Mayor Announces State of Emergency for Coronavirus

Fresno Mayor Lee Brand today proclaimed a State of Emergency for the City of Fresno in a move to help the city receive state and federal funding connected to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) disease.  Mayor Brand – who made the decision after recent announcements by Governor Gavin Newsom and the County of Fresno – asked the Council to confirm the emergency proclamation at its special meeting today, Monday, March 16, 2020.

Section 2-503(a) of the Fresno Municipal Code (FMC) states the Mayor has the power to issue a proclamation of emergency if the Fresno City Council is not in session, subject to confirmation by Council at the earliest practicable time.  

“I believe this is a sensible step to ensure the City of Fresno is in the best position to protect the people of Fresno and be eligible for any federal or state funding connected to the pandemic,” said Mayor Brand. “We will continue to monitor the disease and support the Governor’s office and Fresno County health officials as they work to do what is best for our community.  I encourage everyone to stay calm and stay informed while we navigate the unsteady waters of this crisis.”

City Hall remains open to the public, but In an effort to reduce the number of visitors, the City of Fresno offers a variety of online options for anyone wishing, or need, to conduct business with the City of Fresno.  Here is a list of the online platforms provided by the City of Fresno:

Pay or appeal a parking ticket

Submit, review or search for a building application

Start your utility service

Stop your utility service

Pay your utility bill

Get help for your water, sewer or garbage issues

Apply for your business license

Pay your business taxes

Report a crime

Agendas and meeting information

Submit an e-comment for Council meetings

The Administration has prohibited all public meetings of more than 50 people and is also closing community centers, after school programs and weekend recreation programs. The City is also requesting meetings with under 50 people to practice social distancing.

The Convention Center, including Selland Arena and the Saroyan Theatre, has canceled all programs for the immediate future. 

For the latest information on event status, call 3-1-1 or visit the City of Fresno website at www.fresno.gov.

Constituents are encouraged to visit www.cdc.gov to learn more about COVID-19 and follow the Fresno County Department of Public Health for regular updates.