Heads up, Athens residents: Changes are coming to city schedules and services this Veterans Day. The Athens-Clarke County Government has announced a series of adjustments for the holiday on November 11. According to an official announcement on the Athens-Clarke County website, animal lovers should take note that the Animal Shelter will be taking a pause, and for non-emergency animal calls, do not expect a response until after the holiday. However, for emergencies involving animals, like bites or animals trapped in homes, 911 will send help, even on Veterans Day.
If you're planning a leisurely day at the park, be aware that ACC Leisure Services will be cutting hours short, running from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The community centers and arts facilities, however, will be closing their doors for the day, ready to welcome patrons back the following day under regular hours of operation. For more laid-back pursuits,, or questions about the changes, reach out to the Leisure Services Department.
The Solid Waste offices are taking the day off, too. But fear not, your trash won't pile up – residential garbage and recycling pickups are merely shifting by one day, with Tuesday's collections happening on Wednesday, and so on through the end of the week. Commercial services will mostly follow suit, with Tuesday’s collections also bumping to Wednesday, though downtown services will stick to the usual pickup schedule. The leaf and limb brigade will be standing down for Veterans Day, so check online for up-to-date service areas and times for resume in picking up your yard debris.
Transit users, last but not least, can breathe easy knowing their bus service will keep running on a full-service schedule. While the transit offices close their doors for the holiday, the information window will stay staffed and operational for anyone needing assistance. You can find additional details or updates by contacting the Transit Department.
Don't forget, local governance is shifting its gears as well. The Mayor and Commission’s Work Session won’t be happening on Tuesday, it's been rescheduled for the following day, same time, same place. Want a sneak peek at the agenda? Their website has you covered. Similar to other departments the city hall and various administrative offices will observe the holiday, with operations resuming Wednesday.
