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COVID-19 Information and Updates

 

How to locate COVID-19 Vaccines (including boosters) and Tests (PCR and Rapid) in Lockhart:

 

Due to concerns over the new omicron variant, many of you have been contacting the City asking for where you can get tested for COVID-19, both rapid and PCR, along with where you can get vaccinated in town. Here are some of the links that can help you find those locations, with available appointments, UPDATED IN REAL-TIME:

 

 

**These links include local Lockhart businesses and pharmacies. Also, it’s important to note that—if you opt for PCR testing—results may take longer due to the holidays.

 


The City of Lockhart is monitoring developments pertaining to the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness worldwide. All information in this section is sourced from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

 

Common ways COVID-19 spreads

 

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  • These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
  • It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not believed to be the main way the virus spreads.

 

 

Symptoms of COVID-19

 

 The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as 2 days or as many as 14 days after exposure. 

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

For more information about what to do if you are sick, click here visit the CDC webpage.

 

 

** If you are concerned you are experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, please contact your medical provider. **

 

At-Risk individuals

According to the CDC, some individuals are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract COVID-19. Those people include individuals to whom one or more of the following applies:

  • 65 or older
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Decreased immune system

 

Prevention 

 

Read the CDC's guidelines here.

 

 

The CDC offers the following tips for the public to protect themselves and their families.

 

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, or into your flexed elbow. If you sneeze or cough into your hands, wash them immediately.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when your hands are not properly washed.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with normal household cleaning supplies such as bleach wipes and disinfectant sprays.
  • Practice social distancing. Social distancing involves staying away from other people to avoid catching or spreading illness. It's a fancy term for avoiding crowds and minimizing physical contact. This could mean avoiding concerts or weddings, skipping the handshake, and/or staying at least six feet away from others.
  • The CDC is now recommending people wear cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help prevent asymptomatic carriers from unknowingly transmitting it to others. This link from the CDC has information on how to craft your own mask from household materials: https://www.cdc.gov/…/prevent…/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

 

COVID-19 testing

Your doctor will help make the decision if you should get tested for COVID-19.

If you do not have health insurance, you can still get tested for COVID-19 if your doctor or healthcare provider recommends it.

For information about testing, you just need to call your doctor and/or access care the way you usually do. If you need help finding a doctor or accessing medical care, call 2-1-1 and they can direct you to low- or no-cost providers in your area.

For questions about COVID-19 testing, dial 2-1-1, then choose Option 6.

 

COVID-19 Vaccine

The DSHS is now maintaining a vaccine information page on its website, which includes updates about the vaccine distribution schedule. Visit here for up-to-date information about the COVID-19 vaccine in Texas:

https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/coronavirus/immunize/vaccine.aspx

 

 

General questions

Dial 2-1-1 and select option 6 to speak with a Texas Health and Human Services representative. Hours are 7 a.m.-8 p.m. The lines are open seven days a week.

 

 

Staying informed

 

It is easy to run into inaccurate information on the web. Visit one of the links below to educate yourself with trustworthy information.

https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/default.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/summary.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

 

 

 

City Government Closures & Reopenings

 


 

 

 

Facial coverings


 

Governor Greg Abbott on July 2 issued an Executive Order requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions.

 

The Governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than ten and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others. 

 

BUSINESSES: Facial coverings are now required. Download those signs here.

Special Events


 

Rules for outdoor events

In compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order GA-32 dated October 7, 2020, outdoor activities within the City of Lockhart involving more than 10 people shall be presented to the mayor for approval.

 

Any individuals, groups or organizations desiring to organize an outdoor event involving more than 10 people must complete a Special Activity COVID-19 protocols application:

 

  • Prior to any advertising/public announcement of the proposed event, AND,
  • At least two (2) weeks before the event date
  • Turn in Special Activity COVID-19 protocols applications, along with other forms*, at Lockhart City Hall.

 

 

Click here to access a Special Activity COVID-19 Protocols application.

 

 

*NOTE: The Special Activity COVID-19 protocols application DOES NOT replace the Special Activity Permit applications or other existing event applications. To access those applications, click here and then select the “Police Department” tab.

 

Indoor events

 

While completion of a Special Activity COVID-19 protocols application is not required for indoor events, under governor’s orders, the number of customers/patrons inside any indoor facility is limited to 75 percent of that facility’s total listed occupancy. General COVID-19 health protocols for all events/activities include:

 

  • All individuals must wear a face covering when it is not feasible to maintain six (6) feet of social distancing from an individual not from the same household.
  • Individuals 65 or older should be encouraged to stay home and avoid large gatherings due to the significant risk from COVID-19.
  • Individuals may not be in groups larger than 10.
  • Individuals should maintain six (6) feet of separation from others outside the individuals group.
  • Encourage participants to self-screen for signs of COVID-19 and stay home if they have symptoms that include cough, fever, shortness of breath or sore throat.
  • Provide hand sanitizer and disinfect often touched surfaces.
  • Consider level of COVID-19 transmission in the community before scheduling an event/activity. Click here to access the DSHS case dashboard to see COVID-19 activity in your area.

 

Additional Resources:

 

COVID-19 checklist for all event organizers

 

The State’s Minimum Recommended Health Protocols for individuals, celebrations, childcare, general business, indoor activities, outdoor activities and more

 

 

 


Caldwell County links

 


Caldwell County is now maintaining information relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. This information includes a link to a pre-registration portal for the vaccine, answers to frequently asked questions, an updated confirmed COVID-19 case count, and other resources.

Caldwell County COVID-19 homepage

FAQs related to the county-wide stay-at-home order


Updates

 


February 1, 2021
The hospital capacity in Trauma Service Area (TSA) O, which includes Lockhart and Caldwell County, has returned below the 15% mark occupied by COVID patients for 7 consecutive days, allowing more restrictive components of the standing Governor’s Order (GA-32) to be lifted. Click here for more information.
January 11, 2021
The hospital capacity in Trauma Service Area (TSA) O, which includes Lockhart and Caldwell County, has remained above the 15% mark occupied by COVID patients for 7 consecutive days, activating more restrictive components of the standing Governor’s Order (GA-32). Click here for more information.
December 17, 2020
Governor Greg Abbott today provided an update about COVID-19 vaccine distribution in Texas. Click here for more information.
October 9, 2020
Caldwell County Judge Hoppy Haden said Friday that bars in Lockhart may open at 50 percent capacity beginning Wednesday, October 14. Read more here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/112
October 8, 2020
Governor Greg Abbott issued a new executive order that allows bars within qualifying counties to reopen with county judge approval. The order also expands the reopening of other certain businesses. Read more here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/111
September 28, 2020
The City of Lockhart will begin reopening its facilities to the public on September 28. Read about the full reopening plans here.
September 17, 2020
Governor Greg Abbott today issued two executive orders that expanded reopening guidelines in most regions of Texas, including Caldwell County. Read the full press release and see the executive orders at https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/108
September 1, 2020
The Lockhart City Council on Tuesday, September 1 renewed its order that requires businesses to post a notice requiring customers and employees to wear facial coverings on the premises. More information here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/104
August 18, 2020

Qualifying Lockhart businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic can again apply for one of 10 available grants of up to $2,500 through the city’s COVID-19 Economic Relief Grant Program. 

 

The Lockhart City Council has approved a program that helps residents experiencing COVID-19-related financial hardships who were unable to pay their utility bills from March through June. Find out more here.

 

July 1, 2020
Lockhart City Hall will close its doors to walk-in traffic at 5 p.m. today: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/92
June 29, 2020
Effective today, the library has suspended grab and go service as well as access to the technology center. Details here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/83
June 26, 2020
Bars are again shuttered (effective noon today) and restaurants will be required to reduce occupancy to 50 percent capacity on Monday, June 29 per order of Gov. Greg Abbott: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/91
June 25, 2020

Starting at 11:59 p.m., it is mandatory for commercial establishments to require customers and employees to wear face masks, with few exceptions: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/90

 

BUSINESS OWNERS: Download signs for your businesses here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/upload/page/0126/Facial%20Covering%20Notice%20-%20english%20spanish.pdf

June 17, 2020
Due to health safety concerns related to COVID-19, this year's Independence Day fireworks show has been canceled.
June 5, 2020
The residential city-wide clean-up, which was originally scheduled for April but postponed due to unknown safety concerns at the time, has been rescheduled for Saturday, July 18, 2020. Click here for more info: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/85
June 3, 2020
May 26, 2020
April 1, 2020
  • Effective today, Lockhart city facilities are closed to walk-in traffic as the city does its part to encourage Caldwell County's Stay Home, Stay Safe order. Details here. 
March 30, 2020

 

  • The Lockhart Police Department has closed its doors to walk-in traffic to prevent the public and its staff to potential exposure to COVID-19. For non-emergencies, please call 512-398-4401. As always, call 911 in an emergency.
March 24, 2020
  • Lockhart City Council on Tuesday, March 24 voted to extend the mayor's declaration of a local state of disaster until the city's next regular meeting, which is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. April 7. No amendments were made to the declaration.

 

     

  • Lockhart's recycling center remains open but has modified its hours of operation. The center is closed on Mondays and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon, and 1-4:30 p.m. More information here: http://lockhart-tx.org/page/public_works_recycling
  • Due to the situation involving the COVID-19 pandemic in Central Texas, the residential city-wide clean-up effort has been postponed. Read more here: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/58

March 22, 2020
  • Effective Tuesday, March 24, the Dr. Eugene Clark Library is closing its doors to walk-in traffic and has canceled all programs, classes and events to protect the public and its staff from potential exposure to COVID-19. However, the library will continue to operate and offer access to materials, service and technology. The library will offer curbside pickup and will allow patrons to access the technology center by appointment. Availability of online services will continue. Follow this link to learn more: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/57
March 19, 2020
  • Mayor Lew White has amended his March 17 declaration of a local state of disaster for public health emergency for the City of Lockhart as the situation involving COVID-19, also known as the novel coronavirus, continues to evolve. Per the amended declaration, gatherings are limited to no more than 10 people and the cancellation of any planned gatherings of more than 10 people is mandatory. The mayor signed the amended declaration on Thursday afternoon to reflect executive orders signed by Governor Greg Abbott. Read more here.
March 18, 2020
  • Lockhart Mayor Lew White signed his declaration of a local state of disaster for Lockhart, making it effective on March 17. The declaration allows the city to allocate resources and personnel as well as request funds and additional resources from the state and federal levels. It limits social gatherings to 50 people or fewer. Read more here.

  • Caldwell County Commissioners Court unanimously passed a revised 21-day extension of Judge Hoppy Haden's March 16 local state of disaster declaration. The revision defines community gatherings and lists situations to which the 50-person limit applies. Read the full declaration here.
March 17, 2020
  • Caldwell County Commissioners Court voted to continue Judge Hoppy Haden's March 16 local state of disaster declaration for 21 days. The declaration limits community gatherings to a limit of 50 people. Violation of the order is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines of not more than $1,000.

  • Lockhart Mayor Lew White has announced his intent to declare a local state of disaster for the city at tonight's regularly scheduled meeting of the Lockhart City Council. The highlights: Social gatherings will be limited to 50 people, and no recommendation to close local businesses is expected. A local disaster declaration allows local governments to allocate resources and personnel as well as request funds and additional resources from the state and federal governments to assist in managing the effects of COVID-19.
March 16, 2020

4:05 p.m.: LISD has suspended school operations through April 3.

 

1:13 p.m.: All programs at the Dr. Eugene Clark Library have been canceled through March 31.

 

12:30 p.m.:  As the situation surrounding Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to develop, Caldwell County Judge Hoppy Haden on Monday morning declared a local state of disaster that applies to all areas within county borders.

 

The declaration by Judge Haden prohibits gatherings of 250 or more anywhere in Caldwell County effective immediately. Violation of the order is a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000 or a sentence of up to 180 days in jail.

 

A local disaster declaration allows local governments to allocate resources and personnel as well as request funds and additional resources from the state and federal governments to assist in managing the effects of COVID-19.

 

The declaration of local disaster is effective through Monday, March 23, when it is expected the issue will be revisited in Caldwell County Commissioner's Court, which meets at 9 a.m. that day.

 

Read the judge's full declaration here: http://www.co.caldwell.tx.us/upload/page/4091/DOC.pdf

March 13, 2020

As developments surrounding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in Texas continue to evolve, the City of Lockhart wants to keep residents informed by providing the following updates:

 

  • To mitigate risks associated with large crowds, the City has canceled the Dr. Eugene Clark Library’s spring break events and has indefinitely postponed KIDFISH and Welcome Spring Day (March 21). The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event scheduled for Saturday, March 14 will proceed as planned. Residents are asked to remain in their vehicles and wait for a worker to assist them.

     

  • The City has developed a web page devoted to COVID-19. It includes recommendations from the CDC and DSHS and links to official informational resources. The city plans to update this page regularly. It can be accessed at http://lockhart-tx.org/page/Coronavirus_info.

     

  • City staff is actively communicating with long-term care nursing facilities in the area, providing them with guidance, keeping them informed on the latest CDC guidelines and getting feedback on what actions they are taking to mitigate risk to their residents.

     

  • The City of Lockhart has the following services available for paying utility bills that limit face-to-face contact: online pay options (http://lockhart-tx.org/page/utility_home), two centrally located drop boxes located in the front and back of City Hall (308 W. San Antonio) that are checked twice a day, and a drive-through location at the Municipal Court Building (1914 W. San Antonio St.). The online payment option DOES NOT require customers to set up an account, and there is an option for a one-time payment. If you have questions about how to pay online, our customer service department is here to help you. Give us a call at (512)398-3461.

     

  • Traffic tickets and other payments accepted by the City of Lockhart Municipal Court can be handled through the court’s website at http://lockhart-tx.org/page/court_home.

     

  • At the direction of Governor Greg Abbott, visitations at nursing homes, state-supported living centers, hospitals, daycare facilities and detention centers will be restricted. The directive allows limited exceptions for situations such as end-of-life visitations and requires all individuals to go through proper screening.

     

  • The governor has reassured the public that stockpiling supplies is not necessary. The state has been working closely with grocers and retailers to ensure shelves are replenished and that Texans have access to the goods and supplies they need. Texans who suspect a case of price-gouging in connection to the potential coronavirus threat should file a consumer complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the OAG. Texans can also call the hotline at 1-800-621-0508.

     

  • The Lockhart Independent School District sent a letter detailing its plans to slow the spread of COVID-19 in its schools through March 27. At this time, LISD does not have plans to cancel school after spring break (March 16-20), but noted that it is monitoring the situation and will revisit that decision next week.

 

 


 

Relief for small businesses

The Lockhart Economic Development Corporation is maintaining a web page dedicated to providing information for businesses that have been affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Bookmark it for regular updates. 

 

SBA assistance

 

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has designated COVID-19 as a qualifying event for the provision of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for businesses and private non-profits in affected communities that have sustained substantial economic injury. This is triggered when a business is unable to meet its obligations and to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses. These loans provide the necessary working capital to help small businesses survive until normal operations resume after a disaster.

 

In order for Texas to qualify for a SBA Economic Injury Disaster Declaration, Texas will need to submit five Economic Injury Worksheets certifying a small businesses in a disaster area has suffered substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19 and are in need of financial assistance. Once five submitted worksheets are validated by SBA, the governor may request the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Declaration. A county will be included in this declaration if it has at least one qualifying Economic Injury Worksheet or the county is contiguous to another qualified declared county. Additional counties may be added by the Texas Department of Emergency Management after a declaration is received.

 

The number for the SBA disaster customer service center is 1-800-659-2955.

 

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