Local officials prepare for ‘Stay At Home’ order from California government

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA, KECY)-Following Governor Newsom's 'Stay At Home order', the city of Imperial released new restrictions within city limits.

While gyms, entertainment venues, and bars will be closed, essential services such as gas stations and others will remain open.

Alexis Brown, the Public Information Officer for the city of Imperial said, "You can still go to your grocery store, get your groceries. Pick up that take out from one of our local restaurants. They're still open."

City officials hope the new restrictions will keep residents from being infected with the virus.

"We're trying to protect our most vulnerable population but most of all really mitigate and minimize the exposure of the coronavirus in our community."

Although government buildings remain closed to the public, Brown said residents are still able to pay their bills.

Brown added, "You can drop off your utility payments, or business license payments here in our dropbox outside city hall. We can take credit card payments over the phone at no charge. We have waved our disconnections for the next 60 days for utility payments."

Sgt. Max Sheffield, of the Imperial Police Department said law enforcement will keep the public informed about the new restrictions.

"We're not going to make people stay inside their homes, entrap them in their own homes. But we will let them know that if we don't have any business being out at this time, just try to stay in and hang out with your families."

The 'Stay At Home' order encourages residents to stay inside.

Valley resident Jesus Ruiz, told News 11 that he's not taking any chances.

"Just be smart you know, keep your distance. At the same time you know let's not overreact. There's people that unfortunately they go to the stores and they can't get the supplies they need because people are stockpiling everything."

Karla Lopez, an Epidemiologist at the Imperial County Public Health Department reminds residents that they should first contact their health care providers before visiting the emergency room.

"People showing up unnecessarily can cause some constraints in the services that are being provided for those who might really need that service because of the urgency of their clinical presentation of their symptoms."

Luis Placarte, the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors added that the county is giving local agencies the financial help they need during this pandemic.

"Well that is our job, is to primary law enforcement, and health care and public services, human services organizations. That provides all the services countywide. That is what we are tasked for. That is what we try and do and that's what you're going to see us doing going forward."