COVID-19 Updates

California Releases SMARTER Plan

On February 17, California state government released the SMARTER Plan, the next phase of COVID-19 response. The Plan focusses on how to manage the presence of COVID-19 in the foreseeable future as the state moves forward. For more information, click here. The three biggest goals of the SMARTER Plan are to 1) Minimize the strain on our healthcare system; 2) Keep staff and the public safe; and 3) Keep businesses open and schools in person.

Strategies to accomplish these goals include increasing vaccination rates, especially among children; tracking cases to address spikes; and quickly matching patients up with effective treatments.

To read the detailed plan, click here or visit www.covid19.ca.gov

Booster Shots

People who received their initial series with any of the three COVID vaccines (Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, and Moderna) may now be eligible for a booster. To visit the County website for more information on how to schedule a booster, click here.

Boosters are recommended for:

Everyone 18 and older who received their Johnson & Johnson shot 2 or more months ago.
Most people who received their Pfizer or Moderna shot 6 or more months ago:
Those who are 65+, 18 and older living in a long-term care facility, or are 50+ with an underlying condition, are strongly urged to get their booster as soon as possible.
Those who are 18 and older and have an underlying medical condition, or work in a setting that may increase their risk of exposure, may also consider getting a booster

How to Protect Yourself & Others

Remember, these ways to slow the spread are still important and can help save lives:

Get a COVID-19 vaccine
Wear a face covering when indoors in public
Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces
Wash you hands often with soap and water, and use hand sanitzer when soap and water aren't available

Vaccine Information Available on County Health's Website

Click here to read the State/County Vaccine Distribution Plan and to acess information on how to schedule an appointment based on your health care provider. Santa Cruz County's Public Health Division is following the California State Department of Public Health and Center for Disease Control guidelines to prioritize COVID-19 vaccine eligibility. The City is not distributing or administering vaccines. You can also scroll to the bottom of this page and click on "COVID-19 Vaccine " to read more

Business Recovery Information

The City maintains a Business Recovery Information webpage listing resources from various state, federal, and local organizations to assist local business owners. For more information, see the Business Recovery Information webpage (link).

Eviction Protection

Tenants in Capitola have protections from eviction under local, state, and federal law. The State of California website, housingiskey.com is a great resource for tenants, landlords, and homeowners with up to date information on AB 3088 and SB 91. These laws protect tenants with a COVID-19-related financial impact from eviction for nonpayment of rent if the tenant provides the landlord with a signed declaration for financial distress. They also protect tenants from "no cause" evictions, meaning an eviction where the landlord does not state a reason. Visit housingiskey.com for up to date information on eviction protection.

City of Capitola Department Updates

City Hall, the Police Department, and Jade Street Community Center are open to the public. Facial coverings are recommended for everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

Building, Planning, and Public Works

There are new counter hours. Planning is available in person from 8 to noon, and Building from 1 to 4pm.

The City is accepting building, planning, and public works applications electronically. (Link)

Building Inspections

The Capitola Building Department performs building inspections Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon. To schedule an appointment, we ask that customers email the building inspector at least 24 to 48 hours prior to the date you want the inspection. (Link)

Other Local Services

GreenWaste Recovery is collecting trash and recycling as usual and does not anticipate an interruption in service.
Santa Cruz Public Libraries are now open for "grab-and-go" service. Patrons can request items online, then visit branches to self-checkout when the items are ready. Use this link for more information on how to access library services.
For the latest news on COVID-19, text "covid19" to 211211. This service has been set up by the Santa Cruz County Public Health Service and the United Way.

Public Health Call Center:

Santa Cruz County has launched a new public health call center to address questions regarding COVID-19. Call (831) 454-4242 Monday through Friday 8 AM - 6 PM.

The Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency has also updated their website and is continually adding new information and resources as they are available. The website can be accessed with this link and is also included at the bottom of this page.