Update #14
COVID-19 Threats
March 27, 2020 - 4:30 pm
City Parks and Alpine Pedal Path Remain Open, But Please Practice Social Distancing

Mayor Herrick Continues Recovery; No Other City Officials or Employees Showing Symptoms

Testing Data in SB County Indicates that Approximately 8% of Those Actually Tested Are Positive for COVID-19
THIS IS THE OFFICIAL GUIDANCE FROM THE CITY OF BIG BEAR LAKE
The City of Big Bear Lake is working hard to ensure that the residents, property owners, investors, businesses, and visitors in our community have the correct information about the status of COVID-19 threats in Big Bear Lake and the City's response to these threats. This email newsletter is the official guidance from the City of Big Bear Lake, and the City appreciates everyone's adherence to the restrictions and recommendations outlined herein.
 
To be sure you are receiving the latest and most accurate information, please sign up for this email newsletter at https://www.citybigbearlake.com/index.php/newsroom/text-email-notifications . PLEASE share this email newsletter with anyone and everyone, as we want to reach as many people as possible with this information. Thank you!
CITY PARKS AND ALPINE PEDAL PATH REMAIN OPEN, BUT PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING
EVERYONE is advised to continue to "shelter in place", however, it's permissible to be outside, take a walk, go for a run, take a hike, or ride a bike as long as you practice social distancing . City parks, including the Alpine Pedal Path, remain open for enjoyment by our residents, and we encourage everyone to get some exercise during these challenging times.

If you do plan to enjoy City parks or the Alpine Pedal Path, please heed the following recommendations:

  • enjoy these facilities by yourself, or in the same small family group with whom you are "sheltering in place",

  • avoid close contact with other users,

  • plan your visit for a time of day when not many others are present, and

  • wash your hands before venturing out, and wash your hands when you come back.

The City hopes to keep these facilities open for public use through the COVID-19 emergency, however, overcrowding may result in the closure of these facilities in the future. Please act responsibly, and heed the recommendations noted above.
MAYOR HERRICK CONTINUES RECOVERY, NO OTHER CITY OFFICIALS OR EMPLOYEES SHOWING SYMPTOMS
Mayor Rick Herrick continues to recover from COVID-19 at lower altitude, and is progressing well. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Mayor Herrick and his family!

It's now been 14 days since Mayor Herrick began to self-quarantine, and 15 days since he last visited City Hall. Fortunately, no other City officials or employees have shown COVID-19 symptoms during this time. City Hall has been thoroughly disinfected and is cleaned multiple times each day, and has been closed to the general public for the past two weeks. City Hall has been operating with limited staff for the past week.
TESTING DATA IN SB COUNTY INDICATES APPROXIMATELY 8% OF THOSE ACTUALLY TESTED ARE POSITIVE FOR COVID-19
Although COVID-19 testing has been limited in San Bernardino County, like many places across the United States, the early testing results indicate that only approximately 8% of those tested have the COVID-19 virus. As of 8 am on March 27, a total of 674 patients have been tested in San Bernardino County, with a total of 55 positive tests.

San Bernardino County conducted its first drive-thru testing in San Bernardino earlier today, with nearly 400 samples taken. These test results are expected back in the coming days, and are expected to yield additional confirmed cases of COVID-19. The County is working to expand testing throughout the County in the coming days and weeks, with additional drive-thru locations planned.

City of Big Bear Lake, Bear Valley Community Hospital, and Big Bear Fire Department officials are actively working with County public health officials to arrange for expanded testing in the Big Bear Valley or in the overall mountain region. Bear Valley Community Hospital has a limited number of test kits available, and these tests are administered on a case-by-case basis to those exhibiting significant symptoms.
COVID-19 DASHBOARD INCLUDES LATEST DATA FOR SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
San Bernardino County has established a COVID-19 dashboard, with data about the number of confirmed cases, number of tests performed, number of deaths, and more. The new dashboard also includes helpful demographic data (including hospital beds) specific to San Bernardino County, and data on COVID-19 cases around the world. The new dashboard can be viewed at : https://sbcph.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/44bb35c804c44c8281da6d82ee602dff .

San Bernardino County is purposely not reporting the locations of confirmed COVID-19 cases at this time so as to prevent people from believing a certain location is safe and to prevent panic in a certain location. The County is working to develop a tool to provide more location-specific information in the future, and the City of Big Bear Lake will share this information in future updates as it becomes available.
MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
In addition to the direct physical threat, the COVID-19 emergency is an incredibly stressful event for everyone. If you are overwhelmed, consumed by fear or anxiety, and need help, PLEASE contact the Community Crisis Response Team at (909) 421-9233 . More information is available at http://wp.sbcounty.gov/dbh/crisis-services/ .
IF NECESSARY, ARE YOU WILLING TO OFFER YOUR SECOND HOME AS HOUSING FOR TEMPORARY HEALTH CARE WORKERS?
Fortunately, there continues to be only one confirmed case in the City of Big Bear Lake at this time, but additional cases are expected as testing expands in the coming days and weeks. Bear Valley Community Hospital and Big Bear Fire Department officials continue contingency planning efforts in an effort to be as well-prepared as possible for all potential COVID-19 scenarios, including the potential need for additional temporary health care workers.

If you own a second home in Big Bear Lake, and are interested in making your home available for a temporary health care worker, please contact your vacation rental agency or the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce at (909) 866-4607. We all hope and pray that this ultimately won't be necessary, but want to be prepared!
ASSUME THE VIRUS IS EVERYWHERE - PLEASE ACT RESPONSIBLY!
The City encourages everyone to ASSUME THAT THE VIRUS IS EVERYWHERE, and act responsibly:

  • heed the Governor's order to "shelter in place",

  • limit your interactions with others to the maximum extent practical, and don't invite large groups to shelter in place with you,

  • plan your essential trips out accordingly, and limit the number of trips to the grocery store, drug store, etc.,

  • keep at least 6 feet of distance between you and others you come into contact with,

  • wash your hands ALL THE TIME, and

  • if you need to get outside, take a walk, go for a run, take a bike ride, or go on a hike by yourself or with your family - but stay far way from others!

It's in everyone's best interest to adhere to these recommendations so we can resolve this crisis sooner rather than later!
ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES, INDIVIDUALS
Earlier today, the US House of Representatives approved the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), and it was signed into law by President Trump. The CARES Act includes $2.2 trillion in aid for individuals, businesses, State and local government, and institutions. The CARES Act includes funding for loan and grant programs for various business sectors, including the tourism industry. City staff will be analyzing the CARES Act and monitoring new programs that are beneficial to our residents and businesses, and will share pertinent information with the Big Bear Lake community as it becomes known.

Several assistance programs have already been announced, including the following:

  • The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to California small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/ . Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.
 
  • Local employees displaced due to the impact of COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits, disability insurance, and/or paid family leave through the California Employment Development Department. To learn more, please visit https://www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/faqs.htm .



  • The San Bernardino County Tax Collector has announced that late payment penalties will be waived for qualifying residential and business properties if property taxes are paid before June 30. To learn if you qualify, and other details, please call the San Bernardino Tax Collector's office at (909) 387-8308.

For assistance navigating these potential opportunities, please contact Christine Bennett, Senior Administrative Services Analyst, at 909-866-5831 or cbennett@citybigbearlake.com .
KEY RESTRICTIONS REMAIN IN EFFECT IN BIG BEAR LAKE
The following key restrictions remain in effect in Big Bear Lake:
 
  • everyone in Big Bear Lake is directed to "shelter in place", especially those age 65 and older and those who are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, however, travel is permitted for work and to conduct personal business,
 
  • grocery stores, drug stores, and other essential retail and service businesses may operate,
 
  • construction and repair activities may continue,
 
  • bars, nightclubs, movie theaters, gyms, bowling alleys, ski areas, snow play areas, and other similar businesses may not operate,
 
  • restaurants are closed for in-restaurant seated dining, however, take-out and delivery services are permitted,
 
  • lodging and vacation rentals may no longer operate, except for limited situations,
 
  • non-essential group gatherings of any size are prohibited, including commercial establishments, churches, community groups, and other formal and informal group activities, and
 
  • isolated, outdoor exercise is permitted, including walking your dog.
LODGING FACILITIES AND VACATION RENTALS MAY NOT OPERATE
In response to the Governor's "shelter in place" order, and after receiving additional clarification, the City of Big Bear Lake and San Bernardino County (which has authority over all other areas in Big Bear Valley not in the City limits) have both enacted restrictions on lodging facilities and vacation rentals.

Lodging facilities and vacation rentals may only operate under the following circumstances:

  • to provide accommodations for critical infrastructure workers,

  • if specifically designated by the State or County to house confirmed COVID-19 patients (currently not the case and highly unlikely in the future), and

  • to serve existing guests who were already here prior to March 23, provided the existing guests "shelter in place" at the lodging facility or vacation rental.

City code enforcement staff are actively investigating potential violations. To report a violation of this order, please call (909) 866-CODE.

It is important to note that the second home owners, including those who also participate in the City's vacation rental program, are permitted to occupy the home themselves and are not subject to the City's vacation rental regulations.
FLEXIBLE RESCHEDULING OPTIONS AND CREDITS AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS
The City of Big Bear Lake and Visit Big Bear encourage all of our visitors to be safe and "shelter in place" in your home community.

Big Bear Lake lodging establishments and vacation rental companies understand the significance of this crisis, and are offering flexible rescheduling options, credits, and more to make your future visit to Big Bear Lake as enjoyable as possible. Please contact your lodging provider or vacation rental company to reschedule your visit.

We'll be back stronger than ever after the COVID-19 emergency has been resolved, and we look forward to hosting you as soon as it's safe for you, your family, and our community!
LOCAL GROCERY STORES, RESTAURANTS, PHARMACIES ALL
WORKING HARD TO SERVE YOU!
Local grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies are all working hard to provide food, drugs, and other essential items for the people of Big Bear Lake and the entire valley during the COVID-19 emergency, and they are happy to serve you!

Von's is open to the general public from 9 am - 9 pm each day, and offers "Golden Hours" for senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with disabilities each Monday - Friday from 7 am to 9 am in order to provide a safer shopping environment. Stater Brothers is open daily from 8 am - 9 pm, with early entry for senior citizens at 7 am each day. Both stores have limits on the purchase of certain items.

CVS is open from 9 am – 9 pm daily. Walgreens is also open from 9 am - 9 pm daily, with a special 8 am opening for senior citizens on Tuesdays. Both stores have limits on the purchase of certain items.

There are many great restaurants in Big Bear Lake, and these restaurants are all offering take-out and/or delivery options:

Ben & Jerry's
(909) 366-0474 – 652 Pine Knot Ave

Wyatt's Grill and Saloon
(909) 585-3000 - 42900 Big Bear Blvd.

Amangela’s Sandwich & Bagel House
 (909) 878-0015 - 40729 Village Drive

Alpine Country Coffee Shop
(909) 866-1959 - 41546 Big Bear Blvd.

Grind & Grill Café
(909)866-5219 – 42011 Big Bear Blvd.

The Old German Deli
(909) 878-0515 -40645 Village Drive

Mountain Munchies
(909) 866-7767 – 42171 Big Bear Blvd.

Dank Donuts
(909) 547-6053 - 42612 Moonridge Rd.

Teddy Bear Restaurant
(909) 866-5415 - 583 Pine Knot Ave.

Big Bear Brewing Company
(909) 878-0283 - 40827 Stone Rd

The Boneyard Bar & Grill
(909) 878-0401 – 560 Pine Knot Ave.

Domino’s Pizza
(909) 866-3555 – 41234 Big Bear Blvd.

Nuevo Vallarta Grille
(909) 866-7355 – 40949 Big Bear Blvd.

Get the Burger
(909) 866-8800 – 42151 Big Bear Blvd.

Murray’s Saloon & Eatery
(909) 866-1444 – 672 Cottage Lane

Village Pizza
(909) 866-8505 – 40568 Village Dr.

Maggio’s Pizza
(909) 866-8815 – 42160 Big Bear Blvd.

Red Baron Pizza
(909) 866-4744 - 42173 Big Bear Blvd.

Azteca Grill
(909) 866-2350 - 40199 Big Bear Blvd.

Country Kitchen
(909) 878-0364 – 39904 Big Bear Blvd.

Fuji Restaurant
(909) 866-8108 - 41025 Big Bear Blvd.

Denny’s
(909) 866-7842 – 41196 Big Bear Blvd.

Royal Thai
(909) 866-2808 – 40766 Village Dr.

Saucy Mama’s Pizza & Pasta
(909) 878-0165 – 618 Pine Knot Ave.

Chuang Dynasty
(909) 866-7887 – 40989 Big Bear Blvd.

Jersey Mike’s
(909) 866-0447 – 42173 Big Bear Blvd.

BLT’s Restaurant
(909) 866-6659 – 41799 Big Bear Blvd.

Santana & Maverick’s Unique Crafted Foods
(909) 878-0047 - 40771 Big Bear Blvd.

Café Crepe
(909) 809-2353 – 41003 Big Bear Blvd.

Sonora Cantina
(909) 866-8202 – 41144 Big Bear Blvd.

Barrel 33
(909) 878-0838 – 40754 Village Drive

Mountain Bar & Grill
(909) 878-0802 – 42164 Moonridge Rd.

McDonald’s
(909) 693-5233 - 41412 Big Bear Blvd.

Jack in the Box
(909) 866-6436 – 40771 Village Dr.

El Pollo Loco
(909) 866-1019 – 41383 Big Bear Blvd.

Taco Bell
(909) 866-7778 - 41170 Big Bear Blvd.

If you're tired of cooking, or miss your favorite spot in Big Bear Lake, please order take-out or have it delivered to your home. Please practice effective social distancing when you pick up your food, and wash your hands before and after you visit the restaurant!

If you own a local restaurant, and the City has accidentally not included you on this list, please reply to this email and let us know you are open. We are happy to add your restaurant to the list.
COVID-19 INFORMATION HOTLINE
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health operates a COVID-19 Hotline for residents with questions about COVID-19. Please call (909) 387-3911 for assistance.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
The Centers for Disease Control website includes a wealth of information at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html .
 
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health includes information specific to our county at http://wp.sbcounty.gov/dph/coronavirus/ .
Stay Informed!
Sign up for City of BBL Updates,
Visit Our Other Digital Platforms
The City of Big Bear Lake strives to keep our residents, property owners, investors, businesses, and visitors well-informed about the City's issues and initiatives - including the COVID-19 threat - with an emphasis on information specific to Big Bear Lake and the entire Big Bear Valley.
 
The easiest way to stay-informed is to sign up for the City's email newsletter and other updates. It's easy to sign up - simply visit https://www.citybigbearlake.com/ and click on "Text & Email Notifications" in the top center of the homepage. Simply click on the link, enter your name and email address, and you're all set. Signing up will ensure that you receive periodic updates about COVID-19 in Big Bear Lake, the City's new monthly newsletter - Elevation 6752', and other special communications from the City of Big Bear Lake for emergency situations, special events, and more.
 
In addition to the City's email updates, you can also get the latest information from the City of Big Bear Lake via the following digital platforms:
 

  • "Like" us on Facebook - City of Big Bear Lake
 
  • Follow us on Twitter - @CityofBBL
 
  • Follow us on Instagram - @citybigbearlake
 
 
Please help us spread the word, and share the City's digital communications platforms with your family, friends, other residents, property owners, frequent visitors, or anyone else who is interested in Big Bear Lake. Thank you!
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City of Big Bear Lake
39707 Big Bear Blvd. PO Box 10000, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Phone: (909) 866-5831 | Fax: (909) 866-5491