Full Notification

Hello Petaluma!

We’ve made it through another week of social distancing and continue to be impressed by our compassionate community.  Not only are we adhering to Shelter-in-Place guidelines to keep ourselves and our neighbors safe, we are finding new ways to stay connected and support each other through this uncertain time.  Now, more than ever, we are #PetalumaProud.

As we head into what looks to be a rainy weekend, we’d like to share some fun indoor activities along with information on the new Shelter-in-Place order, data on ways we’re flattening the curve (it’s really working!), updates on property taxes, vacation rentals, and more!  We hope you enjoy today’s update and that you have a wonderful weekend, safe at home.

**UPDATE TO YESTERDAY’S NOTICE ABOUT VIRTUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING**

Please refer to the updated information below about our first virtual City Council meeting this coming Monday, April 6.  The link has changed since our communication yesterday.  Meeting participation DOES NOT require registration.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Council meeting starts at 6:45 P.M. and you can view the meeting agenda here: April 6 City Council Meeting Agenda

To watch and/or participate LIVE, please use this link to join the teleconference meeting: https://zoom.us/j/413761820

Another way to participate is to submit your comments by e-mail to the City Clerk: [email protected] up to 2 hours prior to the meeting start (April 6, 2020 at 4:45 pm).  The Clerk will read public comments at the City Council meeting, not to exceed three minutes (approximately 350 words).

We will continue to explore new creative and effective ways to participate remotely and thank you for your patience as we refine this process.

Details can be found at https://cityofpetaluma.org/meetings/

FUN THINGS TO DO WHEN IT’S RAINING

Looking for some fun indoor activities this rainy weekend?  The new Virtual Rec Center has some great things to choose from!  Head over to https://cityofpetaluma.org/indoor-activities-during-shelter-at-home/ and check out some fun ways to be active at home.  They have a large variety of options for the whole family.  Here are a couple we can’t wait to try:

• National Academy of Athletics
• Sonoma County Regional Library eResources
• Brain Games for Dogs
• Online Stories with Storyline

TIPS FOR GROCERY SHOPPING

A simple trip to the grocery store isn’t feeling quite so simple these days.  This is likely one of the few places we are physically interacting with others during this unusual time, so it is very important to keep safety in mind.  Below are some tips from the County of Sonoma on ways to stay safe when shopping:

• Take disinfectant with you. This could be a commercial wipe, a hand sanitizer or a homemade disinfectant.  Clean your hands and the cart when you begin and when you finish shopping.
• Consider having only one shopper from a household. Ask you neighbors that may find it difficult to get to the grocery store if you can shop for them and drop off.

For more information, visit: SoCoEmergency.org.

THE NEW ORDER – WHAT IS DIFFERENT?

As you know, earlier this week a new Shelter-in-Place Order was issued.  Though much is essentially the same, the new Order differs from the original in some significant ways.  The County of Sonoma has created a document that clearly outlines these differences, breaking down information into categories for Healthcare, Business, Construction, Tourism, and even a category for guidelines that apply to everyone.  Take a look and share with your friends!  CLICK HERE to view the document.

ESSENTIAL BUSINESS SOCIAL DISTANCING PROTOCOL

The County of Sonoma has extended the Shelter-in-Place to May 3.  In addition, effective April 3, 2020, all essential businesses must now comply with social distancing protocols defined in the extended Health Order.  This is important information if you are an Essential Business owner or employee.  Updated FAQ’s and the social distancing protocol can be found at SoCoEmergency.org – please take a look today!

PROPERTY TAX WAIVERS

The second installment of the 2019-2020 Annual Secured property tax bill was due by February 1st and will become delinquent if not paid by April 10th.  However, after April 10th, the County Tax Collector will consider written requests for penalty waiver due to the COVID-19 emergency on a case-by-case basis.  For questions and cash customers who are unable to pay by other means, please contact the Tax Collection staff by email at [email protected].

VACATION RENTALS

Our beautiful Petaluma is a favorite among travelers, especially during these beautiful spring months.  However, per the County of Sonoma, vacation rentals are not allowed to operate for tourism during this time.  However, there are still ways for vacation rental owners to generate some revenue, all while helping fellow Petalumans!  Vacation rentals may be converted to month-to-month rentals to provide shelter for community members.  For more information, please visit: SoCoEmergency.org

MODELING DATA SHOWS IF WE KEEP STAYING HOME, WE WILL KEEP FLATTENING THE CURVE

The County of Sonoma has been studying the impact of our social distancing efforts on slowing the spread of the COVID-19 locally.  They’ve learned that sheltering in place, social distancing, and other mitigation measures are flattening the coronavirus curve in Sonoma County.  The data reinforces the importance of sheltering in place. For more details, watch the recorded press conference video here: https://socoemergency.org/april-2nd-county-officials-virtual-press-conference/

A MESSAGE FROM PETALUMA CHIEF OF POLICE, KEN SAVANO

Please take a few moments to listen to this important video update about COVID-19 in our community from Petaluma Police Chief, Ken Savano.