City Manager discusses COVID-19 measures

City Manager Greg Garrett reported to the City Council Monday, March 16 that the City departments are meeting daily at 4 p.m. to plan for the next 24 hours as COVID-19 protocols are moving swiftly and they want to stay ahead of or flatten the curve.

As of March 16, all City facilities are closed to the public although all are in operation. Until further notice, the Tehachapi Museum, Tehachapi Depot and the Visitor Center will be closed. The Police Department is available through their phone line (661) 822-2222.

Utility payments can be made online from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or to a drop box at City Hall. All permitting applications and forms are also available online. For in-process permits, contact Charles Arbaut at (661) 822-2200 ext.116 or at [email protected]. Permit questions can be addressed by contacting Tori Marsh at [email protected].

Coffee with the Mayor and City Manager has been cancelled for March 19 and the book drive for Porterville has been temporarily suspended. Councilwoman Christina Scrivner added that Houchin Blood Bank has cancelled all blood drives until future notice.

Garrett said that the City is continually getting updated information on COVID-19 and stressed the need for all of us to fight this together.

March 17 City Council Update:

The City Council will be holding a Special Meeting Wednesday, March 18 at noon in front of City Hall at 115 S. Robinson St. to discuss and approve a temporary policy to defer utility payments for small businesses and waive late fees for all residential customers.