Coronavirus: City Of Ankeny Closes All Public Facilities

From the City of Ankeny:

3/17/2020

The City of Ankeny announced significant changes to its operations today due to the Governor’s announcement of substantial community spread of COVID-19 in Polk County. These changes are reflective of the suggested guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and the Iowa Department of Public Health. The City is committed to protecting its employees and citizens during this pandemic.

Effective Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at 1 p.m., the City will be adapting its operations. These changes will be in effect for at least the next four weeks.

• All city buildings will be closed to the public. The entrance of City Hall will serve as a drop zone for business that cannot be completed online or via phone. All residents, contractors and others are encouraged to do business via phone, email or the website. The lobby will not be staffed.
• Closing public facilities. All public and privateevents scheduled at Ankeny Kirkendall Public Library, Prairie Ridge Sports Complex, Ankeny Market & Pavilion, Lakeside Center, Outdoor Education Center, Pinnacle Club and shelter houses are canceled.
• All parks and recreation youth and adult sports, leagues, classes and programs are canceled. All programming is canceled. The Parks & Recreation Department will be in touch with anyone who registered. Fees will be credited or refunded.
• The Ankeny Fire Department has suspended commercial building inspections and other activities where there is significant public contact.
• The Ankeny Police Department has suspended fingerprinting services, squad ride-alongs and building tours.
• Rental inspections are suspended.
• Due dates for pet licenses will be extended through July 1.
• New utility customers must set up service by calling the Customer Service Department directly at 515-963-3565. The office is closed to walk-ins. Payments are still expected by specified due dates. No service calls will be scheduled until further notice.
• Fire, EMS and Law enforcement operations will continue in full force. Emergency planning protocols are in place should the situation change.
• Staff will continue working behind the scenes, so please don’t hesitate to call or email departments directly. Plans are put into place to continue to do business. A staff and department contact list is available at www.ankenyiowa.gov/connect.

The City of Ankeny appreciates the public’s understanding to this rapidly changing environment. Visit www.ankenyiowa.gov/COVID19 for additional information regarding changes to City business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This press release was produced by the City of Ankeny. The views expressed here are the author’s own.