The Goleta Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is taking on a new role to step up and help the local business community during this ongoing global pandemic.  The CERT Team, a volunteer organization that typically trains to prepare and respond to emergencies, is now trained to act as Business Ambassadors to help during the COVID-19 crisis. The on-the-ground assistance is in support of the County’s RISE Ambassador effort to provide education, resources and support for businesses in Santa Barbara County.

The CERT Business Ambassadors will be hitting the streets of Goleta next week in their dark green shirts and will be stopping by local restaurants, barber shops, retail stores and more to answer questions and ensure that businesses understand the laws and guidelines surrounding re-opening and conducting business safely. 

City of Goleta Emergency Services Coordinator Michael Baris, who oversees the group said, “The City of Goleta recognizes that news is constantly changing and as a business owner it can be tough to keep up with the latest laws and guidelines for businesses. For example, are you uncertain if your business is compliant with the current Health Orders?  Do you wonder if your current practices are safe for your employees?  Our CERT Business Ambassadors are here to help.”

Before businesses can reopen in Santa Barbara County, they are required to review state and local guidance, complete a COVID-19 Prevention Plan, and self-certify that they can open safely; all of which can be found at https://recoverysbc.org/reopen-your-business/.

The City of Goleta is pleased that our CERT volunteers are able to help Santa Barbara County provide this assistance to our businesses.  For more information, contact Emergency Services Coordinator Michael Baris at cert@cityofgoleta.org or (805) 690-5119.  Learn more about the Goleta CERT program at http://tinyurl.com/GoletaCERT.  

Pictured: Goleta CERT Volunteer Cecilia Herrera