June 1, 2020
We're Cautiously Getting Back to Business
Welcome back! During our public closure we worked hard behind the scenes to keep the City moving. From contactless plan checks to virtual story hours, the City developed innovative ways to connect with and serve our residents. I am proud of our staff for their creativity and resilience, and the public for adapting — both without missing a beat.
 
Now it is time to take the next steps as we re-open our physical doors here at City Hall. We do this enthusiastically, we missed you, yet cautiously with health and safety a top priority. Things will look different: You will see new signage, temperature screenings, and smaller occupancy limits; all based on public health guidelines. Face coverings and pre-screenings will be required. We are starting slow with reduced hours to work out these new processes and make sure they are as quick and efficient as possible. If something does not work, we will adjust along the way.
 
Murrieta has faced heartbreaking losses over the past few months with six deaths and over 100 infected. Thanks to your collective efforts, we continue to work together to keep all of the community safe, those in high risk categories such as our seniors and children with compromised immune systems. It is important that we keep following best practices as our economy re-opens, and our businesses need you! It is not always convenient or comfortable, but it is what we need to keep moving forward. Our community is indeed connected and I thank each of you for your contributions and sacrifice.

Kim Summers, City Manager
City Hall Opens to Public
Effective June 1, 2020, City Hall has opened its doors! Our initial public hours are from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday and alternate Fridays.

We are maintaining our contactless plan drop-off and virtual services for those who choose to conduct business without a visit or after public hours. Passports are by appointment only: Call 951-304-2489.
What You Need to Know
To help keep visitors and staff safe,
City Hall requires everyone entering the building to wear face coverings, have their temperature scanned and complete a brief oral questionnaire. We have also modified interior space to encourage social distancing.

This is new for us, too, but we will do our best to keep things running smoothly and make adjustments where needed.
Parks Continue Phased Re-opening
We are gradually re-opening many of the City’s Parks and Recreation Department sites, and have produced a handy guide that summarizes what facilities and amenities are currently open as of June. We want you back as much as you want to be back!

The state continues to require that community centers, public pools, playgrounds, and picnic areas remain closed due to the inability to safely sanitize. Large public events are not yet allowed, but when the time comes, we will be ready.
Summer Events

Father's Day Car Show Developing alternate program

City's Birthday Bash Cancelled and coming back in 2021 better than ever!

Concerts in the Park Developing alternate program

Movies in the Park Developing alternate program

9-11 Observance Pending
Curbside Services Available
Murrieta Public Library is now offering curbside delivery service for holds placed on Murrieta items. You need a library card to request and pick up holds.

Place your hold online or by calling (951) 304-2665. We will contact you once items are available for pick-up. You can return them to the outside book drops, where they will be quarantined for 5-7 days before re-issuing.
Town Square Park Improvements Taking Shape
In the coming weeks, residents will start seeing the improvements take shape above-ground for the Town Square Park project. Up until now, most of the work had to do with grading and infrastructure, but this month the project starts to go vertical. Final improvements will include a state-of-the-art amphitheater, new lighting, tiered seating, Wi-Fi, and security cameras as well as a restroom, storage room, and dressing/green room buildings. This project is paid with redevelopment bond funds issued for this purpose many years ago.  A dedication ceremony will likely take place late fall 2020.
How We're Helping Murrieta Get Back to Business
Our Economic Development Team is leading the charge as we help to support the safe re-opening of our local economy in a rapidly changing environment. Here's how:
Where are we now: Murrieta Re-opening Snapshot
As of June 1, 2020, restaurants, retail, beauty parlors/barbershops, offices and houses of worship are beginning to open in Murrieta and Riverside County. You may find reduced capacity, social distancing, face coverings and other required modifications in place to prevent germ spread, as laid out in the state's public health guidelines. We can help make sure that re-opening continues moving forward by safely supporting our local businesses, getting tested and supporting established guidelines. Business owners are free to choose the regulations they wish to enforce within their establishments. Learn more at www.MurrietaCA.gov/reopening.
Let's Hear from You!
Poll: What Do You Think of the City's New Website Chat Feature?
Last month, we added a chat feature to the City website. Tell us what you think.
I love it, and plan to use it regularly.
It's ok, but I prefer other communication methods.
No thanks. I find chats annoying.
What chat? I do not see it on the website.