Resolution to the Governor
On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution to request permission from the state to move into Stage 3 of reopening. We took this step due to Placer County’s success at flattening the COVID-19 curve, the protocols we have in place, and the proactive efforts of the local business community to prepare for safely reopening.
The resolution asks for the state to allow reopening of Stage 3 businesses in Placer County such as nail salons, gyms, lodging for tourism and entertainment venues – with adaptations and limits on size of gatherings. It also requests that youth sports and programs be allowed to resume. Each of these types of businesses/services have been diligently working on their safe re-opening plans and we welcome the State’s guidance to ensure that they meet any other requirements. As I said at the Board meeting, large box stores are earning record-breaking profits since March, and yet many of our small business owners are in absolute financial crisis. It is imperative that they are able to reopen in a healthy and safe manner.
This past weekend marked the start of the summer season. In eastern Placer County, the US Forest Service opened some of its campgrounds and they were full immediately. Just across the state line, Nevada opened its lodging and was near capacity. Significant numbers of day visitors were using the trails, beaches, rivers and park areas throughout our county. We know that people are coming into and through our communities and yet our small lodging businesses are waiting for the State to give them a timeline to officially open for non-essential travel. Because the lodging industry is open in most other areas of the State, and successfully and safely following the State’s guidance, our small lodging would like the same opportunity.
Just because businesses are re-opening and using all the safety protocols recommended does not mean we can let our guard down. The virus will be part of our lives until and unless there is a vaccine. Each of us must take the steps necessary to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Each of us must choose how and when we want to dine out, or shop, or get our hair cut. Re-opening does not mean forgoing safety, but it does require each of us to make the best choices for ourselves.
In addition to our Stage 3 request, the Board of Supervisors also requested that the state release the estimated $40 million the county expects to receive in Federal funding provided through the CARES Act to reimburse and assist local agencies for certain costs of their COVID-19 responses. These federal resources will help Placer County continue to support services imperative to the safe reopening of our businesses.
Also on Tuesday, we passed an urgency ordinance that temporarily relaxes rules to support retail and restaurants in Placer County. This ordinance will allow retail stores and restaurants to utilize additional outdoor space to ensure safe physical distancing and also allow these establishments to display additional signage to customers. If you are a business that would like to know more, you can find additional details HERE.
As I remind you every week, please continue to be responsible as we reopen. We all still need to be maintaining physical distancing, wearing face masks, washing hands, and staying home when sick. COVID-19 testing sites are available in Roseville, Grass Valley, and Kings Beach with no cost to you- just make an appointment.
Please be safe as we head toward another weekend.
– Cindy Gustafson, District 5 Supervisor
Hair Salons and Barbershops Open with Guidance
Placer County’s health officer has approved reopening of hair salons and barbershops, as allowed by the California Department of Public Health on Tuesday, if they follow the state guidance. Learn more
Fill Out The 2020 Census
Make sure you are counted in the 2020 Census! Census workers are back out, with safety precautions, and leaving information at households. Many of these households are in rural areas where residents do not receive mail at their physical address. We know that this covers areas throughout District 5, so be on the lookout. More information on the Census can be found HERE.