High Command: Latest Lockdown Suggestions From City of Santa Monica are a Bit Better

In line with the County of Los Angeles, the City of Santa Monica has issued new guidance for Covid-19 social distancing. Churches and synagogues can reopen, with 25% as many congregants. Theaters and swap meets can even resume. But you are encouraged not to drive to work, still.

The following activities are now permitted: 

Faith-based organizations may resume services, with the number of congregants limited to less than 25% of the building's capacity, or a maximum of 100 people, whichever is lower. 

All retail, including those located in indoor and outdoor retail shopping centers may now open for business at 50% capacity (as per your certificate of occupancy approved by the Santa Monica Fire Department.

Flea markets, swap meets and drive-in movie theaters may resume operations. 

Pools, hot tubs and saunas that are in a multi-unit residence or part of a homeowners association may now open. 

In-person protests are permitted as long as attendance is limited to 25% of the area's maximum occupancy, or a maximum of 100 attendees, whichever is lower. 

Beyond these limited activities, gathering with people outside of your household is still prohibited. The County still encourages people to continue to telework as much as possible. 

Other-risk businesses such as hair salons, nail salons, and spas are not yet allowed to open in LA County. 

Safer at Home Guidance Remains In Place.  If you or someone you know is 65 years old or older, and/or has underlying health conditions, please help remind them that they should leave  remain in their residences as much as possible and should only leave to seek medical care, exercise or obtain food or other necessities.