Newport Beach City Hall Shutters To Public Due To Omicron Variant Outbreaks

NEWPORT BEACH, CA —Newport Beach City officials announced that the City Hall and community centers will be temporarily closed to the public due to the surge in coronavirus cases across Orange County.

"All city services will continue, although some will be conducted only through virtual or drop-off services," city spokesperson John Pope advised.

The city of Newport Beach expects the city hall closure to last through mid-January. The city decided to return to COVID restrictions, keeping all non-city employees out of the city buildings, as growing staff reported being exposed to coronavirus, Pope told the OC Register. Health and safety is the main message, according to Pope, as the city leaders urge residents to get vaccinated and receive booster shots.

"We are carefully monitoring the COVID Omicron outbreak in consultation with Hoag Hospital and County Health Officials, and will adjust as necessary," Pope wrote in a release.

What's Open?

The permit counter is accepting drop-off permits, outside of City Hall, as was used in previous COVID protocols.

Newport Beach City libraries will remain open, however, in-person meetings or programs are on hold until further notice, the city announced.

Recreation Classes will go on as planned. Face coverings are mandatory, indoors.

"Community Centers will be limited to the program participants, only," they say.

What's Virtual?

Bill paying and other revenue operations will be conducted online and by phone, they say.