Health & Fitness
Mayor Pavone Publishes Coronavirus Update For April 15
"During Monday's Committee of the Whole we announced cancellation of our annual Fourth of July celebration."
April 15, 2020
It's easy to forget the 2020 Census is underway. If you've responded, thank you! If you have not, why wait? Click the image to start the process. Make sure Renton Counts!
Find out what's happening in Rentonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
We’re holding a Census 2020 art competition for students in K-12. Find more information at Voice of Planet.
COVID-19 forces cancellation of summer events
During Monday’s Committee of the Whole we announced the cancellation of our annual Fourth of July celebration. I don’t think it came as a huge shock, due to the enormous challenges posed by COVID-19. Keeping you and your family safe is the foundation for all our decisions.
Find out what's happening in Rentonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
So then it won’t come as a complete surprise that we are also cancelling Renton River Days, which this year included the Multicultural Festival, and Cruz the Loop.
I realize cancelling these three major summertime events is disappointing, but I believe it’s the most responsible decision for everyone’s safety.
We are still evaluating the possibility of opening at least a portion of the Henry Moses Aquatic Center and will have a final decision by May 1. We are committed to having lifeguards at both Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park and Kennydale Beach Park, if allowed under the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.
Canceling these large events will allow us to work on planning smaller neighborhood celebrations throughout our city. The Recreation and Neighborhoods division is working hard to plan these events and I’ll have details in future newsletters and on our social media channels.
We’re also interested in hearing your feedback and ideas on how we can partner to make these events an example of how we can adapt, change and succeed as a Renton community.
Department updates
At Monday’s Committee of the Whole, administrators gave updates on how their departments have adjusted to dealing with COVID-19. Here are some highlights.
Community and Economic Development
- Moved completely off-site but continue to process permits, review applications, perform inspections and support the business community.
- Transitioned several staff to work directly with businesses to help with their needs.
- Recently completed outreach to all local restaurants and plan another outreach to all businesses.
- Used funds from Port of Seattle to provide businesses with technical resources and support.
- Have posted the “Renton Minute,” highlighting businesses that are open.
Community Services
- Senior survey showed 25-30 seniors did not have access to meals on the weekend. Now providing meals to them as well as some Renton Housing Authority tenants.
- Recreation and Neighborhoods division is putting final touches on programs for the community that respect social distancing.
- Boat launch at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is open, as boating is allowable under the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order. However, the trailer lot is only for vehicles with boat trailers. Those vehicles not attached to a trailer will be ticketed.
- Liberty Park has security fencing around the skate park and plywood over the basketball hoops. Wood chips have also been blown into the skate park.
- The community garden will open. A schedule will be determined and the number of people using it any one time will be limited.
Public Affairs/2020 Census
- Members of the Mayor’s Inclusion Task Force have been providing food and masks to our hospital workers and first responders, helping with the Census, and just being there to get the word out.
- Census 2020 return rate for Renton is 56.7%, the highest self-response rate in South King County.
- Starting comprehensive outreach on the three highest-rated Hispanic stations in the state.
- Inserting census flyers in drive-thru food banks boxes this week and in Viet-Wah Market grocery bags
- Continuing to provide incentives from Viet-Wah Market, Santa Fe Mexican Grill and other Renton business to encourage those that haven’t yet fill out their census.
- Launching a census art contest for students on why the census is important to them.
Renton Police
- Positive reaction to social media campaign showing “Renton businesses are open.”
- Started an online story time with officers reading children’s books.
- Responding to violations of social distancing guidelines as schedules allow. Most complaints so far have been families who lived in same house.
- Have an adequate supply of Personal Protective Equipment, thanks in part to donations from the community. Looking to share excess with city workers.
Renton Regional Fire Authority
- Personal Protective Equipment supply is in good shape.
- Have responded to 36 COVID-19 calls; six were confirmed.
- Bracing for unknown financial impact and have placed a freeze on hiring, training and capital expenses.
Federal/Regional Resources
- Renton is joining with other cities prior to approaching King County about receiving funding from the CARES Act. Appears that the county will receive a minimum of $260 million. Funds must be used to offset “necessary expenses” related to COVID-19.
- Working in partnership with Associated of Washington Cities, National League of Cities, other cities and local governments to ensure that a fourth phase federal COVID-19 relief package contains direct and flexible funding for all cites.
Renton Regional Community Fund makes first round of grants
The Renton Regional Community Fund has made its first round of grants from its COVID-19 response fund. In this initial round of dispersing funds, priorities were basic needs and Renton communities most impacted by racial inequities.
The Renton organizations receiving help are:
- REACH for general operating for their wrap-around services.
- Babies of Homelessness for supplies as they deliver diapers and other needed products to low-income/homeless families.
- Vision House for general operating support as they work with their families, particularly those with mental and emotional needs.
- Communities In Schools - Renton &Tukwila for their emergency fund for gas and food cards, etc.
- Urban Family for working with families in Skyway.
- South King Food Fighters to serve weekend meals to families in Renton and Tukwila.
To date the community fund has raised just over $50,000 and is working to raise more to meet the needs of our community. Visit their website if you’d like to help.
Governor outlines potential steps to reopen the economy
Gov. Inslee held a press conference and addressed the state’s COVID-19 response, and potential next steps in reopening the economy. The governor did not include a specific date for restrictions being lifted or details on how the economy might reopen, but did stress that it would not be a “switch” but rather a gradual “dial.” He noted that without continued social distancing measures and robust testing, there was a danger of a rebound based on current modeling.
King County invests $1 million in engagement and outreach
Late Monday, King County’s Office of Equity and Social Justice Community Response Fund announced an investment of $1 million to 39 community-based organizations and ethnic media to help ensure residents have timely and accurate information about disease prevention.
Stimulus Payments
COVID-19 stimulus payments are in the mail. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the IRS has that information. The IRS has also issued warnings to look out for coronavirus-rated scams.
Update on city functions
New/updated information is italicized
City Hall
- City Hall is closed to the public until further notice. Most services available via telephone and online.
- CDC guidelines for screening employees have been implemented. Health screening questions will be asked.
- Increased frequency for disinfecting common spaces, counters and door handles in all facilities throughout our hours of operation.
- Created COVID-19 page with links to information and prevention.
- Enacted a telework policy for eligible employees until further notice.
- Enacted a prohibition on enforcement of city noise restrictions on vehicles.
- COVID-19 link added to Renton Responds app.
- The human resources department is adapting to changes and making decisions to be responsive to COVID-19. We're doing everything to ensure we keep our employees safe and healthy as we continue to serve our customers.
- Mayor's Emergency Order #2020-3: Supporting State Moratorium On Residential Evictions for Non-Payment of Rent.
- Don't forget to complete your 2020 Census.
- Mayors urge residents to follow best practices.
- March 23 - Mayor’s COVID-19 update to City Council Committee of the Whole.
- March 24 - City's response to governor's order of "Stay Home, Stay Healthy".
- March 30 – Mayor’s letter to local businesses.
- April 1 – City launches senior resources survey.
City Council
Council members will be attending their meetings remotely. Due to security concerns, the video-conference identification number is not being shared publicly. City Hall is closed, so in-person comments will not be accepted; however, residents are encouraged to participate in variety of ways.
- Residents may submit comments in advance to cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
- Residents may call 425-430-7171, enter code 0033665# to listen to the proceedings.
- Residents may view the proceedings live on Renton’s Channel 21.
- Residents may view the proceedings streaming live at rentonwa.gov/streaming.
- The City Council will next meet on Monday, April 20.
- City Council, 7 p.m.
- Committee of the Whole, 5:45 p.m.
- Transportation Committee, 4:45 p.m.
- Public Safety Committee, 4 p.m.
Donations/Volunteering
- Puget Sound Blood Bank is short on supplies. Find a donation event.
- American Red Cross Blood Drives.
- Those wishing to volunteer can register with United Way.
- King County Regional Donations Connector is a virtual donation management center.
- Monetary contributions can be made via Seattle Foundation's COVID-19 Response Fund.
- Doug Baldwin has organized food deliveries through his familyfirstrenton.org and can use volunteer help.
- Renton Regional Community Foundation has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund.
- Communities In School Renton-Tukwila COVID-19 Emergency Fund.
Economic Development
- Small Business Hotline – If you’re a Renton small business owner who needs assistance, please contact the city's Economic Development staff through the Small Business Hotline at (206) 503-1742 or by emailing thrive@rentonwa.gov.
- Facebook Discussion - It's now more important now than ever that we share resources and information in real time. Join the discussion and follow @RentonBusiness for more updates on resources and opportunities. This group is a networking platform for Renton's small business owners and is meant to be a safe space where business leaders can support each other and help the community thrive again.
- Renton Business Minute - Take a Renton Minute to get to know the small business community. We will post short interviews with local business owners and entrepreneurs on the Visit Renton YouTube channel. Hear first-hand why they chose Renton! Email us to schedule your interview to be featured in the next Renton Minute.
- Local lenders eligible to issue loans under PPP - To find a Paycheck Protection Program lender, the SBA recommends contacting current bank or lender to see if they are offering PPP. New banks are coming on board every day. The SBA, has a lenders list by zip code.
- The Plate Fund - One-time $500 payment to restaurant workers in King County.
- CED has compiled list of resources for businesses and employers.
- Go Renton: Renton Chamber of Commerce
- State Resources: CARES Act, unemployment, paid leave, taxes, worker safety, small businesses & non-profits.
- Small Business Administration is offering disaster assistance to Washington small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
- King County Council collected information on unemployment, workers’ comp, rent/mortgage, utilities, student loans, food assistance, insurance & businesses.
- March 30 – Mayor Pavone’s letter of support to local businesses.
- April 5 - Boeing extends temporary suspension of Puget Sound production operations.
- April 7 - Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant program to assist small businesses (1-10 employees including proprietor).
Facilities/Services
- The following facilities are closed until further notice: Renton Community Center, Renton Senior Activity Center, Highlands Community Center, North Highlands Community Center and Renton History Museum. City Hall and the shops housing public works, parks and facilities are closed to the public until further notice.
- Lunch program continues at Senior Activity Center. Seniors (50+) can drive through weekdays and pick up a sack lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Food Banks/Resources
- City of Renton Human Services Resources Guide.
- Low-Cost food resources in Renton.
- 211.org: access point for homeless shelters, food and other related resources.
- REACH Center of Hope and Meal Coalition.
- Doug Baldwin has organized food deliveries through his familyfirstrenton.org.
- Renton Regional Community Foundation has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund.
- Sustainable Renton Free Grocery Store on Monday evenings.
- South King County Food Fighters.
- Donations to WA Food Fund provide financial assistance to three organizations that supply every food bank in Washington: Second Harvest, Food Lifeline and Northwest Harvest. Donations will fund food, materials, and personal protective equipment, as well as delivery and distribution.
- King County: Emergency food access resources.
- Sunset Community Church (1032 Edmonds Ave NE) will serve as a food distribution point in the Renton Highlands for Northwest Harvest starting April 14. It will be drive through pick-up to minimize contract from 3-6 p.m. or as long as supplies last.
Housing
- United Way of King County - Rent help for King County residents.
Inspections - Building and Development Engineering
Community and Economic Development Department (CED) has been receiving questions from homeowners and contractors regarding how the city is interpreting the construction-related provisions of Gov. Inslee’s Stay Home-Stay Healthy Proclamation and related guidance issued by the Governor’s Office.
- CED has interpreted the governor's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order to deem new residential and commercial construction as non-essential activities, except that construction of public projects (such as public affordable housing projects) and public components of private projects (such as utilities and streets intended for turnover to the city) are essential activities. Furthermore, CED has interpreted the Stay Home-Stay Healthy order to allow construction related to the order’s list of essential activities including supply chain for goods, services, and healthcare.
- Under these interpretations, CED will continue its physical inspections associated with the following city-issued permits:
- Building permits for occupied residential structures necessary to avoid damage or unsafe conditions;
- Building permits for buildings that are a necessary component of the community’s supply chain for goods, services, and healthcare;
- Engineering permits for facilities intended to be made part of the city’s public infrastructure. Such facilities include water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater utilities intended to be transferred to the city at completion and street improvements intended to be transferred to the city at completion.
- Although CED will not be performing physical onsite inspections for new unoccupied homes or other projects not falling into the above list, some inspections can be accomplished virtually. If you are interested in more information about virtual inspections, please contact the Building Division: 425-430-7200.
- These interpretations are valid as of March 30, 2020 under the governor’s guidance in effect as of that date. Please note that these interpretations are subject to change as more information becomes available regarding the efforts to contain COVID-19 or if further guidance is issued by the governor’s office.
Mental Health Resources/Health Care
Mental Health
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Managing Anxiety and Stress during COVID-19
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin: Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health
- King County: Crisis Connections
- Washington State Department of Health: Social Distancing and Mental Health
- Seattle Times: Community Support Resources
Additionally, there are also several recommended things you can do to support yourself:
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body. Take deep breaths and stretch, eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid excessive alcohol and drugs.
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Health Care
- Valley Medical Center has a page dedicated to COVID-19 information.
- HealthPoint in Renton.
- Public Health’s Community Health Access Program for those without a doctor. Call 1-800-756-5437 or CHAP@kingcounty.gov for a free consultation and connection to free or low-cost medical providers and low-cost health insurance.
Online Payments
- Business licenses, pet licenses, courts, tax and licensing and utility bills can all be paid online.
- Business Licensing & Tax: 425-430-6851; filelocal-wa.gov.
Permitting
- Permit counter is closed to the public until further notice. Applicants should use online options for payments and tracking applications.
- Fees and permitting waived for A-frame business signs advertising curbside pick-up.
- Permitting (General information): 425-430-7200.
- Schedule an Inspection: Permitting Portal; Building: 425-430-7202; Civil/Site: 425-430-7203.
Public Works
- The maintenance facility is closed to the public.
- The Public Works Maintenance Services Division and Transportation Maintenance teams are working a reduced schedule of 10-hour days on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- The maintenance facility is closed on Wednesdays to allow for an additional thorough cleaning.
- To request service or report a problem call 425-430-7400 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
- After normal business hours, call Renton Police Department dispatch at 425-430-7500 to request assistance from an on-call representative. If the problem is an emergency, please call 911.
- Residents can also report issues via the Renton Responds app.
- 20 MPH flashing school zone beacons are off.
- The Spring Recycling Event is cancelled and will be rescheduled.
- June Stop ‘n Swap event has been cancelled. It will return in 2021.
- Continuity of operations measures initiated to isolate water treatment operators from other employees during work.
Recreation
- Refunds processing for March and April cancellations.
Open
- All parks. However, parking lots, restrooms, playgrounds, sport courts, fields, and other active recreation areas within parks, including the skate park are closed until further notice. (March 20)
- All trails, except two sections of the Cedar River Trail.
- Boat launch at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park (April 8).
- In both parks and trails, YOU ARE REQUIRED to follow recommended social distancing, NO GROUP GATHERINGS and proper hand washing procedures.
Closed
- All parking lots, restrooms, playgrounds, sport courts, fields and other active recreation areas within city parks, including the skate park. (3/20)
- All classes, events and activities until further notice.
- Registrations through May 4 will be cancelled.
- Maplewood Golf Course, driving range, pro shop and River Rock Grill until further notice. ABSOLUTELY NO TRESPASSING.
Renton Municipal Airport
- Offices are closed to the public until further notice. Runway and support services are operational.
- General information available on website or by calling 425-430-7471 (administration) or 206-423-3715 (maintenance).
Renton Municipal Court
- Courts are closed until further notice and staff is working remotely.
- In-custody court hearings are no longer being held at City Hall.
- Jail Calendar is heard via video conference with prosecutors and public defenders.
- Work is on-going to conduct Domestic Violence No Contact Order Recalls.
- Jury service and passport service is suspended until at least April 27.
- Continuing all non-essential hearings until further notice.
Renton Police Department
- If you suspect a business is in violation of the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, the state has an online reporting form. If report is about an individual or private group, use the police department’s non-emergency number 425-235-2121.
- March 27 - Message from Chief Ed VanValey: "our role is to help educate".
- March 23 - Message from Chief Ed VanValey on governor's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy".
- March 20 - Message from Chief Ed VanValey.
- March 13 - Chief Ed VanValey updates procedures.
- Department lobby and walk up window at city hall are closed.
- Only use 911 for emergencies; non-emergency reporting: 425-235-2121.
- School zone cameras turned off.
- File a police report online.
Renton Regional Fire Authority
Renton School District/Education
- April 8 – Governor provides additional guidance on school closures and impact on available services.
- Renton schools are closed through the end of the school year. Distance learning is in effect.
- Services offered during the closure.
- Closure and classroom information for students and families.
- Information for OSPI: Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
- Communities In School Renton-Tukwila COVID-19 Emergency Fund.
- Best Start For Kids: Tips for teaching your child with special learning needs.
Republic Services
- Republic Services has put into effect new temporary guidelines for waste collection procedures in the interest of safety for both the public and their drivers. All recycling and organics materials must be placed in a cart or can; any loose, bundled, or bagged items outside of a cart or can will not be collected. Extra garbage must be placed in a cart, can, or secured in bags. Bulky waste collection and Clean Sweep collections are suspended until further notice. All collection routes are on normal schedule. Questions? Contact Republic Services at 206-777-6440.
- Republic Services will waive late fees and penalties and will not activate any service suspensions for a period of 90 days. (March 23)
- Businesses with solid waste accounts and operating during “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” can call Republic Services at 206-777-6440 to request any necessary service changes including increased/decreased container size or increased/decreased frequency of service. The city's mandatory garbage code requires at least the minimum level of service (20-gallon cart) and one collection per week.
- Businesses with solid waste accounts and temporarily closed as a result of COVID-19 can contact Republic Services at 206-777-6440 to request a temporary hold on their account. No service will be provided during the temporary hold and businesses MUST NOT place any garbage or recyclables in their containers during the period that the account is on hold, as this could result in a public health problem. All COVID-19 holds will be reinstated to normal collection once “Stay Home, Stay Healthy “ order is lifted.
- Any service level change, including COVID-19 holds due to temporary closure of business, will be shown as adjustments on the solid waste bill.
Restaurants
- Restaurants open for take-out/delivery:
- Add your restaurant to the list.
Shelters
Men’s Shelters & Day Centers
ARISE
Catholic Community Services. Hosted by a different Renton church every month. Includes case management services.
- Space is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Overnight services from 7:30 p.m.-7:30 a.m. Men allowed on-site at 7 p.m.
- 515B 116th Ave NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
(425) 289-4044
Day Center
Resource referrals, showers, laundry, meals. Open Sunday – Thursday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
- 515B 116th Ave NE Suite 174
Bellevue, WA 98004
Women’s Shelters & Day Centers
Women's Shelters and Day Centers
Kent Hope
Resource referrals, showers, laundry, meals, healthcare. Open every day 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
- 9009 Canyon Drive
Kent, WA 98030
(253) 480-2325
The Sophia Way
Apply for extended stay shelter online.
Resource referrals, showers, laundry, breakfast/lunch. Open every day 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
- 3032 Bellevue Way NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
(425) 896-7385
Women’s Referral Center
Check in at Angeline’s Day Center between 6-9 p.m. then transported to host locations for overnight stay. The Center offers showers, laundry, and dinner.
- 2030 3rd Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 441-3210
Hospitality House
Opens at 6 p.m. every night.
- 419 SW 150th St.
Burien, Washington 98166
(206) 242-1860
Family Shelters & Day Centers
REACH
All for shelter/day center intake.
- 316 S 3rd St,
Renton, WA 98057
(425) 277-7594
Center of Hope Day Center
Resource referrals, showers, laundry. Open Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Renton City Hall
1055 S Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
Effective April 6: REACH Center of Hope is relocating to St. Matthews Lutheran Church, 1700 Edmonds Ave. NE. They will be there through the end of May.
Mary’s Place
Call 206-245-1026 for shelter referrals.
Transportation
- March 30 - Interactive tool for riders whose routes experienced service cuts.
- March 29 - If your route was cut on March 23, are some alternative routes to consider
- March 21 – Sound Transit service change includes new route, temporary service reductions.
- March 20 – Sounds Transit to suspend fares on all transit modes until further notice.
- March 19 - Sound Transit to temporarily reduce service on Link light rail, Sounder trains, some ST Express routes.
- March 18 - Metro plans to temporarily reduce service starting Monday, March 23 to support the health of the community.
Utilities
- City will waive late fees and penalties and will not shut off water service for a period of 90 days. (March 23)
-
Questions? Utility billing division: 425-430-6852; ub@rentonwa.gov.
- Puget Sound Energy (PSE) will not disconnect customers for non-payment, will waive late fees and work on payment plans and choosing a new bill due date. PSE has an energy assistance portal to facilitate access to funds available to income qualified customers.
- PSE's Crisis Affected Customer Assistance Program (CACAP) is an $11 million fund dedicated to assisting low income customers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic shutdown. The program is in addition to PSE’s other assistance programs, including the Warm Home Fund, PSE Home Energy Lifeline Program and Weatherization Assistance Program for income-eligible customers.
King County
- April 13 - King County awards $1 million to provide language access and other COVID-19 services to frontline community groups.
- March 31 – County Council approves $2.2 million for emergency childcare for first responders and other essential workers during COVID-19 crisis.
- March 30 - King County postpones payment deadline to June 1 for individual property taxpayers who pay property taxes themselves, rather than through their mortgage lender.
- Don't flush trash - Wipes, paper towels, and other "unflushables" can create a sewer backup in your home. Flush only toilet paper and protect your home, the sewer system, and the environment.
- March 24 - King County releases new health and safety guidelines to child care providers.
- COVID-19 Resources from King County.
- Public Health - Seattle & King County
- COVID-19 resources. Information in multiple languages.
- Public Health Insider: official insights from staff.
- COVID-19 Data Dashboard
- King County Veterans Program COVID-19 information.
- COVID-19 Language Efforts: Resources in 14 languages.
State of Washington
- April 13 – Governor issues protection for high-risk workers.
- April 13 - Washington, Oregon and California announce Western States Pact.
- April 13 – Governor announces strategies for reducing the number of individuals incarcerated to address CoVID-19 in DOC system.
- April 8 - Governor's statement on Century Link field hospital redeployment.
- April 8 – Governor provides additional guidance on school closures and impact on available services.
- April 7 - Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant program to assist small businesses (1-10 employees including proprietor). The grant program will provide a limited number of businesses with emergency funds of up to $10,000.
- April 3 - Guidance on Cloth Face Coverings from Department of Health.
- April 1 - The state is seeking to fill shortages of specific personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection-control products to support our medical system, first responders, public health and care facilities.
- April 1 – Governor issues additional guidance on the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order related to essential businesses. It clarifies as “essential” nannies (who are deemed essential if they are in the home taking care of children of essential workers), automotive repair facilities and limited automotive sales and leasing activities, and renewable energies. The bulletin also includes guidance that recreational fishing and golf are NOT deemed essential.
- March 31 – Governor and Washington State Department of Financial Institutions announce assistance for homeowners unable to make mortgage payments.
- March 30 - Department of Licensing is temporarily closing all driver licensing lobbies on March 31.
- March 30 – The state has set up an online form to report non-essential businesses that violate the governor’s Stay Home-Stay Health order.
- March 27 - Governor welcomes Army doctors to field hospital in Seattle.
- March 23 - Governor announces a stay at home order, banning all gatherings and closing all but those businesses classified by the Federal guidelines as essential. The ban will take effect on March 25 and be in place for a minimum of two weeks. The governor indicated the order is voluntary in nature, it is enforceable by law. Resident will be able to conduct essential business (shopping, doctor’s appointments) and restaurants cans still conduct business via to-go orders. [Spanish]
- March 19 – Governor orders halt to elective surgeries and dental services to reserve critical equipment for COVID-19 health care workers.
- March 18 – Governor waives one-week wait for unemployment benefits.
- March 17 - Governor signs bill package to support state effort combating the COVID-19 outbreak.
- March 16 - Governor issues statewide shutdown of restaurants, bars and limits on size of gatherings expanded.
- March 13 - Governor expands school closure/gathering ban statewide.
- Governor's press releases.
"Stay Home, Stay Healthy"
"Stay Home, Stay Healthy" is the governor's order asking all residents to stay indoors. Originally issued on March 23, for two weeks, it was extended through May 4 on April 2.
Here’s what’s allowed under the order. Please remember to keep at least six feet apart.
- Grocery shopping
- Ordering restaurant takeout or to-go
- Medical appointments and pharmacy pickup
- Walking, running, biking and gardening
- Going to gas stations, food banks, banks and laundromats
- Going to work if your job is part of essential businesses
- Funerals only if at a funeral home or at cemetery gravesides. Only immediate family members of the deceased can attend and proper social distancing must be maintained.
What is not allowed:
- Attending weddings or religious services
- Attending or playing in sports games and practices
- Participating in any in-person leisure, hobby or social clubs
- Going to concerts, festivals, parades, theaters, museums, art galleries or fundraisers
- Working out at a gym or fitness center
- Going to barbers, nail salons or tattoo parlors
If you suspect a business is in violation of the governor’s order, the state has an online reporting form. If report is about an individual or private group, use the police department’s non-emergency number 425-235-2121. In either instance, do not call 911.
Federal
- April 3 - CDC recommendation regarding the use of cloth face coverings, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
- WHO - When and how to use masks (World Health Organization).
- March 27 - Congress passes CARES Act, a $2.2 trillion federal stimulus package to aid coronavirus relied and economic stimulus.
- March 22 – President approves Washington disaster declaration.
Important Links
- Centers for Disease Control
- Governor's Coronavirus resources (coronavirus.wa.gov)
- Coronavirus fact sheets in multiple languages
- King County Emergency Preparedness Standards
- State Resources for Business
- Homeless Services Provider Resources
Information for Businesses and Employees
For Businesses
- Stay Home – Stay Healthy Guidance for essential business
- What do I do if an employee tests positive for COVID-19
- OSHA guidance for preparing workplaces for COVID-19
For Employees
- Employment Security Division: for workers affected by COVID-19
- ESD’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Program
- SharedWork Program
- Temporary layoffs, standby and furloughs
- Layoff Assistance
- United Way of King County: Where to get help
Financial Resources
- U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Assistance
- Seattle Metropolitan Chamber
- Washington State Department of Revenue: Business Relief During COVID-19 Pandemic
- IRS: Coronavirus Tax Relief
- Facebook Small Business Grants Program
- Association of Washington Businesses
- Business Washington COVID-19 Business Resources
- Restore Your Economy.org: COVID-19 Resources for Economic Development
Feedback
Comments, questions or suggestions, or just want to share all the great things that are happening in the city, please email me. Thanks for reading.
Archives
This press release was produced by the City of Renton. The views expressed here are the author’s own.