Category: COVID-19 NEWS, Big Sur

COVID-19 Community Response Meeting Notes

COVID-19 Community Response Group Meeting Notes
June 10, 2020

Attendees (via Zoom):

20th Congressional District, State Senate District 17, 30th Assembly District, Cal State Parks, US Forest Service, 5th District Supervisor, Parks Management Company, Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Big Sur Health Center, Esalen Institute, Big Sur Fire, Big Sur CERT, and the Community Association of Big Sur

Big Sur Health Center:
Executive Director Sharen Carey reports the Big Sur Health Center:
• There are still no known cases of COVID-19 in the Big Sur planning area.
• Is making testing available to all MEMBERS of THE BIG SUR COMMUNITY emphasizing employees of Big Sur businesses.
• Has budgeted funding to provide health care services for those most financially hard hit by the pandemic. No one will be turned away for inability to pay for services.
• Bottom line defense against contracting the virus: Assume it is in Big Sur and take all precautions recommended : wearing facemasks in public, social distancing, frequent handwashing.

Big Sur Fire, Chief Matt Harris:
Chief Matt Harris reports Big Sur Fire:
• Emergency Services are operating at status quo.
• Participated in an interagency response to the 25 acre Plaskett Ridge Fire.
• Reiterated the need for Forest Service enforcement of the ban on open fires.
• Has responded to a recent spate of vehicle fatalities. BSF has benefited from and is appreciative of First Responder emotional counseling provided by Monterey County.
• Has a small wildfire Academy training session under-way.
• Expects that by August 1st there will be 30 Operational members with 10 members in training.

Fifth District Supervisor. Yuri Anderson for Supervisor Mary Adams reports.
• That BSMAAC meeting will be held as a Zoom call on Friday, June 19th from 10am to noon.
• Participated in general discussion centered on re-opening of Big Sur businesses.

Big Sur Chamber of Commerce reports:
• Kirk Gafill reports that Ca. will further open on Friday June 12th giving leisure travel the green light, allowing Campgrounds and overnight lodging to join other businesses that are open with protocols to limit the spread of COVID-19.
• The hospitality industry is coping with reduced occupancy which is as much a product of social distancing as it is reduced demand.
• MCCVB is messaging “responsible travel” to Monterey County.
• BSIM full and half marathons have been canceled due to COVID-19. This will likely have a negative impact on grant funding from BSIM to local non-profits
• Big Sur River Run organizers to decide on whether or not to hold the event this year in the next few weeks.
Community Emergency Response Team, Martha Karstens:.
• Final hands on testing for new group on 6/20/20. (one day shy of the 12th anniversary of the Basin Complex Fire).

USFS, LPNF Monterey District Ranger. Tim Short:
• Monterey District is attempting to coordinate timing of reopening of developed campgrounds with State Parks and Parks Management Company.
• The current Forest Order expires on Sunday June 14th.
• Plaskett Fire was successfully suppressed last week. Burn area still being monitored for hot spots.
• The fire gave personnel their first live incident response under COVID-19 conditions.
• Butch Kronlund asked rhetorically, what Tim thought the cost to suppress the Plaskett Fire was? With no ready answer, Butch speculated that the cost to mobilize men, equipment and Air Assets would certainly exceed $500k and more than likely the taxpayers spent more than $1M to fight a fire that did not have to happen. Butch stated that it is baffling that we have money to suppress fire but not prevent it. Butch went on to posit that the cost to maintain a Forest Service Law Enforcement Officer, dedicated to patrolling the Monterey District could not possibly exceed $200k per year. He went on to encourage Katie Moon and Phil Deppert to communicate the idea of reallocating the Forest Service’s financial resources in a way that better serves our management needs on the Monterey District of the Los Padres National Forest.
• Tim acknowledged that fire suppression costs are high, that we do need more enforcement and that he hears the community on this issue and will continue to engage toward a solution.

Ca. State Parks, Monterey District, Big Sur Sector Superintendent Marcos Ortega:
• Parks is opening PBSSP Day Use areas on Friday June 12th. Lodge Store will open as well.
• MAF visitors lobby to open Friday or Saturday.
• A target date of June 29th to open PBSSP campground.
• JP Burns Trails are open for day use hiking. Parking lot remains closed but bathrooms are open.
• Tan Bark, Partington Cove, Buzzards Roost and Pfeiffer Park trails open on Friday.

Parks Management Company, Brian Cushman, CEO:
• Prepared to open the developed campgrounds once State Parks and Forest Service give the go signal.
• Initiated a productive conversation around Unemployment Insurance and the Federal financial supplement’s role in recalling workers laid off or furloughed due to C-19.

Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Mike Splain, ED:
• 6 Volunteer Wilderness Rangers & Trail Crew Leaders contributed 156 hours on 3 outings designed to remove trail closure signage, greet visitors, impart fire safety & LNT information, & clean up trails & camps. Volunteers made 23 visitor contacts, 2 of which were backpackers in a closed area (Terrace Creek Camp).
• The pilot self-registration Wilderness permit system is moving forward- A final draft of the permit form is under USFS review. Infrared trail counters have been ordered. With input from the USFS, LPFA, & State Parks, new informational/interpretive/regulatory signage is now in the design phase.
Esalen Institute. Lacy Shannon:
• Esalen is targeting July 5th opening.
• Does not yet have a timeline for allowing local bathing.

17th State Senate District, Colleen Courtney for Senator Bill Monning:
• Acknowledges the challenges associated with extended EDD benefits on the business community, as well as the other issues discussed at these meetings and is relaying those to Senator Monning.

20th Congressional District, Katie Moon and Phil Deppert on behalf of Congressman Jimmy Panetta.
• Katie expressed gratitude for the good response to the Plaskett Fire by the Agencies and Big Sur Fire.
• Congressman Panetta co-sponsored the Justice and Policing Act which has passed the House.
• Reported that the PPP flexibility Act passed, extending the period to utilize PPP ot to as much as 24 weeks from receiving funds.
• Phil expressed appreciation for being able to participate in these calls and will be taking his notes back to the Congressman for comment and a response back to the group.

30th Assembly District, Dominic Dursa for Assembly Member Robert Rivas:
• Also expressed his gratitude for the response to the Plaskett Fire.
• Heard loud and clear about the need for more funding for enforcement.
• Assembly Member Rivas is in continuing negotiations leading to a vote on the Ca. State budget next week.
• Dominic reported that the full scope of budget concerns will become more apparent in July, causing further adjustments to State finances.

Monterey County Sheriff Department, Deputy Villasenor via text:
• County Sheriff’s are observing C-19 precautions (masks) with Dispatchers asking screening questions prior to contact with an incident.
• Illegal roadside camping continues to be a major issue. Jesse is citing these offenders and suggesting that they share their experience on Social Media.

Community Association of Big Sur, Butch Kronlund. ED:
• CABS is considering the timing to distribute a third tranche of financial aid to help support those unable to access State unemployment insurance or Federal assistance. To date, 109 Big Sur families in this category have received $135k in direct financial aid.
• A local 501c3 “This Club Saves Lives” is addressing food insecurity in Big Sur. The organization distributes food staples to 117 Big Sur families on a weekly basis.

https://thisclubsaveslives.org/

https://m.facebook.com/thisclubsaveslives/

• CABS is keenly anticipating the release of the draft DSP (Destination Stewardship Plan) for Big Sur. The plan could potentially lead to a source of revenue to support implementing solutions that address impacts from visitation.

Forest Closure Order

GOLETA, Calif. – Los Padres National Forest officials today announced that campgrounds managed by concessionaire will remain closed through June 14 in an effort to remain consistent with state and local health guidelines that promote safe social distancing and discourage large gatherings.

LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST MONTEREY RANGER DISTRICT Forest Order No. 05-07-51-20-12 Developed Campground and Road Closure
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a) and (b), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. This Order is effective from June 2, 2020, through June 14, 2020.

  1. Entering or using a Developed Recreation Site (campground) managed by Parks Management Company listed below and shown on the attached map.
    a. Plaskett Creek
    b. Kirk Creek
    c. Bottchers Gap
    d. Ponderosa
    e. Nacimiento
    f. Arroyo Seco
    g. Memorial Park
    h. Escondido
    i. White Oaks
    j. China Camp
    36 CFR 261.58(b).
  2. Being on the National Forest System roads listed below and shown on the attached map.
    a. Forest Road No. 22S05 (South Coast Ridge Road)
    b. Forest Road No. 23S01 (Los Burros (Willow Creek) Road)
    c. Forest Road No. 23S02 (Plaskett Ridge Road)
    36 CFR 261.54(e).
    Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:
  3. Any Federal, State or local officer, public utilities employee, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
  4. Owners or lessees of private land are exempt from the prohibitions listed above to the extent necessary to gain access to their land.
  5. Residents are exempt from the prohibitions listed above to the extent necessary to gain access to their residences.
  6. Persons with a Forest Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order, Form FS-7700-48, specifically exempting them from this Order.
    These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions in 36 CFR Part 261, Subpart A.
    A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
    16 USC 551 and 18 USC 3559, 3571, and 3581. Executed in Goleta, California, this 1st day of June, 2020.
    Kevin B. Elliott
    Forest Supervisor
    Los Padres National Forest

COVID-19 Community Meeting

COVID-19 Community Response Group Meeting Notes

May 27th, 2020

Attendees (via Zoom):

20th Congressional District, State Senate District 17, Cal State Parks, US Forest Service, 5th District Supervisor, Parks Management Company, Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Big Sur Health Center, Esalen Institute, Big Sur Fire, Big Sur CERT, and the Community Association of Big Sur 


Big Sur Health Center:

Executive Director Sharen Carey reports:

  • There are still no known cases of COVID-19 in the Big Sur planning area.
  • The BSHC will begin offering COVID-19 testing to EMPLOYEES of BIG SUR BUSINESSES. The health Center will provide this service at no cost.  There is also no laboratory charge. Insurance or CA State will pick up the cost of the lab test. Testing will be by APPOINTMENT ONLY, beginning on June 2nd . Results are available in 48 hours on average. Testing will be conducted Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons and all day Thursdays and Fridays.

The Health Center expects to initially be able to test 25 people per day.

  • The health center plans to open the testing to families and others in Big Sur at a later date. 
  • Testing is also available at 3 other locations in Monterey County. EMPLOYEES RESIDING ON THE PENINSULA ARE ENCOURAGED TO USE MPC OR OTHER TESTING SITES to minimize impact on the health center. 
  • Bottom line defense against contracting the virus: Assume it is in Big Sur and take all precautions recommended : wearing facemasks in public, social distancing, frequent handwashing.

Big Sur Fire, Chief Matt Harris:

Chief Matt Harris reports:

  • Big Sur Fire experienced heavy increase in visitation over Memorial weekend, including a carry out of an injured hiker on the closed Salmon Creek trail.
  • BSF is utilizing their cache of PPE on each call out.  Supply is currently adequate.
  • Annual Muster is postponed indefinitely.
  • Expressed support for increased control of dispersed camping areas through utilization of locked gates on access roads (PLaskett Ridge, Los Burros etc.).
  • Butch and Tim cited a Visitor Use Management process that could lead to that outcome.

Fifth District Supervisor. Yuri Anderson for Supervisor Mary Adams.

  • The BOS submitted a letter to the State of Ca. supporting the Monterey County Health Departments attestation stating the county has met the metrics necessary to transition to late stage level 2 of the state SIP order. This means an easing of the state restrictions on some business activities.
  • The county attestation indicates that local businesses will follow guidelines and protocols created by the state.   

Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Rick Aldinger Diana Ballantyne, and Mike Higgins report:

  • Despite state SIP orders, visitors arrived over the Memorial weekend.  
  • Top priority is to keep staff and community safe while being partially open.
  • Paradoxically, by having more options for visiting public, community and staff can maintain proper social distancing.  
  • A key to being able to conduct business safely is messaging to visitors on what they can expect when they come to Big Sur.  As an example, Post Ranch Inn (projected to open on July 5th) is providing potential guests with a pre-registration list of policies and expected behaviors, transparency on their state of the art cleaning procedures and reduction of numbers of in restaurant diners.

Community Emergency Response Team, Martha Karstens:

  • Zoom trainings continue.
  • Hands on training scheduled for the end of June.

USFS, LPNF Monterey District Ranger Tim Short:

  • A new Forest Order is slated to take effect on June 1st.  This new order will likely open the coastside trails but continue to keep closed the developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas on the south coast of Big Sur.
  • USFS continues to monitor State and County C-19 guidelines and strives to coordinate accessibility by the public with what State Parks and County Parks is allowing.
  • Butch expressed gratitude for the Forest’s effort to coordinate with State and County Parks to sync up each jurisdiction’s status.

Ca. State Parks, Superintendent Brent Marshall:

  • Introduced Sector Superintendent Marcos Ortega.  Marcos grew up in Big Sur and is filling a vacant high level management position devoted to Big Sur State Park properties.
  • Parks continues to open select day use areas that it deems possible to maintain safe social distancing. The public and the Big Sur community can expect that a few select day use areas will continue to be available for outdoor recreation this upcoming weekend.
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park as well as Point Lobos will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
  • 25 citations for violation of the park closures were written with 250 verbal warnings given as well.
  • Kirk thanked Brent for continuing to work toward further opening of the Parks properties.

Parks Management Company, Brian Cushman, CEO:

  • Day Use Areas (Pfeiffer Beach, Willow Creek, Sand Dollar and Mill Creek) were open over the weekend. Attendance was heavy on the south coast and at capacity at Pfeiffer Beach, but below typical highs for the period.
  • Lime Kiln Beach was opened, adding to the inventory of day use areas open to the public.
  • Poised to opening developed campgrounds once the County, State and USFS SIP guidelines allow.

Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Mike Splain, ED:

  • VWA had 9 Rangers conduct 7 patrols (92 volunteer hours). 4 of those patrols were on closed coastside trails.
  • 161 visitor interactions.  
  • Encountered 28 people on the closed Salmon Creek trail.
  • Hauled out 8lbs of trash and removed 4 fire rings.
  • Had an encounter with an illegal mountain biker on the Kirk Creek trail.
  • South coast trail head signs and cones vandalized. (Sigh).

Esalen Institute. Lacy Shannon:

  • Targeting reopening of the campus on July 5th, subject to local and state SIP guidelines, at reduced occupancy.
  • Shared accommodations (Bunk beds and sleeping bags in communal rooms) will no longer be offered.
  • Although there is no timeline, local bathing opportunities are on the radar and hope to make that available soon.

17th State Senate District, Colleen Courtney for Senator Bill Monning:

  • Senator Monning is currently working on legislation that enhances accessibility and affordability of health care (SB977) as well as creating a strong environmental mitigation plan for an endangered toad that could facilitate widening Highway 156 between Prunedale and Castroville.
  • The Senator is also working with his peers to create a state budget that takes COVID-19 in account.  Important to his rural constituents and a major focus of the budget conversation is wild fire preparedness. More details on the state budget process during COVID-19 can be found here: 
    https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/05/14/governor-newsom-submits-may-revision-budget-proposal-to-legislature-5-14-20/               http://www.ebudget.ca.gov

20th Congressional District, Katie Moon on behalf of Congressman Jimmy Panetta. 

  • Congressman Panetta is back in D.C. voting on new legislation. 
  • One piece is the bi-partisan PPP flexibility Act. It will ensure that businessowners have more time to use their PPP loan funds, as well as allow more of the loan be forgiven. It will extend the program to 12/31/20 and forgiveness period of the PPP beyond the initial 8 week period to 24 weeks.
  • Participated in a Ways and Means Committee hearing on the disproportionate impact of C-19 on communities of color. Rep Panetta focused on the need for expanded food assistance programs and protections for farm workers
  • The congressman, along with Senator Monning, Supervisor Adams and Assemblyman Rivas are concerned about a lack of outreach to all concerned parties regarding the proposed south coast surveillance tower.  They have met and communicated with Ca. Coastal Commission staff.  As a result, the deadline for public comment has been extended beyond June 15th.  To make

comments regarding the CBP surveillance tower contact: Larry Simon, Ca. Coastal Commission Manager, Federal Consistency Unit larry.simon@coastal.ca.gov

  • Katie reports that the proposed tower would be installed temporarily (1year pilot project). That the height of the tower may be reduced in height from 80’ to 30’ tall and that the surveillance would only be capable of looking out to sea.
  • The congressman is working to support USFS and ensure that FS personnel have the tools and resources needed to safely mitigate and fight wildland fires during the pandemic.

Community Association of Big Sur, Butch Kronlund. ED:

  • Butch reported that our Executive Board has been working hard with the Big Sur business community to identify those community members most financially vulnerable.  Due to the generosity of the Community Foundation for Monterey County and Twitter Founder Jack Dorsey, among others in the Big Sur community, CABS has distributed over $135k to 109 Big Sur families.
  • CABS continuing to make incremental progress in bringing land based Broad Band internet into Big Sur. (Not 5G!!!).

Memorial Day, 2020

Last year, Bixby Bridge was backed up going south, all the way back to Palo Colorado. This year, much of Big Sur is still closed, but some people are violating the SIP orders anyway.

Just a reminder: People often confuse Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. On Memorial Day we honor those who gave their lives in the fight for our country. We honor our dead. Veteran’s Day, we honor the living.

This post is dedicated to all of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and for us…In memory of all of them, regardless of who they were.

COVID-19 Community Response Report, May 18

COVID-19 Community Response Group Meeting Notes May 18, 2020
Attendees (via Zoom):20thCongressional District, State Senate District 17, Cal State Parks, US Forest Service, 5thDistrict Supervisor, Parks Management Company, Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Big Sur Health Center, Esalen Institute, Big Sur Fire, Big Sur CERT, and the Community Association of Big Sur 


Big Sur Health Center:Executive Director Sharen Carey reports:·     There are still no known cases of COVID-19 in the Big Sur planning area.·     Urges that Big Sur residents be wary of fraudulent telephone and internet activity. Fraudsters posing as representatives of insurance companies, especially Medicare and MediCal, are posing as representatives offering free masks, treatments and COVID testing in exchange for some personal information.·     The Health Center is exploring options for providing testing of individuals who are asymptomatic for COVID-19. Has requested that business owners provide her with a rough count of number of employees that may participate in a future testing program.·      Bottom line defense against contracting the virus: Assume it is in Big Sur and take all precautions recommended : wearing facemasks in public, social distancing, frequent handwashing.


Big Sur Fire, Chief Matt Harris:Chief Matt Harris reports:·       California state fire season officially opens today.·       Big Sur Fire is poised to respond to an active fire season.·       CAPS meeting for Spring 2020 is canceled.


Fifth District Supervisor. Yuri Anderson for Supervisor Mary Adams.·       Led general discussion around the evolving metrics for moving from Stage 1 to Stage 2 of the Monterey County SIP Order. ·       Expressed appreciation for CABS and Chamber amplifying Supervisor Adams notifications.·       Based on last Friday’s turn out, the need to continue the Food Distribution at MPC is clear. This Friday, there will be another distribution with enough boxes to serve 500 families. ·       COVID-19 drive thru testing for asymptomatic residents of Monterey County is now available at MPC. No cost. No appointment necessary. ·      Supervisor Adams is currently on 2 ad hoc committees working on guidelines necessary to transition from stage 1 to stage 2 and 3 of Monterey County’s SIP order. In her portfolio are businesses centric to Hospitality and Personal Services. ·      With Memorial weekend approaching, Mary is focusing on additional resources to crack down on illegal roadside camping and providing law enforcement with stronger language and stiffer fines for those breaking the law.


Big Sur Chamber of Commerce,Kirk Gafill reports:·       The Big Sur Business community continues to try to understand what the necessary metrics are for moving from one stage to another in the Local and State SIP Orders.·       Testing is now available for those not exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 at 3 locations in Monterey County. Most convenient location is at MPC. No cost, no appointment necessary.·       Encouraging the Big Sur Health Center to explore providing testing. (See Sharen’s comments above)·       Both locally and statewide, there is growing momentum to ease restrictions. There are complex and competing local and regional policies creating uncertainty on all levels.·       Local, State and Federal agencies need to anticipate increases in visitation beginning this weekend, ramping up further over Memorial Weekend.·       This increase in visitation necessitates more management by government agencies and further easing of restrictions on Day Use Areas and restroom facilities.·       It seems clear that regardless of the SIP Order or what stage Monterey County is in, visitors are coming and we need to be ready.·       Diana Ballantyne expressed concern regarding the status of opening guidance for campgrounds. Yuri Anderson on behalf of Supervisor Adams offered that the priority focus has been establishing guidelines for opening businesses in the stage 2 category. Campgrounds, along with motels and hotels are envisioned to open in stage 3 of the SIP order.


Community Emergency Response Team, Martha Karstens:·       That the residents SIP survey is ongoing.·       18 CERT members continue training via Zoom video conferencing platform.
USFS, LPNF Monterey District Ranger Tim Short:·      The Forest Order essentially closing the Monterey District of the LPNF expired last Friday and a new Order was issued in its place. The new revised Forest Order opens Eastside hiking and Day Use Areas. Additionally, Coastside Day Use Areas, Pfeiffer Beach, Sand Dollar, Mill Creek and Willow Creek were opened without widespread messaging. ·      These open areas are meant to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for Monterey County residents.·      All developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas remain closed.·      Forest wide fire restrictions went into effect last week.


Ca. State Parks, Superintendent Brent Marshall:·      The hard closure of campgrounds and Day Use Areas is still in effect.·      Despite the rainy weather, Parks personnel issued over a dozen citations for violation of the SIP order by members of the public trying to access clearly marked closed areas.·      Parks is in the process of evaluating the timing of and exact locations of areas that will open first once a decision to ease restrictions is made.


Parks Management Company,Brian Cushman, CEO:·       Day Use Areas (Pfeiffer Beach, Willow Creek, Sand Dollar and Mill Creek) opened over the weekend. Attendance was approximately half normal capacity.·       Day Use Areas have ample signage outlining proper behavior of visitors.·       Expecting an increase in visitation in the weeks ahead.


Ventana Wilderness Alliance, Mike Splain, ED:·     12 uniformed Volunteer Wilderness Rangers contributed 117 hours on 5 patrols.·     Rangers posted closure & fire restriction signage at 17 trailheads, including Boronda, Kirk Creek, Mill Creek, & both ends of the Prewitt Loop.·     Rangers also posted Do Your Part signage at the Carmel River, (eastern) Pine Ridge, Horse Pasture, Church Creek, & Santa Lucia trailheads, conducted fire ring maintenance & hazard reduction at 5 campsites, & made 19 visitor contacts.·     Among the violations reported were 2 cars at Mill Creek TH, 7 cars at Boronda TH, 27 cars at Salmon Creek TH, 5 cars at Baldwin Ranch Rd·     In several locations closure tape & signage had been removed or vandalized.·     On the eastern side of the District, cabin-owners at the Santa Lucia Summer Home Tract reported a wave of lawless behavior- breaking & entering at the old ranger station & 4 cabins, as well as overflowing trash cans, vandalized gates & bonfires at Santa Lucia Memorial Park campground. 

Esalen Institue. Lacy Shannon:·     Targeting reopening of the campus in mid-June, subject to local and state SIP guidelines.·     Esalen has some procedures to address, modify and refine in terms of dining and lodging prior to opening.


17thState Senate District, Colleen Courtney for Senator Bill Monning:·       Reported that a number of Big Sur constituents are working with Senator Monning’s team to solve issues around applying for and receiving unemployment insurance benefits.
20thCongressional District, Katie Moon on behalf of Congressman Jimmy Panetta. ·       Introduced Jimmy Panetta’s new District Manager Phil Deppert, taking over for Kathleen Lee.·       District team continues to provide assistance where needed focusing on SBA programs, Federal stimulus programs and constituents stuck abroad by C-19.·       Jimmy working on legislation (SOS 2020) which will fund states creating strike teams to address C-19 threats to nursing homes and assisted living spaces.·       Traveled to D.C. to vote in favor of the House Heroes Act.·       An important provision of the Act is early voting and vote by mail, funding for Counties to fight C-19 as well as revisions to the CARES Act PPP rules and guidelines for repayment.


Community Association of Big Sur, Butch Kronlund. ED:·       CABS, working with the Big Sur business HR departments, will be making a second distribution of financial assistance to those most financially vulnerable due to employment disruptions brought on by COVID-19.·       CABS has also identified another area of financial need in the Big Sur community and has opened an application process for those independent contractors who have been unable to secure either PPP or SBA funding. ·       With remote learning the new reality for all school age children, Big Sur children continue to be at a disadvantage at home, trying to keep up with their peers due to a lack of Broad Band internet capacity in Big Sur. Katie and Butch to connect this week to continue working toward a solution.

Misc. aid for Big Sur due to COVID-19

The Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County is accepting applications for a one-time direct financial assistance up to $1,000 per household for undocumented immigrants impacted by COVID-19.  This assistance is available for Monterey County residents and is separate from the assistance offered by the Community Association of Big Sur (CABS). For more information, frequently asked questions and to apply for assistance, click the links below:

California Department of Social Services

Community Action Board of Santa Cruz

Or call 1-800-228-6820 for more information or to complete an application.

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Financial Assistance from CABS for Independent Contractors
(Gig Economy Workers)
Due to the generosity of the Community Foundation for Monterey County, Jack Dorsey, and a number of anonymous Big Sur resident donors, CABS has established a modest COVID Relief Fund. If you live and work in Big Sur, and you are an independent contractor and have applied for PPP, EIDL and/or unemployment benefits and have been declined, or were unable to apply for these benefits, please contact us for an application for financial assistance.

We will require the following with your application:
a.     Proof of rejection from SBA (PPP and EIDL) and EDD; or
b.     An explanation for why you were not able to apply for PPP, EIDL and/or EDD.

If you have had difficulty making an application for EDD Unemployment benefits, please contact Senator Monning’s office at 831-425-0401. They are providing assistance and can help you complete your application.

For a nice concise guide to the CARES Act Relief, please visit this site: https://www.uschamber.com/report/independent-contractors-guide-cares-act-relief

If you believe you qualify for financial assistance based on the above, please send a request for the application form to info@CABigsur.org
PLEASE RESPOND BY MAY 22, 2020

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LPNF Closure Order

Los Padres extends recreation site closure until June 1                                                                                                                                                                                GOLETA, Calif. – Los Padres National Forest officials today announced that campgrounds managed by concessionaire will remain closed through June 1 in an effort to remain consistent with state and local health guidelines that promote safe social distancing and discourage large gatherings.
Information on individual recreation sites is available on Los Padres National Forest website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf.
Outdoor recreation is beneficial to mental and physical health but must be practiced safely. The Forest Service is focused on ensuring the health and safety of our employees, our concessionaires and the public while maintaining our ability to provide mission critical services including emergency fire response, law enforcement, and support for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. If you do plan on visiting the National Forest please be aware that:
No trash removal is currently offered – please pack out all trash and wasteAll toilet facilities are currently closed – please plan accordinglyAvoid high-risk activities – law enforcement and search and rescue operations may be limitedIf an area is crowded, please search for a less occupied location
We are working with our state and local partners to determine the best path forward to safely reopen these closed sites. Please keep health, safety and the environment in mind when visiting National Forests. Your personal responsibility is critical to ensuring public safety and preventing further restrictions. Visitors are encouraged to recreate in areas close to home and avoid traveling long distances. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our national forests safe and healthy for everyone’s use.
FOREST ORDER NO. 05-07-00-20-07 Forest Developed Recreation Site Closure LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST
Pursuant to 16 USC § 551 and 36 CFR § 261.50(a), and to provide for public and employee health and safety, the following act is prohibited in the Los Padres National Forest. This Order is effective from May 16, 2020, through June 1, 2020.

Entering or using a Developed Recreation Site (campground) managed by Parks Management Company, or a portion thereof, as listed in Exhibit A.36 CFR 261.58(b).

Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
This prohibition is in addition to the general prohibitions contained in 36 CFR Part 261, Subpart A.

A violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both. 16 USC § 551 and 18 USC §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.

Done at Goleta, California this 15th day of May, 2020.Kevin B. ElliottForest SupervisorLos Padres National Forest

LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST MONTEREY RANGER DISTRICT Forest Order No. 05-07-51-20-08COVID19 Emergency Closure
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a) and (b), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. This Order is effective from May16, 2020, through May 31, 2020.

1. Entering or using the trailheads listed below and shown on the attached map.San Carpoforo TrailheadSalmon Creek TrailheadBuckeye TrailheadSoda Springs TrailheadCruickshank TrailheadPrewitt South TrailheadPrewitt North TrailheadMill Creek TrailheadKirk Creek TrailheadDe Angulo TrailheadBoronda Trailhead
36 CFR 261.58(b).

2. Being on the National Forest System roads listed below and shown on the attached map.Forest Road No. 22S05 (South Coast Ridge Road)Forest Road No. 23S01 (Los Burros (Willow Creek) Road)Forest Road No. 23S02 (Plaskett Ridge Road)Forest Road No. 20S05 (North Coast Ridge Road)
36 CFR 261.54(e).

3. Being on the National Forest System trails listed below and shown on the attached map.Forest Road No. 20S03 (Boronda Trail)Forest Trail No. 2E07 (De Angulo Trail)Forest Trail No. 4E17 (Kirk Creek Trail)Forest Trail No. 5E06 (Prewitt Loop Trail)Forest Trail No. 5E10 (Cruickshank Trail)Forest Trail No. 5E17 (Soda Springs Trail)Forest Trail No. 5E09 (Buckeye Trail)Forest Trail No. 6E11 (Salmon Creek Trail)
36 CFR 261.55(a).

Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:Any Federal, State or local officer, public utilities employee, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.

Owners or lessees of private land are exempt from the prohibitions listed above to the extent necessary to gain access to their land.
Residents are exempt from the prohibitions listed above to the extent necessary to gain access to their residences.
Current recreational cabin permittees are exempt from the prohibitions listed above to the extent necessary to access their cabins.
Persons with a Forest Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order, Form FS-7700-48, specifically exempting them from this Order.
These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions in 36 CFR Part 261, Subpart A.
A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
16 USC 551 and 18 USC 3559, 3571, and 3581.
Executed in Goleta, California, this 15th day of May, 2020.Kevin B. ElliottForest SupervisorLos Padres National Forest
FOREST ORDER PDF’SCOVID-19 Emergency Closure extension to May 31Forest Developed Recreation Site Closure Exhibit AForest Developed Recreation Site Closure Order
LPNF CLOSURE MAP

Los Padres National Forest-Monterey District Closure update

UPDATE: IN TODAY’S PINECONE POLICE LOG IN THE REAL ESTATE SECTION:

From the USFS, LPNF PIO: The new closure order will be posted on our public web site….It will take effect Saturday, May 16, and expire June 1. Here’s a rundown on what IS open:

All of the trails closed under the first order will remain closed except for Turner Creek and Sand Dollar/Jade Cove. Roads closed by the first order that will reopen are Sycamore Canyon, Nac-Ferg, Piney Creek, Tassajara, Milpitas, Central Coast/Cone Peak, Baldwin Ranch.

Developed campgrounds will remain closed until June 1.The group campground at Arroyo Seco will reopen June 19. We are permitting Parks Management Company to reopen the day use sites along Hwy. 1 provided they have adequate staffing and measures in place to safely deliver services to the public. The intent with the day use sites is to provide recreation opportunities for nearby residents along the coast. By opening roads on the east side of the district, we are encouraging backcountry access from the inland trails.

Food Distribution at MPC Friday, 5/15, 9:30-11:30 am

The Food Bank for Monterey County to Offer Drive-thru Community Food Distribution on Friday, May 15th at Monterey Peninsula College  At the request of Fifth District Supervisor Mary Adams, The Food Bank for Monterey County will conduct a drive-thru community food distribution this Friday, May 15, 2020 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Monterey Peninsula College. “I can’t thank the Food Bank enough for responding so quickly to my request for assistance,” said Supervisor Adams. “People throughout Monterey County, including Fifth District residents, are experiencing unprecedented levels of food insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. We are fortunate to have such a willing and able partner as the Food Bank for Monterey County.” “In normal times, The Food Bank serves over 1 in 4 children in Monterey County; these are not normal times. In April alone, we served 60,000 Monterey County families,” said Melissa Kendrick, Food Bank for Monterey County Executive Director. “We have created numerous drive-thru distributions throughout the county since this crisis began. We go where we are needed.”  “Monterey Peninsula College is pleased to be supporting this community food distribution,” said David Martin, MPC Interim Superintendent/President. “While we have transitioned to distance learning during this crisis, our campus remains a place where the needs of our community are met.”  Any person experiencing food insecurity is able to access this distribution. You are asked to access the campus via Fishnet Road off of Fremont Street. Food will be placed by Food Bank personnel and National Guard members into your empty trunk.  The Food Bank will evaluate if it can continue offering a distribution at this site based on utilization this week. Information on other drive-thru distributions organized by The Food Bank can be found on their website at https://foodbankformontereycounty.org/food-assistance/.