Month: March 2020
Financial Institutions Open
Van Alstyne’s financial institutions are open for business with the following restrictions:
Independent Financial (formerly Independent Bank): 903-482-0055
1270 W Van Alstyne Parkway
Drive thru open
Lobby by appointment
Simmons Bank (formerly Landmark Bank): 903-482-2171
1189 W Van Alstyne Parkway
Drive thru open
Lobby by appointment
Bancorp South (formerly Texas Star Bank): 903-482-5234
177 E Jefferson Street
Drive thru open
Lobby by appointment
A Message from the City Manager
From the office of the City Manager:
This is a difficult and uncertain time, several folks living in Van Alstyne are hurting and have been impacted by current events and while I wish I had all the answers, my only answer is this: The only defense in dealing with COVID-19 is in fact a strong offensive plan. We must implement social distancing, washing hands, wiping down surfaces and taking every step you can take to slow the spread. This must be taken seriously if we are to make a meaningful impact. We must as a community, support our neighbors, friends and family. This is not a time to be selfish, this is a time to be helpful, caring and seek ways to show others why Van Alstyne is such a great place to live. We are one team and with everyone pulling together we can make a difference in the fight against COVID-19.
In the next few days, you will start to see signs, posters and banners reminding you of the need to live local and shop local. Our small business owners are feeling the full impact of COVID-19 and are asking for your support. As a reminder, signs will start appearing to encourage your use of local Van Alstyne business. If you need grocery items, visit our local grocery store, if you want to order food to go or have it delivered, the city has a posting on the city website of each restaurant’s capabilities along with phone numbers you can call to place your order. Our fuel stations are open and operating and all of our Van Alstyne businesses have taken steps to become compliant with state, county and local requirements for safety. With this, they now need you to keep them in mind and to stay local and shop local. If we all pull together, we will get through this and be stronger as a result.
Respectfully,
Lane H. Jones
Important Information for Businesses
Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed this legislation. It is currently undergoing some revision, but is expected to pass the Senate soon. President Trump has announced his support. This bill addresses Unemployment Compensation and Sick Leave Compensation for employees laid off from work due to businesses slowdown brought about by the Coronavirus outbreak. Requirements for laid off individuals seeking Unemployment Compensation will be more flexible and funds will be dispensed faster. Small businesses will be able to seek reimbursement for sick leave paid out to employees out ill or caring for family. See a summary of the bill as it stands now here.
SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus The Small Business Administration is making the process of seeking disaster assistance loans easier for applicants. Small business impacted by the economic slowdown will be able to apply for loans up to $2 million at a 3.75% interest rate. States must be able to document that a minimum of 5 businesses have been affected in a disaster area to qualify. Natural disasters (e.g., floods, tornadoes, etc.) restrict this to small regions often; however, SBA is making the entire state qualify at this point. The state of Texas is in the process of receiving the designation. You can obtain more information here. |
March 19, 2020 Municipal Court Canceled
Municipal Court Judge Redwine has canceled Municipal Court scheduled for March 19, 2020 at 3:00pm. The Court will call and/or send a letter advising of the rescheduled date when a date is available. Please contact the Court with any questions.
Stay “In the Know”: Coronavirus Safety
The Grayson County Office of Emergency Management is working with all Grayson County cities regarding the potential spread of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. Citizens are encouraged to stay aware by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for accurate and up-to-date information.