Manhattan Beach closes Joslyn Community Center, cancels large events and senior programming
The Joslyn Community Center will be closed at least through April. File photo
The City of Manhattan Beach today announced the closing of the Joslyn Community Center and the cancellation of all large events and city programming for older adults until the end of April.
In a statement, the city said that the actions were taken out of “an abundance of caution” to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the community, particularly older adults who are more vulnerable to the impacts of the virus.
Mayor Richard Montgomery stressed the need for extraordinary measures to ensure public safety.
“The City understands the inconvenience and disruption that this may cause,” Montgomery said in a statement. “As always, public safety is the City’s number one priority, and by making these facility and event programming changes, the City is taking a responsible action to further prevent the virus from spreading, especially among the population at risk.”
The city’s announcement said the following programs and events have been, or may be, postponed or cancelled upon further evaluation:
3/14 /20 – Annual Robinson PTSA Family Fun Run (cancelled)
3/19/20 – Community Meeting on Homelessness Partnership (postponed)
3/21/20 – Senior and Scout House Community Center Gala (postponed)
3/31/20 – Police Department Town Hall Meeting (postponed)
4/16/20 – Volunteer Appreciation Event (cancelled)
4/25/20 – Richstone Pier to Pier (to be determined)
5/15/20 – Older Adult Health Fair (cancelled)
The city will reassess programming and events over the next few weeks. In the interim, programming at other city facilities will likewise be limited. Consistent with the closure of the Joslyn Community Center, the OASIS (Older Adults and Seniors Interactive Space) Room has been closed.
The Dial-A-Ride program will continue to operate, for riders who require medication, doctor visits, and necessary medical care. Dial-A-Ride vehicles are regularly sanitized and cleaned throughout the day.
Parks and Recreation Program staff will still be available to any seniors in the community who need assistance. Residents may call the Parks and Recreation Department at 310-802-5448.