The City of Santa Clarita has issued a local emergency declaration in response to the coronavirus pandemic. This emergency declaration is a preparedness measure and allows the city to access resources and recover costs.
In addition, the city announced that as of March 14, all non-essential services will be suspended, all city facilities will be closed to the public for 14 days and all city events are canceled through April. Essential public safety will continue to be provided at full service levels by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department and the California Highway Patrol.
The decision to adjust services was made in light of the President’s National Declaration of Emergency and the first confirmed case of coronavirus from Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.
“We know that many of you are concerned, and there is a lot of uncertainty and anxiety surrounding the coronavirus pandemic,” said Mayor Cameron Smyth. “The actions we are taking today are to protect our community and slow the spread of the virus. This is about preparedness and being proactive – not about panic. As a community, we have had more than our fair share of emergency situations, and by being informed and united, we have been and will continue to be resilient.”
The essential city services that will remain in operation include: city management; Santa Clarita Transit; city communications; streets crews; graffiti removal; parks crews; urban forestry; traffic/transportation; Building and Safety (on a limited basis); parking enforcement; permit center (by appointment only); and the film office (by appointment only).
All other city services are suspended for 14 days, including the Public Library; The MAIN theatre; Community Centers; and in-person services at City Hall.
City events that will be canceled include: Youth Arts Showcase – March 21; DFY in SCV Youth Summit – March 27 and April 15; Free to be Me Music Festival – March 29 (will be rescheduled); Eggstravaganza – April 11; SENSES Block Party – April 16; Cowboy Festival – April 18 -19; and Earth Arbor Day – April 25.
Additionally, youth and adult sports programs and all contract classes have been postponed until further notice. The City Council regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, has been canceled.
If you have questions on specific city services, call (661) 259-CITY between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For updates, continue to monitor the City of Santa Clarita’s social media pages and visit the website at www.SantaClaritaEmergency.com.
