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 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

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

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

Apr 1 2020

April City Council and Planning Commission Meetings to be Held in a Virtual Format

Numerous commission and committee meetings have been either cancelled or postponed in April 2020 because of the COVID-19 virus. The City Council and Planning Commission will hold “virtual” meetings. Details on public participation will be forthcoming when agendas are posted. 

READ the notice > 2020-04 Notice of Regular Meetings – Scanned.

Mar 27 2020

Do Not Flush Wipes: Flushable Wipes Threaten EBMUD Sewer System

Don’t believe the hype that you can flush that so-called “flushable” wipe. Despite many marketing claims, “flushable” wipes do not breakdown in water.

“The wipes clump together in sewer systems and clog sewage treatment equipment. An independent consumer report in 2014 even found that a “flushable” wipe would not break down in water after being mixed by a kitchen mixer for 10 minutes. That’s not to say that wipes are bad; they’re just not good for the system that cleans our wastewater so it can safely be discharged into the San Francisco Bay.”     East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD)

“Sewer systems and toilets are becoming clogged as too many people are flushing wipes and other cleaning materials.” The Washington Post, March 26, 2020

https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/05/21/flushable-wipes-are-terrible-plumbing/

Flushable wipes can twist and become stronger, clogging pipes and sewer pumps, while attracting other materials to them, creating so-called fatbergs — congealed masses of flushed items that float, destructively, through sewers.

“Wipes are kryptonite — they should not be flushed,” says Barry Orr, who worked with Joksimovic on a 2019 flushability study as a master’s student in environmental applied science and management at Ryerson University.  The Ryerson study, which was highly critical of flushability claims for consumer goods, is part of a wider dispute involving consumers, municipalities, the wastewater industry, and manufacturers of personal care and cleaning products.”

Read East Bay MUD here

Read Washington Post here

Mar 24 2020

INACCURATE CITY ON CENSUS 2020 FORMS SHOULD NOT HURT PIEDMONT

The City of Piedmont has received reports from residents that the mailing address on the Census 2020 form they received indicates Oakland and not Piedmont.

The City has learned that the Census Bureau uses the physical location, not the mailing address, of a housing unit to assign it to the proper geographic areas. The Census Bureau recognizes that the city name in the address used by the Post Office may differ from the legal municipality or district in which the housing unit is actually located. This is especially the case for Piedmont, which shares four zip codes with Oakland.

If you have an incorrect mailing address on your census form, don’t worry. The Census Bureau assigns a code to each home, which is geolocated into the proper jurisdiction and that code is the basis of the census tabulations, not the mailing address. It’s suggested that you use the unique code provided on the form.

Mislabeled mailing addresses is not just isolated to Piedmont, and also occurred during the 2010 census.

City Clerk John Tulloch, 510/420-3040

2020-03-24 Census City Inaccuracy (1)

Mar 24 2020

City Extends Deadline for Commissions & Committee Applications Deadline: Friday, April 10, 2020

In response to the Shelter in Place Orders from the State of California and the County of Alameda, the City of Piedmont has extended the deadline for Commission and Committee applications until Friday, April 10th. This extension will allow residents who have been working to adjust their lives to shelter in place additional time to complete and submit applications to serve on city Commissions and Committees.

Interested residents may view the Commission Description of Duties, download the Application for Appointive Vacancy, and/or apply online on the City’s web site at https://piedmont.ca.gov.

Applications are due to City Hall on or before the EXTENDED DEADLINE of Friday, April 10th .

Interviews with the City Council for these positions will be scheduled for a later date. Applicants will be notified of the interview date once it is set. No appointments will be made without a Council interview.

Links to information and forms are below:

Notice of Appointive Vacancies 2020

Commission Description of Duties 2020-02-14

Commission Application 2020 (Fillable)

2020-02-14 Volunteers for Commissions

Volunteers are needed on the following Commissions/Committees, and other positions:

Budget Advisory and Financial Planning Committee, CIP Review Committee, Civil Service Commission, Park Commission,  Planning Commission, Public Safety Committee, Recreation Commission, Mosquito Abatement Representative, Parking Hearing Officer. 

Contact: City Clerk John O. Tulloch (510) 420-3040

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