Monday, June 8, 2020
Solano Bars, Indoor Dining Ordered Closed Due to COVID-19 Uptick
State officials have ordered all bars, dine-in restaurants and other recently opened businesses in Solano County to close immediately due to concern over recent increases in COVID-19 cases.
California is monitoring COVID-19 closely in each local community and keeping the public informed. In coordination with counties, the State is fighting COVID-19 with every tool availlable: current local data, testing, contact tracing, infection control, emergency supplies, containment measures, and more.
Counties should be ready to restore limitations if outbreaks increase. The State Public Health Officer may take action if needed.
Counties that have remained on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days will be required to shut down the following industries unless they can be modified to operate outside or by pick-up. Bars must close all operations even if they are operating outdoors.
- Dine-in restaurants
- Wineries and tasting rooms
- Movie theaters
- Family entertainment centers (for examples: bowling alleys, miniature golf, batting cages and arcades)
- Zoos and museums
- Cardrooms
Solano County is among 19 counties who have been on the Monitoring List that are impacted by the latest order.
For more information, visit the State’s COVID-19 information website at www.covid19.ca.gov.
Monday, June 8, 2020
Additional Local Business Sectors Allowed to Open
The California Department of Public Health released new guidance, giving Solano County Public Health officials authority to amend the County’s stay-at-home health order to allow some additional business sectors to reopen starting on Friday, June 12.
According to the new guidance, certain business sectors in Solano County, including family entertainment centers, wineries and bars, zoos and museums, gyms and fitness centers, hotels for travel and tourism, cardrooms and racetracks, campgrounds and outdoor recreations areas, are permitted to reopen, pending approval by the County Public Health Officer, as long as they meet guidance criteria.
“As we work to amend the stay-at-home health order to reflect these new changes, we strongly encourage these business sectors to start reviewing the guidance documents right away,” says Bela T. Matyas, M.D., M.P.H., Solano County Public Health Officer. “By implementing these guidelines, businesses are taking the steps necessary to ensure the safety of their employees and the public, helping reduce the spread of COVID-19 illness in Solano County.”
Prior to reopening on June 12, businesses will be required to meet specific COVID-19 guidelines, including establishing a workplace specific plan, training employees, implementing screening and control measures, cleaning and disinfecting protocols and guidelines for social distancing best practices. These guidance documents can be found by visiting the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) COVID-19 website at www.Covid19.Ca.Gov/Roadmap-Counties. Business owners are also encouraged to visit the Solano County website to download the required signage, located on the Roadmap to Reopening businesses page at www.SolanoCounty.com/COVID19.
As Solano County moves to relax its Stay-at-Home health order, we encourage all residents to continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, California Department of Public Health and Solano County Public Health social distancing best practices, including wearing a cloth face mask outside your home whenever physical distancing cannot be maintained, maintaining a physical distance of six-feet from others, practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette, using a hand sanitizer or washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and to stay at home if you’re not feeling well. Businesses that are permitted to reopen must abide by the social distancing requirements in the County’s and State’s Orders.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Solano County Salons, Barbershops, Churches Can Re-open with Distancing Protocols
Solano County Public Health Officials have amended the County’s stay-at-home health order and directive, giving barbershops, hair salons and churches permission to reopen immediately if they meet specific guidelines as outlined in the updated health order.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) gave counties that have attested to meeting the criteria for accelerated reopening, which includes Solano County, permission to reopen barbershops and hair salons to perform certain activities, including haircuts, hair colorings, blowouts, weaves, extensions, braiding, lock maintenance, wig maintenance and hair relaxing treatments – provided both the client and the employee wear face coverings throughout the service.
Certain salon activities, including shaving, facial waxing, threading, eyelash services and facials remain prohibited in all Counties, as they require the employee to have direct contact with a client’s face.
“We are fortunate to reopen these businesses in Solano County,” said Dr. Bela Matyas, Solano County Health Officer. “However, as more sectors reopen, it is critical that community members adhere to precautions including having good hand hygiene, staying home when ill, and maintaining physical distancing when out in public settings.”
Under the new state and local guidance, barbershops and hair salons must implement certain safety measures before they can reopen, including, but not limited to ensuring physical distancing between employees and clients, using appropriate face coverings and increasing cleaning and sanitation measures. A complete list of safety protocols can be found on the County’s Roadmap to Recovery website.
Places of Worship given permission to reopen
Effective immediately, places of worship can reopen in Solano County as long as health and safety measures recommended by the State of California are reviewed and followed, and the County’s social distancing protocol is developed and made available for the staff and the public.
As more businesses open, it is important to know that you can be tested for COVID-19, regardless of symptoms. Two state-operated testing sites are available for anyone in Solano County. Go to www.lhi.care/covidtesting to register for an appointment or call 1-888-634-1123.
As Solano County moves to relax its Stay-at-Home health order, we encourage all residents to continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, California Department of Public Health and Solano County Public Health social distancing best practices, including:
- Wearing a cloth face mask outside your home whenever physical distancing cannot be maintained,
- Maintaining a physical distance of six-feet from others,
- Practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette
- Using a hand sanitizer or washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and
- Staying at home if you’re not feeling well.
Businesses that are permitted to reopen must abide by the social distancing requirements in the County’s and State’s Orders.
For more information about Solano County’s Roadmap to Recovery, social distancing protocol and frequently asked questions about the phased reopening, visit the Solano County website at www.SolanoCounty.com/COVID19 and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.
Republic Services Re-opens Recycling and Household Hazardous Waste Drop-offs
Republic Services has re-opened the following services to the public starting on Wednesday, May 27th:
- BOPA Collection Facility — Batteries, Oil (motor & cooking), Paint (latex), and Antifreeze
- Buyback Center California Redemption Value (CRV) items
- Electronic Waste (E-Waste)
- Public Drop-Off of Recyclable Materials (paper and cardboard)
BOPA, Buyback Center, E-Waste, and the public drop-off of recyclable materials will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and is closed for lunch between 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Facility is by appointment only and will resume its normal schedule (the second and fourth Saturday of each month) starting on Saturday, June 13th. Residents may call the HHW Facility at 707-437-8971 to schedule an appointment for this date or future HHW events.
Fairfield and Suisun residents can contact Republic Services Customer Service at 707-437-8900 for other questions.
Friday, May 22, 2020
Solano County OK’d for Further Stage 2 Reopening – Stores, Malls, Dine-In Eateries
Solano County officials are pleased to announce the California Department of Public Health has agreed to the County’s COVID-19 County Variance Attestation request to move further into Stage 2 of the Governor’s Roadmap to Modify the Stay-at-Home health order. The approval allows for the reopening of some low-risk business activities closed under the state’s current health order.
County Health officials have updated the health order to allow for businesses to begin operations starting Friday, May 22, as long as they have met the guidance for reopening. Businesses are encouraged post readiness checklists at their establishments to self-certify their commitment to the public that they are ready to reopen safely. All of these materials, including signage, are available for review and preparation on the Solano County Public Health Roadmap to Recovery website.
Business sectors given permission to begin the safe reopening process incorporating social distancing modifications in Solano County include:
- Destination retail stores, such as bookstores, jewelry stores, toy stores, clothing stores, home furnishing, sporting goods, florists, shopping malls and swap-meets
- Dine-in restaurants
- Office-based business operations.
“It’s because our residents have done such an amazing job following the County and state health orders that we’re able to allow for the phased reopening of some businesses here in Solano County,” says Erin Hannigan, District 1 Supervisor and Chairwoman of the Board of Supervisors.
“Solano County Public Health appreciates the opportunity the state has given us to move forward into an accelerated Phase 2,” says Bela T. Matyas, M.D., M.P.H., Solano County Public Health Officer. “As we begin reopening businesses here in Solano County, Public Health will continue to monitor the situation, reminding everybody to continue to maintain social distancing best practices.”
As Solano County moves to relax its Stay-at-Home health order, all residents are encouraged to continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, California Department of Public Health and Solano County Public Health social distancing best practices, including
- Wearing a cloth face mask outside your home whenever physical distancing cannot be maintained
- Maintaining a physical distance of six-feet from others
- Practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette
- Using a hand sanitizer or washing your hands for at least 20-seconds
- Stay at home if you’re not feeling well.
Businesses that are permitted to reopen must abide by the social distancing requirements in the County’s and State’s Orders.
For more information about Solano County’s Roadmap to Recovery, social distancing protocol and frequently asked questions about the phased reopening, visit the Solano County website at www.SolanoCounty.com/COVID19 and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.
Friday, May 8, 2020
Low-Risk Businesses Can Start Reopening
in Solano County
Solano County Public Health officials have drafted a roadmap to reopening, following the concepts in the State Resiliency Roadmap. The local roadmap outlines activities and criteria-based phases necessary to lift the shelter-at-home health order in accordance with the Governor’s strategy for reopening the state.
Starting May 8, 2020, low-risk businesses in Solano County may reopen providing they implement and maintain social distancing best practices for reducing the spread of COVID-19.
Certain businesses, organizations and activities, including retail establishments, manufacturing, pet grooming, florists, offices, and City/County local parks (except playgrounds, campgrounds and beaches), which pose a low-risk of COVID-19 transmission, can be modified to allow for social distancing and these may begin reopening on May 8, 2020.
- State Resiliency Roadmap
- Solano County Roadmap to Recovery
- Suisun City Exposure Reduction Protocols for Reopening
The Solano County Roadmap is a living policy document that both abides by the existing Solano County and State of California Public Health Orders.
“Residents have done a great job staying at home and when out in the community practicing social distancing in Solano County,” said Dr. Bela Matyas, Solano County Public Health Officer. “People’s individual efforts have saved lives, enabled our hospitals to prepare to handle a surge of ill patients, and curbed the spread of coronavirus. As we move toward recovery and the opportunity to reopen businesses safely, in phases based on our county’s risk management best practices, it is crucial for community members to adhere to the public health guidelines and social distancing and to shelter at home if you are an at-risk individual.”
The Solano roadmap draws its concepts from the State and epidemiological analysis, and looks at risk of transmission and ability to reduce or minimize the risk as a key factor in business activities and the ability to reopen. The level of risk in an activity and the potential impact to the health and wellbeing of Solano County residents is essential in the success of the roadmap being able to help reopen businesses without increasing the public health risk of COVID19 exposures.
The roadmap envisions phases much like the State plan. The County has outlined activities and grouped business into three categories of risk: low, medium and high. All businesses, including those that are currently operating as essential businesses, will be required to develop and post the Social Distancing Protocol describing how they will function to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
“Changes to lifting this order place a lot of responsibility on business owners, their staff and residents to make good decisions,” Matyas says. “We urge residents to respect the rules established by businesses and facilities so that they can provide services safely and be mindful of their community members’ health by practicing social distancing as much as possible and wearing facial coverings where six-feet distance cannot be maintained. We have worked for the past few weeks with our business, healthcare and public safety partners as well as with elected officials to develop a plan to allow low-risk activities and businesses in the County to resume and reopen. In doing so, we were careful to adhere to the State’s Phase 2 considerations.
Friday, May 1, 2020
Solano County OKs Limited Outdoor Recreation
with Social Distancing
The Solano County Public Health Officer, consistent with the recent changes from the State Department of Public Health, is amending the County’s Shelter at Home Health Order and Directive to include recreational outdoor activities as essential activities.
The amended health order allows for Solano County residents to participate in a variety of healthy outdoor activities, including, but not limited to golfing, hiking, biking, walking, bicycling, mountain biking, boating and jogging – all while making sure people can maintain a safe physical distance of six-feet from each other and only gathering with members of the same household.
All golf courses in the County may be opened for limited use and golf may resume on all golf courses with groups of no more than four persons, subject to full compliance with the requirements for golf courses and driving ranges. The golf site requirements are listed as appendix A in the amended order.
These changes do not alter Suisun City’s prohibitions against group sports in City parks, use of playground equipment, or gathering in the Marina or Boat Launch areas.
As a reminder, the current Shelter at Home Public Health Order and Directive is in place, including these amendments, until May 17, 2020, and works to prevent the spread of respiratory illness, including Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease in the community.
Access the Amended Health Order for details
For more information on COVID-19, including the shelter at home health order and directive, community resources, number of COVID-19 cases, essential vs. non-essential functions, food, employment, healthcare and frequently asked questions, visit www.SolanoCounty.com/PublicHealth, call the Coronavirus warmline, Monday – Friday between 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. at (707) 784-8988, email Covid19@SolanoCounty.com and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.
Friday, April 24, 2020
Solano Shelter At Home Directive Extended to May 17
Solano County Public Health officials have extended the County’s shelter at home health order and directive until May 17, 2020, to continue directing individuals to stay at home except to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care and to engage in essential activities and work. The County’s health order extension is in line with the Governor’s orders, and works to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease in the community.
The health order is issued to extend the shelter at home directive due to the existence of, as of 4 p.m. on April 24, 2020, 199 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Solano County, 22 currently active cases, 50 cases requiring hospitalizations, and the confirmation of four individuals who have died because of the disease.
The significant number of confirmed cases currently in Solano County, and confirmed cases and deaths in surrounding counties, including the greater Bay Area, Sacramento County and San Joaquin County regions have not substantially improved since the issuance of the March 30, 2020 Solano County health order and directive extension.
This extension is necessary to continue to slow the rate of spread of the virus, to allow for additional testing and to continue working with the healthcare community to ensure the hospital and healthcare systems do not become overwhelmed.
Access full information and details
Senior Communication and Outreach
In an effort to ensure local senior citizens are doing well and remain connected during this pandemic emergency, the Recreation, Parks, & Marina Department will begin making weekly phone calls to the patrons of the Suisun City Senior Center. The purpose of these phone calls are to be a friendly voice that can offer assistance in this time of need.
RPM will offer help with shopping resources, food assistance programs, technology, and other social services seniors may require. Technology can be challenging to all of us and staff want to make sure we are available to help our senior community learn how to use the tools available to them.
Seniors who are not patrons of the Senior Center can simply call 421-7200 to speak to a staff member and be added to the communication outreach list.
“We want to be a resource that can provide assistance, reassurance, and help educate our senior population with what is happening in the community,” said RPM Director Kris Lofthus. “There are services available, and we want to help them find and utilize those services.”
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Solano Public Health Expands COVID-19 Drive-Through Testing
Solano Public Health has expanded drive-through testing for Solano County residents showing symptoms of COVID-19 and at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 disease at the County clinic located at 2101 Courage Drive in Fairfield.
Solano Public Health is offering testing for County residents in the following high-risk groups who have signs and symptoms suggesting COVID-19, including fever, cough, chills or body aches:
- 65 years old and older
- Individuals of all ages with chronic disease or who have underlying medical conditions
- First responders, healthcare workers and essential employees living or working in Solano County.
Testing is not available for those without symptoms at this time.
Testing is by appointment only and must be scheduled by calling (707) 784-8655. The drive-through testing site is open from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday until all appointment slots are filled. Callers are asked to not leave a message.
Individuals who meet the criteria can get tested, regardless of health insurance or immigration status. There is no cost for this testing. Testing consists of a self-administered nasal swab, and results can be expected in 1-3 days.
Access Complete Information and Details
Friday, April 10, 2020
County Health Officer Urges Residents to Observe Religious Practices at Home
Solano County Public Health reminds the public that the Shelter at Home Health Order prohibits gatherings and directs individuals to stay home except for essential activities until April 30, 2020, to protect individuals from the possible transmission of COVID-19. Unfortunately, this Order impacts religious events that are underway throughout the month.
“We genuinely empathize with those who are unable to practice their religious traditions and celebrations during this challenging time,” said Dr. Bela Matyas, Solano County Health Officer. “However, to protect the health of our community members, the health order does not allow for gatherings outside of one’s immediate household. These measures, while disruptive, aim to curb the growing number of cases resulting from community spread, and to limit opportunities for people to spread COVID-19 to others unknowingly.”
The Health Order impacts observances where gatherings usually take place, including Holy Week and Easter, Passover, Orthodox Easter, Ramadan and other religious practices. Faith-based leaders and religious organizations are urged to close in-person services and not bring large groups of people together while the Health Order is in force.
It is important to emphasize that suspension of in-person gatherings is not a suspension of worship. There are many ways that religious practices can still be observed, including livestreaming or watching recordings online.
Access Complete Information and Details
Thursday, April 9, 2020
FAQ: COVID-19 Drive-Through Testing
Solano County, in partnership with California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and with materials provided by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has opened a COVID-19 drive-through testing site as of Wednesday, April 8, 2020. The testing site is at Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo.
The testing is currently for symptomatic first responders, healthcare workers and essential workers. Individuals must show symptoms consistent with COVID-19, including fever, cough chills or body aches. Individuals must also live and/or work in Solano County. Testing is not available for asymptomatic individuals at this time.
Individuals are asked to bring a valid identification card at the time of testing.
Access complete information and details
Friday, April 3, 2020
CDC Recommendation for Face Covering
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.
Access the full statement and details
First Solano County COVID-19 Fatality
Solano County Public Health officials confirmed the first Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) death of a Solano County resident. The County resident was 85 years of age or older who recently traveled out of the country and had multiple severe underlying health conditions. Solano Public Health will not release additional demographic data about the patient, including age, gender or city.
“Solano Public Health extends our deepest condolences to the patient’s loved ones in the wake of this tragedy,” says County Health Officer Bela Matyas, M.D., M.P.H. “We strongly recommend that all Solano County residents, workers, students, and visitors take the necessary precautions to protect themselves against the novel coronavirus. Solano Public Health will continue to work with local, state, federal and community partners to prevent future cases and educate those in Solano County about how to avoid contracting COVID-19.”
Access the full statement and details
Republic Services Issues Service Advisory
Regular solid waste collections and street sweeping services are continuing during the shelter-at-home orders because they are classified as essential services, Republic Services announced.
However, other services, such as the April 18 Community Drop-Off Day, have been suspended. See the statement below for complete details.
Republic Services Service Advisory (300.0 KiB, 223 hits)
Thursday, April 2, 2020
City Bans Gathering in Parks, Marina & Boat Launch;
Orders Businesses to Disinfect
City Manager Greg Folsom, in his role as Director of Emergency Services, has ordered immediate closure of the marina parking lot and area within 300 feet of the boat launch, all playground equipment, a prohibition on group gathering in all City parks, and essential businesses to increase disinfection at and near entry points.
The specific directives include:
- Closure of the marina parking lot and area within 300 feet of the boat launch to any activity except for the immediate launching, retrieving, loading and unloading of a boat, or parking of an unoccupied boat tow vehicle and trailer with paid parking permit.
- Closure of all playground equipment for any use.
- Prohibition of group activities in all parks, including contact sports, team sports and practices.
- All essential businesses are ordered, to the extent products are available, to provide sanitation devices all entry points and/or points of sale to include sanitation wipes and sanitizer dispensers.
This order was necessary because groups of people continue to gather together near and around the marina and boat launch in violation of health orders to maintain 6-foot distancing. Despite the administrative closure of City playgrounds, residents continue to gather near and use playground equipment, and participate in group sports in violation of County Health Orders to protect the public health and safety.
These directives will remain in effect for the duration of the local emergency related to COVID-19. Violation of these directives, prior directive or the County Shelter-at-Home Health Order is a misdemeanor punishable by fine, imprisonment or both.
- 4/2/2020 - Directive Prohibiting Recreation Gatherings (152.1 KiB, 263 hits)
Safe Grocery Shopping Tips
Grocery store employees are working diligently not only to keep store shelves stocked, but also to increase the frequency of cleaning to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
With Stay in Place orders extended at least another 30-days, Ron Fong, President and CEO of the California Grocers Association (CGA) released the following statement along with a list of Top 10 Tips for Safe Shopping:
“Convenient and safe access to food and essential products at local grocery stores is more critical than ever during these uncertain times. Shoppers are understandably looking for credible and practical information about how to keep themselves, fellow shoppers and grocery workers safe and healthy. Today we are releasing a list of Top 10 Tips for Safe Shopping to help guide best practices for consumers.
The California Grocers Association also continues to take steps to reassure consumers that grocery stores will remain open and that food and essential supplies remain plentiful through our “Buy Smart. Don’t Overfill Your Cart.” There is #Enough4All (https://enoughforallca.com) campaign.
- 4/1/2020 - Safe Shopping Tips (52.7 KiB, 248 hits)
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Small Business Owners’ Guide to CARES Act
The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now.
When implemented, there will be many new resources available for small businesses, as well as certain non-profits and other employers.
The guide linked below provides information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address these needs, as well as some additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA.
- Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act (237.9 KiB, 225 hits)
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Thursday COVID-19 Town Halls on ZOOM
Mayor Lori Wilson will host a weekly online “Town Hall” to provide updates on the COVID-19 pandemic impacts to Suisun City and answer questions from the public regarding local efforts.
The Town Hall meetings will be held at 4:30 p.m. every Thursday while the Governor’s Stay at Home order is in effect. Joining Mayor Wilson will be City Manager Greg Folsom, Fire Chief Justin Vincent and Police Chief Aaron Roth.
Mayor Wilson and staff will provide a brief update and answer questions sent in advance. To ask a question in advance, send an email to clerk@suisun.com by 3 p.m. Thursday with the subject line “Town Hall.”
“It is important to us to keep you, our residents, informed,” said Mayor Wilson. “We will review the latest developments related to COVID-19, its impacts on our city, and any questions you may have. I hope you will join us.”
To access the Zoom meeting,
- Log in to: http://zoom.us/j/936714257
- Meeting ID: 936-714-257
- Telephone: (707) 438-1720
- Thursday COVID-19 Town Halls on ZOOM (122.6 KiB, 229 hits)
Log in to: http://zoom.us/j/936714257
Meeting ID: 936-714-257
Telephone: (707) 438-1720
Solano Public Health Extends Shelter-at-Home Order to April 30
SOLANO COUNTY – Solano County Public Health officials have extended the County’s shelter at home health order and directive until April 30, 2020, to continue directing individuals to stay at home except to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care and to engage in essential activities and work. The County’s health order extension is in line with the Governor’s orders, and works to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease in the community.
“We extended the shelter at home health order and directive to re-emphasize the importance that everyone continues to follow self-isolation and social distancing best practices,” says County Health Officer Bela Matyas, M.D., M.P.H. “When everyone does their part, we help slow the spread of COVID-19 disease in Solano County, giving our health care providers the time, tools and capacity necessary to provide care to those who need it most in our community.”
The Solano County health order and directive, originally issued on March 18, outlines essential activities in our community that will remain open and operational, including government services, healthcare operations, grocery stores, agricultural operations, businesses that provide food, shelter and social services to needy individuals, media outlets, gas stations, banks and financial institutions, service industries, mail, shipping and supplies, laundromats, restaurants that provide delivery or drop off services, supply product companies, transportation industries, professional services and childcare.
All non-essential gatherings, including bars, nightclubs, wineries, gyms, movie theatres, hair and nail salons, entertainment venues and restaurants with dine-in options are to remain closed until further notice.
Solano Public Health recommends everyone follow these simple, daily social-distancing and hygiene best-practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and respiratory disease in our community, including: avoid public gatherings, avoid all non-essential travel, keep a six-foot distance between yourself and others, wash your hands often with soap and water, stay home when you are sick and get a flu shot. For a complete list of do’s and don’ts during the pandemic, visit https://Covid19.Ca.Gov.
For more information on COVID-19, including the shelter at home health order and directive, community resources, number of COVID-19 cases, essential vs. non-essential functions, food, employment, healthcare and frequently asked questions, visit www.SolanoCounty.com/PublicHealth, call the Coronavirus warmline, Monday – Friday between 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. at (707) 784-8988, email Covid19@SolanoCounty.com and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.
Friday, March 27, 2020
Gov. Newsom Issues Order to Protect Renters
Governor Newsom has issued an executive order protecting residential renters impacted by the COVID-19 emergency. If you are a renter of a residential property and have lost your job because of COVID-19, if you are caring for a loved one impacted by COVID-19 or are ill yourself with COVID-19 and cannot make your rent payment, you can take certain steps if you want to request an extension to pay your rent:
- To qualify, you must have paid your landlord prior to March 27, 2020 all rent that is due and be current on your rent as of that date.
- Notify your landlord in writing no later than 7 days after your rent is due that you need to delay all or some of your rent payment for COVID-19 reasons, such as the following:
- You were sick with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 or were caring for a household/family member sick with suspected/confirmed COVID-19; or
- You experienced a lay-off, loss of hours, or other income reduction due to COVID-19, the state of emergency, or related governmental response; or
- You missed work to care for a child whose school was closed due to COVID-19.
- You must retain written proof of the basis you are claiming and provide that proof in writing to your landlord. Examples of documentation include termination notices, payroll checks, pay stubs, bank statements, medical bills, or signed letters or statements from an employer/supervisor explaining your changed financial circumstances.
Governor Newsom’s Order DOES NOT allow you to stop paying rent in full if you are able to pay all or some rent and it does not relieve you from having to eventually pay all rent owed once you are able to do so.
Access the Executive Order and detailed information
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
STA Lyft Last Mile Program Expanded for Essential Travel
In response to the shelter-in-place orders issued by Governor Gavin Newsom and the Solano County Office of Public Health, Fairfield and Suisun Transit (FAST) has reduced transit services, including the temporary elimination of Routes 2, 4, 5, and 8 (see FAST service advisory: https://fasttransit.org/service-advisory/).
To support mobility needs of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers (such as healthcare workers and public safety employees), and to provide residents with transportation for essential tasks (such as medical appointments, picking up prescriptions, purchasing groceries, or ordering takeout meals), the Solano Transportation Authority (STA) is expanding the Lyft First/Last Mile Program to provide coverage for the eliminated FAST Routes, effective Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at noon.
The Lyft First/Last Mile Program provides 80% off Lyft rides up to $25 dollars to and from local transportation centers in Solano County. Commuters can use the Lyft First/Last Mile Program for travel to and from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal, the Suisun Fairfield Train Station, the Fairfield Vacaville Hannigan Train Station, and the Fairfield Transportation Center.
Residents also may use the Lyft First/Last Mile Program to perform essential tasks at David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base (Main Entrance), FoodMaxx (Beck Ave), Smart and Final/Walmart (N. Texas St), and Green Valley Shopping Center (Green Valley Rd).
Access the full statement & detailed information
Monday, March 23, 2020
Garbage Collection, Street Sweeping Services Continue; Drop-Off Day Suspended
Solid waste collection and sanitation services are considered Essential Services under the current state of emergency so waste collection and street sweeping will continue on their usual schedules, according to Republic Services.
Some scheduling may be adjusted to ensure workers do not congregate in groups to maintain social distancing requirements.
The following non-essential services will be closed until further notice:
- BOPA (Batteries, Oil, Paint & Anti-freeze) Drop-off
- Buyback Center
- E-waste drop-off
- Public drop-off of recyclable materials
- Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) events.
The Community Drop-Off Day scheduled for April 18 has been canceled.
Access the full statement & detailed information
Friday, March 20, 2020
Assistance for Suisun City Seniors
The City of Suisun City has partnered with several churches and non-profit organizations to help Suisun City seniors facing higher risks from COVID-19 and the “Shelter at Home” order.
In coordination with Raley’s Ecart Pickup Service and the City, volunteers from local churches, such as The Building Christian Fellowship and Liberty Church Suisun, will deliver groceries to seniors living in Suisun City. Beginning Saturday, March 21, Raley’s will offer a fixed-price food bag for seniors who are At-risk Customers.
Volunteers from Super Fur-iends, a home based animal foster organization, will provide help in connecting pet services to seniors.
To access these services, email seniors@suisun.com or call 707-438-1714. The service is only available to seniors over 65 who live within the city limits of Suisun City.
“We have an amazing community spirit here in Suisun City and I am happy to have been able to coordinate these service for our seniors,” said Mayor Lori Wilson. “Our non-profits and churches are here to help during this crisis and seniors should know that they are not alone. As we learn of additional community needs, our partnership will expand to include additional types of services.”
Access the full statement & detailed information
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Solano Public Health Officer
Issues Shelter at Home Order
Solano County has issued a countywide Shelter at Home Health Order and Directive to continue protecting the health and safety of our community, clarify directive guidance in accordance with the Governor, and ensure consistent compliance across the County with social distancing and self-isolation measures. These mitigation measures are disruptive, but critical to curb the growing number of cases resulting from community spread, particularly given that most those infected show mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Effective immediately and will continue to be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended in writing by the Solano County Public Health Officer, the Order directs the public to implement the following:
- Gatherings of any size that do not allow for participants to maintain six feet of distance apart are strongly prohibited unless they are for “essential activities” as defined in the Order.
- Establishments serving alcohol such as bars, wineries, nightclubs and breweries must close. Movie theaters must also close.
- Establishments serving food may remain open with takeout and delivery options only. Dine-in operations must cease.
- All health clubs, tanning facilities, gyms and spas must close.
- Prohibits non-essential travel.
- Employers are required to ensure compliance with social distancing guidelines and should implement teleworking where appropriate and feasible. Only employees performing essential duties that are not able to be done remotely should physically come to work.
- Employers that require a doctor’s note for a leave of absence due to illness must suspend those policies. Employers are strongly encouraged to allow employees flexible use of paid time off/sick leave.
- All people with fever, cough, or other respiratory symptoms should stay home until seven days after symptom onset. Self-management of these symptoms is encouraged, but if difficulty breathing and lethargy develop, or symptoms suddenly become worse, they should contact their healthcare provider or urgent care center immediately. Calling ahead is strongly encouraged.
- Childcare centers may remain open if they strictly follow social distancing protocols in accordance with the guidance distributed and posted on the Solano Public Health website.
- Nonessential personnel are prohibited from entering hospitals and long-term care facilities, including patient visitation. All essential personnel displaying symptoms of COVID-19 should self-isolate until seven days after symptom onset, and hospitals are urged to delay elective procedures.
- Populations with higher risk of complications from infection should stay home and away from all gatherings involving people outside of their immediate families. These populations include: people with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes cancer, heart disease, lung disease, immuno-compromising conditions and those over 65 years of age. Pregnant individuals should also strongly consider self-isolating to the extent possible.
- All Solano County Residents, regardless of risk-level, should stay home to the extent possible, and continue practicing universal precautions of handwashing for at least 20 seconds, disinfecting commonly used surfaces, and covering coughs or sneezes with their elbow or tissue instead of hands.
Access the full statement & detailed information
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Solano Public Health Emphasizes
Social Distancing & Self-Isolation
SOLANO COUNTY – Solano County Public Health Officials support California Governor Newsom’s orders regarding social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community and are encouraging Solano County residents to review and implement these best practices.
Solano Public Health officials are encouraging vulnerable populations – older adults age 65 and older, individuals with compromised immune systems and individuals with serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease – to practice social distancing and stay at home, except for essential needs, including to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care or go to an essential job. Solano Public Health is also advising these individuals to avoid group activities, making unnecessary trips and spending time in public areas (restaurants, gyms, entertainment venues, social gatherings, etc.).
“We are in full support of the Governor’s measures to promote social distancing and are reiterating this message to residents in Solano County,” says County Public Health Officer Bela Matyas, M.D., M.P.H. “When people implement these best practices, it helps our health care providers with respect to staffing and capacity necessary to provide care to those who need it the most in our community.”
Access the full statement & detailed information
Monday, March 16, 2020
City Declares Emergency
Closes City Hall & Community Center
- Local Emergency Press Release - March 16, 2020 (137.2 KiB, 323 hits)
- Declaration of Local Emergency - March 16, 2020 (68.4 KiB, 292 hits)
- Local Emergency Directives - March 16, 2020 (93.5 KiB, 321 hits)
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a complex, fluid situation that the City of Suisun City monitors on an ongoing basis. Last week,
- The Solano County Public Health Department issued guidance for Social Distancing and Vulnerable Populations;
- Travis Air Force Base implemented an enhanced Health Protection Condition;
- The World Health Organization (WHO) upgraded the outbreak from a “public health emergency of international concern” to a “global pandemic;”
- Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order limiting non-essential gatherings to no more than 250 people and limiting gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 to no more than 10 people;
- President Trump declared a national emergency; an
- On Sunday, March 15th, Governor Newsom called for closing bars, wineries, and brewpubs, asked for everyone over 65 to stay home, and directed provision for the homeless.
Since testing kits have been extremely limited to date, once the testing kits are more available the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 is expected to increase dramatically. Just today, multiple Bay Area counties have issued a “shelter in place” order directing everyone to stay inside their homes and away from others for the next three weeks. Solano County is not a part of that order.
The City of Suisun City takes the health and safety of our citizens and staff very seriously, and City Manager Greg Folsom has declared a local emergency as of Monday, March 16, 2020, to provide the highest level of safety to our citizens and staff.
“I have declared a local state of emergency in order to allow the City to request funding, equipment, and supplies from both CalOES and FEMA,” Mr. Folsom said. “Further, the declaration will allow me, as Director of Emergency Services, to take extraordinary measures to ensure public safety. As such, until further notice, City Hall and other city facilities will be closed to the public effective Tuesday, March 17, 2020, and residents are encouraged to do any business with the City online or by phone.”
Access Services
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS: City Hall will continue to be open for City Council meetings and accessible to the public, with doors opening fifteen minutes before the start of the meeting, but the meetings will be attended by Councilmembers online and citizens are encouraged to participate online rather than in person. The logon information is available on the front of the City Council agenda and will also be available on our website at www.suisun.com.
WATER SERVICE: Residents who need to pay their water bill may do so online or by dropping off payment at the drop box located near the front door at City Hall. Certain requirements for new water connections will be relaxed during this event, and water shutoffs will be put on hold until further notice.
BUILDING PERMITS: Residents who need a building permit can email permit applications to buildingpermit@suisun.com or fax to 707-429-3758.
OTHER CLOSURES:
- The Senior Center was closed as of Monday, March 16.
- The Joseph Nelson Community Center will be closed to the public starting Tuesday, March 17, 2020, and all rentals and regularly scheduled classed have been suspended until further notice. Those enrolled in classes will be provided a credit on their account to use on a future class.
- The Harbormaster’s Office also will be closed starting March 17, 2020, but regular maintenance of the marina infrastructure will continue as scheduled. Clients that need to pay their berthing fees, they may do so by dropping their payment in the drop box at the Harbormasters Office, but please do not use cash for your payment. If you need to pay by credit card or speak to a marina staff member, please call (707) 421-7200.
Public Safety
Our public safety staff have been reviewing staffing plans and implementing guidelines to mitigate risk to both our staff and to those they encounter. At this point in time, there has not been any impact to our staffing as a result of Covid-19 and first responders will continue to assist our community with any issue or emergency that may arise.
One of the ways public safety staff plan to remain ready to provide those services is to limit the amount of contact they have with our community on a daily basis. Police and Fire Department staff are doing this to lessen the possibility of not only having staff come into contact with the virus, but to also mitigate spreading the virus to anyone they might come into contact after an exposure.
Effective immediately, the Public Safety Dispatch Center will direct anyone in need of a police report to make a report by using the on-line reporting portal. Citizens can file police reports for things like fraud, harassing phone calls, identity theft, property theft and vandalism. This portal can be found by visiting https://police.suisun.com/report-a-crime/.
If you are having a non-emergency issue not listed, or do not have access to a computer, the Dispatch Center will have a police officer contact you to take a telephone report for crimes not needing an immediate, in person response. The non-emergency number for dispatch is (707) 421-7373.
“Rest assured, if you are having an active emergency, our officers will respond to assist you in an expeditious manner,” said Police Chief Aaron Roth. “However, there will be instances where an officer will not be meeting you in person if we feel it is not necessary to the investigation at the time of the police report. We want to be sure to do our part in ‘flattening the curve’ of this virus and mitigate the risks to those we are entrusted to serve.”
Fire Chief Justin Vincent added, “Please reserve 911 for true emergency calls. If you have questions regarding COVID-19 you can visit the Suisun City information page or you can visit the California Public Health web page .”
Mayor Lori Wilson stated, “I know that the measures being put in place by local, state, and federal officials to try to slow down the spread of COVID-19 are making life difficult for many people, but I ask that the citizens of Suisun City have patience and cooperate with officials as we all work to try to put our collective health and safety at the forefront of our decision making. We will do what we can as a community to weather this season of uncertainty.”
Suisun City staff will continue to monitor the situation and will update our website if there are any future changes to City Hall hours or availability. Solano County Public Health and the Center for Disease Control continue to stress that washing your hands, avoiding people who are sick, and staying home when you are sick are the most important ways to protect yourself and mitigate the spread of coronavirus and the flu.
Friday, March 13, 2020
After-school and Pre-school Programs Closed
After-school and pre-school programs operated by the City were suspended following a decision by the Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District to shutter its schools from March 16-27 due to the changing dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Recreation, Parks and Marina Department announced.
Impacted programs are after-school programs at Dan O. Root, Suisun, and Crescent Elementary Schools, and Crystal Middle School. The City extended the closures to its pre-school program, as well.
If your child attends a monthly fee-based after-school or pre-school program, you will receive a pro-rated credit onto your RecDesk account for the two-week period that will be missed in March.
Information will be emailed and posted regarded planned dates for re-opening as they become available.
The City regrets any inconvenience for affected families, but was compelled to prioritize family and community health at the highest level.
Employees assigned to those programs may be reassigned to other programs as possible or will see their work hours reduced.
President Declares National Emergency
President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency Friday to address the impacts on America of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The action, announced from the White House Rose Garden, authorizes the release of $50 billion to state and local governments working to address COVID-19 impact locally, loosens restrictions on hospitals to allow more aggressive treatment options and other necessary steps.
The declaration also directs state governments to open their Emergency Operations Centers to better coordinate state-level efforts to address the pandemic.
Thursday, March 12, 2020
Senior Center Operations Suspended
Read the City’s full statement here.
In response to the Governor’s March 12 Executive Order and to protect our residents, the City of Suisun City is instituting measures to implement social distancing and other safeguards to limit the spread of COVID-19.
The Suisun City Senior Center will suspend operations beginning Monday, March 16th until further notice. The Suisun City Senior Center routinely has more than ten people in close proximity for lunches and other programming and it is not practicable to continue the program while maintaining the congregation and social distancing limitations.
According to the Solano Public Health, vulnerable populations at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness include people over 60, especially those over 80, and people of any age with underlying health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, chronic lung diseases, or severely weakened immune systems.
Additional First Responder Precautions
Public safety staff have acquired additional personal protective equipment and have enacted enhanced protocols to protect first responders in the event of exposure to persons with known or possible COVID-19.
“Don’t be alarmed if you see our first responders in face masks, gloves, eye protection, and other personal protective equipment when they are responding to medical emergencies,” said Fire Chief Justin Vincent. “These protocols are in place so that we do not lose our first responders to quarantine after a potential interaction with a COVID-19 positive patient as several other fire departments in California have already.”
Take Common Sense Health Precautions
“Our grocery stores, shops, and restaurants are still open for business. Enjoy them as your health permits and always take the necessary precautions,” said Mayor Lori Wilson. “Solano County Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control continue to stress that washing your hands, avoiding people who are sick, and staying home when you are sick are the most important ways to protect yourself and mitigate the spread of coronavirus and the flu. I highly encourage everyone to take this advice.”
Governor’s Order Enhances State COVID-19 Response
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an Executive Order today (March 12, 2020) enhancing the State’s ability to response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The order
- Waives the one-week waiting period for people who are unemployed and/or disabled as a result of COVID-19;
- Delays the deadline for state tax filing by 60 days for individuals and businesses unable to file on time based on compliance with public health requirements related to COVID-19 filings;
- Directs residents to follow public health directives and guidance, including to cancel large non-essential gatherings that do not meet state criteria;
- Readies the state to commandeer property for temporary residences and medical facilities for quarantining, isolating or treating individuals;
- Allows local or state legislative bodies to hold meetings via teleconference and to make meetings accessible electronically; and
- Allows local and state emergency administrators to act quickly to protect public health
Read the full order here.
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
Updated Guidelines for People at High Risk for Severe COVID-19 & Social Distancing
Solano Public Health issued updated Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines for people more than 60 years old or with underlying health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, heart disease or chronic lung diseases, like COPD.
In summary, people who fall into these risk groups should avoid crowded social gatherings or situations in which people are within an arm’s length of each other. This would include bingo gatherings, concerts, church gatherings, long flights and cruises.
- March 11 Guidelines in English (effective through March 31, 2020)
- 11 de Marzo Orientaciones en Espanol (efectiva hasta el 31 de Marzo de 2020)
Travis to Support Grand Princess Passengers
State and Federal agencies are working together to care for hundreds of passengers aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship who were exposed to COVID-19.
Nearly 1,000 passengers from California who need to be quarantined will be housed at Travis Air Force Base and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.
For the official announcements, use the following links:
- Travis Air Force Base announcement – March 9, 2020
- Health & Human Services Notification – March 8, 2020
Governor Newsom Declares State Emergency March 4, 2020
As part of the state’s response to address the global COVID-19 outbreak, Governor Gavin Newsom today (March 4, 2020) declared a State of Emergency to make additional resources available, formalize emergency actions already underway across multiple state agencies and departments, and help the state prepare for broader spread of COVID-19. The proclamation comes as the number of positive California cases rises and following one official COVID-19 death.
Symptoms of COVID-19
Symptoms of COVID-19 are like the flu, which include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms may appear in as few as 2 days or up to 14 days after exposure.
If you are presenting symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19 or had recent travel to countries with apparent community spread, contact your health care provider. Before seeking medical care, consult with your provider first to prevent possible transmission in the health care setting.
Precautions to Avoid COVID-19
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash hands often with liquid soap and water; rub for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands).
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Get a flu shot to protect yourself and others from flu, which has similar symptoms to COVID-19.
- At this point, wearing a face mask is not a necessary preventative measure.
Suisun City Response
The City of Suisun City is prepared to ensure public health and safety for all it’s residents through internal services and regional partnerships. The Suisun City Fire Department has the appropriate medical training and protective gear to respond to any and all types of medical emergencies in Suisun City.
The recently adopted Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) ensure a continuity of government services to respond and protect all of Suisun City during this regional and national emergency.
The CDC suspects that more cases may be identified in the coming days and weeks, including more cases in the United States and possibly in Solano County. Person-to-person transmission of COVID-19 in the United States could translate into large numbers of people needing medical care at the same time.
The CDC is closely monitoring the local situation and will advise on measures that are most appropriate to address the spread of the virus. Schools, childcare centers, workplaces, businesses and other places of mass gatherings in Suisun City will be informed if the situation changes through multiple outlets in order for those locations to make appropriate adjustments to business hours and operations.
- SCFD Coronavirus Information Pamphlet (352.3 KiB, 481 hits)
Four quarterly Drop-Off days will be held in 2020 under a contract with 
Questions or Comments for Virtual Public Meetings
All questions submitted will be received by the City Clerk and forwarded to Mayor Lori Wilson or the Chair of the appropriate meeting for consideration. All submissions will be included in the official meeting record.
Deadline for submissions is 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.