Ventura, CA – In the City of Ventura, the health and safety of our residents is a priority. It is with careful thought and planning that the City has declared a local Health Emergency in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The declaration allows critical services and operations to continue while reinforcing best practices identified by the CDC and County Health Officials.
This declaration does not relate to any illness within City limits, it is simply a tool to enable the City to coordinate an effective response and allow for access to state and federal funds.
Based on recent recommendations from the State and local health officials, we want to provide you with the following updates connected with City services.
Emergency Services
Police and Fire services continue uninterrupted. Police Officers and Fire Fighters are prepared to respond as needed.
Food Services
- Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) is providing drive-up and walk-up meal service for children ages 1-18 at six locations throughout the District. More information can be found on VUSD’s website at: venturausd.org.
- Congregate and home delivered meal services offered through the Ventura Avenue Adult Center will be modified to ensure social distancing practices are followed. More information regarding these modifications will be provided early next week.
- The City will also be engaging with our local community partners on how to address the needs of those most vulnerable in our community.
Business Interruptions
- The U.S. Small Business Administration has provided information for employers and businesses on how to plan and respond to the coronavirus. This information, as well as details on the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, can be found at: https://www.sba.gov/page/guidance-businesses-employers-plan-respond-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19.
- The City’s Economic Development Office will also be working closely with regional and community partners on resources for our local businesses and employers.
Impacts to Daily Life
Regarding the current guidance from Governor Newsom and the CDC, Mayor Matt LaVere said, “The severity of the impacts to our everyday lives due to the coronavirus is felt by all. These measures reduce potential spreading and help protect our City’s most vulnerable residents. We will be working with all of our community partners to figure out how to best provide the services our residents depend on.”
City Services & Facilities
Social distancing practices are being implemented at City facilities that remain open. Community members seeking City services are encouraged to use email, online, or telephone methods to communicate their need for services.
Open City Facilities:
- City Hall
- Sanjon Maintenance Yard
Closed City Facilities (March 16-20):
- Barranca Vista Center
- Ventura Avenue Adult Center
- Ventura Aquatic Center
- Westpark Community Center
City Sponsored Public Meetings
All City sponsored public meetings from March 16-20 will be rescheduled.
City Sponsored Events
All City sponsored gatherings of more than 250 people will be rescheduled.
We will continue to work closely with County Health Officials. As new decisions are made, we will update you as quickly as possible.
In an email briefing to the City Council and Executive Team, City Manager Alex McIntyre acknowledged that the situation is constantly evolving and will require City leadership to adapt, stating “we (the city) will do what we think is the right thing”.
We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to continue following the CDC’s recommendations on practicing good hygiene and social distancing to reduce the spread of the virus and preserve the resources of the health care system. These recommendations include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid going to work or participating in programs and events when you are sick. If you are ill, stay home.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
- Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces.
For the latest updates on impacts to City of Ventura services and facilities, please visit: www.cityofventura.ca.gov.
For the latest updates on the situation in Ventura County, please visit www.vcemergency.com.
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