2020/12/15 City Council Agenda Packet"We Care for Our Residents by Working Together to
Build a Better Community for Today and Tomorrow."
ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL, ROHNERT PARK FINANCING AUTHORITY (RPFA),
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL MEETING
will be held on Tuesday December 15, 2020
Open Session: 1:00 P.M.
* COVID-19 NOTICE *
Consistent with Executive Orders No. N-25-20 and No. N-29-20 from the Executive Department of
the State of California and the Sonoma County Health Official’s March 17, 2020 and March 31, 2020
Shelter in Place Orders, this City Council Special Meeting will not be physically open to the public
and City Councilmembers will be teleconferencing into the meeting via Zoom Video Communications
software.
How to observe the Meeting:
To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the
public can observe the meeting on Cable Channel 26 or by visiting meeting central on our website
https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/city_council/meeting_central
How to submit Public Comment:
Members of the public may provide public comment by sending comments to the Clerk by email at
publiccomment@rpcity.org Comments are requested by 10:00 a.m. on the day of the meeting, but can
be emailed until the close of the Agenda Item for which the comment is submitted. Email comments
must identify the Agenda Item Number in the subject line of the email and should be a maximum of
350 words, which corresponds to approximately 3 minutes of speaking time. The comments will be
read for the record, with a maximum allowance of 30 minutes of total public comments, subject to the
Mayor’s discretion. If a comment is received after the agenda item is heard but before the close of the
meeting, the comment will still be included as a part of the record of the meeting but will not be read
for the record or considered in connection with the agenda item.
American Disability Act Accommodations:
Any member of the public who needs accommodations should email the ADA Coordinator at
vperrault@rpcity.org or by calling 707-588-2221. The ADA Coordinator will use their best efforts to
provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as possible while also
maintaining public safety in accordance with the City procedure for resolving reasonable
accommodation requests. Information about reasonable accommodations is available on the City
website at
https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/departments/human_resources/a_d_a_and_accessibility_resources
City Council/RPFA agendas and minutes may be viewed at the City's website: www.rpcity.org.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: Council/RPFA may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed
on this agenda. If you challenge decisions of the City Council or the Rohnert Park Financing Authority
of the City of Rohnert Park in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone
else raised at public hearing(s) described in this agenda, or in written correspondence delivered to the
City of Rohnert Park at, or prior to the public hearing(s).
RIGHT TO APPEAL: Judicial review of any city administrative decision pursuant to Code of Civil
Procedure Section 1094.5 may be had only if a petition is filed with the court no later than the deadlines
specified in Section 1094.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, which generally limits the time
within which the decision may be challenged to the 90th day following the date that the decision
becomes final.
SIMULTANEOUS MEETING COMPENSATION DISCLOSURE (Government Code Section
54952.3): Members of the City Council receive no additional compensation as a result of convening this
special meeting of the City Council and the Rohnert Park Financing Authority.
1. CITY COUNCIL/RPFA/SUCCESSOR AGENCY JOINT REGULAR MEETING -
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
(Adams_____Linares_____Stafford_____Elward_____Giudice_____)
2. RECESS TO ROHNERT PARK FOUNDATION BOARD SPECIAL MEETING
3. DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION REGARDING CITY’S RECOVERY RESPONSE TO
NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
A. Verbal Staff Report
B. Public Comments
C. Council discussion/direction
4. ADJOURNMENT
NOTE: Time shown for any particular matter on the agenda is an estimate only. Matters may be
considered earlier or later than the time indicated depending on the pace at which the meeting
proceeds. If you wish to speak on an item under discussion by the Council which appears on this
agenda, after receiving recognition from the Mayor, please walk to the rostrum and state your name
and address for the record. Any item raised by a member of the public which is not on the agenda and
may require Council action shall be automatically referred to staff for investigation and disposition
which may include placing on a future agenda. If the item is deemed to be an emergency or the need to
take action arose after posting of the agenda within the meaning of Government Code S ection
54954.2(b), Council is entitled to discuss the matter to determine if it is an emergency item under said
Government Code and may take action thereon.
AGENDA REPORTS & DOCUMENTS: Electronic copies of all staff reports and documents subject
to disclo sure that relate to each item of business referred to on the agenda are available for public
inspection on https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/city_council/meeting_central Any writ ings or
documents subject to disclosure that are provided to all, or a majority of all, of the members of the
City Council regarding any item on this agenda after the agenda has been distributed will also be
made available for inspection on our website following the day of the meeting.
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Sylvia Lopez Cuevas, City Clerk for the City of Rohnert Park, declare that the foregoing agenda was
posted and available for review on December 14th, 2020 at Rohnert Park City Hall, 130 Avram Avenue,
Rohnert Park, California 94928. The agenda is also available on the City web site at www.rpcity.org
Executed this December 14th, 2020 at Rohnert Park, California.
Sylvia Lopez Cuevas
Office of the City Clerk
1
Meet ing Date: December 15, 2020
Department Administration
Submitted By: Darrin Jenkins, City Manager
Prepared By: Don Schwartz, Assistant City Manager
Agenda Title: CITY’S RECOVERY RESPONSE TO NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Receive report on COVID Emergency including recent shutdown effective on Saturday, December 12,
2020. Provide direction regarding City’s response to COVID Emergency.
BACKGROUND:
Since the emergence of COVID-19 in Sonoma County in March of this year, all levels of government
–Federal, state, and local – have engaged in a wide variety of responses to mitigate the spread of the
virus and to provide economic and other support to those who have been impacted.
Recent developments have exacerbated the challenges posed by the virus. Healthcare facilities and
providers are strained, many businesses are closed or operating under strict limitations, and some
forms of financial support have already expired and others will soon expire without further Federal
action.
Earlier this year the Federal government approved the CARES Act, which provided substantial funding
to address COVID. This included funds to businesses so that they could retain rather than lay off
employees, as well as enhanced unemployment benefits. In addition the CARES Act included funding
for states to distribute to local governments. California provided approximately $50 million to Sonoma
County and $500,000 to Rohnert Park. As of this writing it is unclear if the Federal government will
increase its funding, or the levels at which it might do so.
This report outlines resources that are currently available to Rohnert Park businesses and residents.
Support for Residents: Attachment 1 summarizes resources available for residents, the status of City
efforts, and some options for additional actions.
To add some context regarding support for residents, California typically delivers most health and
social services through counties. Counties provide some services directly, and some through non-
profits organizations. Rohnert Park lacks the comprehensive non-profits available in most of Sonoma
County, so instead we rely on non-profits largely based in Santa Rosa and Petaluma. The most
significant City socia l service is through our Senior Center.
One of the keys to serving residents is ensuring that they have informat ion on services. We share
information on our website, promoting services on social media, and send information to community
partners such as the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District and churches for further distribution.
The most comprehensive source of information is 211, a website and telephone service providing a
Mission Statement
“We Care for Our Residents by Working Together to Build a
Better Community for Today and Tomorrow.”
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Supplemental Item 3
2
variety of information on available services; we provide Rohnert Park-specific information to 211 to
ensure the information that they have is current. The County also has extensive information on
resources at SoCoEmergency.org.
Support for Businesses: The City has supported local businesses in numerous ways, outlined below
and with additional detail in Attachment 2.
a.On March 26, 2020, staff implemented an early response measure to temporarily “relax”
certain Sign Code regulations, specifically pertaining to “flag” and “feather” type signs;
portable signs; banners; and vehicle signs. The City also fabricated a number of portable signs
and freely made them available to businesses upon request. These temporary measures –
combined with an intentional reduction in sign enforcement overall – were intended to benefit
retail businesses by affording them additional opportunities to communicate with potential
customers, and to similarly help the public in locating businesses which were actually open
during the uncertain first days and weeks of the shelter-in-place order. This response measure
currently remains open-ended, and will be evaluated periodically to determine an appropriate
end date;
b.Starting on March 23, 2020 and continuing to the present, staff created a series of nearly 50
public media “ads” providing the community with up-to-date informational resource materials
for marketing, financial relief and technical assistance, copies of which are included in
Attachment 2;
c.Participated in the creation of the ShopRP website (https://shoprp.org/) and marketing
campaign: a joint project between the City of Rohnert Park and The Rohnert Park Chamber of
Commerce, providing the public with a one-stop resource to discover businesses within our
local community;
d.Created of a dedicated and staffed a phone number, email address, and webpage for Recovery
communications;
e.Mailed post cards to over 2,600 businesses, conducted an extensive telephone outreach
campaign and commenced a needs survey of Rohnert Park businesses. Staff also created an e-
contact database of nearly 700 local business email addresses;
f.Starting on July 21, 2020 and continuing to the present, staff built upon the initial social media
outreach effort by sending out a series of newsletters – 17 issues to date – which reach nearly
700 local businesses. Copies of these business newsletters are also included in Attachment 2;
g. Created a streamlined Temporary Use Permit (TUP) process to facilitate business’ use of
outdoor spaces for dining and other services. Subsequently, staff refunded fees paid by
businesses for these permits, and, for the duration of the pandemic, waived fees entirely for
future applications;
h.Ongoing coordination with the County’s Economic Development Board (EDB), Rohnert Park
Chamber of Commerce, the Latino Alliance, the Small Business Development Committee, and
the Sonoma County Economic Recovery Steering Committee, with an emphasis on
dissemination of information and organization of efforts;
i.Providing ongoing education and resource-based assistance to businesses in understanding and
complying with limits on their operations created by State and County Health Orders. These
include such things as guidance on the number of customers allowed in a store, the use of
outside tents for restaurants, etc. When necessary to preserve the public health and safety, this
can include enforcement of the health orders.
3
In the course of staff’s continuing efforts, staff received encouraging feedback from local businesses
regarding their successful pursuit of the PPP loan program – many of whom attributed their awareness
of the program to the City’s information campaign. The US Treasury Department’s website shows that
between 400 and 500 Rohnert Park businesses received $16.3 million in PPP loans. Lastly, information
obtained through the County Economic Development Board shows that 32 businesses received
$145,000 through Sonoma County’s Small Business Stabilization Grants Program.
Building upon these actions, staff continues to stay abreast of current events to maintain up-to-date
informational resources for those that continue to need them. Looking forward as the City navigates
the still-evolving pandemic environment, Code Compliance staff seeks to integrate many of these
Recovery functions in order to assist economic development efforts. A long-term goal of the division is
to practice innovation in maintaining and improving the relationships enjoyed by the City, Code
Compliance, our local and regional partners, and our diverse business communities.
Latino Outreach: The virus has disproportionately affected the Latino community in Rohnert Park.
Thus, there are some focused efforts for this population. These include the County’s funding of the
CURA (COVID Urgent Response and Aid) project, which offers targeted outreach to the Latino and
indigenous populations, as well as referrals to testing and financial support summarized in Attachment
1. The City partners with the CURA project by sharing information when they provide it to us.
The County also provid es translated messages and social media materials which we can use. We
translate materials that we develop and distribute, including most of our posts on social media. We do
not translat e materials developed by others.
COVID-19 Update: Sonoma County and Rohnert Park are experiencing a dramatic surge in COVID-
19 infections. Data from the beginning of December shows that Sonoma County is seeing the highest
rates of new cases since the August surge.
The County implemented a Stay-at-Home Order on December 12, 2020. The Stay-at-Home Order
follows the guidelines of the State’s Regional Stay-Home-Order, which prohibits gatherings with
members of other households and requires individuals to stay at their place of residence, except as
necessary to conduct essential activities. The Stay-at-Home Order will remain in place until at least
January 9.
Attachment 3 summarizes recent information on COVID-19 trends in Sonoma County and Rohnert
Park.
OPTIONS CONSIDERED:
1.Recommended Option: Staff recommends continuing to promote available resources offered by
non-profits and the County via City website, social media, e-mails, and other channels and
continuing to support businesses by providing information on restrictions and assistance in
meeting such requirements.
2.Alternative: The Council may want to direct additional actions to support the community due to
the recent shutdown. Staff is available to discuss potential additional actions with the Council
if there is interest.
Department Head Approval Date: N/A
Finance Director Approval Date: N/A
4
City Attorney Approval Date: N/A
City Manager Approval Date: December 14, 2020
Attachments:
1.Resources for Residents
2.Resources for Businesses
3.COVID-19 Update
Category Currently Available Current City Efforts
Food Redwood Empire Food Bank provides food at numerous locations in
Rohnert Park and also distributes to affordable housing complexes.
Publicize availability on City
website
Council on Aging Weekly distributions on Wednesdays at Senior
Center from 9:30 -11:30. For qualified applicants, home meal
delivery available.
NOAH – Neighbors Organized Against Hunger Distribution 2-3 times
per month, schedule available at https://www.noahfoodpantry.org/
Cotati Rohnert Park Unified School District December 16th will be
the last day of service for 2020, and will be giving a 7-day meal kit
which includes breakfast and lunch to each child.
Meal distribution will resume on January 4, 2021.
Housing and Rent Support CARES Rental Assistance for low-income renters and landlords is
available through Petaluma People Services Center (PPSC); funding is
expected to run out by Dec. 31. Provides up to 6 months of assistance
or $6,000, including back rent and utilities. Must demonstrate need is
due to COVID. Has served 34 Rohnert Park residents.
Homeless Prevention City funded contract with
Catholic Charities; $30,000
will serve 15 households
that must demonstrate the
hardship/loss of income is
COVID-19 related.
9 households served; 6
have eligibility pending
Season of Sharing Temporary financial assistance with housing costs
and critical needs.
Emotional Support Sonoma County Warm Line: provides mental health professionals via
phone 7 days/week from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Category Currently Available Current City Efforts
Wellness Calls. Offering wellness phone checks to any senior who
would like to be called during the shelter-in-place order.
Provided by City
Tenant Protection /
Eviction
Eviction defense ordinance approved by Board of Supervisors
prohibits evictions due to non-payment of rent and demonstrate
COVID-19 related hardship. Rent is not forgiven, but landlords must
work with tenants on payments.
Legal Aid of Sonoma County Resources available in English and
Spanish to inform tenants and landlords about the new eviction
protection law
Testing Burton Avenue Recreation Center twice/week
City provides facility
Publicize on City website
Utilities Water/Sewer Not shutting off water service for lack of payment at
this time
No late fees
Managed by City
Garbage Service Low income households in Rohnert Park may be
eligible for a 15% discount on their Recology bill.
Discounts are funded by
City
Salvation Army Assistance to pay water, electric, and other utility
bills.
Other financial assistance Through CURA project, the County funds $1,216 in payments to
Latinx and indigenous residents who test positive and cannot afford
to miss work.
Publicizing with targeted
outreach to Latinx
population
Isolation assistance The County funds the costs of isolating or quarantining residents who
do not have alternatives for isolation.
Publicizing with targeted
outreach to Latinx
population
Immigrant Resources California Human Development State funded relief to
undocumented adults who are ineligible for other forms of
assistance.
Publicizing with targeted
outreach to Latinx
population
Attachment 2, Page 1
Attachment 2 – Resources for Businesses
Release Date Item Type Subject Attachment
Page(s)
March 23, 2020 Social Media Ad Business Assistance Resources 3
March 26, 2020 Social Media Ad Announcement – Relaxing the Sign Code 4
March 31, 2020 Social Media Ad Banking – FAQ’s 5
March 31, 2020 Social Media Ad Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – FAQ’s 6,7
March 31, 2020 Social Media Ad Small Business Debt Relief – FAQ’s 8
April 1, 2020 Social Media Ad Borrower Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
Application 9,10,11,12
April 1, 2020 Social Media Ad Additional information about the PPP 13
April 2, 2020 Mass Mailing “Business Survival Guide” Postcard (sent to 2,641
recipients) 14
April 3, 2020 Social Media Ad Information on Participating PPP Lenders
(Bilingual) 15
April 3, 2020 Social Media Ad Access to local banks (English) 16
April 3, 2020 Social Media Ad Access to local banks (Spanish) 17
April 5, 2020 Social Media Ad Public Service Advisory re: Face Covering 18
April 6, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Stimulus Checks (English) 19
April 6, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Stimulus Checks (Spanish) 20
April 6, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Direct Deposit of Stimulus
Payments (Bilingual) 21
April 7, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Job Loss Assistance (English) 22
April 7, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Job Loss Assistance (Spanish) 23
April 13, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Relief Payments (English) 24
April 13, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Relief Payments (Spanish) 24
April 14, 2020 Social Media Ad Graphic for Businesses re: masking, social
distancing (English) 25
April 14, 2020 Social Media Ad Graphic for Businesses re: masking, social
distancing (Spanish) 26
April 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Business Rules Graphic (Spanish) 27
April 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Business Rules Graphic (English) 28
April 17, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Small Business Grant Fund
(English) 29
April 17, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Small Business Grant Fund
(Spanish) 29
April 20, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: PPP Applications 30
April 20, 2020 Social Media Ad Grocery Store Guidance for use of Reusable Bags 31
April 22, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Documents Needed for PPP
Applications 32
May 4, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: SBA Financing Webinar Series
(English) 33
May 4, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: SBA Financing Webinar Series
(Spanish) 34
May 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Businesses that can Reopen
(English) 35
Attachment 2, Page 2
Release Date Item Type Subject Attachment
Page(s)
May 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Businesses that can Reopen
(Spanish) 36
May 20, 2020 Social Media Ad Request to take a Survey 37
May 21, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: NorCal Small Business
Development Center 38
June 3, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Safe Business Self-Certification
(Bilingual) 39
June 12, 2020 Mass Mailing Mayor’s Invitation to Participate in E-Contact
Program (English) 40
June 12, 2020 Mass Mailing Mayor’s Invitation to Participate in E-Contact
Program (Spanish) 41
June 12, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: SOCO COVID-19 Check App 42
June 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Legal Aid of Sonoma County 43
June 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Public Utilities Commission Relief
Programs 44
June 15, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Reopening Businesses 45
June 19, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Community Development
Financial Institutions Lender Matching Tool 46
July 6, 2020 Social Media Ad Information re: Extension of PPP Application
Deadline 47
July 21, 2020 Newsletter Business Resource Newsletter 48
July 27, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Newsletter 49
August 7, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 50
August 13, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 51
August 20, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 52
August 25, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 53
September 1, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 54
September 9, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 55
September 24, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 56
September 28, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 57
October 14, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 58
October 20, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 59
November 13, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 60
December 2, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 61
December 4, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 62
December 11, 2020 Newsletter Business Recovery Update 63,64
Attachment 2, Page 3
Published
March 23, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 4
Published
March 26, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 5
Published
March 31, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 6
Published
March 31, 2020
(two pages)
Attachment 2, Page 7
Attachment 2, Page 8
Published
March 31, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 9
Published
April 1, 2020
(four pages)
Attachment 2, Page 10
Attachment 2, Page 11
Attachment 2, Page 12
Attachment 2, Page 13
Published
April 1, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 14
Mass Mailing
April 2, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 15
Published
April 3, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 16
Published
April 3, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 17
Published
April 3, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 18
Published
April 5, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 19
Published
April 6, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 20
Published
April 6, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 21
Published
April 6, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 22
Published
April 7, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 23
Published
April 7, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 24
Published
April 13, 2020
Published
April 13, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 25
Published
April 14, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 26
Published
April 14, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 27
Published
April 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 28
Published
April 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 29
Published
April 17, 2020
Published
April 17, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 30
Published
April 20, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 31
Published
April 20, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 32
Published
April 22, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 33
Published
May 4, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 34
Published
May 4, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 35
Published
May 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 36
Published
May 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 37
Published
May 20, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 38
Published
May 21, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 39
Published
June 3, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 40
Mass Mailing
June 12, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 41
Mass Mailing
June 12, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 42
Published
June 12, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 43
Published
June 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 44
Published
June 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 45
Published
June 15, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 46
Published
June 19, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 47
Published
July 6, 2020
Attachment 2, Page 48
Published
July 21, 2020
Business Resource Newsletter Update 7.21.20
You are receiving this newsletter update because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency Business e-Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send time-
sensitive or important information. We appreciate our partnership with the Rohnert Park
business community and are here to assist you. We can be reached at 707-588-2290 or via email
at recover@rpcity.org. Please also see our business resource page at www.rpcity.org/resources.
Effective July 13, 2020 Governor Newsom ordered that specific businesses on the county
monitoring list must close immediately to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This order applies to
all hair salons, barber shops and personal care services (including nail salons, esthetic salons,
and electrology offices) that are within the monitored counties. A list of impacted counties
around the state is available here: https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap-counties/
On July 20, 2020 the California Department of Public Health issued guidelines for how barbering
and cosmetology services can be offered safely outside. The guidelines allow the OPTION for
services to be done outside. The guidelines are available here: https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-
guidance/#top
The Department of Consumer Affairs and the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology also issued
information regarding outside services. The information is available
here: https://www.barbercosmo.ca.gov/licensees/salon_reopen.shtml.
A checklist for operating outside is available
here: https://www.barbercosmo.ca.gov/forms_pubs/outside_checklist.pdf
Please review all information prior to starting any outdoor services.
We appreciate your patience and understanding during this difficult time. The City of Rohnert
Park is committed to supplying its residents and businesses with accurate and up to date
information on COVID-19 guidance and resources. Additional information is available at the
Sonoma County Economic Development Board Coronavirus Business Resource
Guide: http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Coronavirus-Business-Resources/
Attachment 2, Page 49
Published
July 27, 2020
Business Recovery Newsletter Update 7.27.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency Business e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send
important or time-sensitive information. We appreciate our partnership with the Rohnert
Park business community and are here to assist you. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email
at recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our business resource page at
www.rpcity.org/resources.
Good afternoon Rohnert Park Business Community, here is the Business Recovery Newsletter
Update for Monday, July 27, 2020. This information is intended to help you keep your safety
plan up to date and accurate.
The Sonoma County Health Officer requires all business to create a social distancing protocol
and COVID-19 site-specific protection plan to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and keep
businesses open. Complete the steps below to reopen your business:
• Check state guidance for your industry here:
o https://bit.ly/2WGyqfg
• Create a plan following Appendix A of Health Order C-19-15, more information here:
o https://bit.ly/3jmTilB
• Self-certify your business with Sonoma Safe, more information here:
o https://bit.ly/3eHbWAZ
• Review and distribute your business protection plan with your employees.
• Post your Appendix A plan and your Sonoma Safe self-certification in your business
where it is accessible to the public and employees.
Be sure to contact the City of Rohnert Park for additional compliance guidelines and permits
for reopening and expanding services. We are here to support you! We can be reached at
707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org. We will continue to distribute information
and guidance from the County and from the State as it becomes available.
Attachment 2, Page 50
Published
August 7, 2020
Business Recovery Update 8.6.2020
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency Business e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send
important or time-sensitive information. We appreciate our partnership with the Rohnert
Park business community and are here to assist you. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email
at recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our business resource page at
www.rpcity.org/resources.
The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors today released new guidance regarding COVID-19
health orders and enforcement.
COVID-19 is still spreading in our community. The difficult reality is that cases are high and
hospital capacity is low. All members of the community must wear a face covering when in
public and refrain from gathering in large groups. Sonoma County businesses and residents
found to be in violation of the public health order may be subject to a fine. Enforcement
efforts will be conducted through Code Enforcement as opposed to Law Enforcement. These
new enforcement measures are intended to encourage safe behavior. To file a complaint, call
1-833-SAFE707 or email safe707@sonoma-county.org. To learn more, please visit
socoemergency.org.
For more information on the Sonoma County Public Health Order and Enforcement Guidelines
please visit the socoemergency.org urgency ordinance website, here:
https://socoemergency.org/urgency-ordinance-authorizing-enforcement-of-covid-19-health-
orders/
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with accurate
information and will send updates related to COVID-19 and business recovery options as they
become available. Stay safe, make good choices and take care of each other.
Attachment 2, Page 51
Published
August 13, 2020
Business Recovery Update 8.13.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency Business e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send
important or time-sensitive information. We appreciate our partnership with the Rohnert
Park business community and are here to assist you. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email
at recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our business resource page
www.rpcity.org/resources.
On August 6th, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors authorized administrative
enforcement of health orders related to COVID-19. The graphic below summarizes mask
requirements and penalties for non-compliance and is designed for printing and display in
your business.
For more information on the Urgency Ordinance and administrative enforcement please visit
the SoCo Emergency site:
https://socoemergency.org/urgency-ordinance-authorizing-enforcement-of-covid-19-health-
orders/
You can also contact the City of Rohnert Park via email at recover@rpcity.org or by calling
707-588-2290. Stay safe, make good choices, and take care of each other.
Attachment 2, Page 52
Published
August 20, 2020
Business Recovery Update 8.20.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency Business e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send
important or time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at
recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our business resource page rpcity.org/resources.
Mark your calendars! On Wednesday, August 26th the Sonoma County Economic Recovery
Steering Committee is hosting two economic recovery town hall webinars. The first is
scheduled for 12:00 pm. The second meeting is scheduled for 6:00 pm. Your participation
will help create an impactful recovery strategy in Sonoma County. Advance questions may be
sent to EconRecovery@sonoma-county.org. These town hall meetings will be facilitated by
BJ Bischoff, Bischoff Performance Improvement Consulting.
Register for the 12:00 pm (noon) town hall at this website:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JkMyItzDRCGPiqiPtRV4Dw
Register for the 6:00 pm town hall at this website:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WzALS3wySGGGela8e4GuuA
Marque sus calendarios! El Comite Directivo de Recuperacion Economica lo invita a
participar en la Asamblea de Recuperacion Economica. La informacion recabada en esta
Asamblea sera utilizada para coordinar una estragia de recuperacion economica de largo
plazo. Las preguntas y comentarios pueden ser enviadas por adelantado a
EconRecovery@sonoma-county.org. Facilitado por BJ Bischoff, Bischoff Performance
Improvement Consulting.
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its businesses and residents with accurate
information and will send updates as they become available. Be safe, make good choices and
take care of each other.
Attachment 2, Page 53
Published
Aug 25, 2020
Business Recovery Update 8.25.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org.
Please also visit our business resource
page https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery
The Sonoma County Economic Development Board has compiled a list of resources for
businesses that have been affected by the 2020 LNU Lightning Complex Fires, available at
this website: http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Business-Recovery-Tools/
Due to impacts on the region from the current fires, the Economic Recovery Town Hall
scheduled for Wednesday (tomorrow) August 26th has been postponed. EDB hopes to have a
new date soon.
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with accurate
information and will provide updates as they become available. Stay safe, make good choices
and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 54
Published
September 1, 2020
Business Recovery Update 9.1.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org.
Please also visit our business resource page
at https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery.
On Monday August 31, 2020 the State issued new guidance for barber shops, malls and hair
salons. The latest state guidelines for these and other businesses may be found at this
website: https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/.
Additionally, on August 31, the State released its revised Blueprint for a Safer Economy
which outlines business operations based on tiers of virus spread by county. The full report is
available at this website: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-
19/COVID19CountyMonitoringOverview.aspx.
The Sonoma County Economic Development Board ha s developed graphics, in English and
Spanish that summarize and explain the State Blueprint for a Safer Economy. These are
shown below:
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its businesses and residents with
accurate, current information and will send updates as they become available. Stay safe,
make good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 55
Published
September 9, 2020
Business Recovery Update 9.9.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency c-Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org.
Please also be sure to visit our Business Resource page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery
Updates & Events Around the County
The Sonoma County Economic Development Board's Economic Recovery Listening Session
has been rescheduled to September 17th. There is a session at 12 pm (noon) and another
session at 6 pm. Register online at http://sonomaedb.org/Business-
Assistance/Coronavirus/SoCo-Launch/
Updates & Events Around the State
The California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development puts out a regular
Go-Biz newsletter with important statewide updates.
You can subscribe here: https://business.ca.gov/gobiz-newsletter-signup/
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its businesses and residents with
accurate, current information and will send updates as they become available. Stay safe,
make good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 56
Published
September 24, 2020
Business Recovery Update 9.24.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time and will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org.
Please also be sure to visit our Business Recovery page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery.
City Updates
Temporary Use Permit Refunds - the City of Rohnert Park is no longer charging for outdoor
service Temporary Use Permits. Refunds will be issued to all businesses and individuals who
applied.
Nail Salons Allowed to Operate Indoors - the State of California announced September 22
that nail salons may resume indoor operations with modifications. Please visit
https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/ for more information.
County Updates
Business Stabilization Grant Program - businesses with between 1 and 30 employees can
apply to the Sonoma County Economic Development Board for between $2,500 and
$15,000 in COVID-19 relief funds for payroll, utilities, rent or mortgage expenses. Visit
www.sonomaEDB.org or email EDBGrants@sonoma-county.org for more information.
Around the State
Nail Salons Allowed to Operate Indoors - Effective September 22, nail salons may open
indoors with modifications. Visit https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy for more
information.
Attachment 2, Page 57
Published
September 28, 2020
Business Recovery Update 9.28.2020
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at recover@rpcity.org.
Please also visit our Business Recovery page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery.
City
Upd
ates
Temporary Use Permits Refund - Last week, the City of Rohnert Park announced it is no
longer charging for outdoor service Temporary Use Permits. Refunds will be issued to all
individuals and businesses who applied.
County
Updates
Sonoma County COVID-19 Business Stabilization Grant Program - Businesses in Sonoma
County with between 1 and 30 employees can now apply for grants of between $2,500 and
$15,000 for COVID-19 relief funding to use towards expenses including payroll, utilities, rent
or mortgage. See the brochures below for more information and visit this URL to begin the
application: https://www.tfaforms.com/4854005
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with
accurate, timely information and will send updates as they become available. Stay safe,
make good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 58
Published
October 14, 2020
Business Recovery Update 10.14.2020
You have received this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time. We will only send important or
time-sensitive information. Please contact us at 707-588-2290 or via email at
recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our Business Recovery page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business/business_resources/business_recovery.
City Updates -
The City of Rohnert Park is partnering with the City of Petaluma's People Services Center to
provide information about financial assistance for low-income tenants and/or landlords.
The program provides up to six months of assistance to Sonoma County residents, or up to
$6,000 for rent or utility bills. Applicants must demonstrate that their inability to make
payments is related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program concludes December 30,
2020.
English and Spanish speaking applicants are invited to contact PPSC at
CARES@petalumapeople.org or by phone at 707-565-8488. More information about this
program is also available at the following social media links:
https://www.facebook.com/CityofRohnertPark/posts/3711438318880923
https://twitter.com/RohnertParkCity/status/1314644300286763013
County Updates -
The deadline for the Sonoma County Economic Development Board's Small Business Grant
Stabilization Program is 11:59 pm on Sunday, October 18th. This is right around the corner!
Don't miss out on the opportunity to apply for critical COVID-19 financial assistance. The
program is offering grants of between $2,500 and $15,000 for relief funds to use on payroll,
utilities, rent or mortgage expenses.
Visit the following URL to begin the application: https://www.tfaforms.com/4854005.
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing accurate, timely information to its
residents and businesses and will send updates as they become available. Stay safe, make
good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 59
Published
Oct 20, 2020
Business Recovery Update 10.20.20
You have received this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The city respects your time. We will only send important or
time-sensitive information. For more information or if you have questions please contact us
at 707-588-2290 or email recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our Business Recovery page
at https://www.rpcity.org/business_resources/business_recovery.
State Updates -
AB 685 is a new California law that requires employers to notify employees who may have
been exposed to COVID-19 and to report workplace outbreaks of COVID-19 to the local
health department. The California Department of Public Health has developed information
that summarizes and clarifies the information in the bill, and that information is available at
the following URLs:
Summary of
AB 685
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Employer-
Guidance-on-AB-685-Definitions.aspx#
FAQs https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Employer-
Questions-about-AB-685.aspx
County Updates -
New guidance has been issued today, October 20th, for the following business activities:
Personal Care Services https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-expanded-personal-care-
services--en.pdf
Family Entertainment
Centers
https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-family-entertainment--
en.pdf
Amusement Parks https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-amusement-theme-
parks--en.pdf
Contact us at recover@rpcity.org if you have any questions about the latest phased
reopening information. Please also reach out to the Economic Development Board of
Sonoma County: http://sonomaedb.org/Contact-Us/
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with
accurate, timely information and will provide updates as they become available. Stay safe,
make good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 60
Published
November 13, 2020
Business Recovery Update 11.13.2020
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's Emergency
Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send important or time-sensitive
information. If you have questions please contact us at 707-588-2290 or email recover@rpcity.o
Please also visit our Business Recovery page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business_resources/business_recovery
County Updates
Local businesses can play an important role in helping to prevent and mitigate the spread of COV
19 in our community. The Sonoma County Economic Development Board has published
recommendations for businesses to assist with COVID-19 testing for employees at the following
websites:
In English:
http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Coronavirus/Testing-Guidance-for-Businesses/
In Spanish:
http://sonomaedb.org/Business-Assistance/Coronavirus/Recomendaciones-de-pruebas-para-ne
Additionally, the COVID-19 Urgent Response and Aid (CURA) Project is a community-based
collaboration to help connect Latinx and Indigenous community members in Sonoma County
with needed resources to help recover from and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Businesses
may want to invite CURA to provide resources to their employees at their worksite.
Employees can also contact CURA directly by calling 707-309-8972 or by visiting the CURA
project website at: https://www.laplazancc.org/en/cura-project
State Updates
The latest risk levels by county and the status of various business activities around the state
are available at the following URL: https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with accurate,
timely information. Be safe, make good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 61
Published
December 2, 2020
Business Recovery Update 12.1.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send important
and/or time sensitive information. If you have questions please contact us at 707-588-2290
or email recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our Business Recovery page at
https://www.rpcity.org/business_resources/business_recovery
City Updates Rohnert Park businesses, we'd like to draw your attention to a couple resources you might
find helpful as we continue to wrestle with the virus.
First, attached are flyers regarding free local testing; please share this information frequently
with your employees and customers, and strongly encourage their participation. Related to
this, we will soon have information on testing that you may be able to arrange at your
location and will share that with you when it is available.
Second, the CURA (COVID-19 Urgent Response and Aid) Project is offering an on-site training
program known as CHARLA for employees and supervisors to support the highest level of
COVID-19 safety in the workplace. Developed with health care professionals, a CHARLA
session consists of:
• A 40 minute on-site orientation for workers on COVID-19 and how to take greater
responsibility for preventing the spread of the epidemic
• An online training of field supervisors to learn how to be watchful for signs or
symptoms of the virus and how to safeguard other works
• Assignment of a trained health care advocate who is regularly available to answer
any questions that designated supervisors may have
• Automated text messaging sent to employees and those with whom they live about
how to guard against the virus at home. (This is important because the spread of
COVID-19 occurs primarily in the home environment which can spread to the
worksite.
TIMING OF SESSIONS: 40-minute CHARLA sessions should be conducted with an audience of
no more than 20 employees at a time. It is possible to schedule multiple sessions in a day for
different worker shifts or multiple sessions in a week depending on your company's needs.
To schedule a session, you can contact Gabriel Sanders at 239-1958 or
gbsanders@laplazancc.org
Attachments available below:
get_tested_eng.jpg
get_tested_sp.jpg
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with
accurate, timely information and will send updates as they become available. Be safe, make
good choices and take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 62
Published
December 4, 2020
Business Recovery Update 12.4.20
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send important or
time sensitive information. If you have questions please contact us at 707-588-2290 or email
recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our Business Recovery page at:
http://cityofrohnertpark.hosted.civiclive.com/business/business_resources/business_recove
ry
State Updates
On November 30 the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new package of
temporary tax relief and $500 million in grants for businesses impacted by COVID-19. More
information on this important new aid package is available at the following website:
https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/11/30/governor-newsom-announces-immediate-assistance-for-
businesses-impacted-by-covid-19-including-temporary-tax-relief-and-500-million-in-grants/
Additionally, we wanted to make you aware of the California Rebuilding Fund. This is a
public-private partnership to address the financial needs of California's small businesses. This
program is built to serve the smallest of small businesses that make up an essential part of
California's economy. More information on the California Rebuilding Fund is available at the
following website:
https://www.ibank.ca.gov/small-business/california-
rebuilding-fund/
The City of Rohnert Park is committed to providing its residents and businesses with
accurate, timely information and will send updates on these important State initiatives as
they become available and as we learn more about them. Stay safe, make good choices and
take care of one another.
Attachment 2, Page 63
Published
December 11, 2020
Business Recovery Update 12.11.20
En Español Abajo
The information contained in this newsletter is available in Spanish by clicking on the below
link to the Sonoma County Economic Development Board's announcement:
https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Stay-at-Home-Order-Goes-into-
Effect.html?soid=1112524074693&aid=WTH13Blhqmc
You are receiving this newsletter because you are listed in the City of Rohnert Park's
Emergency e-Contact Database. The City respects your time and will only send important or
time-sensitive information. If you have any questions please contact us at 707-588-2290 or
email recover@rpcity.org. Please also visit our Business Recovery page.
Sonoma County Stay at Home Order
The State's Stay at Home Order goes into effect in Sonoma County on Saturday, December
12th, 2020 and will remain in effect unless it is extended, rescinded, superseded or
amended by the County Health Officer or State Public Health Officer.
What does this mean for local businesses?
Businesses that will be allowed to operate under the Stay at Home Order:
• Critical infrastructure
• Retail at maximum 20 percent capacity
• Restaurant (takeout and delivery only)
• Schools with waivers in place
Businesses that will be forced to close based on the Stay at Home Order:
• Hair salons and barbershops
• Personal care services
• Museums, zoos and aquariums
• Movie theaters (except drive-in)
• Wineries, bars, breweries and distilleries (with the exception of production,
manufacturing, distribution, and retail sale for off-site consumption)
• In-person dining
• Family entertainment centers
• Cardrooms and satellite wagering
• Limited services
• Life audience sports
• Amusement parks
More information and FAQs can be found on the State's website:
https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/
COVID-19 Business Relief Options The following programs and funds are available to businesses that have been impacted by
the COVID-19 outbreak and pandemic. Please be sure to carefully review each program to
determine whether they might be right for you.
Attachment 2, Page 64
Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)
• Reimbursement for paid leave costs related to COVID-19. Eligible businesses must
have fewer than 500 employees: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/ffcra
Small Business Relief Grant
• $500 million in grants will soon be available for small businesses in California. Sign up
at the following link to receive updates when the program officially
launches: https://business.ca.gov/osba-signup
Tax Relief & Extensions
• Taxpayers’ returns due between December 1, 2020 and April 30, 2021 will be
extended. More information is available
here: https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/services/covid19.htm
CURA Project, COVID-19 Urgent Response and Aid
• Community project delivering supportive services, healthcare navigation and
emergency financial assistance to Latinx and Indigenous residents of Sonoma County
most affected by COVID-19. More information is available
here: https://www.laplazancc.org/en/cura-project
City staff will be circulating through Rohnert Park next week and will be on hand to assist your
business in meeting the requirements specified in the County's and State's Stay at Home
Order. Stay safe, make good choices and take care of one another.
ATTACHMENT 3: COVID-19 UPDATE
Sonoma County is under a Regional Stay at Home Order and remains in the Widespread
Risk Level (Tier 1).
Sonoma County implemented a Regional Stay-at-Home Order that went into effect on Saturday,
December 12. The State’s requirement to trigger the Stay-at -Home Order is when a region’s
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) bed capacity falls to 15% or lower. On December 10, the Bay
Region’s (the region to which Sonoma County belongs) ICU capacity fell to 17.8%. Due to the
dramatic drop of ICU capacity in just a week, and Sonoma County hospitals’ concern to meet
treatment capacity under the local surge in cases, the Sonoma County Health Officer
implemented the Stay-at -Home Order ahead of the State trigger.
The order means that all residents should stay home except for essential work, errands, outdoor
religious activities, and outdoor recreation. Restrictions will remain in place until at least January
9, 2021. Table 1 below is a summary of what activities are allowed to continue and what must
cease:
ALLOWED TO CONTINUE REQUIRED TO CEASE
Retail operations at 20% except for
grocery stores, which will be at 35%
capacity
Hair salons and barbershops
Schools that have received waivers will
be allowed to continue operation.
Personal care services
Churches and other places of worship
can hold outdoor services.
Movie theaters (except for drive-in
theaters)
Restaurants allowed to offer takeout
and delivery.
Family entertainment centers
Gyms are outdoor / online. Museums, zoos and aquariums
Hotels, vacation rentals and other
lodging only allowed to serve those
traveling for essential work or for
COVID-19 mitigation efforts.
Wineries, bars, breweries and
distilleries (except for operations
related to production, manufacturing,
distribution and retail sales for off-site
consumption)
Playgrounds are open. Live audience sports
Amusement parks
Table 1: What You Can And Can’t Do Under Sonoma County’s New COVID-19 Stay-Home Order, Press Democrat, Dec 10, 2020
Sonoma County is also in the Widespread Risk Level, the State’s most restrictive level on
activities. Being in the Widespread, also called “Tier One” or “Purple Tier” level, requires many
non-essential business operations to be closed. At the end of November, Sonoma County had
applied to be moved to a lower risk tier, but the recent and dramatic spike in COVID cases in the
county puts Sonoma County firmly in the highest tier. Figure 1 below is State data reported on
December 8.
ATTACHMENT 3: COVID-19 UPDATE
Figure 1: Screenshot from California Blueprint, Dec 8, 2020
Sonoma County is experiencing a record spike in cases.
Figure 2 below illustrates new and total Sonoma County cases since March 2020. The County
saw its highest new daily case count of 343 on December 1. Since the beginning of December,
every day except one was reported to have a case rate higher than the average daily rate
experienced in the August surge. The worrisome trend suggests that the County may be at the
front crest of another surge, and it might perhaps be worst experienced so far.
ATTACHMENT 3: COVID-19 UPDATE
Figure 2: Screenshot from SoCoEmergency, Dec 12, 2020
Rohnert Park cases continue to rise.
Table 2 below is an update of Sonoma County and Rohnert Park cases since the Council received
the last City of Rohnert Park’s Response to Novel Coronavirus update on December 8, 2020.
Sonoma County Coronavirus Data Dashboard Nov 30
Last Report
Dec 12
This Week Change
Sonoma County Total Cases 12,190 14,475 +2,285 (+18.7%)
Rohnert Park Total Cases 967 1,196 +229 (+23.7%)
Rohnert Park Active Cases 186 285 +99 (+53.2%)
Table 2: Data from SoCoEmergency, Dec 8, 2020
ATTACHMENT 3: COVID-19 UPDATE
Since the last staff report, Rohnert Park’s new case rate has exceeded Sonoma County’s new case rate.
Not only are there more cases in Rohnert Park, but the active cases within the community have also
grown dramatically. The 99 new active cases in Rohnert Park since November 30 is a 53% increase in less
than two weeks. By zip code, the Rohnert Park region has Sonoma County’s tenth highest reported
active case rate.
It is important to note that surges typically follow two to three weeks after a seasonal event where
social gatherings increase (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Halloween). The data reported above is generally
one week after Thanksgiving; unfortunately the recent surge may not have fully captured the impacts of
the Thanksgiving holiday. The December increase may be the beginnings of the Thanksgiving impact,
with more surge in the weeks to come. Furthermore, the upcoming end-of-year holidays, along with
colder and wetter weather that drives activities indoors, present more opportunities for the virus to
spread during the season.
Rohnert Park should prepare for an extended shutdown.
Promisingly, Sonoma County is preparing for its first shipment of vaccines, which could turn the tide of
the COVID-19 pandemic. The national distribution of vaccines began December 14. Details for Sonoma
County’s vaccination effort is forthcoming.
Now, however, the community is experiencing a surge of infection. Mitigation measures need to remain
in place and be practiced. The current Stay-at-Home Order was imposed because the Health Officer
determined that the declining ICU bed capacity in the midst of a surge in infections warranted an
aggressive mitigation.
The shutdown is expected to be devastating to businesses, but the rise in infections suggest that the
trend continues to climb. And, given the opportunity for the virus to spread given holiday social
behavior, the surge may continue, ICU bed capacity could be further diminished, and the shutdown
could very well be extended past the January 9 target.
Rohnert Park Response to
COVID 19
December 15, 2020
Item 3 Power Point
Presentation
Highlights of COVID Response
•Federal
•CARES Act funded businesses to retain employees, enhanced unemployment benefits, and support for state responses
•State distributed some funds to counties; Sonoma County received $50 million
•City received $500,000; mostly paid for COVID-related staff expenses
•Enhanced unemployment benefits expire December 31
Resources for Residents:
Delivery of health/human services
•Counties: primary providers of health/human services in CA
•Receive substantial Federal & State funds for this purpose
•County delivers services with County staff and through non-profits
•Many cities have comprehensive non-profits; not Rohnert Park
•Key Information Hub: 211
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Food
•Redwood Empire Food Bank:
•Delivers to some affordable housing complexes
•Provides pick-up locations
•Gap in food delivery to quarantined/isolated residents
•Neighbors Organized Against Hunger/NOAH: 2-3 distributions
monthly
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Food
•Council on Aging
•Weekly pick up at Senior Center
•Home delivery option for some residents
•School District –weekly meal kits (suspended over holiday break)
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Housing
•CARES Rental Assistance (expires December 30) through PPSC
•Up to 6 months of assistance or $6,000, including back rent and utilities
•Homeless Prevention through Catholic Charities
•City allocated $30,000 in direct financial assistance to program
•Average assistance is $2,000 / household, including back rent and utilities
•Season of Sharing
•One-time financial assistance with housing and other critical needs
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Emotional Support
•City offers wellness checks (phone calls), targeted to seniors
•County offers phone access to mental health professionals daily
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Utilities
•City waives late payments for water/sewer bills
•City will not shut off water/sewer for non-payment
•City funds 15% rate discount for low-income residents available for
garbage bills
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Tenant protections
•Emergency ordinance prohibits evictions due to COVID hardships
•Rent not forgiven; landlords must work with tenants
•Legal Aid provides advice/assistance to landlords and tenants
Resources for residents:
COVID response: Testing and Follow Up
•Available twice/week at Burton
•If positive:
•$1,200 to miss work may be available
•Assistance in finding location for quarantine and isolation
Resources & Support for Businesses:
Signage and Permits
•Temporary “Relaxation” of the City’s Sign Code
•City Provided Temporary Signs
•Reduced Enforcement of Sign Code
•Streamlined City’s Temporary Use Permit (TUP) Process
•Facilitated outdoor dining and other services
•TUP Fees refunded/waived
Resources & Support for Businesses:
Information and Education
•Posted nearly 50 social media “ads”
•Post cards mailed to over 2,600 businesses
•Business e-Contact database created
•Dedicated phone, email address, and webpage created
•Published 17 Newsletters to date (an ongoing program)
•Staff field contacts
•Assisted in creation of ShopRP website (https://shoprp.org/)
Resources and Support for Businesses:
Coordination and Communication
•Assistance in meeting operating guidelines
•County Economic Development Board (EDB)
•Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce
•Latino Alliance
•Connecting businesses to resources
Outreach/communications
•Regular social media postings
•City website
•Featured topic on City homepage
•Resource sections for businesses and residents (emphasizing 211)
•Amplify messages through e-mail and flyers
•Cotati Rohnert Park School District
•Churches
•Re -starting Mayor’s videos
Latinx Outreach
•Translating:
•Social media postings
•e-mail and flyers that we produce
•Mayor’s videos
•Promoting the CURA project
•Targeting churches with high Latinx attendance
•County funded Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for limited door hanger effort
Questions, Discussion, and Direction