City of Hollister to issue shelter in place

UPDATE 9:40 p.m., 3/16/20 - The City of Hollister is the latest to announce a "shelter-in-place" order to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The action takes place at midnight, with the city ordering all non-essential activities and businesses to stop until April 13.

They are also asking essential businesses, including restaurants, to reduce their occupancy by 50 percent to help with social distancing. Restaurants are encouraged to promote take-out options.

Mayor Ignacio Velazquez tells KION the city decided to issue the order because of their proximity to the Bay Area. He says people that live in Hollister but work in the Bay Area are staying home because of COVID-19. He doesn't want all of these people leaving their homes and packing city streets.

This is a developing story.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

City of Hollister Mayor Ignacio Velazquez confirms he has asked the city to issue a shelter in place order.

Once cleared by the City Manager, it will be effective immediately. Non-essential businesses will be asked to close. Super markets, pharmacies, hospitals and other important businesses will remain OPEN.

He says the city will be working with their partners in surrounding communities to provide more information as soon as it becomes available.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.