Novato To Resume Virtual Meetings Amid Delta Surge

NOVATO, CA — Citing growing concern about the rapid spread of the highly contagious delta variant, Novato officials on Thursday announced that it will go back to holding public meetings virtually until further notice.

Officials said the city will hold City Council, commission, committee, and board meetings on Zoom.

The transition back to virtual meetings starts with Tuesday’s 6 p.m. City Council meeting.

The City Council on July 13 had its only in-person meeting since the Bay Area went under shelter orders in March of 2020.

“With the health of our community and staff in mind, this decision is a preventative measure aimed at reducing community exposure to COVID-19, in light of the rapid spread of the delta variant, a recent spike in cases locally, and recommendations from public health to wear masks indoors,” city officials said in a statement.

Instructions on how to participate and provide public comment during virtual meetings are available in the meeting agendas which are posted at least 72 hours in advance of each meeting here.

“Thankfully, we know that community participation during our virtual meetings, online and by phone, has been successful throughout the pandemic,” City Manager Adam McGill said in a statement.

“We’re fortunate to have an engaged community and appreciate their flexibility as we continue to navigate through these changes together.”