Tammy Murga

County Supervisor Kathryn Barger announced Monday that Los Angeles County officials ordered the closure of all bars, theaters, gyms and entertainment centers, with the city of Santa Clarita following the same guidelines. Closures also include dining in restaurants. Eateries will only be allowed to offer take-out or delivery services, and grocery stores will be able to remain open. The directive is to remain in place until further notice, Barger’s office said in a news release Monday.

“This is a constantly evolving issue and we appreciate everyone doing their part to help stem the further spread of the virus,” said Barger in a statement.  “We’re moving into the next phase of preventative measures and do not make these decisions lightly.”

With direction from the Centers for Disease Control, gatherings of more than 50 people are strongly discouraged. While Gov. Gavin Newsom made a request Sunday with similar closures, the county issued an order, according to Martha Molina-Aviles with the county.  While planned enforcement of the order has not yet been stated, Molina-Aviles said the county is working closely with law enforcement and communicating with the public to cooperate.

“We’re hoping that people will abide by the orders; it’s for the protection of the public,” she said.

Santa Clarita Mayor Cameron Smyth is expected to offer updates that would implement the latest closures Barger announced Monday, following his earlier statement that the city would not order closures to locations such as bars, gyms and restaurants.