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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
The City of Cocoa is dedicated to keeping our residents, business owners and customers safe by actively monitoring developments related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The City’s main priority is communicating best health practices to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community and amongst employees to ensure the delivery of our core municipal services.
We are working closely with partners at Brevard County Government and the Florida Department of Health to coordinate appropriate planning and response efforts and to share information with you regularly. We would like to thank you for your cooperation and strongly encourage you to continue following the Centers for Disease Control social distancing and prevention guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community. As we face this unprecedented health crisis, the City of Cocoa would like you to know that we are here for you. Continue to check this website for the latest information.
Updated January 18, 2022 at 2:00 pm:
- Vaccine Information
- Testing Information
- City Operations
- Contact the City of Cocoa
- Prevention
- Employment/ Financial Assistance
- Florida's Recovery Plan
- City Council Meetings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Business Resources
- Additional Information & Resources
COVID-19 Booster Shots
Pfizer booster shots are now available for those meeting the following criteria:
- Individuals of age 18+ who received the final dose of over 6 months ago.
You can receive your booster shot from any location administering the vaccine. You are not required to return to the location where you received your first or second dose for the booster shot.
COVID-19 Vaccines in Brevard County
Those currently eligible for vaccination in Florida are:
- All individuals as prescribed by the FDA, typically that is 18 years of age and older for the Moderna and Johnson Johnson vaccines and 5 and older (parental consent needed for 5-17 years old) for the Pfizer vaccine, are eligible to receive the vaccine.
- Those persons whom a physician deems to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. Such physician determinations shall include a statement that the patient meets the defined eligibility criteria established by a form prescribed by the Florida Department of Health. This form can be found at http://ww11.doh.state.fl.us/comm/_partners/covid19_report_archive/covid-physician-form/EO-21-47-Form.pdf.
- Homebound citizens can apply for the vaccine through the State of Florida by e-mailing HomeboundVaccine@em.myflorida.com.
For information on the latest locations and updates on the COVID-19 vaccine visit the Brevard County Department of Health at http://brevard.floridahealth.gov/alerts.html.
You can also visit the Brevard County Emergency Management page regarding vaccine information at http://www.brevardfl.gov/emergency-event/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine-information.
The following providers have vaccines ready and available.
Florida Department of Health-Brevard
- Viera Clinic: 2555 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940. The Moderna, Pfizer, and Janssen (Johnson and Johnson) COVID-19 vaccines are offered, based on availability,
- No appointment is required.
- Second dose return dates for the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine are provided at the time of the first dose.
- Those arriving for vaccine will be provided directions upon entering the parking lot.
- Viera Clinic Vaccine Information
- Titusville Clinic: 611 N Singleton Ave, Titusville, FL 32796. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is offered, based on availability.
- No appointment is required.
- Second dose return dates for the Pfizer vaccine are provided at the time of the first dose.
- Titusville Clinic Vaccine Information
- Melbourne Clinic: 601 E University Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is offered, based on availability.
- No appointment is required.
- Second dose return dates for the Pfizer vaccine are provided at the time of the first dose.
- Melbourne Clinic Vaccine Information
Brevard County Publix Locations
- Brevard County Publix locations will be offering vaccines. Walk-ins are now available. For more info visit Publix's COVID-19 webpage.
Brevard County CVS Locations
- Brevard County CVS Pharmacy locations will be offering vaccines. Walk-ins are now available. For more info visit CVS's COVID-19 webpage.
Health First
- Health First is offering vaccines. For more info visit https://hf.org/staywell/.
Parrish Healthcare
- Parrish Healthcare is offering vaccines. For more info visit https://vaccine.parrishmed.com/.
Brevard County Walmart and Sam's Club Locations
- Brevard County Walmart and Sam's Club locations are offering vaccines. For more info visit www.walmart.com/COVIDvaccine and www.samsclub.com/covid.
Brevard County Winn Dixie Locations
- Brevard County Winn Dixie locations are offering vaccines. for more info visit Winn Dixie's COVID-19 webpage.
West Cocoa Pharmacy
- (321) 305-6909
Vaccine Information
- Information about the vaccines that are currently authorized and recommended to prevent COVID-19 in the United States can be found on the CDC's COVID-19 Vaccineswebpage, which also has these helpful resources:
- More information about vaccine distribution in Florida is available on the Brevard County COVID-19 Vaccine Information webpage and the Florida Department of Health: COVID-19 Vaccines in Florida page.
Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
Everyone should continue with mitigation practices as we await the vaccine and as distribution begins.
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus (and avoid exposing other people).
- Practice social distancing.
- Wear a cloth face cover in public.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Clean your hands often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Clean and disinfect “high-touch” surfaces.
See more about preventing COVID-19.
Avoid Vaccine-Related Scams
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issued a Consumer Alert warning Floridians about COVID-19 vaccine product and distribution scams. With consumers anxious to achieve immunity, scammers may exploit the situation to rip-off Floridians.
To highlight the potential for vaccine-related fraud, the International Criminal Police Organization issued a global warning revealing that of 3,000 websites associated with online pharmacies suspected of selling illicit medicines and medical devices, more than half contained cyber threats, including phishing and spamming malware.
Attorney General Moody released the following tips to help Floridians avoid COVID-19 vaccine-related scams:
- Do not respond to solicitations about vaccines. Once a vaccine is approved and available to the public, availability will be announced by federal and state government agencies, with clear priority tiers and distribution guidelines;
- Never send money or financial information to anyone offering a COVID-19 vaccine or claiming the ability to expedite the process. Vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be provided at no cost; however, vaccination providers will be able to charge an administration fee. Vaccine providers can get this fee reimbursed by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund; and
- Report suspicious solicitations or COVID-19 vaccine-related advertisements to the Attorney General’s Office by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or visiting MyFloridaLegal.com.
Booster Information
Beginning Wednesday, January 19, OMNI Healthcare will be offering Covid-19 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatments at OMNI offices in Melbourne and Titusville. OMNI will be administering the treatments at the following two locations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:
- 1344 S. Apollo Blvd.
Suite 303
Melbourne
(321) 727-3495 - 845 Century Medical Dr.
Suite B
Titusville
(321) 529-6202
Anyone interested in receiving the treatments at OMNI will require evidence of a positive Covid-19 test result. Individuals must have symptoms and meet CDC criteria for administration of the monoclonal treatment. To review CDC criteria, including eligibility, click here. Interested individuals will be screened by phone to ensure they meet the criteria before appointments are scheduled.
Testing Locations
DOH-Brevard has partnered with Nomi Health, Inc., to provide COVID-19 testing at 2555 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940. Tests are available to symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. PCR and rapid antigen tests are available. Appointments are required. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit the Nomi Health appointment website.
For additional COVID-19 testing locations in Brevard County, please visit Florida Department of Health website.
Additional Testing Locations
Rapid testing and PCR testing for COVID-19 are now available to symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals at these additional locations:
- Rockledge City Center, 920 Barton Blvd. Rockledge. Opening Dec. 10, 2021
- West Melbourne Community Park, 3000 Minton Road, West Melbourne. Walk-up testing. Now open.
Testing is free and no appointments are required. Insurance information will be requested, but there is no out-of-pocket expense.
- Parrish Medical Center in Titusville which will begin appointment-only testing from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10. Effective Sept. 11 testing will be available daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Make an appointment at Parrish.
- OMNI Physicians Offices
- Indian Harbour Beach, 2181 South Patrick Dr. 321-777-1316
- Palm Bay, 6100 Minton Rd., NW, Ste. 102 321-724-1171
- Palm Bay, 6100 Minton Rd., NW, Ste 104 321-1172
- Suntree, 6300 N. Wickham Rd. Ste 132A 321-253-4032
- Titusville, 845 Century Medical Dr., Ste B 321-529-6202
Testing
Do you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and need to know how to proceed? Use the self-checker found on the CDC’s COVID-19 website to check your symptoms and discover the next steps you should take.
Visit Brevard County Emergency Management's COVID testing resources page.
If you are exhibiting symptoms, or have questions about COVID-19, please contact The Florida Department of Health’s COVID-19 hotline (available 24/7) at 1-888-779-6121 or reach out via email at COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
- As of July 27, 2021, per current CDC guidelines, the City of Cocoa will be recommending face coverings be worn for all indoor city facilities. All employees will be required to wear face coverings as well.
- All City facilities are back open to the public and Cocoa City Council meetings are allowing the public to attend in person. Face coverings must be worn and are still required to enter any City facility.
- May 19, 2020 - On Tuesday, May 19, 2020, all City of Cocoa facilities will open on a limited basis to the general public in accordance with Governor DeSantis’ Phased Plan to Re-open Florida. However, residents and customers are encouraged to continue to utilize our virtual services including online bill pay and e-mailing or calling City staff for information or for an appointment. Information on how to utilize virtual services for each department is listed below. Read full press release.
- May 18, 2020 - The City of Cocoa recognizes that many of our utility customers have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Water shut-offs were temporarily suspended during this crisis in an attempt to assist our customers through this critical time. If you have a past-due balance on your water utility account, please reach out to Customer Service by phone at (321) 433-8400 or e-mail at customerservice@cocoafl.org to establish an interest-free payment plan and avoid any service interruption beginning June 2, 2020.
- May 14, 2020 - Cocoa City Council made the very difficult decision to cancel the annual Independence Day Fireworks Display and concert with the Brevard Symphony Orchestra scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2020 at Riverfront Park in Cocoa Village. Read full press release.
- May 1, 2020 - In response to Governor DeSantis’ Recovery Plan for Florida, the City of Cocoa will begin a phased approach to re-open City facilities including City Hall. Beginning Monday, May 4, 2020, City facilities will be open to the public by appointment only for essential services. This will remain in effect for approximately two weeks. We will continue to offer all City services as we have been throughout this COVID-19 pandemic. For information on how to make an appointment or how to utilize City services virtually, visit www.CocoaFL.org/covid19. Cocoa’s park facilities including restrooms and playground equipment will begin to re-open on Monday, May 4, 2020 as well.
Public meetings will continue virtually for the time being. Citizens and Cocoa business owners are still able to participate in Cocoa’s public meetings by visiting our agenda portal on our website, www.CocoaFL.org and clicking on the eComment feature on our agendas or by e-mailing meeting@cocoafl.org. All public meetings are streamed live both on our website and via the City of Cocoa’s YouTube Channel.
The City of Cocoa has coordinated a group of business owners from various industry sectors to solicit information about the economic recovery efforts of businesses in the Cocoa community. This group will meet to discuss COVID-19 impacts to businesses and help revive Cocoa’s economy as Florida plans a phased approach to re-opening. The group will provide information related to their business needs as the City works to develop an economic recovery plan.
- April 16, 2020 - Per CDC guidance Brevard County Government has made the decision to close playgrounds. The playgrounds in the City of Cocoa are maintained by Brevard County Central Area Parks & Recreation and therefore will be closed to the public.
- April 3, 2020 - Many of our public works and field services employees are out in the City performing essential job functions. To protect yourself and these staff members, we ask that you stay 6 ft away to adhere to CDC recommendations or call the numbers provided for our various City services on the right of this page.
- April 2, 2020 at 5:00 pm - All City of Cocoa parks will be closed to public gatherings in accordance with the Safer at Home order from the Governor. The parks will remain open to pedestrian passage ONLY. Plan ahead if you will be utilizing our parks as the restrooms will be closed and water fountains have been turned off.
- March 25, 2020 - Cocoa City Council meetings changes implemented due to COVID-19.
- March 23, 2020 - All City of Cocoa facilities including City Hall are closed to the public in order to keep our employees and residents safe. Limited services requested by the public will be by appointment only. City employees will also continue to fulfill requests for service either by phone or electronically. The City has put processes in place to continue service to water customers, the development community, businesses and our residents. These processes will be adjusted as necessary to allow us to provide service to our citizens during the Coronavirus/COVID-19 emergency.
- Early March 2020 Updates:
- The City of Cocoa has enhanced already stringent sanitation procedures by our custodial staff for all City facilities to protect our employees.
- We are equipping and training our employees with gloves, cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer as available.
- City buildings that will have limited public access have been equipped with temporary hand washing stations.
- The splash pad at Riverfront Park has been shut off until further notice out of an abundance of caution.
- The Water Customer Service Division has suspended water shut-offs for non-payment until further notice.
- Events at City Facilities
- In accordance with the Center for Disease Control in order to keep the community and our employees safe, City Council has approved that all events and non-essential public meetings scheduled at City owned facilities from March 17, 2020 through May 11, 2020 be cancelled or rescheduled to a future date to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We will reassess any further postponements at the April 22, 2020 City Council Meeting. If an event chooses to cancel, we will be offering full refunds on any fees paid to the City for that event. View a list of the special events/meetings were scheduled for this time period.
- For private rentals please contact our Leisure Services Division at (321) 639-3500 to reschedule your event or to seek a refund.
- All non-essential public meetings have been postponed until further notice. Cocoa City Council meetings will still be held at their regular meeting date.
- The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse has made the following announcement regarding performances:
- In light of the international health crisis, we want you to know that the health and well being of our patrons and volunteers is of the utmost importance.
Effective immediately, the Playhouse is following the City of Cocoa’s directive to honor the recommendations of the CDC to cancel mass gatherings greater than 10 people for the next eight weeks. As of today (3/17/20), the Playhouse schedule of performances is suspended through May 11, 2020.
Our entire calendar of performances will be adjusted to resume after May 11, 2020. This will be reevaluated over the upcoming weeks and will align with the City of Cocoa’s direction.
We will post a new calendar on all electronic platforms as soon as possible. We ask you to be patient with us as we work to reschedule our programming and that you support us by attending the new dates established. If you are unable to attend, we ask that you accept a gift certificate to be redeemed for a future production. Our Box Office team will be working diligently with each of you.
The only way we can survive this is with your help.
- In light of the international health crisis, we want you to know that the health and well being of our patrons and volunteers is of the utmost importance.
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The City of Cocoa is working with our local businesses to continue to communicate vital information during this time. Many businesses in our community are now offering curbside pick-up services. With the assistance of the Historic Cocoa Village Main Street Association we have determined temporary pick-up locations for these businesses in the Historic Cocoa Village business district that will be offering the curbside service. Many businesses will remain open with enhanced cleaning efforts to keep patrons safe. So please continue to support our local businesses in any way that you can during this time.
- City Clerk’s Office (Passports, Public Records, Cocoa City Council)
- Phone: (321) 433-8480
- E-mail: CityClerk@CocoaFL.org
-
Utility Customer Service (Water bill payments, Service requests, etc.)
-
Community Services
All inspections will continue at this time, please contact the Building/Permitting office to schedule an inspection. If you need to pick up a permit, please call (321) 433-8501 to make an appointment.
- Planning:
- E-mail: Planning@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8501
- Building/Permitting:
- E-mail: Building@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8501
- Business Tax Receipts:
- E-mail: Building@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8502
- Economic Development:
- E-mail: EconomicDevelopment@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8509
- Planning:
-
City Manager’s Office
- Phone: (321) 433-8737
- E-mail: kfrederick@cocoafl.org
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Leisure Services
- Phone: (321) 639-3500
- E-mail: LeisureServices@cocoafl.org
- Website: www.CocoaFL.org/Leisureservices
- Virtual tours of both the Porcher House and Civic Center are available on our website.
-
Utilities Administration
- Phone: (321) 433-8700
- E-mail: Utildept@cocoafl.org
-
Public Works
- Phone: (321) 433-8770
- E-mail: PublicWorks@cocoafl.org
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Human Resources
- Phone: (321) 433-8440
- E-mail: HumanResources@cocoafl.org
- Cocoa Police Department Lobby
- For all EMERGENCIES, please dial 911
- To make a police report, please go to the door on the east side of the building
- To make arrangements to pick up property, please call 321-637-6304
- To obtain a copy of a police report please call 321-637-6300 or email your request to cocoarecords@cocoapolice.com
- Cocoa Fire Department Lobby for each station
- For all EMERGENCIES, please dial 911
- Phone: (321) 639-7605
- E-mail: sbyrd@cocoafl.org
Prevention
The CDC has issued general warnings to the public to help stop the spread of the virus:
- The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
- Social distancing (meaning 6 feet away from others will help prevent the spread!)
- Stay safe. Stay home. Stay Connected.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Put distance between yourself and other people.
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
Utility Assistance
OUR Florida, Florida’s federally-funded emergency rental assistance relief program, supports residents and businesses as they continue to recover and rebuild.
OUR Florida is currently accepting applications for rental and utility assistance and will begin processing applications in the order in which they were received beginning Monday, May 17, 2021.
Brevard County Allocates $18M for Rental Assistance for Residents Impacted by COVID-19
The Board of Brevard County Commissioners has allocated more than $18 million in federal dollars for an Emergency Rental Assistance Program for income-eligible Brevard County residents impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides financial assistance and housing stability services, including rent, rental arrears, utilities and home energy costs, utilities and home energy costs arrears, and other expenses related to housing incurred due, directly or indirectly, to the novel coronavirus disease. Assistance is restricted to households whose income is at or below 80% of area median income ($55,350 for a family of four).
The application for the program will be available at all 17 Brevard County Libraries and the Law Library, on the Department’s website, http://www.brevardfl.gov/HumanServices, and through an online system https://brevardflhhs.seamlessdocs.com/f/EmergencyRentalAssistance.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Applicant is a resident of Brevard County.
- Applicant is at or below 80% of Area Median Income.
- The applicant must sign all required documents (application, social security number waiver, release/request of information, etc.) or their application will be rejected/denied.
- Documentation of all income from the entire Household as reported on the Household Income Section of the application (include 2 months of bank statements, paystubs, etc., or a 2020 tax return (IRS Form 1040)).
- All members of a household must be accounted for in the application.
- For applications filled out by hand, please make sure that the writing is clear and legible.
The County has received $18,176,052 for the program from the federal government. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program will be administered, as directed by Brevard County Commission, through the County's Housing and Human Services Department.
Reemployment Assistance
Reemployment Assistance benefits are available to Floridians who have been negatively impacted as a result of the mitigation efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Eligible individuals include those who have lost their job through no fault of their own, are quarantined by a medical professional or a government agency, laid off or sent home without pay for an extended period by their employer, or caring for an immediate family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19.
Reemployment Assistance benefits, formerly known as Unemployment Compensation, can be filed online: www.floridajobsresources.com
Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Phase 3 of State’s Reopening Plan
On Friday, September 25, Governor DeSantis held a press conference to announce Phase 3 of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery. Florida’s move to Phase 3 will remove restrictions imposed during the first and second stages of the reopening plan.
Effective immediately, Phase 3 of Governor DeSantis’ Plan for Florida’s Recovery includes the following:
- All remaining state-level restrictions on businesses, including those on restaurants and bars, will be lifted and businesses may operate at 100% capacity.
- No COVID-19 emergency ordinance may prevent individuals from working or operating a business.
- Local governments may not impose COVID-19 related restrictions on restaurants limiting capacity to less than 50% indoor capacity. No food service establishments may be limited to less than 100% capacity without an approved economic impact statement and public health justification for each limitation or restriction.
- Local governments may not collect fines associated with COVID-related mandates.
View Governor DeSantis’ full press conference here: https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/9-25-20-press-conference-on-coronavirus-covid-19/
View Executive Order 20-244 here: https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-244.pdf
One Goal One Florida
Governor Ron DeSantis announced One Goal One Florida, an initiative to unite Floridians and urge them to work together in the fight against COVID-19.
“COVID-19 has been a significant challenge for all Floridians but I’m 100% confident we can, and will, overcome this challenge,” said Governor DeSantis. “To that end, I’m asking all Floridians to join me in this important effort – One Goal One Florida.”
Governor DeSantis is asking all Floridians to follow these simple, yet effective guidelines:
- Protect the vulnerable, including the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions.
- Practice proper hygiene, including washing your hands.
- Practice social distancing by avoiding closed spaces and crowded places.
- Wear a mask if you are in close contact with others.
Watch the Governor’s announcement.
Governor Ron DeSantis issues Phase 1 of Florida’s Recovery Plan
- Executive Order
- Slides from press conference
- 4/29/2020 Press Conference Outlining Phase 1
- Frequently Asked Questions about Phase 1
- Executive Order 20-120
- Department of Business & Professional Regulation Information for Barbershops
- Department of Business & Professional Regulation Frequently Asked Questions Related to Barbershops and Cosmetology Salons
Governor Ron DeSantis issues Phase 2 of Florida’s Recovery Plan
Cocoa City Council meetings are back open to the public attending, with social distancing guidelines in place until further notice. In order to continue to meet the guidance from State and Federal officials as it relates to social distancing and preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, chairs in Council Chambers will be spread apart to maximize distance between attendees and masks will be provided in the lobby area. There are multiple ways the public can still participate in the meetings without coming in person:
- Link to the online agenda for Cocoa City Council Meetings. Ecomments will be accepted up until 30 minutes prior to the scheduled meeting.
- Link to the City of Cocoa, Florida Youtube Channel where the Cocoa City Council Meetings are live streamed.
- E-mail meeting@cocoafl.org to submit comments for Cocoa City Council Meetings.
- What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?
- How does the COVID-19 virus spread?
- What steps can my family take to reduce our risk of getting COVID-19?
- How can my family and I prepare for COVID-19?
- How can I still participate in the Council Meetings without being able to be there in person?
- Will there be any considerations for food stamp requirements?
- Is our water safe to drink?
- What happens if a Utility Worker at the water plant contracts the virus?
- Does the City have a contingency fund to help get through this pandemic and continue basic City services?
- How is Cocoa working with other agencies throughout the County and State to make sure services are maintained and information is communicated?
- Does the City of Cocoa have it's own Emergency Manager or do you just coordinate with the County?
- Why haven't you shut down the City?
- What is the City of Cocoa doing to protect it's employees?
- Should I use soap and water or a hand sanitizer to protect against COVID-19?
- What cleaning products should I use to protect against COVID-19?
- Are children more at risk?
- How should parents talk to children about COVID-19?
- Do I need to boil my water?
- Can I get COVID-19 from wastewater or sewage?
- Do wastewater treatment plants treat COVID-19?
- Should wastewater workers take extra precautions to protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus?
- Is it okay to flush disinfecting wipes?
Cocoa City Council extends Outdoor Dining Permits through December 31, 2021
On Tuesday, September 14, 2021, Council extended the expiration date of Resolution 2021- 13 to December 31, 2021 to continue to allow expanded outdoor dining options to those approved applicants due to the Covid- 19 emergency.
Brevard County Offers Small Business Assistance Grants
BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – The application period for small businesses and nonprofit organizations to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to offset expenses and lost revenue related to the COVID-19 public health emergency has been extended until further notice by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners.
Applications are available at www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardCARES.
To be eligible through the Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program, the small business:
- Must be physically located in Brevard County
- Must have had 50 or fewer employees as of January 1, 2020
- Must have been negatively impacted financially by the COVID-19 public health emergency
- Must be enrolled in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program
- Applicant’s revenue losses or expenses utilized to establish program eligibility and grant amount must not have been reimbursed through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), Small Business Administration (SBA) Debt Relief Program or other similar federal and state programs.
Nonprofits that are eligible must be a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(6) or a 501(c)(19) as designated by Internal Revenue Code.
It's important to note:
- Businesses and Nonprofits are eligible to apply even if they have received other forms of assistance.
- Money received through the County's Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program are grants, not loans, and therefore do not need to be paid back.
- There is adequate funding available to help businesses and nonprofits that qualify.
On July 7, 2020, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) allocated $10 million through the CARES Act fund for local governments to a Small Business and Non Profit Economic Relief Program. CARES Act funding will be made available to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that meet eligibility requirements established by the BOCC for Brevard’s Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program and Specific priorities intended to advance economic development in Brevard County.
For more information, call 321-350-9194 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Kits Available for Small Businesses
10/27/20 Update from Brevard County:
BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – Brevard County Government has three events planned in November to distribute free Personal Protection Equipment to small businesses, retailers and restaurants.
Distributions will be held at the following locations (no appointment is needed):
North - Wednesday November 4, 2020 at Titusville Library, 2121 South Hopkins Ave., Titusville, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Central – Thursday November 5, 2020 at Central Reference Library, 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
South – Friday November 6, 2020 at the Melbourne Library, 540 East Fee Ave., Melbourne, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To receive a PPE kit, a license, business card or document that displays the business name and address must be presented. Businesses are eligible to receive up to two kits.
PPE kits provided by the County contain 200 procedure masks, 25 reusable cloth masks, 2 boxes of gloves and 2 bottles of hand sanitizer. When filling out an application, businesses will be able to choose a preferred location to pick up free PPE once distribution begins on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Small businesses, retailers and restaurants that have collected free PPE from the County during previous distributions are still eligible for PPE, but must apply.
The PPE kit distribution was approved by the Board of County Commissioners to support small businesses, retailers and restaurants with supplies to sustain operations during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
Original Press Release from Brevard County:
Small businesses in Brevard County that employ 25 or fewer workers can apply beginning Monday, July 20, for County-provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits funded through the federal Coronavirus Air, Relief and Economic Security (CARES Act).
The PPE kit distribution was approved by the Board of County Commissioners to support small businesses with supplies to reopen and sustain operations during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
PPE kits provided by the County will contain 200 procedure masks, 25 reusable cloth masks, 2 boxes of gloves and 2 bottles of hand sanitizer. Applications are available online beginning Monday at www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardCARES. Distribution of the PPE kits will be held from Monday, Aug. 3, through Friday, Aug. 7, at various locations in the county.
Small businesses eligible for the PPE kits must meet the following criteria:
- Must have 25 or fewer employees
- Must be located in Brevard County
Must operate within the following industry segments:
- Health Care
- Children services and youth camps
- Museums and historical sites
- Amusement and recreation centers
- Independent restaurants
- Barber Shops, beauty salons, nail salons, and personal care services
Once approved, businesses may choose from the following locations and times to pick up their PPE kit:
- Monday, Aug. 3: Titusville Library, 2121 South Hopkins Ave., Titusville, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 4: Central Brevard Library and Reference Center, 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Wednesday, Aug. 5: Cocoa Beach Library, 550 North Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 6: Melbourne Library. 540 East Fee Ave., Melbourne, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Friday, Aug. 7: Brevard County’s warehouse, 7740 Technology Drive, West Melbourne, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For more information, call (321) 350-9275.
Brevard Workforce Recovery Assistance Program
CareerSource Brevard in partnership with The Brevard County Board of County Commissioners has announced a NEW Workforce Recovery Assistance Program available to Brevard’s small (fewer than 50 employees) businesses, impacted by COVID-19. Bring valued employees back to work -- we’ve got their pay covered for up to 16 weeks! Funds are limited for this assistance program and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Apply today for the Workforce Recovery Assistance Program! Application deadline: July 31, 2020.
#CocoaReadytoLaunch
The City of Cocoa is working with local business owners to gather ideas and information on how they plan to safely re-open their businesses. Cocoa City Council approved a resolution to allow for the expansion of outdoor dining options and signage options to aid the economic recovery efforts of Cocoa Businesses and market the safe re-opening efforts of our local small businesses. In accordance with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ Florida Economic Recovery Plan, the City of Cocoa will work with local business owners to promote the safe re-opening of Cocoa businesses. As the State and City prepare to reopen and with guidance from the CDC and the Governor, this page will be updated with resources and tools to help our local business owners. For more information visit, www.ChooseCocoa.org.
Small Business Administration: Paycheck Protection Program
The SBA will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from participating lenders on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 10:30am EDT.
More information from the U.S. Small Business Administration regarding the Paycheck Protection Program.
Florida nonprofits can apply through the Florida Community Loan Fund.
Historic Cocoa Village Business Links
Small Business Grant Information
Information on Governor DeSantis’ Essential Services and Activities During COVID-19 Emergency Executive Order (20-91) :
- Executive Order (20-91) regarding essential services and activities during COVID-19 emergency
- Essential Services information & FAQs from Florida Chamber of Commerce
- A list of essential services can be found on the Florida Division of Emergency Management COVID-19 page
- Guidance on the essential critical Infrastructure workforce from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Information from the State of Florida:
Governor Ron DeSantis has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will provide short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury from COVID-19. The application period opens tomorrow, March 17, 2020 and runs through May 8, 2020. For more information, visit the Governor Ron DeSantis COVID-19 Bridge Loan Program website.
The CDC also has resources for businesses and employers.
Information from the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce:
FL Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) & Paycheck Protection Loan
Florida Bridge Loan - $50K to $100K, one year balloon payback, no interest. Short term, interest free working capital loans, not a grant. Need the following: 2 years completed personal tax returns, 2 years business tax returns, evidence of economic injury (usually that means a YTD Profit and Loss showing the revenue loss), evidence of 2 to 100 employees. Either apply online or mail to the central location. (Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, 107 E. Madison Street, MSC-160, Tallahassee, FL 32399-4120)
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) - Up to $2M, up to 30 years, can be used to pay back the Florida Emergency Bridge Loan. Apply directly at the SBA. There is also a grant aspect of this where if you apply the SBA will provide some money up front.
NOTE: all of the details relating to the immediate grant funds may not be available since the CARES act just passed.
SBA Paycheck Protection Loan – this is an SBA 7A loan where businesses would apply at a bank. Not all the lenders are noted yet, but we suggest you start at the bank that you are doing business with. Details are still be finalized.
Inside the CARES Act: Emergency EIDL Grants
Many businesses are calling and eager to learn more about the granting portion of the CARES Act. Here is what we know so far, but keep in mind the implementation of this is still being worked out.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the CARES Act, which provided additional assistance for small business owners and non-profits, including the opportunity to get up to a $10,000 Advance on an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). This Advance may be available even if your EIDL application was declined or is still pending, and will be forgiven.
Those entities include small businesses, sole proprietors, private non-profits, independent contractors, cooperatives, ESOPs, and tribal units, all with under 500 employees that apply for loans in response to the COVID-19. Upon verification, the government, through lending institutions that work with the SBA, will provide grants up to $10,000. The applying entity has to have been in business for at least a year, which may be waived, but certainly before January 31, 2020.
If you wish to apply for the Advance on your EIDL, please use the link below and fill out the form as soon as possible. In order to qualify for the Advance, you need to submit this new application even if you previously submitted an EIDL application. Applying for the Advance will not impact the status or slow your existing application.
Coronavirus Emergency Loans Guide and Checklist for Small Businesses and Nonprofits
COVID-19 Business Resources
Below are some resources that may assist or inform you, your family and employees during this uncertain time. For more resources visit: CocoaBeachChamber.com/covid-19/
Re-employment Assistance
Price-Gouging Hotline
Coronavirus Tax Relief
Monoclonal Antibody Treatment Site
Per Governor DeSantis on 8/17/2021:
Today, we are opening a new monoclonal antibody treatment site in Merritt Island at Kiwanis Island Park.
- It’s open from 9AM - 5PM, 7 days a week, and
- Has the capacity to serve more than 300 patients per day.
Find more info at http://patientportalfl.com.
- World Health Organization Coronavirus website
- Center for Disease Control (COVID-19) Website
- CDC Preparing Communities
- Florida Department of Health COVID-19 website
- Coronavirus Fact Sheet-English & Coronavirus Fact Sheet-Spanish
- Cover Your Cough Poster
- Stop the Spread of Germs Poster
- Hand Washing vs. Hand Sanitizer Fact Sheet
- What To Do If You’re Sick
- Space Coast Area Transit