The City of Southlake is currently operating at what’s known as a level three stand-by emergency activation in reaction to the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The activation means the City’s Executive Leadership Team is operating in a state of readiness, collecting information, providing updates, and otherwise are on call to address any issues.
City Offices Open
City of Southlake offices will remain open with staff working to meet the needs of Southlake residents and businesses. The City is employing additional cleaning procedures at public buildings to help support the safety of the public and City employees. There are also hand sanitizer stations located in public areas. As much as possible, City staff is working with vendors and customers through online means such as phone meetings and conference calls, online payment options, and other online services. First responders will use protective gear as prescribed on emergency medical calls and during police interactions that require physical contact. Trash and recycling collection is running on its regular scheduling.
City Closures and Cancellations until March 31:
The City is also working under the guidance of state and county recommendations on the possible cancelation of organized events with more than 250 attendees.
“The emergency declarations from President Trump, Governor Abbott, and Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley have emphasized the need for people to stay aware and informed,” said Mayor Laura Hill. “I will continue to work with our local, state, and community partners in support of limiting the virus’s spread,” she added.
“We are encouraging people to make the best personal decisions possible for themselves and their families, based upon the latest guidance from Federal, State, and County agencies and officials,” said Southlake Assistant City Manager Alison Ortowski.
Stay Informed
To help you stay informed, the City has created a new information page on its website that provides a centralized place to find the latest news and resources for the Southlake community. Bookmark www.ProtectSouthlake.com for easy, quick access to the information you need. If you have questions, please call the Tarrant County Coronavirus Hotline at 817-248-6299.
During the February 4 Southlake City Council session, a mutual aid agreement with the North Central Texas Public Works Emergency Response Team was approved. PWERT provides resources during an emergency or disaster to support local governments. There are currently 62 cities that are PWERT members. The organization is voluntary and there is no cost associated with membership.
“Being prepared for emergencies is more than just weather alerts. If a disaster strikes, we want to be prepared to get basic services like water back up and running as soon as possible,” Director of Public Works Rob Cohen said. “This agreement will help us request any necessary resources to make that happen.”
By becoming a PWERT member, the City’s goal is to restore core services as quickly as possible after an emergency or disaster. The agreement not only works to expedite recovery after a disaster, but works out legal and financial issues in advance. Member cities have access to request resources such as personnel, equipment, vehicles, generators and sand bags.
The partnership with PWERT allows Southlake to achieve high performance management standards by collaborating with partners for the benefit of citizens.
