Coronavirus: Pflugerville Cuts Services Amid COVID-19

PFLUGERVILLE, TX — The City of Pflugerville is closing public facilities — the animal shelter, recreation center, library and other functions — through month's end to prevent potential spread of new coronavirus, officials announced Monday.

To that end, city officials said the Pflugerville Animal Welfare Services (PAWS), Pflugerville Recreation Center, Pflugerville Public Library, municipal court and the recycling center all will close, effective immediately. The closures are meant as a tactic of "social distancing" recommended by health officials while enabling city staff to focus on municipal operations, officials explained.

The move comes on the heels of a ban on large gatherings of at least 250 people implemented by the city as an added precaution. In announcing the prohibition, Mayor Victor Gonzales also urged those organizing smaller events to strongly consider postponement or outright cancellation.

Related story: Coronavirus: Pflugerville Cancels City Events, Limits Crowd Sizes

The closures will be in place through March 31, officials added. The breakdown:

• While the PAWS facility is closed to the public, animals already in the shelter will continue to safely receive the utmost care, offiials stressed. If a loose animal is found and service is needed, residents are urged to call (512) 990-7387. For other information, email pets@pflugervilletx.gov.
• The Pflugerville Recreation Center closure includes suspension of all programs, activities and meetings, according to a city press advisory. Moreover, park and facility reservations are canceled through May 1, officials added. Those with immediate questions while the facility is closed are directed to email parks@pflugervilletx.gov.
• As it relates to the municipal court closure, all hearings, officials said cases and services are suspended indefinitely. For questions, email court@pflugervilletx.gov.
• While the Recycle Center is closed, residents are encouraged to continue to rely on their curbside recycling and trash pickup. Waste Connections is continuing to provide curbside pickup. For a list of recyclables accepted curbside, please visit www.pflugervilletx.gov/recycle.
• While the Library is closed, patrons may keep items until April 13 as returns will not be processed. Reserves will be held until April 20, officials noted. All cardholders are able to access the electronic resources available at library.pflugervilletx.gov to include movies, e-books and entertainment options. Those with questions while the library is closed can email library@pflugervilletx.gov.
• The City will not conduct utility cutoffs or charge late fees on water, sewer or garbage bills through March 31. For questions, contact utilitybilling@pflugervilletx.gov.

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For updates, city officials encouraged residents to visit www.pflugervilletx.gov/virus. Residents are urged to visit www.pflugervilletx.gov/connect to pick options in receiving city information. Before visiting any other city facility, residents are encouraged to check the city website or call (512) 990-6100.