Missouri City officials and staff are continuing to work closely with local, state and federal experts to implement proactive measures that will ensure the safety of citizens and stakeholders.
To further assist all MCTX constituencies during this public health crisis, here are some frequently asked questions and associated responses:
Did the City of Missouri City receive notification of a local COVID-19 case?
Yes; the City received notification on Saturday, March 28 that an individual who attended the March 16, 2020 Special and Regular Missouri City Council Meetings has tested positive for COVID-19. On the same day, Mayor Yolanda Ford issued a public statement letting residents know that the “City’s thoughts and support are with the individual. It is not known whether this individual had symptoms prior to or during the meeting and if anyone who attended the meetings has concerns, they should contact their doctor and ask him or her for guidance on quarantine protocol.” See Mayor Ford’s complete statement here: https://bit.ly/3aBiFeQ.
Can the City of Missouri City comment on COVID-19 cases?
No; City officials and staff cannot comment per the Texas Health & Safety Code and per the U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), a law that protects the privacy of individuals’ medical records and other health information. Additionally, the laws stipulate that an entity cannot provide medical information on an individual without his or her specific consent.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Dry cough, fever, tiredness and difficulty breathing. If individuals are experiencing any of these symptoms, they are encouraged to contact a doctor or testing site and to stay home for 14 days.
Are there any COVID-19 testing centers open in the region?
Yes, both Harris and Fort Bend counties have testing centers open now. Individuals are required to complete a self-assessment tool to determine, if they are qualified to get tested at these sites. For details on the assessment tool, testing centers and other COVID-19 information visit the respective county websites below:
For assistance, citizens can also call:
Do local stores have special accommodations for seniors and other high risk individuals?
Yes. During this crisis, several local stores have made special accommodations for those at higher risk, including senior citizens. For a list of stores with details on services and unique hours, click this link: https://bit.ly/33X6iXH.
How is the City responding to the COVID-19 crisis?
City officials and staff are proactively responding to the Coronavirus pandemic in accordance with federal, state and local guidelines. Actions include:
- Activating the Emergency Operations Center at Level II, which is high readiness.
- Encouraging the public to follow safety guidelines such as social distancing, limiting gatherings to no more than 10 people, washing hands, and cleaning frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Following expert recommendations in City facilities and operations. This includes providing staff telecommuting opportunities as applicable and frequently sanitizing workplace surfaces and common areas.
- Hosting virtual audio meetings for City Council, the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Parks Board: https://bit.ly/2xyqkvC.
- Steering clear of playground equipment and benches at area parks as the structures are not sanitized; restrooms are closed.
Are there any City offices closed?
In compliance with the Stay Home orders issued by Fort Bend and Harris Counties, some City facilities are closed to the public through Friday, April 3. This includes Municipal Court, the Recreation & Tennis Center, Inspections & Permits, the Visitors Center, the Community Center, the City Hall front lobby, Council Chambers and the Old Municipal Courtroom.
The Animal Shelter will schedule visitations by appointment only for the next 30 days. For questions, please call 281.403.8707.
The Quail Valley Golf Course remains open for play and the City Centre is cancelling all events until the end of the month. The Bluebonnet Grille is open for carry-out only. For information, please call 281.403.5910.
All City parks are still open to the public. New pavilion rentals will not be scheduled until April 13; however, existing rentals will not be cancelled.
Municipal Solid Waste service is still on schedule; residents can contact WCA customer service at 281.403.5800 for details on pickups.
Where can City residents and stakeholders find COVID-19 updates?
The City’s websites, www.missouricitytx.gov and www.missouricityready.com, Facebook—fb/MissouriCityTX, Twitter—@MissouriCityTX and @MissouriCityEM, and Nextdoor and Missouri City Television (Ch. 16 on Comcast and Ch. 99 on AT&T U-verse).
When did the Stay Home orders go into effect and what do they mandate?
Fort Bend County’s “Stay Home to Save Lives” order went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, March 25 and will run through 11:59 p.m. Friday, April 3. Harris County issued a similar order “Stay Home, Work Safe” on March 24 and it is also effective through April 3.
Both orders mandate that:
- Citizens stay home and leave only for essential activities such as going to purchase groceries or medicine.
- Citizens follow social distancing of at least six feet in public places
- Businesses that are nonessential close operations. This includes gyms, bars, clubs, nail salons, barbershops, hair salons and theaters.
- Restaurants provide only take out, delivery, or drive-thru services.
- Religious and worship centers provide video or teleconference services and limit staff to 10 people or less.
The full orders may be found here: Fort Bend County - https://bit.ly/2WFMeri | Harris County - https://bit.ly/3ahVQws
Are there any resources for businesses?
Businesses looking for resources during the shutdown may contact the Small Business Administration (SBA) at 1800-659-2955. Businesses may also visit their website at www.sba.gov. Additionally, businesses are encouraged to contact their mortgage companies and/or landlords to ask about options available during this time.
Am I going to get evicted if I am unable to pay my mortgage/rent during the COVID-19 shutdown?
No. Both Harris and Fort Bend Counties have placed temporary suspensions of eviction within their jurisdictions. For additional details, contact the Justice of the Peace courts.