5th District Supervisor,              Debbie Arnold

As winter comes to an end, we can say that we have experienced another abnormal rain season. What started out to be a normal rainfall season turned dry in the months of January and February. March is shaping up to be wet and may help provide a higher rainfall total. A wet spring will help ensure a more plentiful water supply for the year.

The Board of Supervisors has been busy working on the issue of affordable housing. The County has helped organize an action team to work in collaboration with the cities and SLOCOG to focus on a housing/jobs balance. Creating affordable housing opportunities near job centers is so important to the future of the County.

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is one of the top issues nationwide. The San Luis Obispo County Health Officer declared a public health emergency on Friday, March 13th and the County Emergency Services Director also proclaimed a local emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The County Public Health Department is leading a COVID-19 response team, and Public Health Director Dr. Penny Borenstein is requesting that all residents, businesses and local organizations remain calm, stay informed, and heed the precautions in order to cope with this new virus and limit community exposure. Dr Borenstein provided an update at the March 10th Board of Supervisors meeting informing the public that the main symptom of the virus is fever, followed by cough and shortness of breath. People at higher risk should stay home, take everyday precautions such as cleaning your hands often, and have a plan for if they get sick. Health officials are urging those who exhibit the symptoms of COVID-19 to stay home, avoid contact with others, and call their health care provider or urgent care clinic before seeking medical care to receive safe arrival instructions, if directed to do so. They ask that citizens only go to the emergency room if they are experiencing a medical emergency. Together as a community we are working to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Please visit www.ReadySLO.org and/or www.coronavirus.gov for the latest news from County Public Health, coronavirus FAQs, and up-to-date information from the CDC. You can also call the Public Health information line at (805) 788-2903.

It is an honor to serve you as your 5th District Supervisor.

Debbie Arnold