News & Updates ∙ May 19, 2020
Hello City of Concord residents, businesses and friends,

To help keep you informed about what the City of Concord is doing in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we've created this electronic newsletter, which we will send out in addition to posting news and information on our City website and through our social media channels. If you do not already follow us, please do so. Links can be found at the bottom of this newsletter.

While Gove rnor Newsom has eased some restrictions statewide, Contra Costa County's health order remains in effect a nd the department of Health Services has released Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to help respond to inquires.

As of May 19, the County has 1,192 known cases of COVID-19. To review a demographic and geographic breakdown of the cases, please see the County's COVID-19 dashboard.

Stay healthy and safe, everyone!
Restrictions Relaxing
Contra Costa County health officials announced they will relax restrictions in the current shelter-in-place order to allow retail stores and their suppliers to reopen as of May 19. Retail stores in Contra Costa County may offer curbside sales or other outdoor pickups of orders as long as they abide by certain safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“While this is not a return to normal, it is one step in that direction” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, Contra Costa County’s health officer.

Contra Costa will also allow businesses that manufacture retail goods and provide warehousing or logistical support to retail stores to operate, but they must limit the number of staff in enclosed areas so that personnel can comply with social distancing requirements.

You can read the press release and full health order on the Health Department's website.
Curbside Pickup Now Available
Retailers in Contra Costa County can now offer curbside pickup to customers. The City of Concord is connecting Concord's businesses with local residents by providing a searchable list of operating businesses. 

Concord retailers now offering curbside pickup can add themselves to the list by clicking the "List Business" icon. Now more than ever, let's commit to shopping local!

Check out the Concord Forward website for more information about how the City is supporting local businesses.
Weekly Webinar for Laid Off/Furloughed Employees
Every Thursday at 2 p.m. employment experts from the  Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County  and the State of California Employment Development Department are providing resources and advice to people who have been laid off or furloughed from their jobs. Participants can receive information about workforce services, unemployment insurance, healthcare coverage, and additional resources from these agencies.

Thank You, EMS!
This week we celebrate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week. From May 17 through May 23, we honor the difference EMS professionals make in Concord and all across Contra Costa County communities as they ensure the health, protection and physical well-being of our residents and visitors.
Concord Connected
Concord Connected is back with Downtown Program Manager Lisa Potvin sharing more stories about what makes our Concord community so great!
Concord to Host Blood Drive June 9
The City of Concord will be hosting a community blood drive on Tuesday, June 9 at Willow Pass Community Center. To make an appointment, please visit the Vitalant website and click "Donate." When prompted, please enter the sponsor code "Concord City." Or, you may sign up by calling 1-877-258-4825.

Blood donors should be sure to eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within a few hours before donating, and bring a photo ID and blood donor card, if you have one. If you have traveled outside the country in the last three years, please bring that information along (including dates) as well as any prescription information. You should not donate if you do not feel well.

Donors will be required to wear face coverings while at a blood drive. You can wear your own homemade mask or face covering, provided the cloth or homemade mask covers both your nose and mouth. If you are unable to wear a covering or mask, we ask that you please reschedule your donation.
Concord Goes Live
In need of some music and fun? Tune in this Thursday, May 21 at 6 p.m. to the City of Concord's Facebook page , which will feature a free concert by local band Radiokeys.

Radiokeys, is a musical entity that flirts with traditional sounds, yet creates a unique and fresh blend of blues, folk, & Americana.
Virtual Town Hall on Hiatus
Mayor Tim McGallian will take a break from his weekly town hall meetings over the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend. While he will not be hosting a meeting this Saturday, May 23, you can view past town hall meetings on the City's YouTube channel.
Stay Informed
Stay up-to-date on news and information related to the local and state response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Information for businesses, frequently asked questions about City services, as well as City resources are available through our website.
City of Concord | www.cityofconcord.org