Apr 8 2020

Piedmont COVID 19 Updates, Limitations, and Available City Services

SHELTER IN PLACE CONSTRUCTION &
LANDSCAPING RESTRICTIONS
Building & Construction Restrictions
  • The Planning & Building Department offices in Piedmont City Hall are closed to the public. Most services are being provided through email and telephone communications, and the submission of electronic documents.
  • Building Permit applications will be accepted, reviewed and approved if they meet Building Code requirements, but permits will not be issued.
  • Building site inspections are limited to those projects necessary to bring the project to minimum standards of habitability and carried out with strict social distancing requirements. Inspections by video and/or photographs are the standard.
  • For question regarding the construction restrictions under the new order, or to report a suspected violation, please contact the Building Official, Craig Griffin, at cgriffin@piedmont.ca.gov or call 1 (510) 420-3051.
Landscaping Restrictions
The Alameda County Health Officer’s Order 20-04 Dated March 31, 2020 states: “arborists, landscapers, gardeners, and similar service professionals, are considered essential only to the limited extent necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, operation of businesses or residences, or the safety of residents, employees, or the public (such as fire safety or tree trimming to prevent a dangerous condition), and not for cosmetic or other purposes (such as upkeep)” This means landscaping and gardening for cosmetic or upkeep purposes is prohibited.
It is, however, permissible to take specific measures of vegetation management to reduce fire hazards around your home. Section 13. f. xiii. of the Order states: “Only to the extent necessary, residents may perform or retain professional services to specifically improve the fire safety adjacent to their residences.”
LANDSCAPING WORK DURING COVID-19:
FIRE PREVENTION
Get Ahead of Fire Season
While routine landscaping is not allowed during the Shelter in Place Order, you can take specific measures of vegetation management to reduce fire hazards around your home. Section 13. f. xiii. of the Order states “Only to the extent necessary, residents may perform or retain professional services to specifically improve the fire safety adjacent to their residences.” The Fire Department has provided guidelines for specific measures that may be taken by residents to reduce fire hazards around the home, click on the Zones above for details.
TEMPORARY SOLID WASTE COLLECTION CHANGES
Due to the COVID pandemic, Republic Services will temporarily discontinue certain services in order to protect the health of its workforce. Collection of waste materials contained in wheeled carts (including those collected through on-premises service) and bins will remain uninterrupted. Recyclable materials and Organic waste will continue to be collected, but only if they are contained in the blue Recyclables Cart and green Organics Cart. Bulky Waste collection service is discontinued during the shelter-in-place order. Residents are still permitted to place batteries and CFLs in plastic bags and place on top of their garbage cans for collection at this time.
Additional recycling and organic carts can be requested at no additional cost by contacting Republic Services.
Republic Services of Piedmont contact information: (800) 320-8077 http://local.republicservices.com/site/piedmont-ca
CLOTH FACE COVERINGS RECOMMENDED
Cloth face coverings, when combined with physical distancing and hand washing, may prevent transmission of coronavirus to others when leaving the house for essential activities.
Bay Area health officials are recommending residents cover their nose and mouth with cloth when leaving home for essential travel such as to doctor appointments, grocery shopping or pharmacy visits. This regional recommendation aligns with new guidance from the California Department of Public Health (California Department of Public Health website).
The face coverings do not have to be hospital grade but need to cover the nose and mouth. For example, bandanas, fabric masks and neck gaiters are acceptable. Fabric covers and bandanas can be washed and used again. Please do not use N-95 masks, as it helps preserve supply for health care workers who need the additional protection that these masks provide.
“While there is no replacing the important role of physical distancing and handwashing, wearing face coverings is one more tool to prevent the spread of this virus in our community,” said Dr. Erica Pan, Alameda County Health Officer.
PROPERTY TAX LATE PAYMENT PENALTY WAIVER
If you have experienced hardships caused by the corona virus and the shelter-in-place order in relation to payment of property tax, please see the press release from the Alameda County Tax Collector for more information about penalty waivers for eligible taxpayers.  
PIEDMONT POLICE DEPARTMENT
Domestic Violence
People who are surviving violence in their relationships and families may be experiencing increased isolation and danger caused by social distancing measures during the Coronavirus pandemic. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and need immediate help please call (510) 420-3000. If you are in danger, call 911. The Alameda County Family Justice Center also has resources available.
Below are links to those resources:
For a list of 24 hour crisis lines:
PIEDMONT RECREATION DEPARTMENT
PRD Digital Bunny Blast
We were kind of sad that our annual Bunny Blast event was cancelled this year so we decided to bring it to you virtually! Introducing Bunny Blast to your computer! We’ve compiled a library of fun games and at-home crafts to help us all celebrate Spring and bunnies while at home.
Check out our egg-cellent PRD Digital Bunny Blast Event page
EVICTION MORATORIUM
Piedmonters who have seen their ability to pay their rent diminished due to the COVID 19 shelter in place orders have been afforded some protection by the state. On March 27th, the Governor issued an executive order which delays eviction proceedings for tenants who cannot pay rent due to COVID-related loss of income, so long as certain conditions are met:
  1. Tenants must have been in good standing with their landlord prior to the effective date of the order;
  2. Tenants must notify their landlords of their inability to pay within seven days of the rent being due;
  3. Tenants must retain documentation to prove that nonpayment has been caused by specified COVID-19 impacts. 
The Executive Order will remain in effect through May 31, 2020. 
In addition, the Judicial Council of California has issued an emergency rule freezing the issuance of summons and the entry of judgements in eviction cases, unless necessary to protect public health and safety, until 90 days after the state of emergency is lifted. The Alameda County Superior Court has announced its closure through at least May 1, 2020. At this time, no civil filings, including eviction proceedings, are being accepted. The Alameda County Sheriff has also announced that it will not be serving any eviction orders while the shelter in place orders are in effect.
Piedmonters who need information or referral to services regarding rental issues are encouraged to call 211.  
STAY HOME. SAVE LIVES. CHECK-IN.
The Governor has announced a new campaign urging Californians to help combat social isolation and food insecurity among Californians who are over the age of 65—a community that is uniquely vulnerable to COVID-19. The Governor also announced the creation of a statewide hotline 1 (833) 544-2374 in coordination with the non-profit local 2-1-1 systems, so that Californians have a one-stop shop to answer their questions and get assistance during this crisis. This line is staffed by professionals 24/7.
Check-in on 5 Seniors today! Check-in, make sure they have everything they need (food, supplies, medicines) and help them feel connected and not isolated from the rest of the world! Call, text, knock on the door and safely socially distance from them or talk through windows.
Visit the City’s website for more ways you can help our community
CITY SERVICES DURING COVID-19
In accordance with the County Shelter-in-Place Order, and with the health and well-being of Piedmont residents and City employees in mind, Piedmont will continue to provide essential services to our residents while allowing people to remain sheltered in place at home and maintain social distancing.
Many of you have asked how to reach City Departments for continued services. Below are resources that we will continue to update as information comes available. For service from City Departments, please use the main numbers below.
Police, Fire & Essential Public Works Infrastructure Services will Remain in Operation: Emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, and law enforcement personnel, and others who need to perform essential services are exempt from the Shelter in Place Order. Our first responders are on the job prioritizing the health and safety of the community. ONLY in the event of an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.
Planning & Building will continue to accept and process planning and building permit applications. However, these essential services will be executed in conformance with social distancing requirements as defined by the Alameda County Department of Health.
What this means:
  • Planning & Building Department offices in Piedmont City Hall are closed to the public. Most services are being provided through email and telephone communications, and the submission of electronic documents. Refer to the Staff Directory, and the Planning & Building Home Page for more information.
  • Building Permit applications will be reviewed and approved if they meet Building Code requirements, but permits will not be issued.
  • Building site inspections are limited to those projects necessary to bring the project to minimum standards of habitability and carried out with strict social distancing requirements. Inspections by video and/or photographs are the standard.
City Hall is closed. Service counters in City Hall are switching to online/phone access only.
STAY CONNECTED & INFORMED
The City of Piedmont wants to keep you up to date on the COVID-19 situation and what is happening in Piedmont. We are posting information to our social media sites, the City website and the COVID-19 Update email. Here are the ways we are sending out information and we encourage you to connect with us and stay informed!
Get this Update email right in your inbox! Share with friends, family and neighbors!
Register for AC Alert to receive important text, email, phone updates
Visit the City of Piedmont website for city news and information
Connect with the City via social media
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Register for AC Alert to receive important text, email, phone updates
Apr 6 2020

COVID-19 Impacts to Piedmont

April 6, 2020 report to the Piedmont City Council on the COVID-19 impacts to the city.

Report on the Impacts of the COVID 19 Emergency on the City of Piedmont

Apr 6 2020

Piedmont Housing and Community Development Report

Rents, results, new housing permit locations –

The following report was presented to the Piedmont City Council on April 6, 2020.

2015 and 2019 Housing and Community Development Department Annual Reports (1)

Apr 6 2020

Piedmont School District: Distant Learning Issues

What are teachers and parents saying about distant learning?

DistanceLearningParentTeacherFeedbackPart2_0 (1)

Apr 3 2020

Piedmont Essential Gardening Services Include Weed Removal, Clearing Debris, Erosion Control, Irrigation Maintenance for Fire Safety and Water Conservation

Piedmont is in flower everywhere with myriad blossoms from wisteria, camellias and dozens of other species littering steep garden pathways and public sidewalks.  If allowed to remain and rot, they will become slippery slimy threats to the safety of pedestrians out for their brief daily walk.

The City of Piedmont definition of Essential Gardening Services includes amongst other tasks, weed and debris removal for fire safety, clearing debris and installing measures for erosion control, and irrigation maintenance for water conservation.

The Parks Division continues to work with Terra Landscaping in repurposing their efforts to concentrate on only essential services, which includes amongst other tasks, working with the fire department on weed and debris removal for fire safety, clearing debris and installing measures for erosion control, and irrigation maintenance for water conservation.

April 6, 2020,  Sara Lillevand, City Administrator
Report on the Impacts of the COVID 19 Emergency on the City of Piedmont

The Alameda County March 31, 2020 Order allows tree trimming to prevent a dangerous situation and limits gardening as follows:

xiii. Arborists, landscapers, gardeners, and similar service professionals, but only to the limited extent necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, operation of businesses or residences, or the safety of residents, employees, or the public (such as fire safety or tree trimming to prevent a dangerous condition), and not for cosmetic or other purposes (such as upkeep);  Alameda County Order

Apr 3 2020

PUSD: School Construction Essential and Will Continue

The Piedmont Unified School District has determined that the work on the new STEAM building at Piedmont High School is an essential government function and work will continue on this project, over which the City has no jurisdiction.

April 6, 2020,  Sara Lillevand, City Administrator
Report on the Impacts of the COVID 19 Emergency on the City of Piedmont

Apr 3 2020

School District Response to Neighborhood Concerns Regarding High School Construction and COVID 19

April 3, 2020
Dear PCA,
Thanks for your inquiry.  We appreciate the opportunity to address your questions, and our responses follow:

  • What is the School District doing to inform construction workers of requirements for social distancing and other COVID – 19 practices?

Overaa Construction, the District’s general contractor, issued detailed protocols to all workers for individual and community health and safety, posted information at each entrance to the job site, and provides reminders at each staff meeting.

At this phase of the STEAM project, workers are dispersed across the roof and the interior floors, and there is abundant space for proper distancing while working.  Workers wear personal protective equipment, including gloves, and avoid sharing equipment, tools, and other items. The jobsite is stocked at all times with hand sanitizer, hand soap, diluted bleach in spray bottles, paper towels, and disinfecting wipes, and workers regularly wipe down communal surfaces as well as tools and equipment.  Also, the jobsite trailers are now single-occupancy.

On April 2, it was brought to the District’s attention that several workers were on a break and congregating on Magnolia Avenue without proper social distancing.  Overaa’s foreman immediately halted all work and called an emergency meeting for all workers, spaced at least six feet apart from each other. The foreman again reviewed the protocols and told workers that there would be no warnings — that any failure to comply would result in immediate dismissal.  Overaa followed up with an email to all workers to reiterate the protocols and consequences for noncompliance.

Given the indefinite school closure, the District is enlarging the fenced area around the jobsite, to provide more space for workers to meet and have lunch and breaks outside.

The School District and Overaa are committed to keeping the workforce and jobsite healthy, and it is evident that the great majority of workers take these protocols seriously and earnestly comply.

  • What is the School District doing to enforce construction workers’ social distancing, smoking, and parking in the residential neighborhoods?

Enforcement of the health and safety protocols is addressed above.  In addition, security cameras at various locations on the jobsite make it possible for Overaa and the District to monitor compliance.

The District is not aware of any illegal parking by the workers.  With the closure of schools, most workers are parking in the School District’s Permit A spaces near the jobsite.  Those who do not park in Permit A spaces typically park at Zion Lutheran Church on Park Boulevard, and take a worker shuttle to and from the jobsite.  Workers have been instructed that, if they do park in neighborhoods, they must follow the posted restrictions. If you are aware of any illegal parking, please snap a photo and send it to us so we can follow up.

Similarly, the District is not aware of any illegal smoking by workers.  Smoking is not permitted on School District property and this rule is strictly enforced.  Nonetheless, smoking is legal elsewhere. If you are aware of problems, such as workers discarding cigarette butts, please snap a photo and send it to us so we can follow up.

  • Is the School District asking the Piedmont Police Department to enforce orders?

As noted above, Overaa will enforce the health and safety protocols with its workers.  The School District and Piedmont Police Department are in frequent communication about enforcing the shelter–in-place order, primarily concerning groups of people who trespass at Witter Field (which is closed) and do not follow social distancing directives.

  • While construction workers attend to their work tasks, are they wearing protective masks at all times?

The advice on masks is evolving quickly.  Each worker has an N95 mask but is not currently required to wear it at all times.  If public health mandates change, Overaa and the District will ensure full compliance.

Please don’t hesitate to ask if you have further questions.
Regards,
Pete 

Pete Palmer 

ppalmer@piedmont.k12.ca.us

PUSD, Director of Facilities/Construction Manager
Piedmont Unified School District
           760 Magnolia Avenue
           Piedmont, CA 94611    510-594-2877 office
           www.piedmont.k12.ca.us
Apr 3 2020

Piedmont Will Continue to Issue Building Permits for New Residential Construction Projects

Fees collected, permits issued, but construction prohibited except for new affordable housing?

Home construction and remodeling projects are limited by the Alameda County March 31, 2020 Order and new residential construction and new remodeling projects are prohibited except affordable housing that is or will be income-restricted, including multi-unit or mixed-use developments containing at least 10%income-restricted units.

Residential renovation projects of any kind that are currently underway may continue if necessary to a safe, sanitary, and functional home. Likewise, residential remodeling projects that are partly completed may continue if delaying completion would pose a safety, security, or sanitation risk to residents or impact the habitability of the residence.   Alameda County Order

The City of Piedmont interprets the Order to mean:

The Planning and Building Department continues to accept and process planning and building permit applications, in accordance with requirements of California Permit Streamlining Act, which, to date, has not been suspended. Most services related to these applications are being provided through email and telephone communications, and the submission of electronic documents. Those that cannot are being executed in conformance with social distancing requirements as required by the Alameda County Public Health Department.

April 6, 2020,  Sara Lillevand, City Administrator
Report on the Impacts of the COVID 19 Emergency on the City of Piedmont

Apr 1 2020

Beware of Scammers and Covid 19

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus

The Piedmont Police Department is reminding residents that scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus. Now more than ever, it is important to be aware of possible scams associated with COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
The Federal Trade Commission has started a “Raise Awareness” campaign detailing some of the more common scams that have come out since COVID-19 has started. The FTC has valuable information about COVID-19 scams, please share this with your family and friends.
Coronavirus Scams: What the FTC is Doing
Here are some of the more common tips by the FTC:
  1. Hang up on robocalls. Don’t press any numbers. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam Coronavirus treatments to work-at-home schemes. The recording might say that pressing a number will let you speak to a live operator or remove you from their call list, but it might lead to more robocalls, instead.
  2. Ignore online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — online or in stores. At this time, there also are no FDA-authorized home test kits for the Coronavirus. Visit the FDA to learn more.
  3. Know who you’re buying from. Online sellers may claim to have in-demand products, like cleaning, household, and health and medical supplies when, in fact, they don’t.
  4. Don’t respond to texts and emails about checks from the government. The details are still being worked out. Anyone who tells you they can get you the money now is a scammer.
If you have a question or something doesn’t seem right, call the Police Department at (510) 420-3000.
If someone wants a donation in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, DON’T DO IT!!!
We want to remind everyone to never open or click on links from unrecognized emails or provide any personal information over the phone. Please share this information with your family, friends, and neighbors.
Piedmont Police Department
Apr 1 2020

California Schools Closed for the School Year

Governor Gavin Newsom announced the closure of California schools.

 https://abc7news.com/governor-newsom-today-california-schools-closed-superintendent-tony-thurmond-ca/6068754/

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