Virus closes offices, but work goes on

The City of Shafter has kept its offices closed to the public, extending the restrictions past April 15 until further notice. Each department in the city has modified its hours and services provided.

City Hall office buildings will stay closed to the public, with people needing to contact City Hall able to call 661-746-5000 for further information.

The Shafter Police Department has their lobby closed for public access. If someone needs to make an inquiry, a speaker box outside the main lobby is available and will ring into dispatch who will screen for access to the lobby.

LiveScan, fingerprinting services and concealed weapon permit applications are temporarily suspended. Requests for copies of crime reports will be filled on Tuesdays and Thursdays during regular business hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Citation signoffs will be done on Wednesdays during the hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. All registrant requirements are in force. All other records related requests will be by appointment only. If you have any other questions for the Police Department you can contact Captain Jeff Bell at 661-746-8914.

All public areas of the cities’ parks have been closed. Picnic benches, playground equipment and restrooms are closed to the public. If going to the park, please follow social distancing guidelines and do not gather in numbers greater than 10.

The Shafter Learning Center is still closed to the public, but they have began online courses that can be taken by anyone interested. They also are offering online tutoring sessions.

Shafter’s restaurants still are operating, available for residents to take out meals. These include China Cuisine, Generals Headquarters, Subway, Frosty King, Sonic Drive-In, La Fonda, El Michoacano, Burger Factory. [A full list including hours and contact information is on Page 2.] Shafter’s grocery stores are still open, working hard to keep the public stocked with essentials. Gas stations are still open to the public, being deemed essential businesses.

Dollar General, Family Dollar and the city’s array of 99-cent stores and discount stores also are open for business.

The City of Shafter put out an announcement that advises residents to comply with the Stay At Home order made by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Residents are urged go out for essentials such as gas, groceries, food or doctors appointments. When going out, people must abide by the social distancing guidelines and wear a mask and gloves if possible.