ANNOUNCEMENT BY PALM SPRINGS CITY MANAGER DAVID READY
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Tonight I am signing a declaration of a local emergency in the City of Palm Springs to address
COVID-19 in ways to reduce and the slow the rate of infections and exposure to City residents,
workers and visitors, given the City’s demographics of 40% aged over 60 and with another 10%
or more with compromised immune systems. Pursuant to this emergency declaration, I will be
taking actions that exceed state and county recommendations and requirements due to our
demographics.
These actions include:
I am strongly advising and asking all businesses and locations open to the public to limit
occupancy by 50% of their current legal limit effective immediately.
I am requiring all businesses to post signage at a visible location at every entrance regarding
recommended reduction in occupancy, how guests can protect themselves and others, and
additional critical information. The City will be providing sign information next week.
I will be restricting public access at City Hall effective Tuesday with continued operations
through alternative methods of continuing business through telephone, remote and online
methods.
I am restricting public access and closing all other indoor City public facilities effective
Monday, as well as the Swim Center and Skate Park; outdoor parks will remain open.
The declaration of local emergency will be scheduled for ratification by the City Council at its
meeting on Thursday, March 19, which will be held at the Palm Springs Convention Center.
That meeting will also be devoted to addressing issues related to the health emergency.
I will continue to update and announce other measures to address the pandemic in ways to
best protect our residents, workers and visitors.
Our website will continue to be updated with information for residents, workers and
businesses.