On Tuesday, March 17, Southlake Mayor Laura Hill issued a declaration of disaster in response to the recent COVID-19 outbreak. While Southlake only currently has two known cases of the new coronavirus, Mayor Hill stated the city is hoping to be active in its efforts to keep citizens safe.
“We cannot be afraid to fight back against this virus, but we have to be smart about it. And we have to work together.” Hill says in a video while announcing the declaration.
The declaration, which can be read in full here, limits the size of gatherings of more than 10 people, which does not apply to office spaces. It also limits restaurants’ offering opportunities to curbside, delivery or take-out transactions as well as order bars, taverns, theaters, private gyms and other entertainment centers to close. For a list of local restaurant options currently offering one of those dining options, read here.
The declaration, which takes effect at noon on March 18, also includes new regulations for event centers, churches, retail stores and convenience stores.
“It is an essential step in our fight,” Hill says in the video.
While this declaration will put key practices into place that will help in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19, Mayor Hill reinforces that personal responsibility is an important step in containing the virus.
“Before you go anywhere, ask yourself, ‘Is it necessary? Is the risk to myself and others worth it?’ Only you can answer those questions. And I have great trust that we as a community will make the right choices,” Hill says in the video. “I believe in us, and I believe in Southlake.”
For more information about the city’s efforts, visit ProtectSouthlake.com. For information from Tarrant County’s public health department, visit the county’s website. Additional resources can be found here.
Please know that we here at Southlake Style will keep our readers up to date as we continue to learn more information about COVID-19.