News and notes from County Supervisor Jacob

Wildfire warning: In light of COVID-19, the county, Cal Fire, the Red Cross and others are re­vamping evacuation plans and other emergency protocols to bolster public safety during a major firestorm.

Residents under evacuation orders this year could be housed in a hotel or motel, or at multi­ple shelters with fewer than 50 people instead of a larger tradi­tional shelter. The Red Cross is working with nearly 100 lodging businesses across the county to make rooms available in a crisis, and they have identified over 200 shelter locations to provide these safer options.

We’re entering the riski­est part of the wildfire season while still being in the middle of an unprecedented health cri­sis. That is forcing us to rethink and retool our disaster-planning efforts.

Small business alert: Applica­tions are still being accepted for the county’s COVID-19 stimulus grant program.

The Board of Supervisors re­cently voted to establish the $17 million fund, setting aside $3.4 million for private for-profit and non-profit businesses in East County.

Many of our retail shops, res­taurants and other businesses are in dire financial straits and need a financial lifeline. The grants will offer relief as we con­tinue battle the virus and work to get our economy on track.

To apply, start here: www.sandiegocounty.gov/stimulus­grant/. The application dead­line is August 15.

Helping seniors: At my urg­ing, the county is moving to ex­pand meal deliveries from local restaurants to seniors and other vulnerable populations.

The Board of Supervisors has agreed to tap into federal CARES Act money to ramp up the deliveries. In recent months, the county has been offering the meals through a program called Great Plates.

These deliveries are not only critical for seniors but are an­other way we can support res­taurants that may be struggling for survival.

In the Zone: Just a reminder that the county’s Cool Zone pro­gram is up and running again, but on a limited basis due to CO­VID-19. For the latest locations and hours, visit www.CoolZones. org.

Have questions, suggestions or feedback about your county government? Call me at 619-531- 5522 or email dianne.jacob@sd­county

Jacob represents District 2 on the County Board of Supervisors.