May 12 2020

July 4th Parade and Events CANCELLED

For the first time since its inception in 1965, the City of Piedmont will not hold the annual 4th of July Parade and party in the park due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

As disappointing as this is, the City recognizes that the most important thing right now is to keep the community safe and healthy. Because of the nature of the parade and party in the park, social distancing measures would not be possible to achieve, let alone enforce, during this event.

“Piedmont’s 4th of July celebrations are designed to bring the community together to celebrate Independence Day,” said City Administrator Sara Lillevand. “Unfortunately, given the intent of the shelter-in-place orders, holding a community celebration attended by thousands of Piedmonters and guests would not be a wise choice.”

The annual event is an all hands day for the City’s essential workers, including police officers, firefighters, and the public works crew, as they work in and amongst Piedmonters to keep the streets and parks safe and clean.

The City has been working to keep our responders healthy so our public safety department can continue to be fully staffed, and respond to Piedmonters in times of need. Placing the City’s first responders in large crowds on this day would not facilitate this goal.

Additionally, 4th of July block parties, which are a Piedmont tradition, will not be permitted. The City will not issue any street closure permits at this time for 4th of July activities. If State and County guidelines relative to gatherings change significantly, we will reconsider street closures.

FRONT YARD DECORATIONS THIS YEAR

We know Independence Day is important to our community. Residents are encouraged to share their spirit by decorating their front yard this year in the theme “Celebrate in Place.”

Awards will be given for best front yard décor. More information will be announced by the end of the month. The Highland Cup, and Saucer Spoon will be awarded to the houses with the best decorations!

KCOM TV will also be putting together a retrospective video about the parade and party in the park. Resident submissions of photos are welcome. More information on how to contribute will be put out later this week.

We want to thank our community for their cooperation and efforts in keeping Piedmont safe.

City of Piedmont

May 6 2020

First Time Piedmont Budget Advisory and Financial Planning Committee Can Be Publicly Viewed from Home or Office

Bond Measure on November 2020 Ballot ?

Community participation in setting priorities ?

The Piedmont Budget Advisory and Financial Planning Committee (BAFPC) has recently been charged by the Piedmont City Council with coming up with ways to fund Piedmont public projects. 

According to public comments, funding is possibly a bond measure for the November 3, 2020 Piedmont ballot.  The Council will need to make a decision on placing a bond measure on the November ballot no later than August. 

To date, there have been no public meetings or surveys to determine the list of desired projects which Piedmonters would favor. 

Hundreds of thousands of dollars have already been spent by the City Council on consultants and staff work proposing and planning special recreation projects.  Recreation projects have focused on a new Municipal Pool and Aquatic Center, Linda Beach Park play areas, and Coaches Field.  Other city facilities are also on a priority list. 

Very recently, 20th century Fire and Police facilities and readiness have been added to the Council list of possible projects needing funding sources. Public input has not been solicited on these projects. 

Infrastructure improvements to roadways, sidewalks, curbs and gutters and  undergrounding of overhead wires are not listed on the City Council priority list for funding.

Where is the money going to come from?

BAFPC to advise the City Council on funding sources.

For the first time, at-home citizens will be able to view and participate in the BAFPC deliberations and recommendations. Typically, the meetings have been held away from cameras with no minutes produced of the meetings.  The BAFPC Chair generally writes the Committee recommendations that are forwarded to the City Council. 

The Committee advises on tax levies, bond measures, financial planning, and budgetary matters. See items listed on the May 7, 2020 meeting agenda below.

Budget Advisory & Financial Planning Committee Thursday, May 7, 2020 7:00 p.m. Via Teleconference

Members of the public can participate in the meeting by:

Computer or smart phone: Click https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88058053315

Telephone: Dial (669) 900-9128 and enter webinar/meeting number 880-5805-3315

Full meeting agenda and participation details click below:

 2020-05-07 Budget Advisory & Financial Planning Committee.

Back-up documentation and staff reports for the agenda have not been publicly disseminated. 

 Relevant prior staff report:

42020Consideration of Actions Related to the Planning Process for Possible City Facility Renovation Projects

May 2 2020

UPDATE: Piedmont Parks to Begin Opening on Tuesday May 5th: Alameda County Extends Shelter in Place Order

COVID -19  ORDERS RELAXED IN PIEDMONT

LANDSCAPING, CONSTRUCTION, PARKS, AND OFF LEASH AREAS

 

READ PIEDMONT’S NEW REQUIREMENTS > 2020-05-01 COVID-19 Shelter In Place Order Update

May 1 2020

City Update: Parks, Landscaping, Dogs, and Construction

Go to https://piedmont.ca.gov/government/covid-19

Apr 18 2020

City Council: Significant New Funding Source for Improvements to Selected City Facilities, Recreation, Police and Fire

Does COVID-19 change Piedmont’s priorities for spending?

Are Piedmonters interested in taxing themselves further for additional city expenditures?

Year after year, Piedmont taxpayers have generously approved bond measures for school facilities and parcel taxes for school and city operations.  Currently, there are no voter approved city bonds.

The Piedmont City Council’s long list of capital projects for new expenditures without sufficient funding include extensive new and revised recreation facilities, the municipal pool, playgrounds, etc.  Also on the list are improvements to City Hall, Police Department, Fire Department and other municipal facilities.  Not on the list for improvements are streets, sidewalks and undergrounding of utility wires.

Streets and Sidewalks:

During COVID-19 restrictions, many Piedmonters are walking or running on Piedmont’s streets and sidewalks to get exercise and recreate.  One cannot help but notice the many cracked, lifted, eroded, and dangerous sidewalks in the city.  Many streets have faulty pavement and have not been repaved in decades. Curbs and gutters on numerous streets have lacked care, thus leaving pools of water and uneven surfaces.

Most funding for Piedmont sidewalks and street resurfacing comes from outside sources.

The City of Piedmont is charged with and oversees the maintenance of the city’s streets and sidewalks.  The city owns Piedmont’s beautiful street trees and is responsible for damage caused by these trees to sidewalks and gutters. Property owners are not allowed to trim or remove street trees.  Changes by residents to sidewalks and gutters require city permits.

Street Infrastructure Maintenance & Replacement

“The City’s FY 2019-20 budget for street infrastructure maintenance and replacement is $1.4 million. Funding sources include Measure B, Measure BB, Measure F, and the Gas Tax, which also now includes funds from SB-1 that was recently approved by the state legislature. The majority of available funding is dedicated to street resurfacing and sidewalk repair work, with the balance dedicated to important sub-categories such as the implementation of projects prioritized by the approved Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan, and those related to the Complete Streets program.” Piedmont 2019-20 Budget

Undergrounding of Utility Wires:

Most areas in Piedmont do not utility wires placed underground, yet undergrounding of utilities has been deemed an important mechanism for providing safety during fires and earthquakes.  Undergrounding is also considered a highly desired aesthetic improvement to Piedmont.  No money is set aside in the Piedmont budget for undergrounding projects.

Consultant for City Selected Projects

Currently, the Council is looking toward a city bond measure to finance either partially or totally their long list of selected improvements or changes to city facilities including the Municipal Pool, Playfields, city facilities – police, fire departments, etc.  Streets, sidewalks and underground utilities are not on the city list.

An expenditure of $50,000 to hire a consultant related to the Planning Process for Possible City Facility Renovation Projects will be undertaken at the April 20, 2020, City Council meeting.  Public outreach would be part of the process.

——-

Due to the COVID 19 Stay at Home order, the April 20 Council meeting will be a virtual meeting, and as such will only be available online.  Piedmonters can participate via the online connections as described on the agenda below:

4202020 council-current-agenda (1)

READ the staff report below to see the select list of projects identified and proposed process.

42020Consideration of Actions Related to the Planning Process for Possible City Facility Renovation Projects

Want to make a comment or suggestion to the City Council prior to the meeting?

Address your comments to the City Council as a whole:

cityclerk@piedmont.ca.gov

OR

Address your comments to individual councilmembers:

http://piedmont.hosted.civiclive.com/cms/One.aspx?portalId=13659823&pageId=15698089

Apr 8 2020

Shelter in Place FAQ for Piedmonters

The City has received several questions about the Shelter in Place Order and what it means for residents in Piedmont. Please note that as orders are put in place the answers to these questions may change-check back frequently. Please refer to the Alameda County Shelter in Place FAQ and the Alameda County Extension of the Shelter in Place Order for more information. If you would like to submit a question click here and we will do our best to answer it.

    1. Am I allowed to leave my home while the order in in effect?

 

    1. Yes, but with strict conditions. The intent of the shelter in place order is to ensure that the maximum number of people shelter in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible to slow the spread of COVID-19 and mitigate the impact on delivery of critical healthcare services to those in need. You may leave your residence only for Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, Essential Travel, to work for Essential Businesses, or to perform Minimum Basic Operations for non-essential businesses.

 

    1. Why are Piedmont parks closed?

 

    1. The intent of the Order is to ensure that the maximum number of people stay home to slow the spread of the virus! The Piedmont Police Department has observed numerous and frequent violations of the original shelter in place order where groups of people were congregating in our parks requiring officers to enforce the social distancing provisions of the Order. The City took the step to close all parks in an effort to support the intent of the Order and protect Piedmont residents.

 

    1. The Police Department views the closure of the parks as essential to the enforcement of the new order. Closing all parks provides clarity for the public and for the police department.

 

    1. Attempting to close only the dog parks (fully mandated by the updated order) while leaving other parts of parks open would be confusing for the public, result in increased clarification calls to our 911 center, increase police officer staff time in interpreting and explaining boundaries to the public, and will not accomplish the intent of the order, which is to limit areas where people are attracted to congregate.

 

      1. What if people enter Piedmont parks? How will the Piedmont Police enforce the order?

    The Police Department has enforced the order to this point by verbal admonishments and warnings, however, citations may be given at the discretion of an officer.

 

    1. Is this mandatory or just guidance?

 

    1. Yes, it is mandatory. These orders are issued under the authority of California law. You are required to comply, and it is a crime (a misdemeanor with up to $1,000 in fines or six months imprisonment) not to follow the Orders (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble).

 

    1. What are Essential Activities?
        • Activities to perform tasks important to your health and safety, or to the health and safety of your family or household members (including pets), for example obtaining medical supplies or medication, or visiting a health care professional.
        • Activity to obtain necessary services or supplies for yourself and your family or household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others, for example, food, pet supply, or products necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, and operation of your residence.
        • Outdoor recreational activity, such as walking, hiking, bicycling, and running, in compliance with Social Distancing Requirements and with the following limitations:

 

        1. Outdoor recreation activity must be in conformance with any restrictions on access and use established by the Health Officer, government, or other entity that manages areas to reduce crowding and risk of transmission of COVID-19.

 

        1. Regarding outdoor recreational activity:

 

          • Use of playgrounds, dog parks, public picnic areas, and similar recreational areas is prohibited.

 

          • Use of shared public recreational facilities such as golf courses, tennis and basketball courts, pools, and rock walls is prohibited.

 

            • Sports or activities that require use of shared equipment, like frisbees, basketballs, baseballs, and soccer balls, may only be engaged in by members of the same household.
      2. My Contractor is scheduled to start a remodel next week. Can I go ahead with my project?

    No. You must defer your remodel or renovation project unless it is necessary to restore your home to a safe, sanitary, and habitable space.

 

      1. I’m in the middle of home renovation project, can work continue?

    No. All construction projects in Piedmont must cease immediately. Under the provisions in the March 31st Order issued by the Alameda County Health Department, no current active building permits in Piedmont meet the requirements to be considered an Essential Activity and therefore all must shut down immediately. There are very few exceptions to this requirement. Please contact the Planning & Building Department at (510) 420-3051 with any questions. The City is working no notify all active building permits that work must cease immediately. See

Building, Construction & Landscape Restrictions

    1. Is my garbage being picked up?

 

    1. Yes, if it fits in the bin it will be picked up. If it does not fit in the bin, pickup will be deferred until after the emergency declaration has ended. See the temporary changes

here

    1. .

 

    1. Do I have to pay my property taxes by April 10?Yes., but if you have experienced hardships caused by the corona virus and the shelter-in-place order in relation to payment of property tax you can apply for a Property Tax Late Payment Waiver, please see the press release from the Alameda County Tax Collector for more information about penalty waivers for eligible taxpayers.

 

      1. How will I get food and medicine I need if I must “Shelter in Place” in my home?

    The Order specifically allows people to leave their home to buy food, purchase medicine, and purchase other necessary items. It also directs businesses selling those items to remain open, and allows employees of those businesses to keep working and ensure those businesses are operating. Essential businesses that remain open must follow industry-specific guidance issued by the County Health Officer related to COVID-19.

 

    1. Are Piedmont Play Fields Open?

 

    1. No. All parks in Piedmont (including Dog Parks) are closed as of April 1. Click here for up to date list of closures.

 

    1. Can my kids play together in our yard?

 

    1. Nothing in the order prohibits members of a single household or living unit from engaging in Essential Travel or Essential Activities together.

 

    1. Are the Piedmont Tennis courts open?

 

    1. No. All City Facilities are closed until further notice. Click here for up to date list of closures.

 

    1. Can I visit friends or family members if there is no urgent need?

 

    1. No. For your safety as well as their safety, we need to help each other fight the spread of COVID-19 by staying at home. Stay connected through phone calls, social media or video conferencing. Try a Zoom Video Happy Hour or dinner party!

 

    1. Can my kids still have playdates with their friends?

 

    1. No. For your safety as well as their safety, we need to help each other fight the spread of COVID-19 by staying at home. All public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a single household or living unit are prohibited, except for the limited purposes expressly permitted in the order.

 

    1. Can I walk my dog? Are Piedmont Dog Parks open?

 

    1. You can walk your dog on sidewalks and streets as long as you follow Social Distancing guidelines. Piedmont Dog Parks are now closed. Click here for up to date list of closures.

 

    1. Can I continue to use public transit?

 

    1. You may use public transit only for purposes of performing Essential Activities or to travel to and from work to operate Essential Businesses, maintain Essential Governmental Functions, or to perform Minimum Basic Operations at non-essential businesses. Transit agencies and people riding on public transit must comply with Social Distancing Requirements, as defined in Section 13.k of the order, to the greatest extent feasible.

 

    1. Is Mulberrys open and other food retailers?

 

    1. Yes. Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and similar food retail establishments are encouraged to remain open to provide food and pet supplies to the public. When visiting these establishments, please help retailers maintain six feet minimum distance between patrons, including by providing ample space while shopping and waiting in line.

 

    1. Specifically to Mulberry’s, take your coffee to go and do NOT linger and socialize out front. Tables and chairs have been removed for a reason!

 

      1. Can I travel out of Alameda County?

    The order allows travel into or out of the county only to perform essential activities, operate essential businesses, maintain essential governmental functions, or perform minimum basic operations at non-essential businesses.

 

    1. Can I dine out?

 

    1. No. Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food to the public are encouraged to stay open, but only to provide delivery and carryout. Patrons will not be permitted to dine or congregate in restaurants, bars, and similar establishments.

 

    1. Can I take my kids to Piedmont Parks and use the playgrounds?

 

    1. No. All Piedmont Parks are closed. Click here for up to date list of closures.

 

    1. What if my plumbing gets stopped up or there is another problem with necessary equipment at my home?

 

    1. The order allows service providers like plumbers, electricians, and exterminators and other service providers that are necessary to maintaining the habitability, sanitation, and operation of residences and Essential Businesses, but not for cosmetic or other purposes.

 

    1. Can my gardener continue to work?

 

    1. Landscaping/gardening/arborist services may continue only if they are necessary to maintain the habitability, sanitation, operation of a business or residence, 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 purposes or general upkeep. If your landscaping needs are necessary to protect safety and sanitation, please distance yourself least six feet from the landscaper. See

Building, Construction & Landscape Restrictions

    1. Am I allowed to go for a walk in a park in Piedmont?

 

    1. No. All Piedmont Parks are closed. You may take walks or walk your dog around town. Click here for up to date list of closures.

 

    1. Are non-profit organizations allowed to continue operating?

 

    1. If they provide essential services as described in the Order, then yes they can and should continue providing those services. This would include non-profit operating food pantries, providing housing for homeless residents, and many other critical services.

 

    1. Can I still order things online and have them delivered to my house?

 

    1. Yes. You will still be able to get mail and other deliveries at your home.

 

    1. Where can Piedmont Residents find services they need?

Stay Home. Save Lives. Check In.

    1. 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.

Alameda County Resources 211
www.211alamedacounty.org/covid19

    1. Consider dialing 211 for Alameda County Resources. Dialing 211 helps direct callers to services for the elderly, the disabled, those who do not speak English, those with a personal crisis, and those who are new to their communities. If you get a voicemail due to high demand, leave a message and someone will call you back. You can also send a text message with your questions. Send a text to 898211 with your questions and zip code.

Alameda County Public Health Resources for the Community
www.acphd.org/2019-ncov/resources/community

Oakland At Risk Match
www.oaklandatrisk.com

    1. They match you with a low-risk volunteer who lives in your community and wants to help you by getting groceries, picking up prescriptions, and checking in every couple of days. Piedmonters in need can sign-up on their site or call 1 (510) 306-4973.

Crisis Support Services of Alameda County

    1. If you or someone you know is struggling with difficult life circumstances or uncomfortable thoughts and emotions we are here to help. You do not need to be experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings to call. Trained crisis intervention counselors are available to receive crisis calls and give supportive counseling 24 hours a day, every day. Translation is available in more than 140 languages. We also offer teletype (TDD) services for deaf and hearing-impaired individuals. 1 (800) 273-8255

 

    1. How can I help my fellow Piedmonters in need?

 

    1. For those who are looking for ways to help in the community, here are organizations you can contact to help those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic:

Oakland At Risk Match
www.oaklandatrisk.com

    1. (510) 306-4973

Meals on Wheels
www.feedingseniors.org

    1. (510) 777-9560

Mercy Brown Bag Program
www.mercybrownbag.org

    1. (510) 534-8540 ext. 369

 

      1. What if I have questions not answered here?

    The Alameda County Public Health Department has answers to more questions

 

 

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
Facebook ‌ Instagram ‌
Facebook ‌ YouTube ‌
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 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 1 2020

Parks Closed, Prohibitions on New Remodeling, Limits Gardeners: Stay Home Through MAY 3

The City of Piedmont will implement on April 2 Alameda County’s new health order.

While we are all encouraged to continue to support restaurants  and other local businesses forced to close to avoid social congregating, gardeners who work in social isolation are now under the following limitations by Alameda County:

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

  • If landscaping needs are necessary to protect safety and sanitation, please distance yourself at least six feet from the landscaper.

Home construction and remodeling projects are also limited and new home construction and remodeling projects are prohibited:

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

Presumably, the City will cease issuing Building Permits and will issue Stop Work orders to all current home remodeling projects that are less than essential for safety and sanitation.

The City of Piedmont closed all of its parks effective April 1, 2020, until further notice.

March 31, 2020

ALAMEDA COUNTY HEALTH OFFICER EXTENDS
SHELTER IN PLACE ORDER TO MAY 3, 2020
CITY PARKS TO CLOSE EFFECTIVE APRIL 1, 2020

On March 31, the Alameda County Health Officer extended its shelter in place order for Alameda County residents through May 3, 2020 and strengthened, clarified, and extended the previous order issued on March 16, 2020.

The new order is available on the Alameda County Public Health Department’s website at http://www.acphd.org/media/563688/health…. A summary of changes between the prior order and the updated order is available at http://www.acphd.org/media/563713/summar…, and a Frequently Asked Questions document is available at https://covid-19.acgov.org/index.page.

This revised order makes changes to several important items, including:
• Closing of parks and recreation spaces
• Restricted ongoing commercial and residential construction
• Restricted ongoing commercial and residential landscaping services

Pursuant to the County Order, the City of Piedmont will close all of its parks effective April 1, 2020, until further notice.

The City of Piedmont will have updated information available on its website by Thursday, April 2nd detailing how these changes will affect the Piedmont community. The City asks residents to be patient as the city works to implement the County’s new order.

WE OWE IT TO EACH OTHER TO STAY HOME and are required by the State of California and Alameda County to do so. The best thing we can do for the community and each other is to comply with the order to shelter in place at our homes.

Please visit the City of Piedmont’s COVID-19 webpage for the most up to date information on the City’s response to COVID-19 as well as how the orders affect Piedmonters.

For more information on Covid-19, please see: Centers for Disease Control, California Coronavirus Response and the Alameda County Public Health Department

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