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1. What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Many of them infect animals, but some coronaviruses from animals can evolve (change) into a new human coronavirus that can spread from person-to-person. This is what happened with the new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease known as COVID-19. Diseases from coronaviruses in people typically cause mild to moderate illness, like the common cold. Some, like the SARS or MERS viruses cause serious infections like pneumonia.

2. How are coronaviruses spread?

Like other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza, human coronaviruses most commonly spread to others from an infected person who has symptoms through:

• Droplets produced through coughing and sneezing
• Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person
• Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands

We are learning more each day about how easily the new coronavirus spreads and how long it takes for people to become sick. As information becomes available, we will keep you informed. Do not assume that someone of a race or nationality is likely to have COVID-19; this new virus has infected people of many different races and nationalities across the entire world.

3. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Reported illnesses have ranged from people with mild symptoms to people becoming severely ill, requiring admission to the hospital, and dying. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe illness

4. What should I do if I have these symptoms and recently traveled to an affected country?

Evidence from other countries suggest that like the flu, most people will have mild symptoms and should stay home until 24 hours after fever. Certain people should call their doctor early, including the elderly, pregnant women, those with compromised immune systems or underlying medical problems. If you are having difficulty breathing or keeping fluids down, go to an emergency room or call 911, otherwise it is better to call your doctor before going in to seek care.

You should also call a doctor if you have had close contact with a person who has COVID-19. Visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website for an up to date list of countries most affected by COVID-19.

5. Can I get tested for the coronavirus?

Los Angeles County recommends all residents who want a COVID-19 test should first call their Primary Care Provider or Health Care Center to get a test at their facility. If this care is not available, testing is offered across the County of Los Angeles. To find sites and make appointments visit the Los Angeles County Health Services COVID-19 Testing page.

The closest testing sites to Lynwood include MLK Medical Campus, South Gate Park, St. John's Well Child and Family Center/Compton and Rancho Los Amigos/South Campus (August 2020).

6. How is novel coronavirus treated?

There is no specific treatment for illness caused by the novel coronavirus, however, many of the symptoms can be treated. Treatment is based on the patient's condition.

7. Is the coronavirus spreading in the United States?

There have been several cases identified in the United States that have not had travel to affected country. This does suggest there is community spread in the United States and that spread may continue.

8. How can I protect myself when I travel?

At this time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people avoid all nonessential travel to countries that are most affected by COVID-19. Check the CDC COVID-19

View the Information for Travel Frequently Asked Questions webpage.

Taking steps to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, like the flu, will also help to prevent coronaviruses. Talk with your doctor before travel to make sure you have received the recommended vaccines and medications specific to your destination to protect your health.

9. What actions are being taken by the Federal Government regarding travelers from mainland China and Iran?

Because of the COVID-19 outbreak in mainland China and Iran, there are White House travel directives in place:

• Restricting all foreign nationals who have traveled or been in mainland China and Iran in the past 14 days from entering the U.S. This order can be renewed by the President every 14 days.
• Requiring all U.S. citizens and their close family members returning from mainland China to enter through one of eleven airports in the U.S. (including LAX), where they will be screened by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.
• If travelers are showing signs of respiratory illness, they will be sent for additional testing to a health care facility.
• If travelers were in the Hubei Province at any time in the past 14 days, they will be quarantined at a secure location and monitored for illness for 14 days from their last exposure.
• If travelers are returning from other places in mainland China and have been in close contact with a confirmed case of novel coronavirus, they may also be subject to quarantine for 14 days from last exposure.
• If travelers are returning from all other parts of mainland China and they have not been in close contact with a confirmed case of novel coronavirus, they will be allowed to travel to their final destination where they will be monitored by their local public health department and asked to remain in their homes and avoid public places for 14 days from last exposure.

10. What actions are being taken by the federal government regarding travelers from other affected countries?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending that any traveler from other countries with outbreaks of COVID-19 who may have fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, within 14 days after leaving should call their doctor and self-isolate (avoid contact with others and not travel on public transportation while sick).

11. How will Public Health monitor travelers who are self-isolated?

With the new travel guidance, Public Health will regularly monitor potential cases to see if they develop any symptoms or fever. This is the same process we use with other communicable diseases, such as measles. Public Health will also monitor contacts for 14 days after the time of their last exposure, after which time they are free of the risk of developing COVID-19.

12. What can I do to protect myself and others from respiratory infections like COVID-19?

As with other respiratory illnesses, there are steps that everyone can take daily to reduce the risk of getting sick or infecting others with circulating viruses. You should:

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Limit close contact, like kissing and sharing cups or utensils, with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your sleeve (not your hands).
• Get a flu shot to prevent influenza if you have not done so this season.

13. Should I wear a facemask?

Facemasks or face coverings are required when out in public.

14. Could there be school or business closures?

If COVID-19 is spreading widely through a community it may be necessary to recommend that schools or business close to help prevent the spread of disease. Public health is encouraging organizations and schools to review and update their emergency plans and consider ways to continue critical services if on-site operations must be reduced temporarily. Speak with your children's school or daycare center to learn about their emergency operation plan and prepare ahead for possible alternate childcare arrangements. Also speak with employers and learn about what you might be asked to do if there are closures or reduced operations at your worksite.

15. What can I do if I get stressed about COVID-19?

When you hear, read, or watch news about an outbreak of an infectious disease, it is normal to feel anxious and show signs of stress-even when the outbreak affects people far from where you live and you are at low risk of getting sick. It is important to care for your own physical and mental health. For tips on what you can do to help cope, read "Coping with Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks" on the Public Health website. For help, call the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Access Center 24/7 Helpline at 800-854-7771 or call 211.

16. What else can I do?

• Find a healthcare provider if you don't already have one
• Update your emergency kits with food, water and supplies to last a few days in case there is a need for quarantine. Although this is unlikely, it is important to be prepared as you would for any other emergency
• Continue to encourage welcoming environments for all members of our community
• Always check with reliable sources for the up-to-date, accurate information about novel coronavirus
  • Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH, County)
  • California Department of Public Health (CDPH, State)
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, National)
  • World Health Organization (WHO, International)

If you have questions and would like to speak to someone, call 211.

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1. How do I contest a parking citation?

Parking citations are handled through a civil process unless appealed to a criminal court. You may get details on the process by calling the Parking Enforcement Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 271.

The first element of the appeal is an Initial Review. This form must be submitted within 21 calendar days after the date of issuance. The Initial Review form can be processed via the City's website or received at the Public Safety Division counter between the hours of 7 am to 6 pm, Monday through Thursday. The form requires certain information about you and the citation, including a statement about your reason for contesting the citation.

The Public Safety Manager can conduct a brief review of a parking citation for validity. If there are errors which invalidate the citation, the citation can be voided, but this is NOT a determination of innocence or guilt. It is only a review to determine that the citation was legally issued.

If the citation is not voided, you may request a Hearing. To start the process, you need to complete the "Request for Administrative Hearing" form and post the bail for the citation. The form requires you to and select whether you want a "Hearing by Personal Appearance," which is a physical appearance at a Hearing presided over by a Hearing Examiner, or a "Hearing by Declaration," which is submitting your argument in writing for a decision by the Hearing Examiner.

The appearance option is a Hearing held by a Hearing Examiner who hears contested citations on a monthly basis. In that Hearing you can testify, have a witness testify, or present other evidence, such as photos. The Hearing Examiner can find you not liable or dismiss the ticket administratively. He or she can also find you liable, in which case the posted bail is forfeited. The other option is a "Hearing by Declaration" which allows you to submit a written argument to the Hearing Examiner, who then has the same options as with a live hearing. The decision of the Hearing Examiner is final unless you appeal the case to Los Angeles County Superior Court.

2. How do I obtain release of an impounded vehicle?

Registered owners of impounded vehicles must FIRST obtain an impound release prior to going to the contract tow service storage facility. Releases can be obtained at City Hall during regular business for a fee of $125. If the impound occurred when City Hall is closed, the registered owner can remit their impound release payment to Century Sheriff Station, located at 11703 Alameda Street.

To obtain a release on a vehicle that has been impounded, the registered owner must provide a valid California driver's license, the proper registration for the vehicle and provide payment for any outstanding parking violations. If the registered owner does not have a valid California driver's license, he or she must bring two people with valid licenses to obtain a release.

With the impound release and receipt of payment in hand, the registered owner may go to the contract towing provider and remit the applicable towing and storage fees. Vehicles impounded by the Public Safety Division are able to be retrieved from Mr. C's Towing, located at:
4421 Mason Street
South Gate, CA 90280

Only the Registered Owner (RO) of a vehicle can obtain the impound release. If the RO is not available, (for example, out of town), he or she may mail or overnight a notarized letter designating a person to pick up the vehicle. Only the original of the notarized letter is acceptable, not copies or faxes. In the letter, the RO must be very specific as to who will be picking up the vehicle, along with a detailed description of the vehicle, itself (make, model, license plate number, etc.).

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1. How do I apply for or close water and/or trash service?

To open or close service contact the Billing and Collections Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 290 to obtain information on service forms, location of City Hall and water deposit amount required.

View the Water Service Form (PDF).

2. How do I change the mailing address for my bill?

To change the mailing address the account holder must fill out the Change of Address Form (PDF) and provide a copy of their ID, for verification purposes. Copies of the form can also be requested in person or via phone at 310-603-0220, ext. 290.

3. How do I file a complaint or make a service request for water service or trash service?

To file a written complaint, residents are encouraged to come to Lynwood City Hall to complete an appropriate complaint form, or file a complaint on this site through the Request for Service Online Communications System. To file a complaint regarding water meter reads, contact the Billing and Collections Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 290. To file a complaint regarding trash service, contact the Environmental Services Department at 310-603-0220, ext. 287.

4. Why is invoice payment process so lengthy?

All invoices received in the City of Lynwood are properly routed to the department or division responsible for purchase. Upon receiving invoice, the division manager verifies receipt of goods or services before authorizing payment. The invoice is then routed to the Accounting Division for payment. A warrant (check) is prepared along with the Warrant Run for City Council Approval. Once the City Council approves the issuance of all warrants at the City Council meeting, which are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month, then the City Treasurer's signature is obtained. The warrants are then released for pick-up or mailing.

5. My water meter is leaking, whom do I call?

Call the Utility Services Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 800.

6. Who do I contact to my water turned on or off?

Depending on situation if new account resident must go to Water Billing to open an account and get water turned on. If there is a problem with a leak in plumbing they should call the Utility Services Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 800 to off water.

7. Who do I call to report low water pressure?

Call the Utility Services Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 800.

8. Who do I call about the taste and order of my water?

Call the Utility Services Division at 310-603-0220, ext. 800.

9. Who do I call to discuss payment of my water bill?

Call the Water Billing Department at 310-603-0220, ext. 290.

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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1. What is a claim?

Pursuant to the California Government Code, in most cases a claim must be filed if you are seeking money damages from the City and/or one of its employees. With very limited exceptions, no lawsuit for money damages may be brought against the City or any of its employees unless a written claim has been properly filed with the City.

Warning: The submission of a false claim is a crime (Penal Code § 72). The City of Lynwood may seek to recover all costs of defense, including attorney's fees and City resources used in defending the case, in the event a lawsuit is filed against the City which is determined not to be brought in good faith and based upon reasonable cause.

2. What are the time-frames for filing a claim?

Claims for death, injury to person or to personal property must be filed no longer than six months after the date of occurrence (Government Code § 911.2).

Any other claim, including, but not limited to, claims for damages to real property, must be filed no later than one year after the occurrence (Government Code § 911.2(a)).

3. Who is the City’s insurance company?

With some exceptions, the City is self-insured.

4. Do I need an attorney to file a claim?

No. Any member of the public can file a claim on their own behalf. You can also consult with an attorney, or have an attorney file a claim on your behalf. If you have any questions about how or when to file a claim and/or lawsuit, you should consult with an attorney. The City will not provide you with an attorney.

5. Can city personnel fill out the form for me?

No. City personnel cannot provide legal advice or assist you in filling out a claim. Only the claimant or his or her representative or attorney can fill out and file a claim.

6. What do I do if the form does not have enough room for all of my information?

If you need additional room, fill out and attach a piece of paper to the Claim Form.

7. Do I need to submit documents? Pictures? Reports? Diagrams?

Please include all information which describes and supports your claims. This may include pictures, diagrams, medical records, invoices and police reports. These documents do not have to be submitted when you file your claim. You can submit supporting documents through the online portal or via email.

Please reference the claim number on the email subject line.

8. Will I be notified if information is missing from the form?

You will be advised if your claim has insufficient information. The investigator/adjuster assigned to your claim will contact you to request any additional information.

9. Does every page on the form need to be signed?

No. The Claim Form only needs to be signed once.

10. What if I received an error message submitting my claim online?

If you have problems submitting a claim online, detach any documents and attempt to resubmit only the claim form. The documents can be submitted through the claims portal, via email or mail.

If you continue to have problems submitting a claim online, submit a claim in writing by mail or in person to the Office of Human Resources.

11. I am able to submit my claim, but unable to attach images, pictures, doctors notes, etc. What should I do?

Documents can be submitted through the claims portal or via email. You can also submit documents to your investigator/adjuster via mail or email when they contact you.

12. Should I receive a claim number after a claim has been submitted?

After your claim is submitted, you will receive a claim number. Please use that number to reference your claim in all communications with your assigned adjuster/investigator.

13. What happens after my claim is filed?

After a claim is filed, it will be:

• Transferred to the office for handling
• A claims investigator/adjuster will investigate your claim
• Your claim will be denied or the City will accept liability
• If the City accepts liability, the assigned adjuster/investigator will offer compensation to settle the claim
• To settle the claim, the claimant must execute a Release Agreement
• The City issues settlement checks after receipt of the Release Agreement

14. How can I check the status of my claim?

To check the status of your claim, contact your assigned adjuster/investigator. You can also contact the Human Resources Department via email, or by phone at 310-603-0220, ext. 221.

15. When are claims paid?

Claims are paid after the City confirms liability, the parties agree to a settlement amount, a release is executed, and a check is issued by the City Third Party Administrator (TPA).

16. Why was my claim denied?

If your claim has been denied, you will be informed in writing why your claim was denied. If you have additional questions, you can contact your assigned adjuster/investigator, or you can contact the Human Resources Department via email, or by phone at 310-603-0220, ext. 221.

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1. What do I do with my unwanted Bulky Items?

All single-family and multi-family residents living within the City of Lynwood are eligible to receive free "Bulky Item" collection service, with a limit of 5 items per collection. Bulky items include items such as:

• Furniture
• Appliances
• Wood waste
• Large yard waste
• Clothing
• Stereos
• Televisions
• Computers
• Monitors
• Cell phones
• Microwaves and other similar products

Call 888-467-7600 to schedule your free pick-up. Additionally, all bulky items can be taken to county and City clean-up events.

2. How do I properly dispose of sharps?

Hypodermic needles, syringes with needles, lancets and other sharps thrown into household waste present a great risk to sanitation workers, janitors, housekeepers and children-event pets. Lynwood residents can conveniently and responsibly dispose of needles, lancets and other sharps from homes with mail-back containers in 4 easy steps:

1. Residents call Waste Resources Inc. at 888-467-7600 to request a free Sharps Kits (includes container, pre-paid postage label, and a form)
2. Waste Resources will deliver the kit to the residence the following week
3. Residents will fill up the container with sharps
4. Residents mail the containers back for safe disposal by using the pre-paid postage label provided and sign the form included in the inside pocket of the kit

3. What is my waste collection schedule?

You can see your waste collection schedule on the Lynwood Environmental page or on the Street Sweeping and Waste Schedule page.

4. When will my holiday tree be collected?

Holiday trees discarded by residences will be collected beginning December 26 and continuing for 3 weeks for free. Place your holiday tree curbside next to waste carts on your collection day. Trees over 6 feet tall must be cut in half and be sure to remove ornaments and stand.

5. What are the state laws that affect me?

For information on state mandated laws and requirements, please visit the CalRecycle website.

6. How do I get more information on the City of Lynwood's environmental programs?

You can contact Public Works at 310-603-0220, ext. 801.