April 27, 2020

Shelter In Place Order Extended Until the End of May

Today, Health Officer Dr Lisa Hernandez, along with Health Officers representing six Bay Area counties have announced an extension of the Shelter in Place Order that was originally slated to end on May 3rd. The updated Order extends the existing order to the end of May. This decision came after significant research and discussion amongst the region’s Public Health Departments, using science and data to guide their decision-making.

Some updates will also be provided in the Order that will have limited easing of specific restrictions for a small number of lower-risk activities. The language of the Order is being finalized right now, and will be released later this week. When published, this will be available on our city’s COVID-19 page.

The Bay Area has been successful in flattening the curve, but these efforts must continue over the coming month to ensure that the progress we have made is not lost. Hospitalizations have leveled, but lifting the restrictions too soon can easily result in a surge of new cases. Your patience and cooperation is greatly appreciated as we continue to protect the health and safety of our community.

First Berkeley Relief Fund Grants Awarded

Today, the first round of grants were awarded to Berkeley small businesses and arts organizations. Over $1.7 million will be distributed from the Berkeley Relief Fund, a new funding pool established by the City Council in mid-March to provide financial support to businesses impacted by the COVID-19 State of Emergency. Specifically, the first round of grants includes 352 Business Continuity Grant Awards totaling $965,999, and 47 Arts Organization Continuity Grant Awards totaling $790,445. Tenants, who are in danger of losing their housing due to loss of income, are accessing $1 Million from the Berkeley Relief Fund on a case by case basis.

While additional state and federal support is expected, timelines remain uncertain and businesses have been feeling the impacts for several weeks. It is our hope that with continued support from the community via donations to the Berkeley Relief Fund, we can gather enough funds to do a second round of funding.

Virtual Town Halls

On Saturday, I held a Virtual Town Hall with Berkeley City Auditor Jenny Wong, City Manager Dee Williams-Ridley and Public Health Officer Dr. Lisa Hernandez. Watch on YouTube

The next Virtual Town Hall will take place this Saturday, May 2 at 12 PM

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