BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Kern County Board of Supervisors announced changes to its public meeting protocol and instructions for providing public comment during board meetings.

This change comes in response to growing COVID-19 concerns and the statewide stay home order issued by Gov. Newsom.

On March 18, Gov. Newsom issued an order that waives the requirement of the physical presence of board members or the public at board meetings amid coronavirus concerns, because of this waiver and in the best interest of the health of all individuals involved, the next board meeting will be closed to the public.

However, the public can watch the meeting and address the board by email or telephone.

The meeting will be streamed on the K-GOV cable channel and on YouTube.