Your Morgan Hill Weekly 411
Friday, March 26, 2021  
Hello Morgan Hill Community!
Cesar Chavez Day is right around the corner. The City of Morgan Hill will observe the holiday on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. All public safety services will continue as usual. Calls to City Hall and the virtual call center will be returned on Thursday, April 1st.

The day marks the birthday and the legacy of civil rights and labor movement leader Cesar Chavez. Chavez dedicated his life’s work to what he called "la causa" (the cause). He worked to address farmworkers' struggle in the United States to improve their working and living conditions by organizing and negotiating contracts with their employers. As he said: “Non-violence is not inaction. It is not discussion. It is not for the timid or weak. Non-violence is hard work. It is the willingness to sacrifice. It is the patience to win.” 
Tonight's the Night!
Friday, March 26th at 6 p.m.

The Chamber of Commerce Hosts:
Virtual Celebrate Award and Auction

Watch via ZOOM here:
When: Mar 26, 2021 06:00 p.m.
Topic: 2021 Celebrate Awards Ceremony
Please click the link below to join the webinar:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81968730768?pwd=K2hJK0lVbFZLVE9VOTZaQVM5QlcvZz09
Passcode: 142727
Or One tap mobile : US: +16699006833,,81968730768#,,,,*142727#

Watch on Facebook LIVE here: Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce | Facebook

Join the LIVE Auction with over 45 local items to bid on here: 2021 Celebrate Silent Auction (auctria.com)

*All proceeds help keep Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce Community Events, Business Support, Education Programs, and Organization RUNNING!
**Auction closes Saturday, March 27th @ 8 p.m.
City's Urban Forest Management Plan

Morgan Hill has developed an Urban Forest Management Plan with funding from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection as part of the California Climate Investments Program.
 
This plan will be presented and considered by the City Council at the April 7th Council Meeting. Per City policy, we are circulating it now for community review and input. If you have comments or questions before the meeting, please email Anthony Eulo or call 408-310-4179. 
Stay Healthy and Active!
 
The Centennial Recreation Center (CRC) is open with a safe and welcoming facility, improved air filtration, strong safety procedures, and a new spacious indoor group exercise studio!

Members can reserve a workout time for fitness equipment, cardio or join group exercise classes. There are indoor and outdoor exercise classes, and virtual classes live from the facility and on-demand.

The Morgan Hill Aquatics Center (AC) is included with your CRC membership. The AC offers outdoor lap swim, aqua fitness, and private swim lessons. Stay tuned for more programs throughout the summer months! For additional information and to become a member, visit www.morganhill.ca.gov/crcmembership.
COVID-19 Updates
The County of Santa Clara has moved to the Orange Tier of the Blueprint for a Safer Economy and will continue to align with the State's framework. 

While vaccinations are ongoing, let's work together to keep our risk of COVID-19 low. Wear a mask, keep your distance, and get vaccinated when it’s your turn.

Effective Wednesday, March 24, 2021:
 
  • Indoor dining at a max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer;
  • Retail stores open with modifications;
  • Places of Worship indoors at maximum 50% capacity;
  • Gyms and fitness centers at a maximum 25% capacity;
  • Bowling alleys at a maximum 25% capacity;
  • Movie theaters at a max 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer; and
  • Wineries / Breweries indoors at a max 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
 
For more information on what the State allows in the Orange Tier, visit the State's website.
Vaccine Updates from the State: 
 
Vaccine Updates from the County: 
The county is still waiting for adequate vaccine supply from the state to utilize its vaccination capacity, despite Thursday's announcement that vaccine eligibility would expand.
Vaccinations for Homebound Residents

Santa Clara County continues to expand its COVID-19 vaccination outreach efforts. Residents can email [email protected] or call 408-970-2818 for more information or to register.

To be eligible, residents must meet the Medicare definition of homebound:
  • Patients either need supportive devices such as crutches, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, special transportation, or help from someone else to leave their home due to illness or injury, OR have a condition that makes leaving home medically inadvisable. 
  • There must be a normal inability to leave home, AND leaving home must require a considerable taxing effort.
COVID-19 Rent Relief
The Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency announced that it is now accepting applications for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Program
 
California tenants or landlords can visit the Housing Is Key website or call toll-free 833-430-2122. 
Meetings, Community Events, and
Opportunities to Engage
Applications Accepted Until April 2, 2021
The City of Morgan Hill is seeking applications from residents interested in serving on the Library, Culture, and Arts Commission.
 
There is one (1) vacancy on this Commission with a term ending April 1, 2024. The deadline to submit applications is April 2, 2021. We will be conducting interviews on April 21, 2021.
 
If you are interested in applying, please visit the following link to learn more about the commissions and apply: https://www.morgan-hill.ca.gov/148/Commissions.
Tuesday, April 6, 2021
Empower SCC Hosts
Free Homeownership Webinar 
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
 
Presented entirely in Spanish, the City of Gilroy is proud to host a FREE Homeownership Webinar about the Empower Homebuyers SCC program with the County of Santa Clara and Housing Trust Silicon Valley. Learn more about this new down payment assistance program and how it can help you become a first-time homebuyer in Santa Clara County. All are welcome.
 
For more information about the program, visit http://www.housingtrustsv.org/empower.
OR view the flyers. (English/Spanish). Register HERE today!
Through April 19, 2021
March 25 - May 27, 2021
Wednesday, March 31, 2021
Upcoming Youth Events
PARTI Program is hosting a variety of activities this summer. The group's mission is to promote education around youth healthy lifestyles and healthy decision-making. Engagement opportunities will continue through the summer continuing into the 2021-22 school year. 

April 21, 2021, from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Silicon Valley/Bay Area Career Connection Virtual Event (View the FLYER)

May 29, 2021, in Gilroy and May 30, 2021, in Morgan Hill - Location TBA
South County Safe Summer Kickoff (View the FLYER)
Save the Date
Monday, April 12, 2021
Wednesday, April 14, 2021
April 17 & 18, 2021
Starting April 20, 2021 - 6 week series
Saturday, April 24, 2021
Food Drive & Give Away

Edward Boss Prado Foundation hosts
Gate To Gate Food Giveaway, April 24.

Please donate non-perishable, canned, or dry goods before April 24.

To donate, text, or call Cecelia Ponzini, CEO of the Edward Boss Prado Foundation,
1-408-670-0266.
April 26 - June 5, 2021
Public Project and Maintenance Updates

Partner Agency News
First 5 Santa Clara County

Program Goals:
This program serves children aged 0-5 and parents/caretakers living with developmental and/or mental health issues that affect children's social and emotional well-being.

For more information, view these FLYERS (English/Spanish)
Culinary, Arts & Life Skills

Culinary Arts: Join us for a safe, in-person, outdoor group on the lawn in front of Rebekah Children's Services. In partnership with the Culinary Academy and Chef Carlos, you will be working in our outdoor kitchen and making gourmet afternoon snacks such as Grilled cheese with ham or bacon, Pico De Gallo and Guacamole, Stir-fry, and Pan-Seared Salmon.

Art & Life Skills: Learn self-improvement, decision making, coping with anxiety, communication skills, and social skills while expressing yourself with art. Art mediums may include watercolor, arts and crafts, and a variety of expression paintings.

Open to Teens 13-18

Any interested students must complete this application and after an over-the-phone interview before being accepted into the program. Submit completed applications to [email protected].

For more information, view the FLYER HERE.
Online Tutoring Pods Available to Students

Free after-school distance learning tutoring pods available March 22 - May 27, 2021, for Santa Clara County Library District service area residence. View full FLYER HERE.

Distinguished Author Series

The Distinguished Author Series brings together great authors who spark new thoughts, ideas, and deep discussion. Join the SCCLD for this series April 14 - May 22, 2021. Advanced registration is required. For more information, view the FLYER HERE.

New Online Program Helps Adults Get High School Diplomas

The Santa Clara County Library District is happy to offer a new online program that makes it simple and convenient for adults to obtain high school diplomas and learn new careers.
View this FLYER for more information.
College Scholarships for Local Women

The Morgan Hill branch of the American Association of University Women is offering three types of scholarships. Applications are due May 15. Additional details may be found at: aauwmh.org/local-scholarships.

(1) Re-Entry/Deferred Scholarship: For women whose college studies were interrupted or are now just starting college after a break in their education after finishing high school.
 
(2) Lauren Jenkins Healthcare Profession Scholarships: For women in a healthcare program leading to a professional practice license.
 
(3) Fritts Family STEM Scholarship: For women currently in college working toward a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field.

For more information, view these FLYERS. (English/Spanish)
Darren Dean Vocational Education Grant

The Rotary Club of Morgan Hill offers financial aid to adults age 17+ who live in the Morgan Hill Unified School District boundaries.
 
The Darren Dean Vocational Education Grant supports people who want experience and knowledge in skilled labor, such as the construction trades. The due date is May 15, 2021. See the attached flyer or Rotary's webpage for additional information.
Summer Enrichment Program

Join the Boys and Girls Club for an exciting summer filled with fun, friends, and adventure, Ages 6 - 18.

June 14 - July 30
Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

For more information and to register today, view the flyers. (English/Spanish)
Caltrain Reduces Price for Monthly Pass by 20%

Caltrain has reduced the price of its Monthly Pass by 20% from April to September. Riders can purchase an April Pass starting March 21.
The Morgan Hill HUB
 
LATI is excited to announce the launch of The Morgan Hill HUB. The HUB is a COVID compliant space that will allow youth (limited count) and early college students to come and have free, strong internet access, log into school, do their homework, receive academic support and resources. The HUB will also provide a morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack.
 
Registration is now open, and space is still available: THE HUB
 
For more information, please view the flyers. (English/Spanish)
Morgan Hill Community Foundation's
Meals for Heroes Program

Two of the most impacted Morgan Hill industries in the midst of COVID-19 are medical and hospitality. Your donation will help provide meals for local healthcare workers and financial support for local small business restaurants.

PG&E Extends Its COVID-19 Support Programs

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has announced that it will extend the existing COVID 19 customer protections through June 30, 2021. For more information, view the full article HERE.

Wildfire Prevention Work in Santa Clara County
PG&E submitted its 2021 Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP), found HERE, to the CPUC detailing its plans to reduce wildfire risk, increase situational awareness, and deploy new technology and models to help keep customers and communities safe.

Additional Resources for Customers
To help customers plan for power outages to prevent major wildfires, PG&E has developed a series of educational videos that can be found at pge.com/pspsvideos and kidsemergencysafety.com
$20,000 in Scholarships
for Youth Film Competition:
EmPower Silicon Valley 

Do you know a high school student interested in climate solutions? Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) is providing $20,000 in scholarships as part of a new youth competition kicking off in April. No prior film or climate change knowledge necessary. To receive updates and a link to the kick-off event, complete the form. For general SVCE information, click HERE.

June 2021 Santa Clara County Time-of-Use Rate Transition

As part of a multi-year, statewide energy policy to create a cleaner energy future for California, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, SVCE, and San José Clean Energy will move approximately 395,000 eligible residential electric customers currently on a tiered rate plan called E-1 to a Time-of-Use (TOU) rate plan in June 2021. For more information, click HERE.
New Time-Of-Use Electricity Rate

In June 2021, most residential customers in Santa Clara County will be transitioned to a new Time-of-Use electricity rate. This transition is a part of a statewide effort to improve how electricity is used on the grid and support California’s shift toward clean energy.

PG&E and Silicon Valley Clean Energy customers not currently on a Time-of-Use rate will be automatically transitioned in June. PG&E has already begun sending information directly to customers in a series of letters to inform you of your rate choices. The transition does not apply to Medical Baseline customers or customers who started electric service after October 2020.

The Time-of-Use rate price varies based on when you use electricity. Energy will be cheapest before 4 p.m. and after 9 p.m. (“Off-Peak” times). Shifting high energy use to these off-peak times will save you money with the cheaper rate.

Bill protection will cover customers that are automatically transitioned in June for the first 12 months. If you pay more on the new Time-of-Use rate than your old rate, you will be credited with the difference. Customers can decline the transition or choose another rate if they act by May through your online PG&E account or by contacting PG&E.

You have rate choices; customers can change their rate at any time through their PG&E account.

The City of Morgan Hill, along with Silicon Valley Clean Energy, will be holding a Town Hall Meeting to share information and answer questions on Thursday, April 8, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. We will share more information as we get closer to that date.

For more information on the Time-of-Use rate transition, visit www.svcleanenergy.org/time-of-use
Your Morgan Hill
City hall
Morgan Hill City Hall 
Office Hours

City of Morgan Hill offices are closed due to COVID-19.

If you have questions or concerns during this time, please call our virtual call center.

408-767-6404

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Messages will be returned within 24 hours.

Please note that the City of Morgan Hill will observe the holiday on Wednesday, March 31, 2021. All public safety services will continue as usual. Calls to City Hall and the virtual call center will be returned on Thursday, April 1st.
Elected Officials


County Supervisor
District 1: 

California State Assembly District 30: 

California State Senate District 17: 

U.S. Congressional District 19: 

City of Morgan Hill
Advisory Commissions:

City of Morgan Hill Advisory Committees: