Potential Power Outages, More COVID-19 Testing, Census, and Other Updates
Be Prepared for Rolling Power Outages
A record breaking heat wave impacting the West Coast has strained the state’s power grid, leading to the first rolling power outages since the energy crisis in 2001. The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) has called for a Flex Alert from 3pm-10pm, lasting until tomorrow (Wednesday 8/19). To help reduce the threat of rolling power outages, CAISO is recommending individuals take the following actions between 3pm-10pm:
Set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees, if health permits.
Defer use of major appliances.
Turn off unnecessary lights.
Unplug unused electrical devices.
Close blinds and drapes.
Use fans when possible.
Limit time the refrigerator door is open.
Berkeley residents should be prepared for the possibility of losing power this evening for several hours. Based on previous days, it is unlikely we will have confirmation as to where and when exactly these outages will take place. However, PG&E has announced 16,960 Berkeley customers would be impacted if rolling blackouts are needed this evening. We will post on Twitter if there are any major updates throughout the next couple of days.
Self-Administered COVID-19 Testing Returns
A pop-up COVID-19 testing site where people can self-administer an oral swab under supervision will return to Berkeley, after two previous rounds successfully tested 300 people daily. Testing will take place at the Berkeley Adult School from today (August 18) through Sunday, August 23 from 9am-12pm and 1pm-5:30pm. An appointment is required.
As of August 18, there have been 481 confirmed cases and 5 deaths from COVID-19 in Berkeley. 26,747 tests have been administered, with a positive rate of 2.0%. Additional data, updated daily, can be found on the City’s COVID-19 dashboard and the indicators dashboard which is updated weekly.
2020 Census: Make Sure You are Counted
With just six weeks until the 2020 US Census concludes, several census tracts in Berkeley - notably areas with high student populations - continue to have low response rates. Census takers are now canvassing residences who have not yet participated. They can be identified by their Census Bureau ID, census bag, laptop/iPhone, and an official letter. You can save them the trip by filling out the Census online.
All Berkeley residents, including UC Berkeley students who are currently not living in Berkeley as a result of COVID-19, need to be counted in Berkeley. Students who are not sure if they have responded or need to respond can take this short, interactive online quiz to find out.
The US Census is critical in determining federal funding, with each person counted resulting in $1,000 annually for services such as infrastructure, affordable housing, schools, public transit, and health care. For every person that goes uncounted, local communities lose $10,000 over the next decade. The Census also determines redistricting on a local, state, and federal level. California is expected to lose a Congressional seat if there is an undercount.
Some UC Students Return as Fall Semester Begins
Classes at UC Berkeley for the Fall 2020 semester will begin on August 26th. While instruction is taking place online, an estimated 2,250 students will be returning to student housing. Unlike previous years, move in day will take place over several days, between Thursday, August 20th and Sunday, August 23rd. Approximately 600 students will be checked in each day.
UC Berkeley’s Move-In Team is coordinating with the Berkeley Police Department and other city offices to manage traffic flow throughout the four days. With the reduced number of students moving in over a longer period we anticipate the impact on the adjacent neighborhoods will be minimized. There will be no road closures. However, traffic may be heavier than usual near the corner of Bancroft and Fulton as students make their way through the University’s COVID-19 Testing Site which is located in the parking lot between the Spieker Pool and the Public Affairs Building at 2200 Bancroft. Once students are tested they will proceed to the registration tables outside their assigned residence hall. As another safety precaution, students are limited to two helpers to assist with move-in.
Independent Redistricting Commission: Volunteers Needed
Every ten years following the federal census, Berkeley reviews its eight City Council district boundaries to ensure districts are balanced with the same number of residents. The City of Berkeley needs 13 dedicated residents from Berkeley’s diverse population to join an Independent Redistricting Commission in 2021-2022.
Commissioners will hold public meetings, review draft maps, and decide the final district boundaries. Support and training will be provided. No experience or technical knowledge is needed – but there are some eligibility requirements. The application period will be open September 8, 2020 through October 9, 2020. To be added to our interest list or for questions, email the City Clerk Department at redistricting@cityofberkeley.info or call (510) 981-6908. Additional details can be found here.
Next Town Hall This Saturday at Noon
Join Mayor Jesse Arreguín, Deputy City Manager Paul Buddenhagen, and Berkeley Health Officer Dr. Lisa Hernandez for a Virtual Town Hall where they will provide updates on the city’s response to COVID-19 and answer your questions.
What: Virtual Town Hall on COVID-19
When: Saturday, August 22, 12pm
Watch live at jessearreguin.com
Ask your questions by 9am on Saturday at jessearreguin.com
COVID-19 Resources
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