City manager on governor's mandate: 'This isn't martial law'

Menifee city manager Armando Villa today urged residents to remain calm in the wake of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s “stay at home” order and reminded citizens that “this isn’t martial law.”

Acknowledging that the governor’s Thursday night announcement was at the least a “harsh recommendation”, and while asking that residents stay at home whenever possible, Villa said that the mandate “doesn’t come with repercussions” at this time.

The bottom line, according to Villa: Residents are urged to stay at home to minimize spread of the coronavirus, but if you must drive to work, go to the bank, grocery store or for other necessities, you are allowed to do so.

“We realize we don’t have enough enforcement for there to be repercussions even if it was necessary,” Villa said. “You’re not going to get pulled over by police if you’re out driving around. We trust that people understand what they’re being asked to do, and we think employers understand why the government is doing this.”

Villa said it is up to individual employers to interpret the guidelines on what constitutes an “essential” business and determine what message to send to employees. Many are working from home, while many still have to report to work at medical facilities, grocery stories and other businesses.

“This isn't martial law; it continues to be a strong advisory,” Villa said. “Like the president said, we think it will take two weeks to curb the pandemic.

“I know people are questioning what businesses are ‘essential’, and some may push the limits. Nobody wants to shut down. In addition, we know some may not show up for work because of concerns for their health.

“Looking out my office window today, I see a huge difference in the amount of traffic on our streets. But if you feel like you need to go to the bank, go to get food, do so.”