a bummer, my son for example has his birthday on
39:16 Friday, May 1st. And so we're gonna keep... um, stay at home and not go to the park and do that. Also we're advising people
39:22 to stay off the fitness equipment and the play structures because we... um, it's very hard to maintain those. When someone uses it, then the next person uses it... So we
39:33 just advise everyone to stay off of those things. And then we're also keeping the restrooms closed for the same
39:37 reasons. And so remember when you're using the parks, maintain that social distance and try to keep six feet apart
39:42 Next slide please, Michelle. Then also I know most people are staying at home and because we're not providing our regular
39:51 events and programs are wondering; "...what can I do?". Well we've also, as Cheryl has done, went virtual. So there's a virtual
39:59 Kinesis Department page. We have activities for all different ages, all through pre-k toddler all the way to senior citizens. Like I mentioned I have
40:08 two kids at home, they're trying to figure out... we're trying to figure out what to do with them so I selfishly use this as
40:13 well. And so we try to do... post on social media where we have different activities going on every other day. Whether it be a
40:19 scavenger hunt or art and crafts. And we're also doing weekly videos through virtual CSD, where we have recommendations. You can kind of follow
40:27 along, and we're doing some live stream videos as well. Where you can live stream in and follow along with instructor on some videos
40:34 And then coming pretty soon on Friday May 1st we're gonna have a full, um, uh...
40:39 a full calendar of activities for the month of May. So every single day we'll have a special activity that you can do
40:44 And we encourage you to follow us on hashtag virtual CSD (#virtualCSD). And that's all I have,
40:49 thank you very much, and have a good afternoon.
40:55 Gina Gonzalez, Economic Development Director: Next slide. Good afternoon my name is Gina Gonzalez, Economic Development Director
41:00 for the wonderful, and the best city ever, city of Menifee! I wanted to jump right into this... uh, what our team and the city
41:08 has been doing for some of our businesses and our programs and what's available to our business community.
41:13 Thought it was extremely important to start off with our unemployment rate and what came out from EDD for the month of March
41:20 Right now we're looking about 5.3 percent unemployment for our community. How does that relate to the state of
41:29 California? State of California, I mean overall we're looking at about just over a million in unemployment
41:36 filers. And then for the United States it's just over 26 million. In relation to where Menifee was previously to the
41:46 month of March, we were study right around 3.7 percent, and we were steadily declining. As we really have been
41:53 building up the industry within the city of Menifee we saw a lot of businesses coming online
41:59 We had 53 new medical businesses that came to the city, so we've started to see a decline in our overall unemployment
42:08 numbers. And then you'll see a snapshot of what our annual averages were looking. So, you know, I believe when we really saw
42:17 this number that came out last month we did anticipate it to be much larger than what came out. But who knows what it's
42:25 gonna look like in the months ahead. Now with... especially with the latest order that just came out, so, we're going to
42:31 continue to monitor that as well. Next slide. So one of the things that we have been doing from the very beginning is
42:40 we've been looking at benchmarks and have been pushing out our economic survey to our local businesses. We are
42:47 about to release our third one. And we really wanted to see, from the very beginning... and kind of benchmark as we go along this together, uh,
42:56 where we are with our business community and then what what the needs are as we've gone along. Um, obviously everybody needs financial
43:04 assistance, but what other things can we also do to help them along this process
43:08 So just from face value (at this point in time), from the first survey to the second survey, what we've uncovered was most of
43:18 the businesses are lost from zero to $50,000 as of right now. And then when we look at the overall impacts... What are
43:27 they looking at, what are they saying? Is it just the financial, is it just the closure? So maybe it's not the finances,
43:32 is it the cancellation of the events and group gatherings? So those really make up the top 3% or the top three categories
43:38 for our overall businesses. So as you see, obviously without a doubt, 60% of them right off the bat it's the financial
43:46 hardship. Then about close to 50% it's the temporary closures and then a close third, obviously, is the cancellation of
43:54 the events our gathering. So that's the population, that's the people that are coming to visit their actual stores.
43:59 All of our brick and mortars, a lot of folks that now don't have the normal clientele that they normally would.
44:07 So what we do is we take this information, and this is actually drilled down even further for us. But this is... like I said, just wanted
44:14 to give you a little snapshot of what folks were saying right now. But we take the information and then what we do is
44:19 we turn it into resources that we'll provide from our local businesses and we'll touch on that in just a moment. Next slide
44:24 So, for... overall for our department we were really pushing on the attraction, and we were still doing retention, but
44:33 there was more of a heavy weight on the attraction side. Being a new city close, to 12 years old, you know a lot of the
44:41 construction we see is new. We don't have as much built out to where we're concentrating on some of the older
44:48 cities like Temecula and so forth. Where they're really concentrating on retention efforts, so this is a very
44:54 different time that we're in, even as a new city and we're really switching... or, shifting gears to more of relying
45:00 on the retention efforts. Trying to retain our existing businesses locally, and then still not not pushing away completely from the
45:09 attraction side, because we're still building and growing and thriving as a new city. But we are realizing that we
45:15 are having to really pull up the bootstraps with our retention efforts and trying to support our local
45:21 businesses here to keep them. Next slide
45:27 So this is just a snapshot. A lot of folks don't really quite understand exactly what economic development does,
45:33 and so this is just a snapshot of all the programs and activities and things that come out of our department. From our
45:40 normal business attraction, retention, expansion, and strategies, and efforts. But, the job creation... we provide ombudsmen
45:47 services. acuity issue resolution, consulting from marketing to processing within the city, access to capital,
45:54 networking opportunities (making those connections), we have a business spotlight program... um, we have a business setup program,
46:01 our shop local programs, and Menifee Masters. The list goes on and on.
46:06 We do reach out to... um, we have three conferences that we do... um, NCICSE. We have our mayor's roundtables that really
46:15 connects with our industries that we're trying to build. And then we also have job expos, and job fairs, and quick pitches
46:22 And, there's a lot of programs and activities that are geared towards really helping our business community thrive and grow here locally.
46:34 The ones that have a B3 next to it, that's our Building Better Businesses program, our B3 program... And those are our retention
46:40 program for the city. Next slide
46:47 So this is a little bit more with that B3 program that I wanted to touch base on. One of them directly is the SBDC. We
46:54 do house the SBDC locally, that's a free tool for our local businesses that we partner up directly with that's funded
47:02 through the SBA. We've had that program for quite some time, but we really are bolstering that program locally for our
47:09 business community. Again that's a free resource to our businesses and that can... 3B, from marketing to business plans to actually...
47:16 to fill out the applications to loans. And then actually working with you on some of the details for those loan
47:22 applications and where that is in the process... Um we overall, with Covid-19, have increased the assistance to our local
47:30 business community. One of the efforts that we've been able to roll out was this Menifee cares disaster recovery
47:35 initiative in conjunction with our local Chamber of Commerce. The Menifee cares website; https://www.menifeebusiness.com/menifee-cares/
47:45 This has all of your resource information for businesses and individuals. And it really is a one-stop
47:52 location for online resources and it's a clearinghouse for all of our businesses and residents to find information
48:00 summaries in a very easy format. To understand exactly what's out there. From veterans, to students, to education... You
48:10 name it it's on there. And we're... it's going to be continually being added information as more starts to be
48:17 uncovered. And coming out, as we start to enter this fourth round of assistance through the federal government, as well
48:24 We've also pushed out a MeniFREEwards program. This MeniFREEwards program was a way to support those businesses
48:31 that, if you remember, when this first came out a lot of folks weren't even... they weren't even visiting our local
48:37 shops that were considered essential. So this was a way that we were trying to entice residents to safely visit and
48:47 support our businesses locally. And it was a way to actively and quickly
48:52 respond to assist those, and it's been very successful. And we just wanted to
48:56 thank all of our residents for your support to our businesses. And I know they tremendously appreciate that, so,
49:03 thank you again for going above and beyond for our businesses. Um, with that, the city has pushed out some businesses...
49:11 business licensing relief. We've extended the business license applications. They were due in January we've extended it to
49:19 the end of June to provide some relief.
49:23 The last thing we want them to worry about us their licensing. As we're all working our way through this process, together
49:29 Oh, again, John mentioned our senior meals but he's also has been working diligently with a lot of our local
49:37 Menifee eateries. And while the governor's coming out with that eatery program we've done that since the very
49:43 beginning of Covid-19 and have been working with our local eateries and providing them some relief through our
49:51 senior meals program as well. Again I mentioned our Ombudsman services, if it's helping our businesses fill out
49:57 applications directly or connecting them, that's what we're here for
50:01 We're very happy and excited to assist our businesses. Um, again I mentioned the
50:06 SBDC, that's our one-on-one personal consulting that we have. It's completely
50:11 free, no strings attached. You really need to exercise and use that. And if you have never spoken to Carla Gonzales or Paul [inaudible]
50:21 you're really missing out there, you know, they have a world of information that they're just willing to share
50:26 So... I've said, you know, reach out to SBDC, Carla Gonzales... or just connect with
50:32 myself Kayla or Joel in our department and we'll be more than happy to connect you. We did put together a small business
50:40 toolkit, and that's an easy handbook that literally lists out every single resource available for employees, and
50:49 employers, and even individuals. And any type of resource that's available to them in an easy handbook provided to you
50:58 So it's downloadable, that's on https://www.menifeebusiness.com/ or our Corona, excuse me,
51:04 virus... um Covid-19 website. And you'll see a link there that says downloadable resources. If you click that you'll see
51:13 all of our resources, and pamphlets, and brochures, and toolkits available right in one location for you
51:22 Additionally; we've worked on policies for develop... development projects such as timeline extensions, bridge loans, and then also we've put
51:31 together an essential business list and mapping tool. That's also located on the website, to assist our community.
51:38 We have marketing publication ads, you name it we've done it. Covid-19 community resource guide. Hopefully all
51:45 of you that are residents received that. If you did not we have some available, that will be outside of City Hall, and a
51:53 couple other locations within the city (including the Chamber of Commerce). But, that's a 20 page guide with all sorts of information and we'll cover it in just a minute
52:01 Plaza outreach... We've done business support outreach from day one. The very first week when all of this occurred we
52:07 were out there knocking on the doors and windows of our businesses. Really, to provide resource information to them
52:14 from the very beginning to make sure that they had the tools that they needed to be successful. And then, the last thing
52:21 I wanted to mention was we have been regionally collaborating. Every single week we meet with all of our cohorts in
52:27 economic development from the surrounding cities, and including the county
52:30 And we have really created a task force for best practices and ways to really bolster our region through Covid-19
52:40 And there's some great things that are on the horizon out of this group. And so I just wanted to thank all of my
52:47 colleagues in the neighboring cities for their work together. Next slide?
52:55 Even again, this is just a snapshot of some of those tools that I mentioned that is in the downloadable resources that are
53:01 available to you. And then again, we have the SBDC webinar calendar where all of the free workshops and webinars that are
53:10 available to you to help your business. Or maybe you're just learning and trying to get into a new business amid
53:15 everything that's happening. There are some free workshops that are available to you and there's a schedule that's
53:20 available on our website or at https://www.menifeebusiness.com/
53:28 Next slide. And this was that resource guide that I mentioned that we did put out that has resources for employees, individuals, curbside. We even went so far
53:37 as to working with some of our local eateries and restaurants that, we went looking for deals for you to encourage
53:42 them to go and above and beyond what they were already offering... that they could offer our Menifee community
53:48 And then also, as John mentioned, there's virtual CSD information. There's some information on utility assistance and
53:54 support for... there's information for seniors, um, a little bit of everything
53:57 So again, if you don't have that it's also downloadable on our coronavirus website; Menifee Business
54:04 You name it we've pushed it out. You can always find it on our social media platforms. We're sprinkling the town with
54:10 that. Next slide? Again there's, uh, multiple ways that you can connect with the city. We do have... we'd love to push out our
54:20 official app. It's the best way to report issues, services, concerns. Use our app for that. We also do publish out our
54:30 Economic Development eNewsletter (which is quarterly), our Citywide newsletter, our Focus Senior newsletter, our Menifee Matters
54:36 publication, and then we just did the Resource Guide... Social media platforms, and again those are our two websites
54:43 CityofMenifee.us and MenifeeBusiness.com and then again, please follow us on all of our social media platforms. From LinkedIn to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
54:55 You name it, we have it, thanks! Next slide
55:02 Thank you very much
55:12 Sarah Manwaring, City Clerk: Good afternoon my name is Sarah Manwaring, I am the city clerk. Due to the orders
55:19 from federal, state, and county levels prohibiting the public from physically attending public meetings the city has
55:27 provided for virtual meetings and modified public participation
55:32 Next slide please
55:35 The City Council has a couple of special meetings coming up on May 13 and 14 with a regular meeting scheduled for May 20th
55:45 And then all of the meetings and regular meetings in June will be held for City Council. All the Planning Commission
55:55 regular meetings will be held in both May and June. Agendas are posted on our website, as usual. Next slide please?
56:05 The public can submit a comment [via email] to be read by the clerk during the meeting at publiccomments@cityofmenifee.us
56:13 You can watch the meeting on your computer or personal device at the RingCentral link provided or you can join by phone using the phone number and
56:24 ID number provided. Please note that this meeting ID is different from previously published meetings and - this is to ensure proper security and protection
56:37 from inappropriate interference. The meeting ID has changed and will be changed on a regular basis. This meet...
56:47 Meeting ID picture... pictured here, will be in place for all the legislative body meetings through the end of June
56:58 So be sure to confirm meeting access information on each meeting agenda. To access the links and for more
57:05 information on how to participate in public meetings you can visit the virtual city clerk services under the
57:12 virtual City Hall page on the city's website. Thank you, that is the end of my update
57:21 Jeff Wyman, Assistant City Manager: Okay well thank you very much. I just want to say, on behalf of the city of Menifee,
57:29 thank you again for joining us for this community update. I hope you found the information that we provided was helpful. If you have any questions
57:36 please know that we're available to assist you in any way we can. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our city
57:43 staff. The contact information for today's presenters is on the slide there's, up right now, so please feel free
57:51 to reach out to any of them at any time. At this time that is the end of our community update, and again thank you
57:59 very much for joining us. Hope you have a great and safe day.
58:09 Unidentified Speaker: So Jeff, before we ask the community to ask us questions I'd like to clarify a point. I'm started I...
58:14 Started to see a lot of social media feeds about the confusion the difference between the governor's order and the
58:23 County Health official order. And I know that we did indicate that the county of Riverside Health Office are extending the
58:32 order to June 19th. That is not to be confused with the stay at home order that the governor has placed. I think the
58:43 governor laid out a plan to move into phase 2 of that, over the next couple of weeks. What... what the... what the clinical
58:52 application is that the county's order deals with the public gatherings and the the issue of wearing protective masks
59:02 and social distancing. So that will remain in place until June 19th. The... the... stay at home order, it is very likely
59:12 that in the next couple of weeks that may change. In which case the it would apply also to the county rule.
59:20 So if you were concerned that you needed to stay home to the 16th, that's not what the county order is telling us to do
59:28 Anyways, so in case you have a question about that, I wanted to clarify that
59:32 Thank you
59:38 Jeff Wyman, Assistant City Manager: Okay, and that... that ends our community update for the day
59:46 Unidentified Speaker: So I know... I know that maybe Gina and and/or Michelle you had... I'm looking at a couple of things that are input, and they're questions from the audience?
59:57 Jeff Wyman, Assistant City Manager: We had we had put forth a... an email address for questions that were to be provided as of 5:00 p.m. yesterday
60:09 And I guess we did not receive any questions, at the time.
60:17 Gina Gonzales: We did receive five through this chat that have been answered. There was one about building permits, about walking into City Hall... that was answered today. There was one
60:26 regarding tracks in... within the parks that John answered today as well. And, let me go
60:32 through all of them for you. Face coverings, exercising outdoors... And, we did answer that as well. That they are able
60:41 to remove face coverings while exercising, walking, running, and biking. Per the new orders that just came out
60:48 today. And then there was questions about how many residents were within the city of Menifee; just about 95,000
60:56 And you don't want me to go on my soapbox about how wonderful in our growth.
61:01 And then there was a question of how many people live in Riverside County and there's
61:06 about 3.5 million. And then, it asked for clarification; "...city having the right to reopen once the county health officer
61:16 has created this shutdown order. Is the city's hands tied?"... And that's correct, the
61:23 county is the jurisdiction over putting the orders on all the cities within the county. And that's all I show in the Q&A
61:36 I see it looks like more questions are continuing to come in... But we also got to thank you for today's information. I have since a
61:52 comments not questions but we... And we got a thank-you. Correct, yes. Somebody else, um
62:07 regarding; "...do we just sit around until the governor decides there's no dates at
62:11 all in this plan, and then family parties are basically canceled". Thank you. "Thank you", another "thank you". Correct, and that...
62:28 three more thank-yous... And then there's one more; "Will seating for restaurants be
62:34 off until June 19th". It's a question. So, I believe the answer is yes under the current orders, unless they're lifted
62:51 Correct. And if they modify them for the rest of us, yes correct. and we're also asking (being asked) if the
63:03 slides that we've shown will be available on the website. So Tony to
63:10 answer your questions. We will we will publish this and then we will publish
63:15 the presentation as well, and I will send it directly to you Tony. And then there's a question that they're
63:25 going to be arrested for non-compliance. I don't know if lieutenant Stens wanted to take that one
63:45 I'm sorry Bill we couldn't really hear you, can you repeat that?
63:48 Bill Stens: As of right now, that we arrest anybody for non-compliance with those orders. However we strongly suggest that people do abide by them because the close
64:00 contact is what's causing this to spread. And there's many people out there that
64:05 may not be showing symptoms and that is what's causing the concern, was this lack of knowing that they have. It... so it's important that we keep our distance
64:16 [Music]
64:20 Gina Gonzales: Thank you Bill. Okay, let's see... Yes, so
64:35 there was a question, uh, regarding about the masks and exercising on today's publication. So that literally came out
64:43 just before this webinar but on the https://cityofmenifee.us/604/Coronavirus-COVID-19
64:51 website you'll see helpful links. You click on, helpful links. And it breaks it down by all the orders. The
64:57 latest order has already been uploaded. There it is, the social gathering order that has been amended, as well as the the outdoor golfing
65:13 order that was amended. So both of them us have been refreshed and those are available on that website if you email
65:23 me directly I can send it to you if you're having trouble and it's; G
65:27 Gonzales at city of Menifee dot US, and I'll be more than happy, Linda, to send you that link
65:42 So, mmm, there was a question about enforcement but I think we already answered that. And I think, unless there's
66:03 any more... You're welcome Matt, thank you for tuning in. We did just get another one Gina... Sorry I just got a question
66:15 asking if we'll be reaching out to local restaurants this week to discuss their
66:19 concerns about continuing closures. Gina Gonzales: We've been in contact with our local restaurants regarding the continuing closures and we we have had our hands
66:35 pretty tied. Just... As much we want our businesses to open, just as much as everyone else does, it does impact our
66:41 ability to provide services as well so... And one more question after that came in;
66:53 did I miss the small business update? Think there was a slight update but, do you want to respond? Gina Gonzales: Yeah there was...
67:03 There's more than a few slides on the small business update. As far as one
67:08 about the impact surveys that we've been doing, and we continue to do, but we also
67:12 have our B3 for retention efforts. That's our building better businesses. We're also working with the chamber to provide
67:19 resources. We have resource guides, resource materials, we have Ombudsman services, we have a partnership with SPDC
67:28 that we're doing direct consulting one-on-one to provide the necessary assistance for each of our local businesses, no matter the size, small or large. And then if anybody has any questions, if that hasn't been answered,
67:44 or if you're having trouble (regardless of the question) please just email me; G Gonzales at City of Menifee dot US
67:53 It's on the screen as we speak and we're available and
67:56 like to stay we're beyond the eight to five 24/7... Emailed me at 8:00 at night to the morning. I'll answer you trust me
68:02 Test me out, and that goes for the previous question about the continuing
68:08 closures for restaurants that goes across the board. Thank You Gina
68:11 Yeah, and there's a question about hair salons open according to the governor's office... That is his stage three to his plans and so unless the state comes out
68:24 reducing from, you know, stage one to stage three. That's where that is within
68:30 his overall plan for hair salons and nail salons. So even if the county goes into a stage two based off of the state
68:39 of California, hair salons is still in a stage three so we feel your pain but... He did, the governor did put it into his
68:54 release that he's looking at weeks away, not months away, to get to the next stages so we're hopeful that it'll be sooner rather than later
69:01 [Music]
69:12 Any other questions? We just got another thank you, and that's all I see so far
69:32 Don't think we have any more coming in. And thank you to all the kind comments we got a thank-you from. and if you 24/7 and we've got a great job to staff
69:51 [Music]
69:53 I think that wraps it up unless there's any more? All right
69:58 Well we don't have any more comments coming in then we will wrap it up and again thank you very much for joining us
70:04 And again hopefully this information will be helpful to you. And reach out to us if you have any additional questions, we're always here to help
70:16 Thank you very much good night! Thank you
70:19 [Music]
00:00 [Music]
00:08 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Riverside County's latest health guideline is stay in place, maintain your space, and (the new addition) cover your face
00:15 to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The goal is to create a face covering from material you already have, like a scarf or bandanna, and allow medical professionals access to masks.
00:26 In Riverside County the face covering directive is now an order. On Sunday, April fifth the county's public information team
00:32 explained the necessity of upgrading the onetime recommendation to an official order.
00:37 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: A couple days ago Dr Cameron Kaiser, the public health officer for the county of riverside recommended the facial coverings
00:46 Now Jose as of, I believe yesterday evening, it is now in order, right? To have, anytime you leave the house for an essential item you must be covering your face.
00:55 Jose Arballo, Senior Public Information Specialist: Right, and... and that... that... that order was issued as yesterday or last night and Dr Kaiser,
01:02 as you said it was a recommendation before, but we feel really strongly as you see the numbers are growing. We needed to do something very stark to... to show that residents needed to do more
01:13 So, yes, whenever you leave to do essential travel, such as going to the grocery store, getting gas, going to the pharmacy.
01:22 We ask that you wear a mask. Now it's an order, and again, it's more of a a thing. You wear facial coverings.
01:29 It could be a bandanna, it could be a homemade mask. Just so you go like that. What we're... what we're trying not to do is...
01:36 You know, and law enforcement as they feel is appropriate can take whatever action that they see fit. The idea isn't to get people arrested, it isn't to get citations, the idea is to get enforcement
01:48 We want people to understand how important this is, and... How if we're going to flatten the curve, we need to do this.
01:55 It's... it can be frustrating. Oh, I really want to go to like, walk my dog around the neighbourhood. We really want you to try and... and...
02:02 and understand that, we're not doing this because we like it. We're doing it because we're trying to save lives. Dr Kaiser is out there trying to show the community how important this is
02:13 Pep Fernandez, RivCoTV: Complying with the order is simple. Even if you don't have a bandana or scarf we're going to show you how to make a face cover out of an old T. shirt
02:20 And now that schools are out of session, this is a great activity to get kids involved in. T-shirts come in all sizes, just like
02:28 the person wearing the face covering. While an adult shirt is likely a great fit for a full size person, it could be too big for a child
02:34 Which makes using one of their old shirts the perfect solution. We've enlisted some youngsters to demonstrate just how
02:40 easy it is to make a t-shirt face covering. All you have to do is cut near the upper middle of the shirt near the base of the
02:46 sleeve, you'll do this at the top section too. Once these first cuts have been made you'll be left with a long rectangle of
02:52 material. From there all you'll do is cut a large C shape at each end. Once that's complete you're left with four tieing straps
03:00 Tie up the top two straps behind your ears and then pull the bottom straps up and over before tying them to insure the mask
03:06 covers both your mouth and nose. This trend has caught on all over the world, as this how-to guide popped up in the Czech Republic
03:14 No matter where you are, the concept is the same. Stay in place, maintain your space, and cover your face
03:16 [Music]
00:03 Good evening I'm Bill Zimmerman, the mayor for the city of Menifee. Today is Monday, it's March 16th and please note that this is the most current
00:11 information at this time, as we may receive new mandates in the days ahead. Now my council colleagues and I wanted
00:18 to provide the residents of Menifee a few updates on Covid-19, also known as the coronavirus, and what the city of
00:25 Menifee has been doing behind the scenes about it and what resources are available for residents and businesses
00:31 And we've seen the TV news updates, and you're probably asking; "What's happening in Menifee? And who do I call if I have
00:38 questions or if I want to volunteer to help?". As of today there have been zero confirmed cases of coronavirus here in
00:46 Menifee and that is great news. Over the weekend we've noticed residents being neighbourly to each other and many
00:54 helpful acts of kindness on social media. This is what makes Menifee so special. And to those people we want to say thank you
01:02 Now if you know of an elderly person or someone in need, will you give them a call? Ask them if they need anything
01:09 You know you can offer to drop off a meal or a box of essentials on the front door. It's the people, those who are kind,
01:16 compassionate. You're the ones that make Menifee special. So how do we keep Menifee healthy? We know that the County
01:23 Public Health Department has issued school closures and has directed us to postpone events where people are
01:28 gathered together. These moves were exercises, mere precautions, to keep us healthy. While the precautions are
01:35 uncomfortable they're necessary. The additional guidelines issued by Governor Newsom yesterday call for deep
01:42 social distancing. He asked those at risk to temporarily self quarantine themselves except to obtain essential
01:49 items like food, and medicine, and care. So for general information or resources related to the coronavirus the
01:56 Department of Public Health is asking that you please start by calling the county information line; 2-1-1
02:03 The city is developing a partnership with our local churches and our community-based organizations. We've set up an
02:09 information phone number that you can call for questions for resources and assistance. And that number is (951) 672-9673
02:17 We are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 5:00 p.m. to assist Menifee
02:26 residents with advice. Now my council colleagues and I, we're going to continue to look for additional ways to serve you
02:33 Also, we've been communicating with our local grocers and we've been encouraging them to consider establishing
02:39 opportunities for our seniors and our vulnerable residents. We're keeping our business community in mind as well,
02:46 we know our restaurants are seeing a reduction in visitations, and that's understandable
02:53 However, all of us can support our local businesses using home delivery services and ordering takeout from those local eateries
03:01 The state is also making resources available to businesses like their rapid response services, tax assistance, work sharing
03:09 programs, and by utilizing services of the Employment Development Department. Now please check EDD.ca.gov for more
03:19 information on that. Now our team is going to be going to our various businesses here in town and we're
03:27 checking up on them and we're providing them with direct information to help them. So if you're unable to work because
03:33 you're caring for an ill or a quarantined family member, the state has announced that it's going to provide up
03:39 to six weeks of benefits to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wage. For those with children, if you
03:48 have to miss work or if you have to be there for them you may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.
03:54 Please contact EDD.ca.gov for more information on these services. What should we do if we feel ill?
04:04 It's a question we get asked a lot. The best thing to do is to call your doctor or your primary care physician
04:10 They're going to ask you questions over the phone, they're going to provide advice on whether to remain home or if you should come in for an exam
04:15 Please reserve those hospital emergency rooms for people who have real emergencies
04:24 Also our local medical centers have asked that we hold off on visiting our friends that are in the hospital. We want to continue to encourage everyone
04:31 to visit one central location for online information here in Menifee. Our general social media posts can be inaccurate
04:39 sometimes or sometimes there's just hearsay out there. But the city's Facebook page and the city website which
04:47 is http://www.cityofmenifee.us/coronavirus has the most up-to-date information. Along with frequently asked
04:58 questions, employee and employer resources, and protective measures to take. The city's Emergency Operations
05:05 team has prepared an emergency response plan and has been monitoring the issue with agency partners, including Riverside
05:12 County Department of Public Health, which serves as the lead agency. Now as of today our City Hall remains open. We're
05:20 conducting regular business, our public safety personnel are on the job, and they're serving you
05:27 We receive regular updates from federal, state, and county emergency management staff, the Center for Disease Control,
05:34 and all health agencies to bring you the most current and necessary information. It's our city's priority that our residents are healthy, that our families
05:43 stay protected, and the quality of life that we invested in remain secure. When we hear the word pandemic or we watch
05:50 the TV news it's easy to feel anxious and even begin to panic. But most of us just want to be healthy and obtain the
05:58 essential items that we need for our families and that can be done without unnecessary hysteria
06:05 As we work through this together I call on each of you to reach within, check on your neighbors, and call your family
06:12 And your friends, and see what their needs are and take care of each other
06:16 On behalf of the entire City Council, thank You Menifee. Thank you for being a
06:21 community of kindness, consideration, and strength
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