CITY RESPONDS TO COVID-19

In response to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19 in North Texas, Mayor Joe McCourry issued a local disaster declaration on March 17, limiting gatherings to no more than 50 people. This action is taken alongside other steps being made to minimize exposure in the community, including temporarily closing several public facilities through the end of March. The City is not, however, shut down. All departments remain open for business and are making any necessary changes to procedure in order to accommodate current conditions. For the latest information regarding what facilities are closed, how you can stay in touch with us, and how to help protect yourself and your family, visit www.TheColonyTx.gov/covid19. Highlights include:

• City Hall is closed to the public but staff remain available at the utility-billing drive-through window on the north side of the building (6800 Main St.) during regular business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday. Customers can also access their accounts online.
• The Colony Community/Senior Center, Recreation Center and Aquatic Park are closed and all programs suspended. For more information, call 972-625-1106. Also, check out the list of fun, creative resources compiled by Parks & Rec staff to help parents and kids pass the time while school is out.
• Parks & Trails remain open as they are considered low-threat areas but pavilion rentals are suspended.
• The Colony Public Library is closed and all programs are suspended. However, a wealth of online resources remain available through TCPL’s digital offerings.
• The Municipal Court customer-service windows remain open during regular business but all court dockets through March 31 are cancelled. For information, contact the Court at 972-624-2200.
• The Colony Animal Services facility remains open during regular hours. Please see below for a news item detailing the shelter's no-cost offerings for adoptable dogs in light of recent owner-surrenders related to COVID-19.
• Special events have been cancelled through the end of April. Also, all public meetings are postponed with the exception of City Council, Planning & Zoning, Economic Development Corp. board, and Community Development Corp. board.

• Wash hands thoroughly and often
• Stay home when you are sick
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Cover your mouth and nose to reduce the spread of germs
• Avoid touching your eyes nose and mouth
• Practice "social distancing" and avoid large gatherings

Animal Shelter offers no-cost adoptions for all dogs

The Colony Animal Services (TCAS) has seen a recent increase in owner-surrenders due to concerns about COVID-19. As a result, the shelter is at maximum capacity. To increase adoptions, TCAS is offering no-cost adoptions on all dogs. Adoptions include all the vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter. There are many great, large breeds available for adoption. Also, with all the recent storms, TCAS is strongly encouraging residents to check their fences and make sure they are secure. If you realize your dog is missing, check with the Shelter to see if it has been impounded. If we can keep strays at a minimum, it opens up more kennel space for owner-surrenders. "With our community's continued support, TCAS feels confident we can weather this storm together," said Mark Cooper, TCAS Manager. For more info, call the Shelter at 972-370-9250 or stop by 4720 East Lake Highlands Drive.