This system replaces the “watch list/monitoring list” system previously used by the state. The main emphasis according to state officials is to be slow, stringent and steady in reopening. Once a county reaches a certain tier based on the number of new cases per 100,000 in population and the percentage of positive cases based on total tests, those numbers must be maintained for 21 days. Previously criteria needed to hold for just 14 days.
There are other changes, such as how cases per 100,000 population are calculated, and how often the state will report out on changes in status for counties. A detailed explanation is available on the California Department of Public Health website, but I suspect what most people want to know is how we are affected.
Again, a detailed list of all the sectors and required conditions and modifications are available on a new state website, but here are some that people tend to ask about the most:
- Gyms, fitness centers, yoga studios can open at 10% occupancy
- Hair salons/barber shops/nail salons/skin care/massage therapy can open with modifications
- Movie theaters can open at 25% occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer
- Places of worship can operate at 25% occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer
- Restaurants can open for indoor dining at 25% occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer
As always, counties and cities can be more strict than these rules but not less. For example, if you look at the state’s list, it says libraries can open at 50% capacity on Monday. We have developed detailed plans for how to safely reopen our city libraries, but we must now go through the updated guidance just released today before we can determine a reopening date.
I know everyone is eager to get things back to normal as soon as possible. We are too. The most important thing is to keep our community safe and keep the openings heading in the right direction.
Surrounded by purple
As you probably noticed, San Diego County is the only county outside of Northern California in the red tier. This means COVID-19 spread is greater in our surrounding counties. The county health officer acknowledged this is a concern and will be monitoring case rates and outbreaks very closely. Here in Carlsbad, we have worked with Visit Carlsbad, the Carlsbad Village Association and the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce on a program targeting hotels and visitors. We want everyone in our city, whether a resident or a visitor, to understand the importance of following all the steps recommended to slow the spread of COVID-19.
With that in mind, please continue to do everything you can to keep our county heading in the right direction. Those most vulnerable to COVID-19 are depending on your help to reduce the spread. And, our local businesses are depending on you to stay open.
Thank you for continuing to #Care4Carlsbad. I’ll be back on Tuesday.
Scott Chadwick
City Manager
