May 8, 2020
Colma Community,
It is important that our local communities understand that the regional Health Orders that took effect May 4 are still in effect. These orders – in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties and the City of Berkeley – still mandate that all residents shelter in place in their homes. Exceptions have been made for those working in construction, as well as limited outdoor activities such as landscaping and golf. The new order extends through May 31, 2020. As a reminder, the order also requires masks when in public and when entering a business; although if you are exercising outdoors, it is recommended not mandatory.
Health officers will continue working in collaboration with local elected officials, community and business leaders to find ways to reopen more businesses and activities safely, while sustaining the progress we have made to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. We appreciate that the Governor recognizes that California communities are impacted differently by coronavirus and can make decisions at the local level. In our current environment, if a county order differs from a state order, the more restrictive order takes precedence.
“Great Plates Delivered” Program for Seniors
The County of San Mateo has launched “Great Plates Delivered”; a program where older residents at high risk from COVID-19 can receive three nutritious meals per day delivered to their home from restaurants and other food providers across San Mateo County. Click here for more information.
New State of California Testing Locator Website Launched
Governor Gavin Newsom announced this week that California residents can locate COVID-19 testing sites throughout the state by utilizing the new tool to locate sites up to 100 miles from any zip code, city, or address that is inserted here.
The County of San Mateo is responsible for establishing testing centers in our County and is working to provide a mobile testing unit soon.
State Relief for Home/Business Owners and Workers’ Comp Benefits
This past Wednesday, Governor Newsom announced two executive orders that provide additional protections for home and small business owners and essential workers. The first order from the Governor’s announcement waives penalties on property tax payments made after the April 10 deadline. The other order extends eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits to workers who contact COVID-19 while working outside the home. This eligibility will extend back to March 19th, when the statewide stay at home order was issued.
Lastly, don’t forget to fill out the Census at www.my2020Census.gov! By doing so, you’re helping the Town obtain federal funds which will help schools, roads, and other public services.
Please remember the Town of Colma is here for you. We have set up a dedicated website, www.colma.ca.gov/covid-19/ which is updated often with new information and resources. If you need assistance for getting food, picking up of medications or general household supplies, or just need assistance with bringing your trash and recycle containers to the curb, please let us know. We can be reached at (650) 997-8300.
As a reminder, health officials continue to stress that staying home, frequent hand washing, and physical distancing are the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Sincerely,
John Irish Goodwin, Mayor
Town of Colma