CITY OF OCEANSIDE COVID-19 UPDATES – PLAYGROUNDS / BEACH LOTS CLOSED

In order to limit occupancy due to social distancing regulations and minimize the spread of COVID-19, City of Oceanside playgrounds and beach parking lots will close during the COVID-19 emergency declaration.

BEACH PARKING LOTS CLOSED
Many people are following social distancing orders, but that can be difficult to maintain when there are large numbers of people at the beach taking a walk. To that end, beach parking lots will close to minimize occupancy and increase distancing. People may still visit the beach, but need to maintain their distance from others.
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CITY PLAYGROUNDS CLOSED
City parks will remain open, consistent with State messaging: “As long as you are maintaining a safe social distance of six feet from people who aren’t part of your household, it is ok to go outside for exercise, a walk or fresh air.” However, we are closing playgrounds and posting signage at parks to maintain social distancing. This includes skate parks/skate areas. We have posted signage at skateparks and will periodically monitor, however it is difficult to close this amenity since many of the skate parks/areas are not enclosed by fencing.

GOLF COURSES
The City golf courses remain open, but the courses have enacted social distancing restrictions throughout their facilities. Golf is an outdoor recreational activity that can be maintained while practicing distancing. We will revisit this concern if new guidance is issued by the State or County regarding outdoor recreation areas.

CITY SERVICES
All essential City services will continue. The City's Emergency Operations Center is operating and daily briefings are held. A continuity of operations plan was developed to ensure each essential position has back-ups and our Public Safety personnel are trained and ready to respond in our community. Video message

City public services counters are closed. If you have City business to conduct, please access services online or phone (760) 435-4500 for instructions on where to drop plans, payments, or for any other information.

STREET SWEEPING PARKING ENFORCEMENT
Street Sweeping Parking Enforcement was suspended until further notice. Other parking laws still apply, and Parking Enforcement will follow up on complaints of blocked driveways or hydrants. Payment is still required in pay lots and meters.

WATER UTILITY BILLS
We realize many in our community are being affected by this health crisis. Water utility shut-offs for non-payment are suspended during this emergency declaration time period. Call to discuss deferring a payment: (760) 435-4500.

VIRTUAL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
City Council meeting are continuing. Due to applicable Public Health Orders, the City Council chambers will not be open to the public and City Council members have the option of participating by phone. You’re encouraged to watch the meeting on KOCT Cox Channel 19 and provide written comments on agenda items via email to our City Clerk. Comments will be received until the Mayor calls the item. While emailed comments are preferred, the public may also provide oral comments on agenda items by calling (760) 435-5999. When prompted, the caller should identify the agenda item they wish to speak about and leave a message not to exceed three minutes. All timely received telephonic comments will be shared with the members of the City Council and will be made publicly available by clicking here. The deadline to leave a telephonic comment is noon on the meeting day. If you have special needs because of a disability which makes it difficult for you to submit comments via email or phone, please contact the City Clerk at (760) 435-3001 to make arrangements to accommodate your disability.

HOW YOU CAN HELP THE OCEANSIDE COMMUNITY
Every one of us can safely help our community during these difficult times.

• First and foremost, Check in on your elderly neighbors through a call, a text, or through the door.
  
• Seniors needing any City services can call (760) 435-5250. Oceanside residents ages 60+ can arrange for meal delivery through "Serving Seniors" by calling (760) 435-5285.
  
• Contact our local homeless service providers to see if they need donations or volunteers. Oceanside’s Neighborhood Services Department is in touch with the County to work on ways to shelter people during this crisis and beyond. The City continues to provide services to our homeless community through the Homeless Outreach Team and the City Housing Authority; call (760) 435-4500 or 211 to access services. Homeless individuals who are ill should call 211 to connect with services and screening.
• Give blood. Right now, eligible and healthy donors are strongly urged to make an appointment to provide lifesaving blood products to patients, even if you are practicing social distancing because of COVID-19. Make an appointment today: American Red Cross San Diego Blood Bank
  
• Here are some other ways you can make a difference.

STAY UP TO DATE
Visit the City's COVID-19 webpage and sign up for news updates, or follow us on social media to stay up to date on local Oceanside news.

San Diego County residents can receive information about the novel coronavirus via text. To sign up, text COSD COVID19 to the number 468-311. Leave a space between COSD and COVID19.

MINIMIZE YOUR RISK
People can help limit the spread of infection, by taking these steps:

• Wash your hands often to help protect you from germs.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, if soap and water are not available. It should contain at least 60% alcohol.
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  
• If you are sick, stay home and keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
  
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then wash your hands.
  
• Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

IF YOU HAVE INDIVIDUAL QUESTIONS
If you have individual COVID-19 questions, please talk to your health care provider. For community resources, please call 211 or visit 211sandiego.org or the County’s Coronavirus Disease webpage.

Being a hero has never been easier! Stay home to save lives.