March 27 2020 | Vol. XLII No.14

Serving Bixby Knolls, California Heights, Los Cerritos, Wrigley and Signal Hill with 30,000 issues every Friday

VOL. XLII NO. 14

In this issue NEWS

Your Weekly Community Newspaper

www.signaltribune.com

SH council recap: Signal Hill gets new mayor, ratifies virus emergency proclamation

Copeland to serve as mayor until March 2021, with Hansen as vice mayor.

Anita W. Harris Staff Writer

Online sewing group donates masks

Page 2

Community

Safer at Home?

WomanShelter of Long Beach has housing for those who aren’t Page 3

OPINION

The Signal Hill City Council met as usual in council chambers for its Tuesday, March 24 meeting, though with limited capacity for public attendance due to COVID-19 concerns. However, the public could teleconference into the meeting and view it on the city’s website and local cable channels, as usual.

Council members also attempted to maintain a distance of at least six feet from each other during the meeting, as per state and county health directives.

During the meeting, the council conducted its annual reorganization, selecting Robert Copeland as mayor and Tina Hansen as vice mayor. It also ratified a March 19 emergency proclamation and approved spending $51,000 on emergency supplies.

Reorganization As it does each year, the council reorganized, selecting a new mayor and vice mayor from among its five members. For each position, it first nominated members and then voted.

Councilmember Tina Hansen nominated Vice Mayor Robert Co-

Signal Tribune

Long Beach’s first woman city councilmember Page 4

The City of Long Beach reports that a female resident in her fifties has died of complications of COVID-19. The patient had underlying health conditions.

“We’ve been dreading this day and were hoping it would never come,” Mayor Robert Garcia said. “We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family, friends and loved ones. We all mourn this incredible loss to our community.”

In compliance with HIPAA regulations, and to protect the priva-

Long Beach City Council votes to approve a moratorium on evictions related to Covid-19 during special meeting The City Council also voted to approve a temporary homeless shelter at the former North Neighborhood Library.

Daniel Green Production Manager

Courtesy City of Signal Hill

Newly selected Signal Hill Mayor Robert Copeland

peland as mayor. Councilmember Edward Wilson moved the nominations closed, with Councilmember Keir Jones seconding the motion. The council unanimously

approved Copeland’s nomination.

Copeland thanked the council before taking over proceedings see SH COUNCIL page 9

Long Beach reports first fatal case of COVID-19 Staff Report

March 27, 2020

cy and well-being of the family, no further information about the individual will be released by the City. The case is currently under investigation and epidemiologists are working to identify possible exposures.

“This tragedy shows that COVID-19 can cause serious illness,” said Long Beach City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis.

“Now, more than ever, we need to heed the Safer at Home order, stay at home if possible and practice social distancing. The lives of Long Beach residents depend on it.”

At this time, there have been 41

confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the City of Long Beach. Symptoms of those infected with COVID-19 have ranged from mild, managed at home, to very severe, requiring intensive care.

Four individuals who had COVID-19 have recovered. Approximately 140 individuals are currently being monitored.

Residents are to follow Safer at Home guidelines and take steps to reduce the possibility of transmitting the virus, including: • Maintain at least six feet dissee DEATH page 8

At its March 24 special meeting, the Long Beach City Council held a joint meeting with the Long Beach Housing authority to vote on the moratorium on evictions, and voted to lease out the former North Neighborhood Library as a temporary shelter.

Moratorium on evictions In an attempt to supply relief to Long Beach residents who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Long Beach City Council voted to approve a prohibition on evictions due to lack of payment.

The new moratorium will have a sunset date of May 31 and is only applicable for tenants who are unable to pay rent between March 4 and May 31.

The new ordinance will require tenants to provide notification and documentation to their landlord that they have suffered a severe loss of wages or hours due to see EVICTIONS page 8

2

NEWS

Signal Tribune

Online sewing group donates masks to Long Beach Veterans Hospital

Shelter in place with a foster dog Staff Report

Fred Shuster

Signal Tribune

City News Service

A La Mirada woman who helped form a statewide online sewing circle to fashion face masks for SoCal health professionals and first responders said Tuesday, March 24 that her group has sent more than 500 hand-sewn masks to local organizations battling the coronavirus outbreak.

Mallory Morgan, 24, who created the Facebook group Stitched Together with her mom last week, said she aims to help fill the growing need for protective masks at hospitals, among emergency services workers and for nonprofit groups across the Los Angeles area.

Morgan, who works for an L.A. movie company, said the sewing group has donated masks to the L.A. County Fire Department, the West Los Angeles and Long Beach VA medical centers, PIH Health Hospital-Whittier, and St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, among others. Requests are coming in on the Facebook page from other groups experiencing a shortage.

“I had no idea how quickly

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All adoptions are being conducted through social media and email. If you’d like a little Snookums of your own, contact Long Beach Animal Care Services at AnimalRescue@ longbeach.govSpecify ID##A641014.

(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

March 27, 2020

Stitched Together Facebook Group

An online sewing group, called Stitched Together, is sewing masks for medical centers across Southern California, including the Long Beach Veterans Hospital. Medical facilities across the country are dealing with a shortage of masks due to the spread of COVID-19.

our community would rally together to help local organizations in need during this crisis,” Morgan said. “I’m proud of our group and the positive impact this will have on individuals who are risking their health to protect others.”

Morgan’s mother, Rebecca, a pharmaceutical rep with a passion for sewing, got the idea for a grassroots mask-making effort after catching an item about the shortage on CNN. Recently, family members in Long Island, New York, launched a similar

project.

Morgan said it could take an experienced seamstress about 15 minutes to make a medical mask using the tightly woven cotton that works best. Tutorials are available on various websites.

“Medical-grade masks are the best, but what we do is better than a bandana and better than no mask at all,” Morgan said.

Morgan said Stitched Together is also a way for members to forge and maintain a connection, while following safe social distancing guidelines.

“We’re trying to stay as optimistic as we possibly can,” Morgan said. “It’s good to know we’re doing something to help.”

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In response to conditions prompted by the coronavirus (COVID-19), Live Love Animal Rescue has launched an emergency foster program for dogs at the Long Beach Animal Care Shelter (LBACS) in partnership with Blockhead Brigade and Pitty Pawfessors.

Following the governor’s order to close all non-essential businesses, LBACS reduced on-site operations for the safety of its staff and volunteers.

Live Love Animal Rescue is working to place 87 dogs in emergency foster homes so they can continue to receive high-quality care while California is under the governor’s shelter in place order.

“This is an ideal time to welcome a foster dog into your home because many family members will be there as well,” Emily Peters, the founder and president of Live Love Animal Rescue, said. “Be a foster, and be a hero by saving a life!

Rescues provide training, supplies and medical care for foster pets. All that fosters need to give is care, love and a bit of their time.”

The project is made possible thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from Friends of Long Beach Animals (FOLBA) and

SHPD to monitor social distancing compliance Staff Report Signal Tribune

The Signal Hill Police Department (SHPD) will be monitoring residents for social distancing compliance in public places such as parks and essential stores, according to a SHPD

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the Disney VoluntEARS Community Fund, which has agreed to reallocate a $5,000 grant originally intended for another program to support this emergency effort.

“These funds are absolutely crucial to get as many dogs out of the shelter and into foster care as quickly as possible, and we are very grateful for the support of our partners,” Peters said.

The emergency foster program began March 20 as dogs left the shelter for their new foster homes and will continue as more fosters come onboard.

During the dog pick up, social distancing is observed (at least by the humans).

Currently, most available dogs have been matched with a foster. Contact the rescue at liveloveanimalrescue.org/foster if you would like to sign up as a short-term or ongoing foster for dogs who need foster homes over the coming weeks and months.

If you can’t foster but would like to help, please donate a large dog crate.

Once the dogs are in their foster homes, the rescue will hold virtual meet-and-greets and adoption events to help them find their forever homes.

Profiles of adoptable dogs are at liveloveanimalrescue.org/ adopt

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press release on Wednesday, March 25.

The SHPD also encourages residents to only shop for essentials once a week, and not to buy more than what their family will use in a week.

The social distancing requirements set out by Los Angeles County’s Safer at Home health order mandates that individuals maintain six feet of distance when in public in order to slow the spread of coronavirus in the population. It also bans both public and private group gatherings.

The SHPD will still be open and fully operational during the Safer at Home order. When in the field, officers will follow guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control and the Los Angeles County Public Health Department, as well as utilize protective gear and sanitation equipment.

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March 27, 2020

Safer at Home?

WomenShelter of Long Beach has housing for those who aren’t Kristen Farrah Naeem Staff Writer

The WomenShelter of Long Beach is still providing safe supportive housing for victims of domestic violence who need to escape their abusers during the stay at home order.

As the community shelters in place in their homes, isolated from others for the foreseeable future, individuals being abused by partners or parents are especially vulnerable.

“This situation is a terrifying time for victims of domestic violence,” Mary Ellen Mitchell, executive director of WomenShelter Long Beach, said. “They feel stuck.”

Despite having to close its Domestic Violence Resource Center due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the WomenShelter of Long Beach will continue to offer a confidential emergency supportive housing facility to those escaping domestic violence.

The WomenShelter’s 24/7 domestic violence hotline can still be reached at (562) 437-4663, and is open to all victims of domestic violence regardless of age or gender.

In a memorandum, the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, a national public-interest law center, listed the following as factors that may lead to increased instances of domestic violence during the stay at home order: – Requiring victims to shelter in place in a home that may be dangerous – Limited access to safe shelter as more places close – Unemployment, financial hardship and increased stress for families – Lack of support from friends,

City News Service

Californians — and Los Angeles County residents in particular — are at risk of losing a congressional seat when census data is tabulated, a Cal State Long Beach professor warned Monday, March 23.

“There’s actually a very high likelihood that California will lose a congressional district following the census,” political science Professor Justin Levitt told City News Service.

For folks to respond to the 2020 U.S. Census online, click here.

Levitt, who is also the vice president of National Demographics Corporation, studies California politics and local government and has done extensive analysis on the impact of the 2020 census on representation.

Los Angeles County is split into 18 congressional districts and Levitt said the 27th and 33rd districts are particularly at risk.

“We know that the two slowest

Signal Tribune

3

family and services – No longer being able to receive face to face counseling – Children no longer see mandated reporters at schools With schools now closed, children no longer have access to mandated reporters such as teachers.

Mandated reporters are individuals whose job legally requires them to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the authorities. Whereas before, it would be harder for visible or serious injuries to go unnoticed by teachers, school staff and other members of the community in general, concerns have arisen about what might happen now that vulnerable minors are kept in isolation in dangerous households.

While the WomenShelter of Long Beach has been among one of the many community organizations that have had to cancel in-person counseling for survivors, its Youth Client Advocates are keeping in contact with the shelter’s youth clients remotely.

“They are checking in and have informed the youth that we are here for them,” Mitchell told the Signal Tribune.

Mitchell said that the WomenShelter had not seen an increase in calls since the stay at home order began, but that that may be cause for greater concern, a possible sign that domestic violence victims are unable to reach out and call with their abusers nearby.

Those needing help can also email the WomenShelter of Long Beach at info@womenshelterlb. org. The shelter’s website contains a ‘quick escape’ button near the top right corner of the page, in case a viewer needs to exit immediately if their abuser walks in the room.

Los Angeles County at risk of losing house seat in census Elizabeth Marcellino

NEWS

growing districts are (Rep.) Judy Chu’s district in the San Gabriel Valley and Congressman (Ted) Lieu’s district in the South Bay,” the professor said. “Both of those districts probably would be candidates to be eliminated or at least reconfigured.”

The results will ultimately be determined by how many people statewide respond to the request for census data, which is mandated by law and the work of a statewide redistricting commission.

Every household in Los Angeles County should have already received a 2020 Census form with an identification number that allows responses to be filed quickly online, or by mail or phone.

The effort to count every American informs the allocation of federal funding for any number of critical programs, as well as Congressional representation.

“Everyone should respond to the 2020 Census as soon as they receive their invitation — and see HOUSE SEAT page 7

Courtesy Long Beach Fire Department via Twitter

Eight Firefighters at Fire Station 11 have tested positive the coronavirus. The origin of the exposure is still unclear at this time.

8 Long Beach firefighters test positive for coronavirus Staff Report Signal Tribune

Eight firefighters with the Long Beach Fire Department have tested positive for coronavirus. Four of these firefighters are Long Beach residents, bringing the total number of positive cases in the city to 41. All eight are in stable condition and are self isolating at home.

The origin of the firefighters’ exposure to coronavirus is still unknown, but Fire Station 11 in Long Beach has been identified as a location that all eight worked at recently.

“The treatment of these firefighters, along with all of our current positive cases, remains our highest priority,” City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis said. “We are aware of the impact of these

results on our community and understand the significant concerns this news brings. We are working diligently to identify potential situations where additional exposure may have occurred.”

Since learning of confirmed coronavirus cases among the LBFD, the City has done the following: – Further alerted City employees who may have also been exposed.

– Began sanitizing Fire Station 11 and all its fire equipment. Normal operations will resume once that has been completed.

– The Long Beach Health and Human Services Department has begun investigating other possible exposures to coronavirus and will conduct additional testing as needed.

These new cases among the LBFD should not dissuade the community from calling 911 in an emergency.

Long Beach public safety dispatchers will begin asking callers if they are experiencing symptoms of coronavirus, and public safety personnel will use personal protective gear when needed.

“Our Long Beach Firefighters are community heroes, and they have been on the front lines every day of this health crisis,” Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said.

“We are doing everything we can to provide support to these firefighters and their families. We recognize the seriousness of this latest development and are committed to doing all that we can to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Long Beach.”

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OPINION

Signal Tribune

March 27, 2020

Long Beach’s first woman city councilmember If you pass by the Bach neighborhood library at the corner of Carson and Bellflower (4055 N. Bellflower) you may think the library was named for composer Johann Sebastian Bach, after all, other Long Beach community libraries such as Dana (Henry Dana), Twain (Mark Twain), Harte (Bret Harte) and other Long Beach libraries were named for famous individuals. You may also consider famous Long Beach author Richard Bach as a possible candidate.

If you did, you’d be close. It was named after his mother, a remarkable woman, Long Beach’s first female council member, Ruth Bach.

Her story, and name, has largely been forgotten. March, Women’s History Month, is the ideal time to remember her story.

On May 10, 1956, Roland Robert Bach fulfilled the vow he made 12 years earlier to his wife, Ruth.

She had asked that if she should die first, he would deliver the final eulogy. Bach agreed if she promised to give a eulogy for him if he passed away before her. A pact was made.

Sadly, this was not the first wife that Roland had to give a eulogy for. In August 1932, Roland, a pastor of the Reformed Church, presided over the funeral of his 29-year-old wife Marjorie Fiske Bach. Two years earlier, he had done the same when their 3-yearold daughter Ruth Lorraine passed away. With Marjorie’s death, only he and 4-year-old son Roy remained, but he soon found comfort in another woman named Ruth Helen Shaw.

Ruth Shaw was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on May 11, 1905, to parents David and Cora Nicols Shaw. Already in the family was 10-year-old brother Harold, 8-year-old sister Irene and 2-yearold sister Alice. Ruth, the last member to be added to the Shaw clan, had a wonderful extended family to welcome and care for

MANAGING EDITOR

Sebastian Echeverry

her– next door to their 825 Franklin Place home, lived her grandmother Hannah Shaw and her aunts Anna and Adelaide.

Following her graduation from high school in 1923, she visited relatives in Pasadena and was impressed by their faith in God. Here her interest in religion peeked and she decided to become a student at the Baptist Missionary Training School in Chicago. Upon finishing the course she became a missionary and spent almost three years in Puerto Rico before returning to the United States where she lectured throughout New England.

In 1930 Ruth and her sister Irene were living with their parents in Milwaukee. Thirty-three-year-old Irene was a buyer in a department store and twenty-four-year-old Ruth was attending the Milwaukee School of Social Work Training.

Her experience as a missionary had shown her that there was much more to learn about helping others.

After completing the two-year course at the Milwaukee School of Social Work Training in October 1931, she entered the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago and graduated with a Bachelor of Philosophy degree on Dec. 20, 1932.

In 1933 Ruth married 33-yearold widower, Roland Richard Bach. During one of her summer internships in Milwaukee, she had met Roland, who was the director of the agency where she was working. She had known him and his wife for several years and was saddened to learn of Marjorie Bach’s death in 1932. Ruth and Roland, who shared the same passion for helping others, fell in love and married the following year. Shortly afterward, Roland was called to active military duty as a chaplain in the U.S. Army. The family remained in Wisconsin until shortly after the birth of son Robert in 1934; two years later another son, Richard (the well-known author

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Daniel Green

LEGALS COORDINATOR

Katherine Green

of the book Jonathan Livingston Seagull) was born while Roland was stationed in Illinois. Ruth, not content to remain idle, found time from motherhood to do social work wherever they were sent.

By 1943, Roland Bach had transferred from the Army to the Red Cross where he was assistant director of military and naval warfare, Pacific Area, stationed in the San Francisco area. Ruth worked as a Red Cross volunteer spending more than eight hours each day as trainee director for Red Cross aides. The family moved to Long Beach in 1944, after Roland became the assistant manager of the Long Beach chapter of the Red Cross.

In 1953 Ruth picked up another educational credential (one of only nine women nationally to have done so) completing the field course on national defense and economic mobilization from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. The school later became known as the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, named for graduate Dwight D. Eisenhower. The knowledge Ruth gained with this degree was especially valuable in civil-defense planning when fears of Communism, the atomic bomb and another World War hung ominously over the nation.

On Feb. 3, 1954, Ruth H. Bach of 4256 Heather Road declared her candidacy for Fifth District Long Beach City councilmember. She was the first candidate from the newly annexed Lakewood Village area to announce her intent and the first woman to enter the council contest. She explained that the suggestion that she run came from other Lakewood Village members of the League of Women Voters.

They had all agreed that one of them should be a candidate but everyone else seemed to have a good excuse so she decided to make the

ONLINE EDITOR

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Ruth Bach

race herself. She declared she had “no axes to grind” but was interested in good government and wanted to contribute to the progress of Long Beach. In her 10 years living in Lakewood Village she had served as president of the University Women’s Club and the Lakewood Junior High PTA. She was also elected first vice president of the League of Women Voters, was a member of the Bureau of Franchises, the Park Commission and the Ordinance Committee and chairman of the Public Relations Committee. For two years she was also executive director of the Long Beach Day Nurseries. Her qualifications for office also included being a former member of the Lakewood Park District Board, winning election to office in 1953 by the highest vote accorded any candidate.

On Oct. 16, 1953, Lakewood Village officially became part of Long Beach. The newly annexed territory was now part of the Fifth District, encompassing about onefourth of the city’s population.

Elected to the council in June 1954, Ruth Bach received 51% of the total vote against a field of five candidates (others: Antoinette Aldrich, housewife; John M. Brooks, real estate salesman; John W. Eberly, publisher; Clarence Wagner, incumbent). Ruth told the Los Angeles Times (June 3, 1954) she firmly believed that women had a place in government, and that during her three-year term, she would hold meetings where

CULTURE WRITER

Brett Hawkins

COLUMNISTS

she could have direct contact with women’s groups to discuss issues.

She believed good government could only result from active participation of women and she wanted to get women interested in the problems.

Bach astonished city hall observers with the drive and time she was willing to devote to the job. She made a point of studying in advance practically all the documents and reports scheduled for consideration by the council. Her creed while in office was to “get All the facts.” She insisted in seeing all sides of an issue and never yielded to the temptation of making snap judgements. She told reporter George Weeks: “I have never turned anyone with a problem away, but I refuse to get emotionally involved. I try to reason with people and, if the answer is no, to tell them why.” (Press Telegram Feb. 20, 1955) How to develop the city’s vast tideland oil deposits was among the top issues she faced. She believed the City should move cautiously and know exactly how to meet any land subsidence problems which could arise. She reminded folk that the oil field wasn’t going to run away.

In February 1955, she proposed that only projects approved by the voters would qualify for city funds derived from oil production in upland areas. She also unsuccessfully voted against the sale see BYGONE DAYS page 7

STAFF WRITERS

Anita W. Harris Kristen Farrah Naeem Karla Enriquez

Claudine Burnett Blair Cohn

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The Signal Tribune reserves the right to edit ­letters for grammar, language and space requirements. Letters must be 500 words or fewer. The Signal Tribune will publish no more than one “pro” letter and one “con” letter on a particular topic in a single issue. The Signal ­Tribune does not print letters that refer substantially to articles in other publications and might not print those that have recently been printed in other ­publications or otherwise presented in a public forum. Letters to the editor and commentaries are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Signal Tribune or its staff. Although the editorial staff will attempt to verify and/or correct ­information when possible, letters to the editor and commentaries are opinions, and readers should not assume that they are statements of fact. Letter-writers will be identified by their professional titles or affiliations when, and only when, the editorial staff deems it relevant and/or to provide context to the letter. We do not run letters to the editor submitted by individuals who have declared their candidacies for public office in upcoming races. This policy was put in place because, to be fair, if we publish one, we would have to publish all letters submitted by all candidates. The volume would no doubt eliminate space for letters submitted by other readers. Instead, we agree to interview candidates and print stories about political races in an objective manner and offer very reasonable advertising rates for those candidates who wish to purchase ads. The Signal Tribune is published each Friday with a circulation of 30,000. Yearly subscriptions are available for $50.

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NEWS

March 27, 2020

Signal Tribune

5

The financial impact of COVID-19

Expert says pandemic will change business models moving forward.

Sebastian Echeverry Managing Editor

The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has grown into a global health crisis that is also impacting worldwide economies.

On the macro level, the Dow Jones Industrial briefly fell 3,000 points earlier this month, and as of March 23, it stood below 20,000 points.

At the local level, State and local mandates have prompted businesses to close in an effort to discourage large gatherings and slow the spread of the highly infectious disease.

For small business owners, these restrictions have forced some to operate with small skeleton crews–– if they are considered essential businesses–– while others have laid-off workers.

Laura Gonzalez, associate professor of finance at Cal State Long Beach, said life under mandatory quarantine is going to cause two immediate financial problems.

“One is lack of liquidity within and between industries that do not have income, which is likely to affect at least one-third of the workforce,” Gonzalez told the Signal Tribune. “Businesses will default on payments, including rentals, even after reducing their workforce and altering operations.”

She added that many businesses will close and all are likely to change as a result of the pandemic.

“These changes can be seen in the increase of hiring towards extra-delivery teams, but overall, there is an increase in layoffs and changes in all industries. This is happening around the world, which is going to create limitations going forward,” Gonzalez said.

“The second most significant problem is that financial markets are based both on fundamentals and trust.

Trading has been well over fundamentals for years, and trust has suddenly come to a

halt for an undetermined period of time,” Gonzalez said.

“Markets are also factoring in the uncertainty about the financial situation following the pandemic.”

She noted that growth expectations and investments will depend on stimulus packages and the capacity of businesses to serve a new market.

Currently, U.S. legislators are debating the best way to deliver monetary aid to Americans–– such as direct loans.

“The federal government is finalizing support for small businesses, but it is not clear yet who will get what under what conditions,” Gonzalez said.

Until lawmakers come to an agreement, folks across the nation are losing their jobs or seeing reduced hours.

Gonzalez recommended for those being laid off to be informed about when their last paycheck will come, and whether they qualify for unemployment benefits.

“It is also important to know the health coverage they can rely on,” she added.

“The first step in budgeting is to forecast changes in income and expenses, and decide priority changes.”

As the world continues to battle an invisible enemy, Gonzalez mentioned that there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

“There is no doubt that there will be opportunities in a few months,” she said “The organization of businesses and society is going to change worldwide, and it is clear that qualifying for jobs that allow teleworking is key for a better future. Therefore, this is a good time to think how we can acquire and increase those technology-oriented skills.”

From this economic uncertainty, Gonzalez argues new businesses will grow.

“There will also be new small businesses and franchises,” she said, “and demand for a high-quality, sustainable domestic supply chain.”

Lissette Mendoza | Signal Tribune

Cal State University Long Beach has closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, causing 578 employees to lose their jobs.

578 lose their job as stores on CSULB campus close Kristen Farrah Naeem Staff Writer

The auxiliary non-profit organization which controls Cal State Long Beach’s on campus stores, Forty-Niner Shops, Inc., has laid off 578 employees due to the university cancelling in-person classes in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Of those employees, 506 are students at the university, according to CSULB’s Director of News Media Services, Gregory Woods.

“Although draconian by any standard,” Robert de Wit, the Interim General Manager, CEO and CFO of Forty-Niner Shops, Inc. said in a press release, “this was a measured response to allow affected personnel to obtain unemployment since there was no work for the unforeseeable future that will carry us through to the fall semester.”

While Forty-Niner Shops, Inc. is an auxiliary nonprofit organization of the Cal State University system, it is self funded and operates like a conventional business.

“Business is highly dependent on the 38,000 students and 5,000 faculty and staff members that frequent our campus weekly but who [are] no longer on at SPRINGTIME our doorstep,” de Wit said.

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traffic virtually disappearing.”

All of the retail shops run by the organization have closed, like the Forty-Niner Shops Bookstore and University Art Store, but a few Forty-Niner Shops employees will remain to work out of back offices in order to support the educational needs of students and university staff.

While the campus bookstore is closed, students can still order supplies through Forty-Niner Shops’ website, which is currently waiving all ground shipping fees to aid students during this transition.

Many employees were made aware of the upcoming layoffs before schedule when an email detailing the contact information of Forty-Niner Shops workers who would be let go March

31 was accidentally sent as a reply to over 400 employees on Monday, March 23.

The following day, de Wit apologized for the incident in an email to employees.

“These are difficult times,” de Wit said in the email, “and we understand that these layoffs will have a deep impact for all of you, and for that we are sorry. However, yesterday we made a tremendous mistake, and we accidentally sent you an email that detailed email addresses for colleagues that will be laid off next week. As the leader of this organization, I want you to know that I am truly sorry. You are all valued members of our team, and the way the announcement went out, was not how we intended it to be.”

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6

Signal Tribune

PUBLIC NOTICES/NEWS

EYE ON CRIME

CRIMES REPORTED BY THE SIGNAL HILL POLICE DEPARTMENT Thursday, March 19 1:40am, Resisting/obstructing police officer; misdemeanor warrant, Stanley Ave./E. PCH (suspect arrested) Friday, March 20 1:54am, Stolen vehicle – recovered, 900 block E. 33rd St. 8:06am, Grand theft – motor vehicle, 2900 block Cherry Ave. 10:02am, Auto burglary, 2400 block Cherry Ave. 11:01am, Burglary, 1700 block E. 28th St. 12:08pm, Grand theft, 900 block E. 33rd St. Saturday, March 21 1:48am, Battery, 2600 block Wall St. 5:43pm, Kidnapping, Cherry Ave/E. Hill St. Sunday, March 22 8:12am, Auto burglary, 2100 block E. 21st St. 3:07pm, Battery, 2100 block E. 21st St. 8:26pm, Grand theft, 900 block E. 33rd St. Monday, March 23 3:10am, Intoxicated person on drugs, 3300 block E. PCH 10:17am, Identity theft, 1900 block Raymond Ave. 1:12pm, Identity theft, 2200 block Bay View Dr. 2:36pm, Rape, 2300 block Lewis Ave. 4:02pm, Auto burglary, 2600 block Lime Ave. 5:38pm, Auto burglary, 2500 block Lewis Ave. 7:12pm, Auto burglary, 1000 block Orizaba Ave. 9:41pm, Battery, 2200 block Walnut Ave. Tuesday, March 24 8:05am, Auto burglary, 1300 block E. 23rd St. 12:57pm, Burglary, 2200 block Molino Ave. 1:59pm, Robbery, 1600 block E. Willow St. 2:30pm, Elder Abuse, 1800 block Stanley Ave. 7:44pm, Battery, 1400 block E. 23rd St. Wednesday, March 25 12:29pm, Grand theft, 2200 block E. Willow St. 2:52pm, Grand theft, 2200 block E. Willow St. (suspect arrested) 3:54pm, Grand theft, 900 block E. 33rd St.

TST6202 / 2020 039902 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: GRACE’S GOURMET GOODS, 4234 Rose Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807.

Registrant: GRACE YANAGISAWA CARNEY, 4234 Rose Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Grace Yanagisawa Carney. The registrant has begun to use this fictitious business name. The registrant began using this fictitious business name in January, 2020. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on February 18, 2020. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020.

TST6204 / 2020 047427 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. REAL ESTATE TECHNICAL GROUP INC., 2. RETC GROUP INC., 5510 E. El Jardin, Long Beach, CA 90815. Registrant: REAL ESTATE TECHNICAL GROUP INC, 5510 E. El Jardin, Long Beach, CA 90815. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Mark Pirelli, CEO. The registrant has begun to use this fictitious business name. The registrant began using this fictitious business name in January, 2020. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on February 26, 2020. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fic-

titious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020.

TST6205 / 2020 056327 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. SANCUS TAX, 2. SANCUSTAX, 3. SANCUS ACCOUNTING, 4. SANCUS TAX & ACCOUNTING, 5. SANCUS TAX AND ACCOUNTING, 235 E. Broadway Suite 1060, Long Beach, CA 90802. Registrant: SANCUS TAX INC., 235 E. Broadway Suite 1060, Long Beach, CA 90802. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Douglas Dick, CEO. The registrant has begun to use this fictitious business name. The registrant began using this fictitious business name in January, 2020. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 6, 2020. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 13, 20, 27, & April 3, 2020.

TST6211 / 2020 054006 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. BLACK DOG COFFEE ROASTER, 2. BLACK DOG ROASTERS, 3.

BLACK DOG COFFEE, 4. BLACK DOG COFFEE ROASTERS, 1360 Burnett St. Unit G, Signal Hill, CA 90755. Registrant: Jose F. Portillo Kessler, 6416

March 27, 2020 E. Bay Shore Walk #5, Long Beach, CA 90803. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Jose F. Portillo Kessler.

The registrant has not begun to use this fictitious business name. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 4, 2020. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 13, 20, 27, & April 3, 2020 TST6215 / 2020 061820 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: DHT EQUITY, 4601 N. Cerritos Drive, Long Beach, CA 90807. Registrant: 1.

DANIEL THOMPSON, 2. HEARESE THOMPSON, 4601 N. Cerritos Drive, Long Beach, CA 90807. This business is conducted by: a Married Couple. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Daniel Thompson. The registrant has begun to use this fictitious business name. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 12, 2020. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 27, & April 3, 10, 17, 2020.

Long Beach closes parking lots for city beaches and parks

Residents who have obtained special permits will still be allowed to park their vehicles at City-owned beach lots as a free alternative through April 30.

Staff Report Signal Tribune

Access is now closed to Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, the El Dorado Nature Center and parking lots at City-owned parks and beaches through April 19 to prevent large groups of people from congregating in public spaces, in accordance with the latest clarification to the state’s “Stay at Home” order and the City of Long Beach’s “Safer at Home” order.

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Additionally, gatherings of any size will be prohibited citywide as part of the updated order.

“We are taking this next step because there are too many people ignoring social distancing while visiting our trails and beaches,” Mayor Robert Garcia said. “You can still ride your bicycle, walk your dog or go for a run, but we’re encouraging folks to avoid any type of gathering and to avoid groups of people. This is a health crisis and we must act now.”

All residents must remain at home, with the following exceptions as long as social distancing of six feet or more is maintained: • Travel to and from essential businesses.

• Travel to work at, or provide service to, a healthcare operation or essential infrastructure.

• Engage in essential activities such as going to the grocery store or a medical appointment.

• Exercise, jogging and other outdoor activities.

As previously announced, sports facilities at City-owned parks and beaches remain closed.

Residents living in parking impacted neighborhoods who have obtained special permits will still be allowed to park their vehicles at City-owned beach lots as a free alternative through April 30. Vehicles parking in a beach lot without a permit are subject to enforcement. Applications are still being accepted for free permits at the following beach parking lots: • Granada, 5100 E. Ocean Blvd.

• Junipero, 2100 E. Ocean Blvd.

• Belmont, 3998 E. Allin St. Interested residents can email longbeach@lazparking.com to receive an application.

Additionally, the closure of commercial properties and businesses listed under the City’s order was expanded to include indoor and outdoor flea markets and swap meets.

Sign up for our free newsletter at signaltribune.com for the lastest news in your inbox!

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NEWS

March 27, 2020

Bygone Days est friends knew her condition was critical. Despite her slow recovery she returned to council meetings in March and attended regularly before leaving for the visit with her sister. She died one week before her 51st birthday. Her husband and son Richard were at her bedside. Her death was attributed to heart trouble. She left behind sons, Roy and Richard. She is buried in a crypt beside her son Robert in Westminster Memorial Park.

She often said she found her “gender” was “no handicap at all” in the sometimes spirited controversies in the council. Because of it, she was denied participation in only two community events – the annual Gridiron Dinner sponsored by the Long Beach Junior Chamber of Commerce lampooning councilmembers (they wanted to avoid casting caustic barbs her way, but said they would invite her to other events). The following year in partial revenge the wives of the Junior Chamber men issued her an invitation to attend the first annual “Steam Iron Banquet.”

“We feel that it was very unfair of our husbands to send you an invitation last year and then turn around and tell you not to come.

We will not be panning members of the council. Instead, we will pan the men who have been panning you all these years,” said Mrs. Marilyn Neptune, president of the Jay Cee Mrs. Club. Mrs. Neptune said male members of the council were also invited. (Press Telegram March 6, 1956) Ruth Bach was also not invited to a simulated attack by the Navy on the Long Beach shore-

line where council members were on board one of the landing craft.

Her comment to that was “I could have worn slacks.” In her few spare hours she enjoyed playing the electric organ at her home and making mobiles and other abstract forms of art with her husband and son Richard.

Following her untimely death, the University Women’s Club established a scholarship in her name to be given to a student who had done outstanding work in political science. The Plaza Women’s Club of the Lakewood Plaza area followed suit, presenting a $100 scholarship to the “outstanding girl citizen” of Millikan High School.

The Lakewood Women’s Club established the Ruth Bach Award, presented to the woman judged most outstanding in her contribution to the betterment of the greater Lakewood area. There was also the Ruth Bach Memorial Fund of the Red Cross and a room in her memory at the Masonic Club.

In October 1956, plans were approved for a new public library in Heartwell Park to be named for Ruth Bach. It officially opened on Feb. 21, 1958, and is still there serving the community. Many have forgotten Ruth Bach and her contributions to Long Beach, but when asked, Branch Librarian Chenda Yong will tell you, perhaps pulling out pictures, letters of condolence written to her family and her educational degrees and certificates. Ruth Bach was a remarkable woman, as I hope this article has shown, whose memory should live on.

continued from page 3

when they’re finished, they can make sure their friends, families and social networks know about the importance of responding,” according to the Census Bureau. “With the flexibility and support of the American people, we will achieve a complete and accurate count which helps guide funding decisions for things like hospitals, roads and emergency services.”

California’s population growth has slowed in the decade since the last census, in part due to migration to other western states. Texas, for example, could gain seats based in part on Californians moving there, according to a study released by the Brookings Institution in January.

Immigration to California — which had previously been an engine for growth — has also declined.

While many other states have lost residents to domestic migration, California also has a historical issue with the census undercounting its population.

“In 2010, the undercount in California was estimated at over 2 million — and half of that is in Los Angeles County,” Levitt told CNS. “These numbers could mean the difference between California staying at 53 representatives in the House and losing representa-

tives. There is a lot at stake.”

Levitt and other experts worry that the communities that may need federal funds most are among those with residents less likely to fill out census forms. Undercounting is more pronounced among immigrant populations and communities with a high rate of poverty.

A robust and accurate census response has relied in the past on community outreach and door-to-door visits by census takers, who were set to begin outreach in late May. The Census Bureau announced last week that due to the coronavirus pandemic, it would suspend field operations at least through April 1, designated as Census Day, and would continue to evaluate operations based on the guidance of federal, state and local health authorities.

As of Sunday, 21% of Americans had responded to the request for information, with Californians close behind at 20.5%, according to data provided by the bureau online.

After the census information is gathered by the federal government and disseminated back to the states, the Citizens Redistricting Commission will be responsible for redrawing congressional maps. Public hearings are set to begin next year.

LA County could lose up to $586 million if Latinos undercounted in census Staff Report Signal Tribune

Los Angeles County could lose up to $586 million in federal funding if Latinos are undercounted in the 2020 Census, according to a new study released today by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

The study warns that there is a likelihood of a Latino undercount and that a 10 percent undercount could result in the $586 million loss of money used for key public programs.

The study’s authors contend that “anti-immigrant” language and policies, along with a proposal to add a citizenship question that was ultimately struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court, have fueled fears about deportation and put immigrant groups, especially Latinos, at risk for being undercounted in the census.

About $12.7 billion in federal funding for the county is based on census-related estimates, according to the study.

Researchers — who looked at the effect that a 2 percent, 5 percent and 10 percent under-

7

House Seat

continued from page 4

of alcoholic beverages at the airport coffee shop. In January 1955, she solidly backed homeowners of Stratford Square, a 583 home track east of Clark and Spring, when they protested oil drilling near their homes. In April 1956, another site was substituted to the Bixby Land Company by the City council, but that site (northeast of Lakewood Boulevard and Willow Street) also inflamed residents in that area. The council approved the site 7-to-2 without allowing a public hearing. Ruth Bach and fellow councilmember Toby Wick voted against the measure.

In her new role as a councilmember, she discovered she was surrounded by law, such as zoning ordinances, charter amendments and oil regulations. She decided she didn’t want to continually quiz other people about the law and was determined to find her own answers. In September 1955, she enrolled in the Pacific Coast University and spent three nights weekly at its School of Law in Long Beach. She expected to gain a better understanding of the law in the four or five years needed to get her degree. After that, she would take the bar examination.

Whether she would practice if admitted would depend on the circumstances at the time, she said.

(Press Telegram Oct. 16, 1955) Her legal studies would not be completed. Ruth Bach died Saturday, May 5, 1956, in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, while visiting her sister, Mrs. Irene Kinn. Ruth had been ill for several months from anemia and had been hospitalized in January. Only a few of her clos-

Signal Tribune

count of Latino communities would have on the county’s federal funding — determined that community-based organizations are more likely than government agencies to have discussed the potential impact of a census undercount and to be engaged in outreach efforts to promote an accurate count.

On Monday, March 23 Cal State Long Beach political science professor Justin Levitt told City News Service that Californians — and Los Angeles County residents in particular — are at risk of losing a congressional seat when census data are tabulated.

“There’s actually a very high likelihood that California will lose a congressional district following the census,” Levitt said.

Los Angeles County is split into 18 congressional districts and Levitt said the 27th and 33rd districts are particularly at risk.

“We know that the two slowest growing districts are (Rep.) Judy Chu’s district in the San Gabriel Valley and Congressman (Ted) Lieu’s district in the South Bay,” the professor said.

“Both of those districts proba-

bly would be candidates to be eliminated or at least reconfigured.”

Levitt, who is also the vice president of National Demographics Corporation, studies California politics and local government and has done extensive analysis on the impact of the 2020 Census on representation.

The results will ultimately be determined by how many people statewide respond to the request for census data, which is mandated by law and the work of a statewide redistricting commission.

Every household in Los Angeles County should have already received a 2020 Census form with an identification number that allows responses to be filed quickly online, or by mail or phone.

The effort to count every American informs the allocation of federal funding for any number of critical programs, as well as Congressional representation.

“Everyone should respond to the 2020 Census as soon as they receive their invitation — and when they’re finished, they see LATINOS page 8

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NEWS

Signal Tribune

Evictions

Death

continued from page 1

the coronavirus pandemic.

Additionally, tenants will have to notify homeowners of their inability to pay within three days of a three-day notice to pay or quit resulting from non-payment.

The moratorium only covers rent that becomes due between March 4, the day Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state emergency, and May 31.

As of now, the ordinance is set to sunset on May 31. At the end of the ordinance, renters will have until Nov. 30, 2020, to become current on any past rent that was not paid during this period.

One of the main points of the discussion was whether to include language in the ordinance about tenants paying reduced rent or partial payments.

Deputy City Attorney Rich Anthony stated that the ordinance does not prohibit renters from paying in partial payments and that they should feel incentivized to pay what they can.

“This is not a rent holiday,” Anthony said. “So, to the extent that [tenants] don’t pay rent that they […] could pay, they’re only putting off the inevitable and they’re going to have to pay it in the future.”

The council eventually decid-

March 27, 2020

ed to encourage renters to pay what they can but chose not to include language asking renters to pay smaller portions of their rent out of fear that some tenants would be penalized if they are unable to pay.

Temporary Shelter The City Council voted to adopt a resolution that would set up a temporary shelter for homeless residents from the United States Veterans Initiative shelter due to the need for social distancing.

The resolution would allow the City to suspend zoning ordinances and regulations and declare a temporary emergency shelter for the period of April 1, 2020, through September 30, 2020.

Under the agreement, the City will lease the former North Neighborhood Library at 5571 Orange Avenue to the United States Veterans Initiative, a nonprofit, to allow them to relocate a portion of their beds to accommodate proper social distancing standards.

The winter shelter currently operates at 1718-1722 Hayes Avenue but is unable to maintain the recommended six feet of distance between persons.

continued from page 1

tance apart.

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds often.

• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Stay home if you are sick. If you feel you need to seek medical care, call, don’t visit your healthcare provider first.

Essential businesses, including grocery stores, restaurants (take-out or delivery), health services, pharmacies, banks and gas stations, and government services remain open. Port operations, airport operations and critical transportation services will remain open, as will construction of residential and commercial buildings. Non-essential businesses, dog parks, playgrounds and enclosed shopping centers are closed. The list of essential businesses is outlined in the emergency order.

The following City sports facilities in parks and beaches are

continued from page 7

can make sure their friends, families and social networks know about the importance of responding,” according to the Census Bureau. “With the flexibility and support of the American people, we will achieve a complete and accurate count which helps guide funding decisions for things like hospitals, roads and emergency services.”

California’s population growth has slowed in the decade since the last census, in part due to migration to other western states. Texas, for example, could gain seats based in part on Californians moving

there, according to a study released by the Brookings Institution in January.

Immigration to California — which had previously been an engine for growth — has also declined.

While many other states have lost residents to domestic migration, California also has a historical issue with the census undercounting its population.

“In 2010, the undercount in California was estimated at over 2 million — and half of that is in Los Angeles County,” Levitt told CNS. “These numbers could mean the difference between Cali-

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fornia staying at 53 representatives in the House and losing representatives. There is a lot at stake.”

Levitt and other experts worry that the communities that may need federal funds most are among those with residents less likely to fill out census forms. Undercounting is more pronounced among immigrant populations and communities with a high rate of poverty.

A robust and accurate census response has relied in the past on community outreach and door-to-door visits by census takers, who were set to begin outreach in late May. The Census Bureau announced last week that due to the coronavirus pandemic, it would suspend field operations at least through April 1, designated as Census Day, and would continue to evaluate operations based on the guidance of federal, state and local health authorities.

As of Sunday, 21 percent of Americans had responded to the request for information, with Californians close behind at 20.5%, according to data provided by the bureau online.

After the census information is gathered by the federal government and disseminated back to the states, the Citizens Redistricting Commission will be responsible for redrawing congressional maps. Public hearings are set to begin next year.

Due to the Coronavirus outbreak, L.A. County has shut down all bars & restaurants, with the exception of pick-up and delivery.

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer take-out at this time. So, we will be temporarily closing our doors until the crisis is over.

Stay safe and healthy!

We look forward to seeing you all very soon!

NEWS

March 27, 2020

SH Council

Signal Tribune

9

continued from page 1

Courtesy City of Signal Hill

Chart of COVID-19 related safe practices displayed at the March 24 Signal Hill City Council meeting.

from outgoing mayor Lori Woods.

He did not switch seats with her as he normally would, to maintain social distancing. “Especially at this time, I’m going to be really leveraging the senior councilmembers and, of course, the fresh thoughts of our junior councilmember, Keir Jones,� Copeland said. “I really appreciate your confidence in me and I look forward to serving the city.�

Copeland then called for vice-mayor nominations, which proved more complicated.

Woods nominated Hansen. Wilson nominated himself, noting that Hansen had recently served as mayor, out of step with the council’s normal rotation cycle.

Hansen moved to close nominations, noting that while she had recently served as mayor, the current year would have been her normal time to rotate in and she is also the senior councilmember by two years. “I would like to work with Robert and move the city forward during this time,� she said.

Wilson said he, too, is a senior councilmember and would have

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Emergency measures After reorganizing, the council adopted a resolution ratifying the proclamation of a local emergency in response to COVID-19, as allowed by State Government Code

8558.

City Manager Shin-Heydorn said that as director of emergency services, her proclamation on March 19 allowed the City to implement guidelines to combat the spread of the virus.

However, per the City’s charter, that action has to be ratified by the council within seven days to stay in effect, she said.

She added that if this were only a local emergency, the council would have to review the proclamation at least every 60 days, but the State’s March 4 declaration of emergency waives that requirement. “City council’s ratification tonight will put in place a framework on behalf of the City that supports the continuity of essential public-safety services, allows for the utilization of mutual aid, provides opportunity to seek reimbursement for expenses incurred to address the pandemic and ensures the City has all available tools at its disposal to keep the community safe,� Shin-Heydorn said.

The staff report indicates that as director of emergency services, the ratification also allows Shin-Heydorn to procure COVID-19-related supplies, enforce quarantine and curfew orders, order ill City employees to leave or work remotely, impose eviction limits and approve payments without council consent.

The resolution also gives first responders and emergency services priority for essentials such as gasoline and water.

The council also approved another resolution to use $51,431 of a general-fund surplus to procure COVID-19-related supplies for first responders, such as hand-washing stations, gloves, masks and gowns.

Though the council had previously earmarked those funds to replace playground equipment, Shin-Heydorn said the City will seek reimbursement from the State to replenish that fund.

After some discussion, the council also agreed to continue conducting its meetings.

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“I think it’s important the community sees us still physically here,� Hansen said.

Wilson concurred that the council and other government agencies should continue their work. “I would do all that we can to keep the city running as normally as possible,� he said.

But the council resolved that the city’s three commissions and other committees should only meet as necessary, though members have the option to convene in person or by teleconferencing.

In terms of other government operations, Shin-Heydorn said that most facilities are already closed to the public, including city hall, library, public-works yard, playgrounds, restrooms, basketball courts and exercise equipment in parks. The dog park is also closed and afterschool, youth-sports and senior programs are canceled.

Most of the city’s walking trails are on private property and covered by homeowner’s associations (HOA), but the council advised HOAs to close them, though they can’t enforce such a policy.

And though the open spaces of the city’s parks are still open, the council urged residents to maintain a safe social distance of six feet. It also advised the public not to utilize park exercise or playground equipment, even though police can’t enforce compliance. “Don’t touch stuff in public,�

Hansen advised. “Use common sense.�

For up-to-date COVID-19 information and related policies, the council directed residents to consult the City’s website at cityofsignalhill.org/coronavirus.

The next Signal Hill City Council meeting will take place Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm in the council chamber at 2175 Cherry Ave.

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been up next for vice mayor and then mayor next year. “To be consistent with how we’ve done things in the past, I would be next in the rotation,� he said.

Woods said she nominated Hansen because she is the most seasoned councilmember and would offer Copeland support like she did when Woods was first mayor. “She has definitely shown the time and dedication to the job and is very easily accessible to both city staff and to councilmembers in responding to city concerns, more so than other council members,� Woods said.

Woods added that Hansen as vice mayor would be best practice, regardless of the normal rotation schedule. “There’s nothing in our charter or bylaws to maintain strict order in rotation,� Woods said.

Wilson agreed that the policy is not codified but said he also has been accessible to everyone. “I am here in the city locally, every day,� he said. “I do have the

time, the wherewithal, the experience, the knowledge and have worked with Robert in the past on the Sustainable Cities Committee.�

Jones said that both Hansen and Wilson would do a good job and that, in a sense, the entire council serves as vice mayor. “We’re here to support each other,� Jones said.

Copeland said that he would also be comfortable with either Hansen or Wilson as vice mayor.

The council voted 4 to 1 in favor of Hansen, with Wilson casting the sole vote for himself.

Copeland then read a proclamation to Woods commending her past year of service, marking her “authenticity, enthusiasm and dedication.�

He said Woods presided during a busy year of economic development, including the opening of Jimmy E’s restaurant, remodeling of two auto dealerships, planning and receiving funds for new housing development, rehabilitating Orange Avenue, and constructing two phases of a Los Cerritos Channel stormwater-capture project.

Woods also saw the opening of the new Signal Hill Public Library last year, and the selection of a homeless-liaison police officer, progress in expanding Signal Hill Park, development of an urban water-management plan and a map-your-neighborhood program for the city’s emergency-response team, Copeland said.

Woods thanked the council, but said she would reserve further comments until a mayor’s reception–– which had been canceled that night due to virus concerns–– could be rescheduled.

Jones said that Woods had been an outstanding mentor to him during his first year on council. “Thank you for your service,� he told her.

10

Signal Tribune

March 27, 2020

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