City of Ojai COVID-19 Information Page
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City of Ojai Director of Emergency Services COVID-19 Orders
02-10-22 Ventura County’s Indoor Mask Order Will be Lifted February 16, in Alignment with the State
Ventura, CA – Ventura County Public Health announced today that the local Health Officer Order requiring masking in all indoor public places will be lifted Wednesday, February 16, 2022 in alignment with State’s masking policy. “The mask order is being lifted because the COVID-19 situation has changed thanks to effective vaccines, effective treatments and a variant that causes less severe disease. I still highly recommend that all community members wear masks indoors because there is strong evidence that masks, especially high-quality masks, protect both the wearer and those around them,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin.
The State order continues to require masking in indoor public places for those who are not vaccinated and for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, in healthcare facilities, schools, childcare settings, homeless shelters, emergency shelters, corrections, long-term care facilities and public transit. Workplaces will continue to follow the COVID-19 prevention standards set by CalOSHA.
The California Department of Public Health continues to require masking in K-12 school settings in California but has indicated adjustments to the State’s policies will be shared in the coming weeks. For early education programs, such as preschool and childcare settings, the State continues to require masking for children older than age two. Vaccinations for children under 5 are currently undergoing federal review.
Public Health, in alignment with the California Department of Public Health, continues to strongly recommend masks to be used as an effective tool to prevent the spread of the virus especially when case rates are high, or when additional personal protection is needed. Continuing to mask in indoor public settings, especially crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, remains the safest choice for an individual and protects those who are medically vulnerable or are not able to get vaccinated, like young children. As evidence continues to show, vaccinations and boosters remain the best defense against the virus.
“As the mandate is lifted it is still incumbent on all of us to continue to take appropriate precautions to protect further spread of the virus. COVID continues to cause serious disease and death,” added Doctor Levin. “If you are not vaccinated or have not received a booster, getting the shot right away is the best thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and community from COVID.”
Community members are encouraged to follow prevention strategies, such as wearing well-fitted masks; staying home and testing when symptomatic; testing before gatherings; and improving indoor ventilation in situations where these strategies can add protection for themselves or others. Staying up to date on vaccinations, meaning primary series and boosters when eligible, remains the most important way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. COVID-19 information is available at www.vcrecovers.org
02-07-22 COVID Testing Now Available M-F at Sarzotti Park
01-19-22 Residents Can Now Order Free COVID Test Kits
Every home in the U.S. can order four, free at-home COVID tests. The tests are completely free, there are no shipping costs and you do not need to enter a credit card number. Visit www.COVIDtests.gov for more details and to place your order. Tests may take 1-2 weeks to arrive and will be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. For info on local COVID resources and more immediate testing, visit www.venturacountyrecovers.org.
Remaining 2021 Dates for Free COVID Testing at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Road
The schedule for free COVID testing at Sarzotti Park for the rest of the year is as follows:
Wednesday, December 22 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday, December 24 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Monday, December 27 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 29 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday, December 31 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
COVID Clinics offer free COVID-19 testing on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 am. to 3:00 p.m. at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai, CA. 93023. Testing is available to the public, including to those who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. You do not need to have health insurance to get tested, however, if you have health insurance, you will be asked you to share that information.
Pre-registration is strongly recommended. To register, please visit https://covidclinic.org/sarzotti-park
In addition to the no cost testing, COVID Clinic also offers an array of paid services such as: COVID-19 testing for travel, Rapid COVID-19 RT-PCR testing, Rapid COVID-19 Antibody testing, Rapid COVID-19 + Flu Antigen, amongst other services. To learn more about the services offered by COVID Clinics, please visit https://covidclinic.org/sarzotti-park
Additional COVID-19 Testing Dates Announced- Testing Now Available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
8/20/2021: Ventura County Public Health Issues New Health Order Requiring Masking Indoors
Free COVID-19 Testing Available on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 am. to 3:00 p.m. at Sarzotti Park
The County of Ventura and COVID Clinics is offering free COVID-19 testing on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 am. to 3:00 p.m. at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai, CA. 93023. Pre-registration is strongly recommended; however, walk-ups are welcome. To register, please visit https://covidclinic.org/sarzotti-park.
In addition to the no cost testing, COVID Clinic also offers an array of paid services such as: COVID-19 testing for travel, Rapid COVID-19 RT-PCR testing, Rapid COVID-19 Antibody testing, Rapid COVID-19 + Flu Antigen, amongst other services. To learn more about the services offered by COVID Clinics, please visit. https://covidclinic.org/.
A Fourth Business Assistance Grant program was Announced July 28, 2021
The County of Ventura is launching a fourth COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program for business and nonprofit organizations that did not receive a grant during any of the County’s previous business grant programs. Businesses and nonprofits based in Ventura County may be eligible for a $10,000 grant. The County Board of Supervisors has supported more than $65 million in grants to help local businesses move forward. All eligibility, use of funds, required documentation and additional information can be reviewed at www.VCbusinessgrants.org or call 888.405.1004.
El 28 de julio de 2021 se anunció un cuarto programa de subvenciones de asistencia empresarial.
El Condado de Ventura va a lanzar un cuarto Programa de Subvenciones de Asistencia Comercial por el COVID-19 para empresas y organizaciones sin fines de lucro que no recibieron una ayuda durante ninguno de los programas anteriores de subvenciones de asistencia comercial del Condado. Las empresas y organizaciones sin fines de lucro basadas en el Condado de Ventura pueden ser elegibles para una ayuda de $10,000. La Junta de Supervisores del Condado ha aportado más de $65 millones en subvenciones para ayudar a las empresas locales a avanzar. Toda la información sobre elegibilidad, uso de fondos, documentación necesaria y cuestiones adicionales se puede consultar en www.VCbusinessgrants.org o llamando al 888.405.1004
July 28, 2021 COUNTY OF VENTURA PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY: PUBLIC HEALTH STRONGLY RECOMMENDS ALL COMMUNITY MEMBERS WEAR MASKS INDOORS TO PREVENT FURTHER SPREAD OF COVID-19
Ventura, CA – With cases of COVID-19 rising locally and increased circulation of the highly transmissible Delta variant, the County of Ventura Public Health Department strongly recommends that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear masks indoors in public places. This serves as an extra precautionary measure for those who are fully vaccinated and will further limit spread of the Delta variant in the community at large.
“The Delta variant is spreading quickly in our State. All community members should take action to protect themselves and others against this potentially deadly virus,” said County of Ventura Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “While vaccines remain our best tool against COVID-19, masking in indoor and crowded outdoor settings will help us curb the spread of this latest wave of infection. Ventura County data have recently shown that unvaccinated people are 22 times more likely to become infected and hospitalized than vaccinated residents. Several of our hospitalized people have been vaccinated and that is several too many.”
In June, the Delta variants comprised 43 percent of all specimens sequenced in California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that Delta variants are now responsible for 58 percent of new infections across the country. Fully vaccinated people are well-protected from infections and serious illness due to known COVID-19 variants including Delta variants, and vaccinating as many people as possible, as soon as possible, continues to be our best defense against severe COVID-19 infection, and the harm it can do to our region. Vaccines are safe, effective, free, and widely available to everyone 12 and older. “For the most part this is a surge of cases among our unvaccinated and it is preventable. Get vaccinated,” said Doctor Levin.
“We are seeing a significant growth in Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations in our County. As of today, there are 504 new cases since July 12, 41 current hospitalizations and 9 community members in the ICU. The daily case rate per 100,000 has increased to 4.4,” said Public Health Director Rigoberto Vargas. “All community members are encouraged to get vaccinated to help protect themselves and loved ones. This will also help reverse this concerning trend of increasing cases since June 15.”
Out of an abundance of caution, people are strongly recommended to wear masks indoors in settings like grocery or retail stores, theaters, and family entertainment centers, even if they are fully vaccinated as an added layer of protection for both themselves and unvaccinated residents. Businesses are asked to expect universal masking for customers entering indoor areas of their businesses to provide better protection to their employees and customers. Workplaces must comply with Cal/OSHA requirements and fully vaccinated employees are encouraged to wear masks indoors if their employer has not confirmed the vaccination status of those around them. For masks to work properly, they need to completely cover your nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of your face and around your nose.
Public Health will continue to monitor transmission rates, hospitalizations, deaths and increasing vaccination rates throughout the County and will reevaluate the recommendation in the coming weeks. COVID-19 information can be monitored at www.vcrecovers.org.
People are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. People with only one vaccine dose of Pfizer or Moderna are not fully protected. Completion of the vaccine series is necessary to provide full protection.
COVID-19 vaccines are available at multiple locations throughout the County of Ventura for all community members 12 or older. Information about locations can be found at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255.
July 20, 2021 City of Ojai COVID-19 Update
The County of Ventura Public Health Department has issued an advisory strongly recommending that everyone in Ventura County, regardless of vaccination status, wear masks indoors in public places. The cases of COVID-19 are rising locally with an increased circulation of the highly transmissible Delta variant.
This serves as an extra precautionary measure for those who are fully vaccinated and will further limit spread of the Delta variant in the community at large.
COVID-19 testing is still available in Ojai on Wednesdays. The County of Ventura and COVID Clinics is offering free COVID-19 testing on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 from 9:00 am. to 3:00 p.m. at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai, CA. 93023. Pre-registration is recommended; however, walk-ups are welcome. To register, please visit https://covidclinic.org/sarzotti-park.
In addition to the no cost testing, COVID Clinic also offers an array of paid services such as: COVID-19 testing for travel, Rapid COVID-19 RT-PCR testing, Rapid COVID-19 Antibody testing, Rapid COVID-19 + Flu Antigen, amongst other services. To learn more about the services offered by COVID Clinics, please visit. https://covidclinic.org/.
June 16, 2021 COVID-19 Update
On June 15, the State of California reopened and lifted most COVID-19 restrictions. We want to take a moment to thank our Ojai community for all of the efforts to keep our community safe over the last 15+ months. Below is an update regarding updated health orders:
What will California look like after June 15?
California is fully reopening its economy with businesses resuming normal operations (with limited exceptions for Mega Events). The new State Public Health Order, effective June 15, replaces previous health orders issued by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
View CDPH’s Beyond the Blueprint for Industry and Business Sectors and the Beyond the Blueprint Questions and Answers to learn more.
Key points in the Beyond the Blueprint Framework
- The county color tiers and associated restrictions on businesses are no longer in effect.
- There are no longer capacity or distancing requirements for most businesses or public settings.
- Businesses must continue to follow the Cal/OSHA Covid-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). Click here to read the ETS.
- Mega Events are characterized as large crowds greater than 5,000 (indoors) and 10,000 (outdoors) attendees. These events must still follow the Beyond the Blueprint guidance.
- California continues to follow current COVID-19 public health guidance for K-12 schools until further updates from the CDC.
- Fully vaccinated people can stop wearing face coverings outdoors and indoors – with some following exceptions. Learn more and view the Questions and Answers.
What do California employers need to know?
Most employers are subject to the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). The Cal/OSHA Standards Board will vote on these revisions to the Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) at their meeting on June 17, 2021. Find more details about the COVID-19 Prevention ETS in the Frequently Asked Questions.
Businesses in Ventura County
- Businesses can remove COVID-19 prevention plans and other signage from their window fronts.
- It is no longer necessary for businesses to register an attestation.
- Find business-related information at www.venturacountyrecovers.org/business-info/
Remember:
- Get vaccinated to protect yourself from COVID-19. Anyone ages 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in Ventura County. No appointment is needed. To find a vaccine site, visit: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/
Get tested if you suspect you have been in contact with an infected person or have symptoms. Find information about COVID-19 testing here: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/coronavirus-testing/
Free COVID-19 Testing in Ojai Extended through May 26, 2021.
The City of Ojai and County of Ventura have announced additional free COVID-19 testing dates in Ojai through May 26, 2021. Testing is to be held at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai CA. 93023. Testing dates and times for the month of February are as follows:
- Wednesday, May 5, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 12, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 19, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 26, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Testing is available to the public, including to those who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. Appointments are not required and you do not need to have health insurance.
COVID‐19 Rent Relief Now Available to Income Eligible Households
Rent relief is now available to income eligible households who need financial assistance for unpaid rent and utilities through the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program. If you have experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19, have past due rent or utilities, and have a household income that is not more than 80% of the area median income, you may be eligible to receive help to pay past due or future rent and utilities from the state of California. Landlords and renters can verify eligibility immediately by visiting HousingIsKey.com, or by calling 833-430-2122, and if eligible, apply now.
Program Details
If you are a landlord and participate in the COVID-19 Rent Relief program, you can get reimbursed for 80% of your eligible renters’ unpaid rent accrued between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021, if you agree to waive the remaining 20% of their unpaid rent from that same time.
If you are an eligible renter, you can apply on your own and receive 25% of your unpaid rent that was accrued between April 1, 2020, and March 31, 2021, even if your landlord doesn’t participate. You can also receive financial assistance to pay future rent, equal to 25% of your monthly amount. This combined assistance can help you stay housed once California’s eviction protections expire on June 30, 2021. Additional financial assistance available through the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program includes help paying past due utility payments accrued from April 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021, as well as help paying future utility bills, both of which may be paid at 100% of cost but are limited to a total of 12 months.
To check eligibility, review the required application items and apply, visit HousingIsKey.com. Required information, along with necessary verification items, will be required for applications to be processed. Once an application has been processed, both the landlord and renter will be notified about the application status and next steps.
Eligibility and Application Assistance
Registered Local Partner Network (LPN) organizations are currently available by appointment to answer questions and help determine eligibility. A list of partners and locations is available at HousingIsKey.com, under community partners/resources, or by calling 833-430-2122.
Visit HousingIsKey.com today for more information, to check eligibility or to apply.
Appointments Available for Pfizer Vaccines at Nordhoff High School This Saturday (May 1, 2021)
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update for Thursday, April 15, 2021-Vaccine Update
Today, the County of Ventura announced that every person 16 years and older in Ventura County is now eligible for a free COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is one of the most important ways to help end the pandemic. While you wait for your vaccine, it is important to continue to practice safe measures to protect yourself, your loved ones, and to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, practicing social distancing, avoiding gatherings, and washing your hands frequently.
As a local vaccine distributor, the County of Ventura is organized and prepared to distribute the vaccine as supplies are received. To register for your vaccine or to get notified of when appointments become available, please visit myturn.ca.gov or by calling the California COVID-19 Hotline at 1-833-422-4255 Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm or Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
For additional information, please visit www.venturacountycrecovers.org.
County of Ventura Moves into the State’s Orange Tier Effective Wednesday, April 7, 2021
The County of Ventura announced that effective 12:01 am Wednesday, April 7, 2021, it moved to the State’s orange Tier. The following information has been provided by the County regarding the transition.
“On behalf of the Board of Supervisors we share in the good news and appreciate that we as a community have been able to bring the numbers down in our County and State. The good work of our citizens, our businesses and the protocols put forth have helped us control COVID. What a good feeling for grandparents to hug their grandkids, for kids to be able to go back to school and for the struggling businesses. This has really been one of those things where we have all had to come together to help one another. Our thanks goes out to all of those helpers who have worked hard and helped us get here today,” said Chair of the Board Supervisor Linda Parks.
The County’s 7-day average case rate per 100,000 is 3.9 (orange), the 7-day testing positivity rate is 1.6% (yellow) and the health equity 7-day testing positivity rate is 2.8% (orange).
“This progress, thanks to the hard work of our community members, means that our restaurants, retailers, gyms and other businesses can open to more customers which will help keep doors open, grow jobs in industries that were hit hard during the height of the pandemic and get us moving forward on the recovery path,” said County Executive Officer Michael Powers. “This is the time to keep it local in supporting our businesses.”
Businesses in need of support are encouraged to apply for the County’s 2nd Business Assistance Grant. The application period for the $5,000 grants has been extended to April 13 at 6:00 pm. More information can be found at www.vcbusinessgrants.com.
All activities authorized under the State’s Orange Tier can resume in accordance with State guidance:
- Amusement parks: smaller parks can open outdoors with 25% max occupancy or 500 people, whichever is fewer; there must be reservations or advanced ticket sales and only local attendees are allowed (from the same county as the park’s location)
- Bars (where no meal is served): open outdoors with modifications
- Cardrooms and satellite wagering: open indoors with 25% max occupancy
- Family entertainment centers: open indoors 25% max occupancy
- Fitness centers and gyms: open indoors with 25% max occupancy; indoor pools open at 25% occupancy
- Hotels and lodging: fitness centers can now open indoors with 25% max occupancy; indoor pools open at 25% occupancy
- Movie theaters: open indoors with 50% max occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer
- Museums, zoos, and aquariums: open indoors with 50% max occupancy
- Offices: open indoors with modifications though telework is still encouraged
- Outdoor live events: open at 33% capacity
- Places of worship: open indoors with 50% max occupancy
- Retail (including standalone grocers): open indoors at full capacity with modifications
- Restaurants open indoors with 50% max occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer; only members of same household may share a table
- Shopping centers (including swap meets and indoor malls): open indoors at full capacity with modifications; common areas must remain closed and food courts are at reduced capacity
- Wineries, breweries and distilleries: open indoors with 25% max occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer; only members of same household may share a table
- Youth sports: competitions between two teams are allowed in certain sports according to the State’s Youth Sports Guidance
“Continued adherence to public health mitigation measures such as wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces, and practicing physical distancing from those outside your household will help limit the impact of variants circulating in Southern California, particularly as more indoor activities open and expand operations,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “I am happy for our local businesses, but we can’t let our guard down.”
For further information by industry sector, visit the State’s Industry Guidance website.
For more information about the transition, please visit www.venturacountyrecovers.org or by calling the COVID Business Compliance line at 805-202-1805.
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update for: April 1, 2021- County of Ventura to Potentially Move into the State’s Orange Tier on Wednesday, April 7, 2021
On Tuesday, March 30, 2021 the state of California announced that the County of Ventura could move into the State’s Orange Tier as early as Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at 12:01 am. In the announcement, it was noted that the County has met the requirements for the first week of the two-week time frame in the State’s Orange Tier. If the County meets the requirements during the next review, on April 6, the County will be permitted to move to Orange Tier.
The orange Tier is the third of the four-tier color-coded State system under the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. The following information has been provided by the County regarding the possible transition.
All activities authorized under the State’s Orange Tier can resume in accordance with State capacity limits and safety protocols, including:
- Amusement parks: smaller parks can open outdoors with 25% max occupancy or 500 people, whichever is fewer; there must be reservations or advanced ticket sales and only local attendees are allowed (from the same county as the park’s location)
- Bars (where no meal is served): open outdoors with modifications
- Cardrooms and satellite wagering: open indoors with 25% max occupancy
- Family entertainment centers: open indoors for naturally distanced activities like bowling alleys and escape rooms; kart racing, mini golf and batting cages are outdoors only with modifications
- Fitness centers and gyms: open indoors with 25% max occupancy; indoor pools open at 25% occupancy
- Hotels and lodging: fitness centers can now open indoors with 25% max occupancy; indoor pools open at 25% occupancy
- Movie theaters: open indoors with 50% max occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer
- Museums, zoos, and aquariums: open indoors with 50% max occupancy
- Offices: open indoors with modifications though telework is still encouraged
- Outdoor live events: open at 20% capacity; reservations required with assigned seating only; regional attendees only (120-mile radius of venue).
- Retail (including standalone grocers): open indoors at full capacity with modifications
- Restaurants open indoors with 50% max occupancy or 200 people, whichever is fewer; only members of same household may share a table
- Shopping centers (including swap meets and indoor malls): open indoors at full capacity with modifications; common areas must remain closed and food courts are at reduced capacity
- Wineries, breweries and distilleries: open indoors with 25% max occupancy or 100 people, whichever is fewer; only members of same household may share a table
- Youth sports: competitions between two teams are allowed in certain sports according to the State’s Youth Sports Guidance. The State has also issued new guidance for the following activities:
- Outdoor live audience events including ballparks and stadiums
- Guidance for commencement and graduation ceremonies After reaching the Orange Tier the County would need to remain in the Orange Tier for 3-consecutive weeks to be able to progress to the less restrictive Yellow Tier.
For more information on what the State allows in the Orange Tier, please visit https://covid19.ca.gov/. For further information by industry sector, visit the State’s Industry Guidance website.
The City of Ojai would like to share a reminder: please continue to social distance, wear a face coverings and wash your hands often to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These simple measures will help keep our community safe.
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update: March 26, 2021- Vaccine and Testing Update
The State of California recently announced that vaccine eligibility will expand on April 1, 2021 to those 50 or older and to those 16 or older on April 15, 2021. As the local vaccine distributor, the County of Ventura is organized and prepared to distribute the vaccine as supplies are received.
Although it is good news that vaccine eligibility is expanding, it’s important to continue to practice safe measures to protect yourself, your loved ones, and to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to:
- Wear a face mask
- Practice social distancing
- Avoid gatherings
- Wash your hands frequently
- Get tested if you feel sick or may have been exposed
For additional information about the vaccine, please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/.
Additionally, the City of Ojai and County of Ventura have announced additional COVID-19 testing dates in Ojai through April 28, 2021. Testing is free and to be held at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai CA. 93023. Testing dates and times for the month of April are as follows:
- Wednesday, April 7, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 14, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 21, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 28, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Testing is available to the public, including to those who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. Appointment are not required and you do need to have health insurance.
County of Ventura Moves Into the State’s Red Tier Effective Wednesday, March 17, 2021
The County of Ventura announced that effective 12:01 am Wednesday, March 17, 2021, it moved to the State’s Red Tier. The following information has been provided by the County regarding the transition.
“This is great news for our community and an opportunity to work together to support our local businesses as we move forward in reopening our economy,” said County Executive Officer, Michael Powers.
In alignment with the state’s reopening framework, masking, distancing and infection control practices remain in place.
“We are pleased to see case counts declining, vaccination rates increasing, and a continued commitment by our residents to wearing masks, social distancing, and staying outdoors as much as possible when interacting with people outside their household,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “This is a pivotal moment: if our community continues to be cautious and follow public health guidance, things will continue to improve. If people let down their guard and begin engaging in risky activities, we will likely see another surge in cases.”
The State’s Blueprint tracks three metrics: the seven-day adjusted case rate, the seven-day testing positivity rate and the health equity metric. Ventura County’s case rate is 6.5, testing positivity is 2.8% (orange tier) and health equity testing positivity is 5.0% (orange).
Moving from the purple tier into the red tier for the County means:
- Restaurants can open indoors with 25 percent capacity or a maximum of 100 people, whichever is fewer. The 11 pm closure requirement is lifted. The single household dining limitation is lifted. State gathering guidance limits gatherings to 3 households or less.
- Retail establishments can open indoors at 50 percent capacity.
- Indoor Shopping Malls can increase capacity to 50 percent with common areas remaining closed; food courts can open at 25 percent capacity adhering to the restaurant guidance for indoor dining.
- Movie theaters can open indoors with 25 percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
- Gyms, Fitness Centers, Yoga and Dance Studios can open indoors with 10 percent capacity with 6-ft social distancing instead of the previous requirement of 12 ft.
- Museums, zoos, and aquariums can open indoor activities at 25 percent capacity.
- Breweries, wineries and distilleries that do not serve meals can open outdoors only with modifications. The modifications include ensuring that patrons have reservations and patrons observe a 90-minute time limit. Service for on-site consumption must end by 8:00 p.m.
- Bars that do not serve meals remain closed in the Purple and Red tiers.
- Private gatherings can occur both outdoors and indoors with up to 3 separate households.
- Schools are permitted to re-open for in-person instruction adhering to all state and county directives. This includes grades 7-12. Grades kindergarten – 6 already had the option of opening.
- Family entertainment centers (kart racing, mini-golf, batting cages) can open outdoors with modifications.
- Personal care services can continue to operate indoors following state guidance.
The County is aligned with the state issued guidance in all areas. For details and sector-specific health guidance, visit covid19.ca.gov.
Additional updated guidance:
- Golf carts do not need a partition between members of different households. They are recommended but not required.
- Local HOA pool guidance has been lifted. HOA pools are encouraged to follow suggested County guidance. Public or community pools continue to follow state issued guidance.
- 2 swimmers per lane are permitted in a public outdoor swimming pool.
- Wind instruments are allowed outdoors with bell covers and 6 feet distance between instruments. There must be 20 feet distance at a minimum between the instruments and the audience.
“The credit belongs to our residents, who have made many sacrifices and worked hard to improve our community transmission metrics,” said Public Health Director Rigoberto Vargas. “That same hard work must continue moving forward so that we don’t revert back to the purple tier and instead continue making progress towards the next tier, orange, so that various sectors can increase their capacity and additional activities can take place.”
For more information please visit www.venturacountyrecovers.org or by calling the COVID Business Compliance line at 805-202-1805.
The County of Ventura Provides an Update Regarding When the County May Be in Red Tier
(3/15/21) The County of Ventura provided this update on when the County may move into red tier:
The state has announced that once 2 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are administered in the most vulnerable communities in the state that the state will modify the case rate requirements. The case rate requirements are tied into the different colored tiers. If the case rate requirement is adjusted and Ventura County meets the metric we will move to the Red Tier on Wednesday the 17th.
Looking forward. Here’s what can be open (following the state issued guidance for each sector) once the County is in the Red Tier:
Hair salons: open indoors with modifications
Retail: open indoors at 50% capacity
Malls: open indoors at 50% capacity and limited food courts
Places of worship: open indoors at 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer
Nail salons: open indoors with modifications
Electrolysis: open indoors with modifications
Personal care services (body waxing, etc.): open indoor with modifications
Tattooing and piercing: open indoors with modifications
Museums, zoos and aquariums: open indoors at 25% capacity
Movie theaters: open indoors at 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer
Hotels: open with modifications, plus fitness centers can open at 10% capacity
Gyms: open indoors at 10% capacity 6 feet social distancing
Restaurants: open indoors at 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer
Bars, Wineries, breweries and distilleries: Updated state guidance will be released this week.
Family entertainment centers: outdoor only, like mini golf, batting cages and go-kart racing
Non-essential offices: remote work only
Professional sports: outdoor only at 20% capacity starting April 1
Schools: can reopen for in-person instruction after five days out of the purple tier
Theme parks: can reopen at 15% capacity starting April 1
Live performances: outdoor only at 20% capacity starting April 1
As of now, how a county is categorized depends on the number of new daily covid cases and the testing positivity rate. Here’s how it breaks down:
Widespread (purple): Counties with more than 7 daily new cases per 100,000 residents or higher than 8% positivity rate
Substantial (red): 4 to 7 daily new cases per 100,000 residents or 5-8% positivity
Moderate (orange): 1 to 3.9 daily new cases per 100,000 or 2-4.9% positivity
Minimal (yellow): Less than 1 daily new case per 100,000 or less than 2% positivity
Once 2 million vaccine doses have been administered to those living in the “Vaccine Equity Quartile”, a new set of metrics will be used:
Widespread (purple): Counties with more than 10 daily new cases per 100,000 residents
Substantial (red): 4 to 10 daily new cases per 100,000 residents
Moderate (orange): 1 to 3.9 daily new cases per 100,000
Minimal (yellow): Less than 1 daily new case per 100,000
The County of Ventura has a current case rate of 9.1. If the state administers 2 million doses the County will meet the new state metrics and be in red by March 17.
What can you do to help?
Covid is still spreading in our County. Things are looking better but we all must work together to continue to slow the spread. Wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands frequently, staying home when sick and not gathering are steps that help slow the spread.
Bottom line is we are not in red yet but headed that way.
More info about the state’s tiers at: https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/
County of Ventura Launches a Second COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program- English Y Español
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update: March 5, 2021- Resources to Help Support Local Businesses During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Local businesses are facing severe unforeseen challenges due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The city would like to share the following resources to help during these challenging times.
Please keep checking the City’s website for updates as new resources become available.
CURRENT COVID-19 BUSINESS RESOURCES
Loan Opportunities
- Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Borrowers may be eligible for PPP loan forgiveness. For additional information about this loan, please visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program
- Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) provides economic relief to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. For additional information about this program, please visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/covid-19-economic-injury-disaster-loans
- California Rebuilding Fund
Loan program to support California’s small businesses (especially those located in economically disadvantaged and historically under-banked areas of the state) that are flexible, transparent and are designed to help businesses access the capital and advisory services they need to get through these challenging economic times. For additional information about this program, please visit https://www.connect2capital.com/p/californiarebuildingfund/
- SBA Express Bridge Loan
The SBA Express Bridge loan allows small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly providing vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue while applying for a direct SBA Economic Injury Disaster loan. For additional information about this program, please visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/sba-express-bridge-loans
- EDC Loan Program
Affordable capital can be accessed through the EDC Loan Program. Each applicant is paired with one of our top tier financial advisors to ensure that you have the best access in reaching the capital you need. With five regional loan funds and low-interest rates, the EDC maintains a commitment to reaching underserved communities. For additional information about this program, please visit https://edcollaborative.com/edc-loan/
Grant Opportunities
CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program
- Lendistry with the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program will be opening 4 additional rounds of applications.
Round 3: For waitlisted applicants from Round 1 & 2 only. No new applications will be accepted. Selection notifications will start March 5, 2021.
Round 4: Accepting applications for non-profit arts and cultural institutions. Eligible non-profit cultural institutions must complete a new application even if they already applied in Rounds 1 and 2. Application window opens March 16, 2021 and closes March 23, 2021.
Round 5 & 6: Information coming soon.
To learn more about this program, please visit https://careliefgrant.com/
- Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) Program
SVOG offers grants for live venue operators, performing arts organizations, motion picture theater operators, cultural institutions and other eligible applicants. Funding can be used for specific expenses, such as payroll, rent, utilities and other costs. To learn more about this program, please visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant
The SBA is NOT yet accepting SVOG applications. To receive a SVOG or access any federal government grants, your business will need to register for a free System for Award Management (SAM) number. Visit sam.gov to register to do business with the U.S. government or update/renew your entity registration. Do not register for a SAM number on any other website or pay for a SAM number.
Tax Credits
- Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)
The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020, enacted December 27, 2020, amended and extended the employee retention credit (and the availability of certain advance payments of the tax credits) under section 2301 of the CARES Act. To learn more about recent changes and how to access ERTC, please visit https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/new-law-extends-covid-tax-credit-for-employers-who-keep-workers-on-payroll
- Worker Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a Federal tax credit available to employers for hiring individuals from certain targeted groups who have consistently faced significant barriers to employment, including qualified long-term unemployment recipients.
DEADLINE: The Consolidated Appropriation Act, 2021 authorized the extension of WOTC until December 31, 2025.
To learn more about this program, please visit https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/work-opportunity-tax-credit
- Social Security Employee and Employer Portion Deferral
The payroll tax deferral period for social security tax began on March 27, 2020 and ended December 31, 2020.
DEADLINES: The deferred deposits of the employer’s share of Social Security tax must be deposited
On December 31, 2021, 50 percent of the eligible deferred amount; and
On December 31, 2022, the remaining amount.
To learn more about this program, please visit https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/deferral-of-employment-tax-deposits-and-payments-through-december-31-2020
- Sales and Use Tax Extension to File and Pay
Small businesses are encouraged to use the sale tax they have already collected to float any applicable obligations. To learn more about this program and for a full schedule of program tax due dates, please visit https://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/services/extensions-to-file.htm
Unemployment Benefits
- Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits
Unemployment benefits are available for self-employed individuals and employees. If you have lost hours or wages due to the impact of COVID-19 apply for unemployment with the EDD. To apply for UI, please visit https://www.edd.ca.gov/unemployment/
- Pandemic Additional Compensation
An additional $300 federal stimulus payment automatically added to each week of benefits received from December 27, 2020, through March 13, 2021 (11 weeks). The EDD will automatically add the federal unemployment compensations to each week of benefits that you are eligible to receive. Pandemic Additional Compensation is also known as the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC). To learn more about this program, please visit https://edd.ca.gov/About_EDD/coronavirus-2019/cares-act.htm#PAC
- Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
Provides unemployment benefits for people who don’t usually qualify for regular state Unemployment Insurance, including business owners, self-employed workers, independent contractors or those with a limited work history who are out of business or have significantly reduced their services as a direct result of the pandemic. To learn more about this program, please visit https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/pandemic-unemployment-assistance.htm
- Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC)
PEUC is a benefit extension for people who have used all benefits available in their regular Unemployment Insurance claim. To learn more about this program, please visit https://edd.ca.gov/About_EDD/coronavirus-2019/cares-act.htm#PEUC
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update for Thursday, February 25, 2021: Vaccine and Testing Updates
The County of Ventura has recently announced that registration for vaccinations can now occur for essential workers in Phase 1b tier 1. This group includes essential workers in the following sectors: Food and Agriculture, Education and Childcare, Emergency Services. To learn more about the phases and tiers, please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/.
Those who are eligible to be vaccinated may:
1) Register online https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.
2) Those with limited computer/internet access may call the phone registration line at 805-477-7161. The phone line is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Reminder, if needed, Help of Ojai offers transportation on a limited basis to the Nordhoff site. For more information about this service please contact Help of Ojai by calling (805) 646-5122.
While you wait for your phase and tier to be announced, it is important to continue to practice safe measures to protect yourself, your loved ones, and to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, practicing social distancing, avoiding gatherings, and washing your hands frequently.
Additionally, the City of Ojai and County of Ventura have announced additional free COVID-19 testing dates in Ojai through March 31, 2021. Testing is to be held at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai CA. 93023. Testing dates and times for the month of March are as follows:
- Wednesday, March 3, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 10, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 17, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 24, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 31, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Testing is available to the public, including to those who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. Appointments are not required and you do not need to have health insurance.
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update: February 19, 2021- Information Regarding Variants of the Virus and Ojai Vaccine Clinic
The City of Ojai appreciates our community’s efforts to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new variants of the virus which causes COVID-19. Information about these variants may be found by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html. These variants seem to spread more easily and quickly, which could lead to more COVID-19 cases.
Now more than ever, it’s important for us as a community to continue practicing safe measures such as wearing masks, social distancing, avoiding gatherings, washing your hands frequently, getting tested, and getting vaccinated when possible.
As the local vaccine distributor, the County is distributing vaccine supplies, and is scheduled to open a vaccine clinic at Nordhoff High School on Saturday, February 20, 2021 to administer the Moderna vaccine. Appointments are limited because of the limited supply of vaccines. It may still take time to secure an appointment if you are in the current phase.
Community members who are eligible to be vaccinated may:
1) Register online https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.
2) Those with limited computer/internet access may call the phone registration line at 805-477-7161. The phone line is open Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00 p.m.
If needed, Help of Ojai offers transportation on a limited basis to the Nordhoff site. For more information about this service please contact Help of Ojai by calling (805) 646-5122.
The County of Ventura offers free COVID-19 testing throughout the County at various testing sites, including some days at Sarzotti Park in Ojai. For more information about these sites, please visit: https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/coronavirus-testing/.For a list of testing dates and times in Ojai please visit: https://ojai.ca.gov/covid-19-information/.
For the most current and relevant information regarding the vaccine, please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/.
City of Ojai: Coronavirus (COVID 19) Update for February 12, 2021
The City of Ojai would like to thank its residents for doing their part to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. It is important for us, as a community, to continue to practice safe measures to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The City would like to share the following updates:
County Vaccine Update:
The current distribution phase in Ventura County is Phase 1A: Healthcare workers, long-term care residents and effective February 9, 2021 those 65 and older are in the current vaccine phase. As the local vaccine distributor, the County is organized and prepared to distribute the vaccine as supplies are received.
Appointments are limited because of the limited supply of vaccines. It may still take time to secure an appointment if you are in the current phase.
Community members who are eligible to be vaccinated may:
1) Register online www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.
2) Those with limited computer/internet access may call the phone registration line at 805-477-7161. The phone line is open Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00.
For the most current and relevant information regarding vaccine, please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/.
Transportation to Vaccine Appointments for Older Adults:
Additionally, the Area Agency on Aging provides transportation services for older adults that are in need of transportation to a vaccine appointment or for COVID-19 testing. This includes people that need lift assist as well as gurney transportation. The driver will take the individual, wait for them, help them at the site and take them home. To schedule a ride call 805-477-7300. Please note, you must have a vaccine appointment before you schedule a ride to a vaccine site.
Face Coverings Update from CDC Indicates Two Masks Offer More Protection:
Face coverings are one of the most effective tools available to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. In a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), data showed that combining a disposable mask with a cloth mask on top, blocked 92.5% of particles expelled from a cough.
Members of the public are encouraged to consider wearing double masks, in addition to getting tested, practicing social distancing, and avoid gathering. Information on how to properly wear, clean, and create face coverings can be found on the CDC’s website by clicking on the following link:https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
City of Ojai COVID Update for February 3, 2021: Practicing Safe Measures to Help Reduce the Spread of COVID-19 While Enjoying the Super Bowl
With Super Bowl LV just around the corner, it is important to remember that gathering with people outside of your immediate household increases the spread of COVID-19. Much of the recent holiday surge in COVID cases is believed to have occurred from private in-home gatherings of several households. The City of Ojai encourages everyone to avoid these gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to follow the guidelines set by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Ventura County Public Health Care Officer, such as social distancing, mask wearing, and hand washing frequently.
The safest way to watch the Super Bowl this year, is at home with the people you live with or through a virtual watch party. Travel and gatherings with those who do not live with you, even family and friends, can increase your chances of getting or spreading COVID-19.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has released guidance available by clicking on the following link https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/small-gatherings.html
Free COVID-19 Testing in Ojai Extended through February 24, 2021. Testing on Wednesday Added.
The City of Ojai and County of Ventura have announced additional free COVID-19 testing dates in Ojai through February 24, 2021. Testing is to be held at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Rd. Ojai CA. 93023. Testing dates and times for the month of February are as follows:
- Monday, February 1, 2021- From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 3, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Monday February 8, 2021- From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 10, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Monday, February 15, 2021- From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Updated 2/12/2021)
- Wednesday, February 17, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Monday, February 22, 2021- From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, February 24, 2021- From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Testing is available to the public, including to those who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. Appointments are not required and you do not need to have health insurance.
Update from State and County: State Lifts Regional Stay Home Order, Ventura County in Purple Tier
(1/25/2021) The California Department of Public Health has announced that the Regional Stay Home Order has been lifted in Southern California.
This action allows Ventura County to return to the rules and framework for the Blueprint for a Safer Economy and color-coded tiers that indicate which activities and businesses are open based on local case rates and test positivity. Services and activities, such as outdoor dining and personal services, may resume immediately with required modifications. Tier updates will be provided weekly on Tuesdays by the California Department of Public Health.
For additional information, please see the press release below.
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update for January 20, 2021- Vaccine Information.
The County of Ventura has announced that effective January 19, 2021 those 75 and older in Ventura County can begin to register for vaccines. Ventura County residents or those that work in our County can also register for vaccines if they are in Phase 1a Tier 1, 2, & 3. To register, please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/. If you are not in the current phase, please do not register.
When you show up at the vaccine site you will have to show proof that you are in the current phase and that you live or work in Ventura County.
The COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most important tools available to help end the COVID-19 pandemic. While you wait for your phase and tier to be announced, it is important to continue to take steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, keeping our distance from others, avoiding gatherings and washing our hands.
As the local vaccine distributor, the County is organized and prepared to distribute the vaccine as supplies are received. As of January 19, 2021 the County has administered more than 30,741 first doses of vaccines from the 33,025 that have been provided to the County.
Please visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/ for the most current and relevant information.
City of Ojai COVID-19 Update for January 15, 2021 – Keep Ojai Safe
(1/15/2021) With the recent surge of positive COVID-19 cases in Ventura County, the City of Ojai is urging residents to exercise personal responsibility by following preventive health measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
As of this date, Ventura County public health officials report the following:
- 55,848 total cases
- 401 deaths
- 48,577 recovered cases
- 86 currently in the intensive care unit
- 6,870 active cases under home quarantine
- 826,074 tested
- 659 cases in Ojai
The rapid rise in cases over the last couple of weeks is very concerning. We must continue to protect ourselves by wearing masks, keeping our distance from others, avoiding gatherings, and washing our hands to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. For tips on how to protect yourself and others from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
Local Vaccine Information:
The County of Ventura has received the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and, following guidance from the CDC, has begun implementing a multi-phase vaccination plan for Ventura County residents. Additional information to follow.
Ventura County Residents or those that work in our County can register for vaccines if they are in Phase 1a Tier 1, 2, 3. If you are not in the current phase, please do not register. When you show up at the vaccine site you will have to show proof that you are in the current phase and that you live or work in our County. 65 and older are not in the current phase.
For questions and concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, the County has set up a vaccine information page, https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/prioritization/, that includes Frequently Asked Questions, the phases and where populations fall within each phase and on the distribution timeline, and a place where residents can register for vaccine updates.
Important Information For Reopening Businesses
As businesses begin to reopen in coming days, the City of Ojai would like to provide the following information to ensure appropriate health and safety measures are being considered:
- The City of Ojai has issued Executive Order 20-05, which allows restaurants to expand their outdoor seating to promote social distancing. If you are a business and are interested in expanding your outdoor seating, please contact the City’s Community Development Department, at 805-646-5581, extension 112.
- The City of Ojai has issued Executive Order 20-06, which clarifies the City’s face covering requirements. The order requires employees and customers at any business or facility with interactions between employees and customers within the City of Ojai to wear a face covering, to protect employees, customers, and residents. The order notes that employees who are alone in a room may remove the face covering, and that customers at restaurants may remove face coverings while eating.
- The City, working with the Chamber of Commerce, has developed an easy to use checklist for restaurants to ensure they are in compliance with Coronavirus related requirements. The checklist includes the 10 key protocols for restaurants within the City of Ojai, and is included below:
10 KEY PROTOCOLS FOR RESTAURANTS
Information Regarding Banks in the City of Ojai
7/31/2020- The City of Ojai has received several questions about whether the City or County orders require the closure of banks. There is currently no order that closes banks. The City has contacted the banks to encourage them to reopen or offer temporary hours.
The City has contacted several banks and obtained the following information regarding hours and availability (please note, information is subject to change):
- Bank of America has informed the City that they are reopening their Ojai branch effective Monday, August 3, 2020. Hours may be modified
- Wells Fargo- Lobby open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon.
- Chase Bank Ojai – Lobby open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Bank of Sierra – Drive-through is open Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
City of Ojai Launches Program to Allow Low-Cost Park Rental for Outdoor Fitness Classes During Pandemic
On June 16, 2020, the City of Ojai announced the launch of a program that will allow fitness instructors to utilize areas of City parks for safe, physically distanced fitness classes. The State and County’s guidelines limit indoor fitness classes due to potential spread of the virus. Outdoor programs are allowed as long as a 6 foot distance is maintained by participants.
To help encourage responsible exercise, the City of Ojai has created a low-fee process that will allow instructors to reserve portions of the park for their classes for $20 per class. The cost will cover staff time associated with scheduling and coordinating. Instructors must follow Ventura County Social Distancing Protocols. No contact sports are allowed at this time under State and County guidelines. Non-contact classes may be held including yoga, tai chi, Zumba, and many others. Instructors will be required to have (or obtain) insurance.
Instructors interested in reserving space for a class can contact the City’s Recreation Department, at (805) 646-5581, ext. 390 for more information.
Receive City Alerts Via Text!
The City of Ojai is now offering a system for citizens to receive notifications via text message. Opt-in by texting the keyword OJAICA1 to 91896 from your cell phone. After the initial keyword is sent, you’ll receive a message asking you to reply YES to verify opt-in.
You are also able to text us at (805) 669-9971 for information and updates. Texting any of the following words will give you updated information or helpful links:
CORONA: COVID-19 information and updates
City Hall Continues to Provide Online and Telephone Services, Appointments Available with Protective Measures if Needed
The City of Ojai continues to provide online and telephone services. The City encourages residents and businesses to use online and telephone services if possible. Limited appointments will be made if needed, but protective measures will be required. We ask that visitors please adhere to social distancing guidelines and wear a face-covering during their visit to City Hall. To accommodate the public, additional protective measures have been taken, such as the installation of plexiglass barriers in frequent visited areas, high touch surface areas will be disinfected periodically, and hand sanitizer will be made available throughout City Hall.
To help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we encourage residents to access services online, by phone, or e-mail, when possible. A drop box has been installed outside of City Hall near the main entrance. This box can be used to drop off any documentation you may need to bring to City Hall.
To make an appointment, residents should call the City department that they wish to visit. A full list of city departments may be found below. An employee from that department will meet you at the door and accompany you to the department that you are scheduled to visit.
- Ojai Police Station: The Ojai Police Station remains open, please call (805) 646-1414 (Non-Emergency) or 911 for an emergency.
- Community Development Department (CDD): For planning/building permits or other CDD services, please email Shari Herbruck at herbruck@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 112.
- Code Compliance: Code Enforcement is onsite and prepared to respond to needs. Residents may mail codecompliance@ojaicity.org or call 646-5581 ext. 117 to report any concerns.
- Finance Department: For business licenses and other finance services please email Kristy Rivera at rivera@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 100.
- Public Meetings: For information about public meetings, please email Gail Davis at gdavis@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 120
- Public Works and Engineering Permits: To make arrangements for these services please email Alma Quezada at quezada@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 209.
- Recreation Department: To make arrangements for these service please email Vicki Hollingsworth at hollingsworth@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 390.
- All other Inquires: For all other inquiries, please email Luis Gomez at gomez@ojaicity.org or call (805) 646-5581 ext. 103