Fountain Valley joins other local cities in closing City Hall and other facilities to the public

Fountain Valley has joined other local cities in shutting down City Hall to public visits.

The city announced Wednesday that it had closed all of its facilities to the public, with a tentative reopening date of April 1.

Some staff members will be available by phone and email to provide limited services.

The action is part of the widespread social distancing in effect in response to the coronavirus that causes the respiratory illness COVID-19.

Fountain Valley already had closed its senior center as a protective measure for people 65 and older or with preexisting health conditions, who are considered more susceptible to serious effects of the illness.

However, the city will continue to provide scheduled rides and meal delivery and pickup for senior citizens.

The City Council on Tuesday night declared a local emergency in order to be eligible for federal and state relief funds.

Many other cities, including Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Laguna Beach, also have closed their city halls to the public and declared local emergencies.

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