Rohnert Park Police To Cite Parkgoers, Nonessential Businesses

ROHNERT PARK, CA — As of Friday in Rohnert Park, people found in city parks and those operating a business not deemed essential under the Sonoma County Public Health Order may be cited by police, according to a message from Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Chief Timothy Mattos.

Residents of Sonoma County have been under a public health order to shelter in place since March 17 to slow the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The order limits residents' actions within the community to "essential needs," such as getting groceries and meals, or going to work at an "essential" job. A similar statewide order was issued March 18 by California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

And in an effort to further slow the spread of the virus, public health officials called for the closure Monday of all parks, trails and beaches throughout all communities and cities in Sonoma County.

There were 41 active cases of coronavirus in Sonoma County as of Friday afternoon. Among 50 total cases in the county, eight people have recovered but one person has died. A Rohnert Park health-care worker was the first confirmed case of coronavirus contracted through community spread.

In a Nixle message issued at 12:28 p.m. Friday, Mattos said the city's Public Safety Department is switching from an education approach to proactive enforcement of the Sonoma County Health Order.

"It is imperative that people stay home, only going out for essential needs," Mattos said. "When going out, designate one person instead of the entire household. Every day you ignore the Shelter-in-Place order will extend the time it will take to stop the spread. Public Safety Officers will be issuing citations to individuals found in city parks or operating Non-Essential businesses."

Mattos advised residents to only take short walks around their neighborhood block; to maintain at least 6 feet of social distance from other people; and to only travel for groceries or takeout food when there is true need, not a "want."

"When getting essentials get in and get out, please do not linger or browse," Mattos said. "We will only move forward if each of you do your part."

And in a special message to parents of teenagers, Mattos said public safety personnel are seeing and contacting teens throughout the city.

"We ask that you talk with your teens about not socializing outside of the home and educate them on how they contribute to the spread of the virus," Mattos said.

The violation is a misdemeanor and is sent through the Sonoma County court system, Mattos told Patch.