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Mayor's Newsletter
In my weekly newsletter I cover all that is happening in Renton, including the most current COVID-19 updates and information from state and federal officials and agencies.
COVID-19 Resources
The city has compiled resources from several city, county, state and federal entities into a comprehensive COVID-19 page.
Issue: 52 / Friday, July 10, 2020; updated July 13
Small Business Relief Grant Program
Since last week’s announcement that applications were being accepted for CARES Act funding, our Economic Development Division has received over 200 requests and many more inquiries.
We’re making almost $1.4 million available to help Renton small businesses impacted by COVID-19. These businesses are vital to our community and need our help, and CARES funds will have an immediate impact.
If your business meets these requirements, you could get up to $15,000:
- Have a physical location within Renton with a public-facing store front
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Have 25 or fewer employees (including the owner)
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Have been in operation in the City of Renton for at least two (2) years
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Have experienced a revenue loss due to COVID-19 related business closures
Applications are online and must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 30.
Our economic development division is ready to help with your application—call (206) 503-1742 or email thrive@rentonwa.gov. Requests for assistance in multiple languages can be made via email.
Also, if your business would like one of the free “Open for Business” (pictured above) or “Open for Pick-up” signs please contact our Economic Development staff and they will coordinate a contactless banner delivery or drop-off.
Chief VanValey gives police overview to city council
During Monday’s Committee of the Whole, Renton Chief of Police Ed VanValey gave a wide-ranging overview of his department to city councilmembers and viewers.
The chief covered recruitment and some upcoming efforts to recruit candidates that represent our city’s diversity, the hiring process and standards, accountability, current training, and use of force highlights.
The video of his presentation is online, as is his PowerPoint. The council ran out of time and will continue the chief's presentation at this Monday's Committee of the Whole (5:30 p.m.).
K9 Zev passes away
I have sad news from our police department as K9 Zev passed away last Saturday.
Zev served the community of Renton with distinction since 2015 alongside his partner, Officer Adam. Known as an excellent tracker, Zev had great success in locating both people and evidence. Zev was also well-known for his many community appearances. He was a seven-year-old German shepherd from Germany.
Thank you, Zev and Dave, for your dedication and service to our city. I speak for our community as I offer my sincere condolences to Officer Adam, his family, and all the men and women of the Renton Police Department on their loss.
It’s Parks and Recreation Month in Renton
July is Parks and Recreation Month in Renton. Never before have we known the vital role recreation plays in our lives.
COVID-19 forced us to close our parks and cancel all in-person recreation activities. This hurt as our residents enjoy being outdoors. It was also a severe blow to the women and men who comprise our Community Services Department and work so hard to maintain our high-quality parks and programs. Now that our parks have re-opened, I hope you'll take the opportunity to enjoy all they offer while adhering to social distancing guidelines. While we're not yet able to host in-person recreational activities, our recreations and neighborhoods division are hosting a series of online events designed for the whole family.
Great parks and recreational activities are not all community services provide the city. They're also our frontline in the battle against homelessness, substance abuse disorders, obesity and chronic health issues. Their efforts have earned us a “Tree City USA” designation for 12 consecutive years and provided hours of educational opportunities for everyone. I'm very proud to issue this proclamation in honor of all they do to make Renton such a great place to live, work, visit and raise a family.
Also new in this edition
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King County’s Local Food Finder supporting local farms. A convenient way for residents to support local farms hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- United Way of King County is providing free food boxes to South King County community members who have been affected by COVID-19. Sign up.
- July 7 - Governor extends Safe Start proclamation, issues facial coverings guidance
Update on city functions
City Hall
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City Hall is closed to the public until further notice. Most services are available via telephone and online.
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CDC guidelines for screening employees have been implemented. Health screening questions will be asked.
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Increased frequency for disinfecting common spaces, counters and door handles in all facilities throughout our hours of operation.
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Created COVID-19 page with links to information and prevention.
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Enacted a telework policy for eligible employees until further notice.
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Enacted a prohibition on enforcement of city noise restrictions on vehicles.
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COVID-19 link added to Renton Responds app.
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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.
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March 24 - City's response to governor's order of "Stay Home, Stay Healthy"
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March 30 – Mayor’s letter to local businesses
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April 1 – City launches senior resources survey
- April 16 - City of Renton, King County: Renton ideal location for COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing facility
- June 30 - City issues Finding of City Code Violations to King County’s Renton Red Lion Inn De-Intensification Shelter
- July 1 - City of Renton makes almost $1.4 million available to Renton small businesses by COVID-19. Apply online for CARES Act funding by July 30.
City Council
Councilmembers 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 a variety of ways.
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Residents may submit comments in advance to cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
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Residents may call 425-430-7171, enter code 0033665# to listen to the proceedings.
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Residents may view the proceedings live on Renton’s Channel 21.
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Residents may view the proceedings streaming live at rentonwa.gov/streaming.
- Next meeting: Monday, July 13.
Donations/Volunteering
Pop up blood drives coming to Renton
Bloodworks NW will be hosting pop-up donations centers in Renton. Each appointment is for one hour. Walk-ins, guests and people under the age of 16 are not permitted. Each location will have plenty of space to maintain social distancing and donors are required to wear a mask or face covering to all appointment.
Renton Community Church (316 S. 3rd St.)
- Friday, July 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Appointments are required and can be made online.
Economic Development
July 1 - City of Renton makes almost $1.4 million available to Renton small businesses by COVID-19. Apply online for CARES Act funding by July 30.
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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.
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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.
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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 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.
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State Resources: CARES Act, unemployment, paid leave, taxes, worker safety, small businesses & non-profits.
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Small Business Administration is offering disaster assistance to Washington small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
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King County Council collected information on unemployment, workers’ comp, rent/mortgage, utilities, student loans, food assistance, insurance & businesses.
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March 30 – Mayor Pavone’s letter of support to local businesses.
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April 5 - Boeing extends temporary suspension of Puget Sound production operations.
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April 7 - Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant program to assist small businesses (1-10 employees including proprietor) (note: as of April 15, the program is no longer accepting applications from King County)
- April 17 - Renton increases support to small businesses through an expanded partnership with Startup 425.
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What's Open Eastside - A new, no-cost map will allow businesses to communicate current conditions and operations to customers in Renton and beyond. Enter hours, virtual offerings, curbside or delivery options and contact information by May 21 to be included in the launch on May 25.
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Visit Renton Listings - List your business on VisitRentonWA.com and added to the Visit Renton app. Complete this form or contact thrive@rentonwa.gov to add business info.
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COVID-19 Business Impact Survey - If your business has experienced effects as a result of COVID-19, we strongly encourage you to take this new regional survey. The survey's findings are critical as we develop additional business response and support programming.
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Get Help for Your Business - If you need assistance filing for economic relief programs, are not sure what COVID-19 means for the future of your business, or just need to talk through the current situation with a professional, the city's Business Response Team can help.
Renton Business Resources for Phase 2
What does Phase 2 mean to my business?
If you have any questions about how you or your business fits into all of this Contact Renton’s Economic Development Division at (206) 503-1742 or thrive@rentonwa.gov.
Get your Free Open for Business Banner
Let your customers know you are back with a free “Open for Business” banner to hang in front of your store. Choose between "Open for Business" or "Open for Pickup" to clearly communicate your operations. Banners are 8ft x 3ft and can be hung under your eaves, on a fence or in a window. There are no permits or fees required to hang these banners.
If you would like a banner, please let us know and we can coordinate a contactless banner delivery or drop-off.
Don't Leave Money On the Table!
More $130 billion is still available in Paycheck Protection Program funding. Recent legislation provides added flexibility, such as the extension of time to spend loan funds from 8 to 24 weeks and the expansion in the percentage of funds that can be used for non-payroll expenses. But time is running short! The last date a PPP loan can be approved is August 8. Get your application in today! Find a PP lender.
The Business Response Team at Startup425 provides free, one-on-one assistance to businesses and nonprofits in Renton. Reach out today. Someone will respond within 24 hours. Support is available in multiple languages.
Main Street Lending Program *Update*
The Federal Reserve Board announced an expansion of its Main Street Lending Program (MSLP) to allow more small- and medium‑sized businesses to receive support. The board lowered the minimum loan amount, raised the maximum loan limit, adjusted the principal repayment schedule to begin after two years, and extended the term to five years.
The Renton Municipal Arts Commission offers grants to individuals, organizations and community groups for arts and culture projects and events that serve the general public in Renton. Grants from $1,000-$10,000 are available to fund your innovative projects that fill cultural gaps and inspire new forms of creative participation, particularly for underserved groups. The deadline is rolling, so apply today!
Update your Listing!
What's Open Eastside is a free opportunity from Startup425 for businesses to share their services and provide status updates on delivery. This no-cost map will allow you communicate your current business conditions and operations to customers in Renton and beyond.
Startup425 also provides free, one-on-one assistance to businesses and nonprofits in Renton for applications to the Paycheck Protection Program. If you haven’t applied the deadline is June 30. Funds are available, and recent updates to the program give you more flexibility in using the money. If you need support in applying, our Business Response Team. Reach out today and you’ll receive a response within 24 hours. Support is available in multiple languages.
Event Status
Scheduled
Canceled
Facilities/Services
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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.
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Henry Moses Aquatic Center is closed for the summer.
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The lunch program continues at the Senior Activity Center. Seniors (60+) can drive through weekdays and pick up a sack lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or until lunches are gone.
Food Banks/Resources
City of Renton Human Services Resources Guide.
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Salvation Army Food Bank (206 S. Tobin St., Renton 425-255-5969) Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9–11:30 a.m. and 1–3:30 p.m. Closed Wednesday. New clients should bring on their first visit:
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Photo identification for a person applying and for all members over the age of 18 living in their home (copies or a picture of household member ID is OK).
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Proof of address for all members 18 years of age living in the household.
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Birth certificate or other legal guardianship paperwork for all minors living in the household.
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Renton Community Meals (Salvation Army, 720 S. Tobin St.) Monday–Thursday, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
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Renton Community Meals (Salvation Army 300 Rainier Ave. N.) on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 5:30 p.m. Monday–Friday, 8–10 a.m.
- United Way of King County is providing free food boxes to South King County community members who have been affected by COVID-19. Sign up.
Housing
Inspections - Building and Development Engineering
Community and Economic Development Department (CED) continues to update homeowners and contractors regarding how the city is implementing the construction-related provisions of Gov. Inslee’s COVID-19 construction restart plan and related guidance issued by the governor’s office.
Upon approval for King County jurisdictions to move to Phase 2 of the Governor’s “Safe Start” plan, CED hopes to perform physical onsite and virtual inspections for all construction projects pursuant to the Governor’s Phase 2 construction COVID-19 job site requirements effective as of May 15, 2020. Whenever possible, virtual inspections will be accomplished. If you are interested in more information about virtual inspections, please contact the Building Division: 425-430-7200.
The phase 2 construction COVID-19 job site requirements permit all construction activity to proceed, whether previously authorized, newly authorized, existing, or not existing. In effect, new construction is no longer limited to construction that was previously authorized under Proclamation 20-25.
Under phase 2, all construction, including those activities for which social distancing may not be maintained, and the start of new construction projects, is authorized to resume. Adherence to the health and safety points in the phase 2 job site requirements will be strictly enforced. Under the phase 2 requirements, any paused and existing construction activity, may resume/continue immediately if:
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The employers and employees can meet and maintain all requirements listed in the phase 2 – construction COVID-19 Job Site Requirements document; and
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The employers and employees conduct only those activities that are allowed under their county’s phase status.
The safety plan was developed as part of a working group that included contractors and workers. The plan includes requirements related to safety training, physical distancing, PPE, sanitation and cleanliness and monitoring employees for symptoms.
Prior to calling for an inspection please be sure you have met the minimum requirements necessary for an onsite inspection:
1. COVID-19 Site Supervisor
A site-specific COVID-19 Supervisor shall be designated by the contractor at every job site to monitor the health of employees and enforce the COVID-19 job site safety plan. A designated COVID-19 Supervisor must be present at all times during construction activities.
Exception: single-family residential job sites with 6 or fewer people on the site.
2. Posting of COVID-19 exposure control, mitigation and recovery plan available on job site
Prior to commencing work all contractors are required to develop for each job site a comprehensive COVID-19 exposure control, mitigation, and recovery plan. The plan must include policies regarding the following control measures: PPE utilization; on-site social distancing; hygiene; sanitation; symptom monitoring; incident reporting; site decontamination procedures; COVID-19 safety training; exposure response procedures; and a post-exposure incident project wide recovery plan. The plan must also include a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), including a list of engineering controls and proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), for all jobsite activities defined by Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) as medium and high transmission risk.
No jobsite may operate until the contractor can meet and maintain all requirements of the Phase 2 Construction COVID-19 Job Site Requirements, including providing materials, schedules and equipment required to comply.
These COVID-19 job site safety practices are required as long as the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” Gubernatorial Proclamation 20-25 is in effect or if adopted as rules by a federal, state or local regulatory agency. All issues regarding worker safety and health are subject to enforcement action under L&I’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
Mental Health Resources/Health Care
Mental Health
- Medicare Advantage: Tips for how seniors can stay healthy and connected during the COVID-19 pandemic
Additionally, there are also several recommended things you can do to support yourself:
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Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
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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.
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Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
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Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Health Care
- WIC - WIC is a supplemental food program for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, infants and children. WIC also provides health screening, nutrition and health education, breastfeeding promotion and support, help to get other services and monthly benefits for nutritious foods.
Online Payments
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Business licenses, pet licenses, courts, tax and licensing and utility bills can all be paid online.
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Business Licensing & Tax: 425-430-6851; filelocal-wa.gov.
Permitting
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Permit counter is closed to the public until further notice. Applicants should use online options for payments and tracking applications.
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Fees and permitting waived for A-frame business signs advertising curbside pick-up.
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Permitting (General information): 425-430-7200.
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Schedule an Inspection: Permitting Portal; Building: 425-430-7202; Civil/Site: 425-430-7203.
Pets
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RASKC - Regional Animal Services of King County
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RASKC - Pet assistance program
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CDC - Your pets and COVID-19
Public Works
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Maintenance facility is closed to the public until further notice.
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The Public Works Maintenance Services Division and Transportation Maintenance teams are returning to their regular work schedule a schedule of 10-hour days Monday - Friday.
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To request service or report a problem call 425-430-7400 Monday - Fridays between 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
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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.
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Residents can also report issues via the Renton Responds app.
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20 MPH flashing school zone beacons are off.
Recreation
- Refunds processing for cancellations.
Open
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All parks. Except Meadow Crest Playground.
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All trails, except one section of the Cedar River Trail.
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Boat launch at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park. Purchase an annual launch permit. Day permits can be purchased at the launch.
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Limited, outdoor-based summer programming is available for registration.
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Park restrooms, except at Jones Park.
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Sports fields are available for rentals and use for groups of 5 or less, per phase 2 guidelines.
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Swim beaches at Gene Coulon Park and Kennydale Beach Park. WARNING - No lifeguards will be on duty! Swim at your own risk - children should be accompanied by an adult at all times; adults should not swim alone.
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Virtual and neighborhood-based programming is underway.
Closed
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All building rentals and community events are canceled through August 31.
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Henry Moses Aquatic Center all summer.
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Park restrooms at Jones Park.
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Picnic shelters will remain closed through 2020.
Renton is an ideal location for COVID-19 vaccine facility
April 16 - City of Renton, King County: Renton ideal location for COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing facility
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KIRO 7 - Renton considers recruiting coronavirus vaccine manufacturer
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KING 5 - Coronavirus updates for Washington State: Renton mayor says city is “ideal” location for COVID-19 facility
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Patch.com - Renton Ideal Location for Coronavirus Vaccine Manufacturing Facility
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Seattle Medium - Renton Considered An Ideal Location For COVID-19 Vaccine Manufacturing Facility
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425 Business - Renton Hopes to Repurpose Industrial Assets for COVID-19 Vaccine Production
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Bisnow - Seattle Suburb Looks To Become Vaccine Epicenter
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KCPQ-TV - Renton looks to be center for coronavirus vaccine
Renton Municipal Airport
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Offices are closed to the public until further notice. Runway and support services are operational.
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General information available on website or by calling 425-430-7471 (administration) or 206-423-3715 (maintenance).
Renton Municipal Court
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Court is currently closed to the public. Staff is working both remotely and on-site with adherence to social distancing and other health guidelines. Calls from the public are being answered on a daily basis.
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In-custody hearings are being held via video conference with parties appearing remotely.
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Out of custody hearings are now being held via Zoom and live-streamed on YouTube. More information can be found online.
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Renton Municipal Court is serving as a mentor court to other courts that are seeking to establish video hearings.
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Domestic violence no contact order recall hearings are being held via Zoom in a manner that affords the necessary safety protocols for protected parties and streamed on YouTube.
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Jury service is suspended per an emergency order issued by Presiding Judge Terry L. Jurado until city hall is opened to the public and health safety precautions have been implemented to assure the safety of all participants.
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Passport service is suspended until Phase 4 of the governor’s state reopening plan.
Renton Police Department
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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 the report is about an individual or private group, use the police department’s non-emergency number 425-235-2121.
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Department lobby and walk up window at city hall are closed.
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Only use 911 for emergencies; non-emergency reporting: 425-235-2121.
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School zone cameras turned off.
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File a police report online.
Updates from the Chief
- June 26 - "Statewide face covering order is a public health and safety measure, it is not a mandate for law enforcement to detain, cite or arrest violators."
- May 28 - "On the death of George Floyd"
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April 17 - "County's use of the Red Lion Inn"
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March 27 - "Our role is to help educate"
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March 23 - "Stay Home, Stay Healthy"
- March 20 - "The safety of our community is our top priority"
Renton Regional Fire Authority
Renton School District/Education
- April 8 – Governor provides additional guidance on school closures and the impact on available services.
- June 11 - OSPI's Reopening Washington Schools 2020: District Planning Guide
- June 24 - Governor releases plan to restart higher education in the fall
Republic Services
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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.
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Republic Services will waive late fees and penalties and will not activate any service suspensions for a period of 90 days. (March 23)
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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.
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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.
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Any service level change, including COVID-19 holds due to temporary closure of business, will be shown as adjustments on the solid waste bill.
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More solid waste information below
Restaurants - Open for To-Go or Delivery
- May 18 - Ivar’s at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park will reopen on June 1 for delivery and takeout only. Hours of operation will be 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. seven days a week.
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.
- St. Matthews Lutheran Church
1700 Edmonds Ave. NE
Mary’s Place
Call 206-245-1026 for shelter referrals.
Solid Waste
- All collection routes are on normal schedule. Questions? Contact Republic Services at 206-777-6440.
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Bulky item and Clean Sweep collections have resumed (May 26).
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Extra recyclables can be placed in containers next to curbside carts. Do not place recyclables in garbage bags or other plastic bags.
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Extra yard waste can be placed in containers next to curbside carts. Do not place yard waste in garbage bags or other plastic bags.
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Factoria, Auburn, South Seattle and North Seattle Household Hazardous Waste drop-off sites are open for essential visits only. Residents should safely store hazardous waste at home and postpone trips unless necessary. Seattle household hazardous waste collection facilities are open with reduced hours for essential trips only. South Seattle is open Friday and Saturday and North Seattle is open Sunday and Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Transportation
Metro
Metro Matters blog
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June 12 - Metro plans September service change amid budget challenges
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April 17 - Further Metro service reductions begin Saturday, April 18, to support essential travel and transit workforce
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March 30 - Interactive tool for riders whose routes experienced service cuts.
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March 29 - If your Metro route was cut on March 23, are some alternative routes to consider
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March 18 - Metro plans to temporarily reduce service starting Monday, March 23 to support the health of the community.
Sound Transit
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March 21 – Sound Transit service change includes new routes, temporary service reductions.
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March 20 – Sound Transit to suspend fares on all transit modes until further notice.
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March 19 - Sound Transit to temporarily reduce service on Link light rail, Sounder trains, some ST Express routes.
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Sound Transit news
Utilities
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City will waive late fees and penalties and will not shut off water service, in accordance with the Governor’s Proclamation 20-23.4, until the termination of the COVID-19 State of Emergency or after July 28, 2020. (June 17)
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Questions? Utility billing division: 425-430-6852; ub@rentonwa.gov.
- 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
- King County’s Local Food Finder supporting local farms. A convenient way for residents to support local farms hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- June 29 - Small Business Assistance Program for businesses in unincorporated King County
- June 19 - King County approved for Phase 2
- June 18 - King County distributing 25 million face coverings to residents, workers and businesses
- June 18 - King County applies for Phase 2 of Safe Start recovery plan
- June 11 - King County executive submits budget to fund COVID-19 response, including purchasing of 25 million face coverings for residents
- June 5 - King County to allow limited openings of businesses, maintain public health vigilance
- June 3 - King County submits plan to re-open limited business activity in COVID-19 recovery
- May 29 - King County Executive announces plan to re-open limited business activity in COVID-19 recovery
May 28 - Seattle and King County recommends that anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or close contact with someone who has COVID-19 be tested right away. Testing as soon as possible after symptoms appear is important to prevent COVID-19 from spreading to family, friends, and the community.
- May 14 - Elliott Avenue modular pilot project opens to offer shelter beds and services to fight COVID-19
- May 12 - King County Council approves $60M for continued COVID-19 response
- April 23 - County executive announces supplemental budget to continue COVID-19 response, help small businesses, arts and tourism; fund homeless youth programs.
- April 22 - Office of Equity & Justice's COVID-19 Resource Guide
- 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 the COVID-19 crisis.
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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.
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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.
Public Health - Seattle & King County
- WIC - WIC is a supplemental food program for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, infants and children. WIC also provides health screening, nutrition and health education, breastfeeding promotion and support, help to get other services and monthly benefits for nutritious foods.
- May 1 - New analytics show pronounced racial inequities among COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths
- May 12 - COVID-19 testing is increasingly available in King County
- May 29 - Taking care of mental health during COVID-19 (Public Health - Seattle & King County
- May 29 - Public Health - Seattle & King County publishes new COVID-19 indicators dashboard
- June 2 - Public Health - Seattle & King County answers questions about protests and COVID-19
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June 3 - Public Health - Seattle & King County: COVID-19 and unrecognized realities experienced by Black people
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June 4 - Public Health - Seattle & King County: Safe Start for King County - working to gradually reopen the local economy
- June 12 - Racism is a public health crisis: The transformation starts here. It starts with us.
- June 19 - The virus hasn't let up and we can't either (Public Health - Seattle & King County)
- June 25 - Prevention is the key for containing COVID-19 (Public Health - Seattle & King County)
King County Mask Directive starts May 18
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May 11 - Starting on May 18, 2020, King County residents are directed to wear face coverings in most public settings.
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May 12 - What you need to know about King County's health directive on face coverings
State of Washington
conronavirus.wa.gov – one-stop great resource for state efforts
- 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.
- 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.
- May 19 - Dept. of Commerce awards first 500 Working Washington small business relief grants
- June 8 - Beginning June 8, the governor's "Safe Start Washington" plan to reopen the economy requires all employees to wear a cloth facial covering, with the following exceptions
- June 11 - OSPI's Reopening Washington Schools 2020: District Planning Guide
State Department of Health
- Dept. of Public Health - Misinformation about COVID-19 can create fear and make it harder to keep everyone healthy.
- May 27 - You are not alone; dealing with isolation
- June 14 - State department of health reports an increase in the spread of COVID-19
- June 23 - The Science of Masks (Washington State DOH)
Governor's Actions
- July 7 - Governor extends Safe Start proclamation, issues facial coverings guidance
- July 2 - Governor extends face covering requirement for businesses statewide and halts county advancements
- June 24 - Governor releases plan to restart higher education in the fall
- June 23 - Governor announces statewide mask mandate
- June 17 - Governor announces cancellation of some state employee raises and need for furloughs
- June 2 - Governor extends eviction moratorium
- May 13 - Governor issues directive to state agencies to freeze hiring and contracts
- May 12 - Governor announces contact tracing initiative
- May 8 - Governor releases additional Safe Start Phase 1 guidance
- May 5 - Governor announces three Safe Start advisory groups
- May 4 - Governor signs new COVID-19 order for phased re-opening of Washington’s economy
- May 1 - Governor announces extension of "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" and a four-phase plan to gradually reopen the state's economy
- April 29 - Governor rolls out COVID-19 risk assessment dashboard with data
- April 29 - Governor issues guidance to clarify limits on elective surgeries
- April 27 - Governor announces Colorado & Nevada will join Washington, Oregon & California in Western States Pact
- April 24 - Governor announces plan to allow construction projects previously underway to be completed
- April 23 - Governor extends 20 proclamations relating to COVID-19
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April 21 - Governor announces Washington’s COVID-19 recovery plan
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April 21 - Governor sends letter to vice president calling for strong national testing system
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April 21 - Governor extends proclamations for utility ratepayers and truck driver hours
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April 13 – Governor issues protection for high-risk workers.
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April 13 - Washington, Oregon and California announce Western States Pact.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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March 31 – Governor and Washington State Department of Financial Institutions announce assistance for homeowners unable to make mortgage payments.
- 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]
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March 19 – Governor orders halt to elective surgeries and dental services to reserve critical equipment for COVID-19 health care workers.
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March 18 – Governor waives one-week wait for unemployment benefits.
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March 17 - Governor signs bill package to support state effort combating the COVID-19 outbreak.
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March 16 - Governor issues statewide shutdown of restaurants, bars and limits on the size of gatherings expanded.
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March 13 - Governor expands school closure/gathering ban statewide.
Safe Start Plan
- July 7 - Governor extends Safe Start proclamation, issues facial coverings guidance
- June 22 - What's open in each phase
- May 29 - Governor issues Safe Start-Washington's Phased Reopening plan
(May 6, 2020) Through the Washington “Safe Start” plan, more businesses and activities would re-open in phases with adequate social distancing measures and health standards in place. Each phase will be at least three weeks — data and metrics will determine when the state can move from one phase to another.
Phase 1
Timing
Washington state is currently in Phase 1, with construction and other essential activities underway. The additions such as outdoor activities and additional sales and retail activities begin Tuesday, May 5. When the state moves to Phase 2, all components of Phase 1 will continue.
Includes
Phase 1 builds upon recent decisions made around re-opening some activities, including construction activity (allowed as of April 29) and outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, playing golf and some park access, which Inslee announced last week.
Also adds (as of May 5):
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Drive-in spiritual services with one household per vehicle
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Auto/RV/Boat/ORV sales
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Retail open for curb-side pick-up orders only
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Car washes
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Landscaping
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Some pet services (not including grooming)
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Essential travel and limited non-essential travel to engage in Phase 1 activities is permitted.
Phase 2
When COVID-19 disease burden is low and decreasing and the four capabilities (health care system readiness; testing capacity and availability; case and contact investigations; and ability to protect high-risk populations) are met, the governor will issue an order for the state to move into Phase 2.
As noted above, each phase will be at least three weeks, data and metrics will determine when the state can move from one phase to another.
Includes
All components of Phase 1 will carry into the start of Phase 2, which will include outdoor activities in small groups with people from outside one’s household, as well as limited non-essential travel within proximity of one’s home.
Additional modifications to restrictions in Phase 2 affecting business will include:
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Remaining manufacturing and construction phases
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Restaurants/taverns less than 50% capacity/table size no larger than 5 people and no bar area seating
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Hair and nail salons
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Retail (in-store purchases allowed with restrictions)
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Real estate
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Professional services/office-based businesses (telework remains strongly encouraged)
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In-home/domestic services (i.e., nannies, housecleaning)
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Pet grooming
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Essential travel and limited non-essential travel to engage in Phase 1 and Phase 2 activities is permitted.
Phase 3
If COVID-19 disease burden stays low and the four capabilities (health care system readiness; testing capacity and availability; case; and contact investigations and ability to protect high-risk populations) are met, the governor will issue an order for the state to move into Phase 3.
Includes
All components of phases 1 and 2 will carry into the start of Phase 3, which will include resuming non-essential travel and allowing gatherings of no more than 50 people.
Phase 3 also includes resuming some public activity, such as:
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Outdoor group recreational sports activities (50 or fewer people)
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Recreational facilities at less than 50% capacity (gyms, public pools, etc.)
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Professional sports (horse racing, baseball, etc.) without audience participation
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Restaurants and taverns at less than 75% capacity with table size no larger than 10
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Bar areas in restaurants and taverns at less than 25% capacity
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Indoor gyms at less than 50% capacity; theaters at less than 50% capacity
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Customer facing government services (telework remains strongly encouraged where possible)
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Libraries
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Museums
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All other business activities not yet listed except for nightclubs and events with no more than 50 people.
Phase 4
If COVID-19 disease burden stays low and the four capabilities (healthcare system readiness; testing capacity and availability; case and contact investigations; and ability to protect high-risk populations) are met, the governor will issue an order for the state to move into Phase 4.
Includes
All components of phases 1, 2 and 3 will carry into the start of Phase 4 which would be a full return to public interactions (with appropriate physical distancing).
Phase 4 also includes resuming some public activity, such as:
Risk assessment dashboard
This dashboard provides a high-level overview of the main data points discussed among state leaders and the level of risk experts perceive around the current numbers. It is not intended to represent the totality of all COVID-19 related data. The state is currently developing several new systems for collecting, compiling and reporting much of the data outlined below and this dashboard will link to those new systems as they are completed. In the meantime, where possible, we’ve linked to the data that is currently available or created a snapshot that summarizes the most recent information available. The dashboard is updated on Wednesdays.
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
Information for Businesses and Employees
For Businesses
For Employees
Financial Resources
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