City of Santa Ana officials are aware that many members of the public have questions about street sweeping tickets, utility bills, library fines and other issues that are being affected by new public health policies during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

Tonight, March 17, the Santa Ana City Council will meet at 5:45 p.m. to consider adopting a resolution proclaiming a local emergency to address COVID-19.

The resolution would grant City Manager Kristine Ridge the executive authority to make decisions over the extension of agreements and contracts set to expire during the 60-day emergency; closing City Hall or other public buildings; collecting and waiving late charges and fees for City services; the shut-off and extension of City-provided utilities; and the issuance or enforcement of parking violations and possible waivers.

The resolution also would set price controls on food and other consumer items and would allow the creation of eviction relief for residential tenants if not implemented by the state.

If the Council approves the resolution, City Manager Ridge will announce as soon as possible any additional measures being implemented as allowed under the resolution.

The City is strongly encouraging the public to watch the meeting on television or online instead of attending in person due to the health concerns. The meetings are broadcast live on Spectrum TV Channel 3 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 and livestreamed at www.santa-ana.org/cc/city-meetings. The agenda also is available there. Members of the public who wish to comment on matters before the council, instead of doing so in person, may submit comments by emailing ecomment@santa-ana.org. The comments will be provided to the City Council as part of the meeting record and will be uploaded to the City’s website.

For the latest information about Santa Ana closures, cancelations and service impacts and other COVID-19 resources, please visit www.santa-ana.org/coronavirus.