In the face of the coronavirus threat, the City of Twentynine Palms issued an emergency proclamation yesterday that we posted on our website. But what does that really mean for residents? Reporter Heather Clisby breaks it down for us…
Twentynine Palms City Manager Frank Luckino has another important title: Director of Emergency Services. From that position, he issued a Proclamation of the Existence of a Local Emergency relating to the coronavirus yesterday. Here’s the take away:
City Hall is closed to the public. Essential services are still available but in-person services will be suspended until at least March 31. City Hall can still be reached by calling 760-367-6799 or email [email protected].
Meetings of the City Council, Planning Commission and Tourism Business Improvement District are no longer open to the public until further notice. This comes after this week’s recommendation from Donald Trump that gatherings be limited to 10 people or less. Public comments can still be submitted before the meeting by email: [email protected]. The City usually live streams these meetings from their website, https://www.ci.twentynine-palms.ca.us/, although there may be only audio available at this time.
Though all in-person services are suspended, building inspections will continue, public works project will continue as will the usual trash and recycling collections. The Joshua Tree Sheriff Station remains open and the non-emergency number is 760-366-3781. Animal care will also be limiting in-person services. City Parks will remain open and their maintenance will continue.
Also, San Bernardino County’s Acting Health Officer just ordered the cancellation of gatherings of any number of people within the county through at least April 6.
