The city stopped suggesting that certain types of businesses close and started insisting on it. The announcement:
To protect public safety and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Santa Barbara City Council adopted an emergency proclamation authorizing the City Administrator to take action necessary to respond to the local emergency. Council discussed ways to be proactive in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and minimizing economic loss by taking aggressive action in advance of many confirmed cases.
Council direction included closing bars, nightclubs, breweries, wineries, and tasting rooms, consistent with recent guidance from the California Department of Public Health. All restaurants and food facilities shall be prohibited from serving food for consumption on the premises. Food can continue to be prepared for delivery or take-out service. Several food facilities are exempt including grocery stores, pharmacies, food banks, and cafeterias and restaurants within hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and the airport. Farmer’s markets are also exempt but should follow guidance from the California Department of Public Health.
Movie theaters, live performance and entertainment venues, bowling, and arcades shall close to the public. In addition, gyms and fitness centers will also close. These emergency measures reduce the chances of transmitting the COVID-19 virus in enclosed spaces where people gather. These measures take effect on Wednesday, March 18 and will continue until Tuesday, April 7, at such time when Council can reassess conditions. […]
City offices continue to be staffed but many public counters will close to the public to limit interaction and ensure social distancing. For updates on City services, facility closures, and special instructions to pay bills, submit plans, and complete transactions, visit SantaBarbaraCA.gov.
Photo courtesy Wayfair.
Comment: