Anthem’s ACC Extends Facility Closures to at least April 12

For 15 years, In&Out Magazine has been the definitive source of “Everything that’s going on” in and out of the community. We thank you, our readers, as well as the businesses that support the magazine through advertising, for that opportunity. But with little going on, and many businesses suspending or canceling their ads during the Covid-19 crisis, we are suspending publication of the magazine and web sites for the month of May. 


ACC — The Anthem Community Council (ACC) continues to closely follow events associated with the outbreak and spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and recommendations from public health officials. On March 17, the ACC communicated closures that were effective through March 27. Based on the latest data and recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the ACC is extending its original list of closures through at least April 12, in order to reduce further risk.

Civic Building

  • The Anthem Civic Building will remain closed.
  • Essential ACC and HOA staff will continue to maintain business hours either on-site or remotely.
  • For programs/classes with associated fees that were scheduled during this time, refunds will be issued for those registered; this includes programs led by either ACC staff or independent contractors.
  • The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has closed all substations to public access. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency. For non-emergencies, call 602-876-1011 or for the Anthem substation, call 623-551-8810.
  • An additional 15-day grace period will be offered for assessment payments due April 1. Payments can be mailed; visit OnlineAtAnthem.com (click on “Pay Assessments”) for instructions.

Community Center

  • The Community Center, including the pool, will remain closed.
  • For programs/classes with associated fees that were scheduled during this time, refunds will be issued for those registered; this includes programs led by either ACC staff or independent contractors.
  • Essential ACC staff will continue to maintain business hours either on-site or remotely.

Parks

  • Per Governor Ducey’s March 23, 2020 Executive Order that “any outdoor recreation area, park, site or trail that provides opportunities for outdoor recreation with social distancing such as walking, hiking and biking” are essential operations, ACC-owned Community Park (including the Skate Park and Pickleball Courts), Liberty Bell Park, Opportunity Way Park and the Dog Park, as well as Parkside-owned neighborhood parks, remain open for responsible use.
  • When using open-air amenities such as the parks, fields and courts, residents should adhere to CDC guidelines and the White House administration’s recommendations for safe, social distancing (6 ft.), and keeping gatherings to less than 10 people.
  • Because they cannot be staffed or routinely sanitized in order to ensure safe use during this time of heightened risk, the gated playgrounds at Community Park and Opportunity Way Park remained closed.
  • Daisy Mountain Railroad will remain closed.
  • Reservations for ramadas and fields will not be accepted; any reservations already made during this time will be refunded.

Special Events

  • Out of an abundance of caution for the health of our residents and the bands that would be performing, Music in May has been canceled.
  • A decision about the Memorial Day Ceremony will be made at a future date. 

The need to expand or modify this list and facility operations will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. Should circumstances change – whether based on government mandates or otherwise – we will examine all options necessary for the safety and well being of our residents and employees.

“Mental and physical health are important during these challenging and unprecedented times,” said Neal Shearer, ACC Community Executive Officer. “Access to the outdoors, exercise and fresh air are important, but we all must act responsibly and follow the guidelines established by our local, state and federal officials. Smart choices will help us protect the health of our community.”

With questions regarding the virus, or if you are experiencing symptoms, refer to the CDC, Arizona Department of Health Services, Maricopa County Department of Public Health, or contact your medical provider. Please care for yourself and for those around you, and continue to adhere to preventative measures recommended by public health officials.

Bookmark our Local Coronavirus News page for ongoing coverage. 

Robert Roy Britt
NoPho resident Robert Roy Britt has written for In&Out publications since its inception in 2005. Britt began his journalism career in New Jersey newspapers in the early 1990s. He later became a science writer and was editor-in-chief of the online media sites Space.com and Live Science. He has written four novels. .

Robert Roy Britt

NoPho resident Robert Roy Britt has written for In&Out publications since its inception in 2005. Britt began his journalism career in New Jersey newspapers in the early 1990s. He later became a science writer and was editor-in-chief of the online media sites Space.com and Live Science. He has written four novels. .

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