“The city is not closing down,” says mayor during Thursday afternoon update

Access to City Hall is being restricted to the general public, however it will remain open according to the city.

Staff members will be set up within the first few feet of City Hall’s doorways to answer any questions the public want addressed in person, along with phone lines and emails remaining open.

Restrictions are also being placed on four city buildings including the municipal works office, human resources office, parks and recreation office, and transit office.

Merrick Brown, director of emergency management, says the city isn’t at the point of issuing a state of local emergency.

“We don’t feel there is a requirement for it at this time,” said Brown, adding that measure would only be considered if city services – such as power, water or gas – where in danger.

Today’s announcement comes following the city reporting its first case of COVID-19 on Wednesday and a number of urban municipalities announcing states of local emergency in the last day, including Brooks and Lethbridge.

The last week has seen city administration proceed step by step starting on March 13 when it was announced the city had initiated its emergency plan and municipal events of more than 250 people would be cancelled for 30 days with a weekly reevaluation.

The city will also be establishing 90-day utility deferral periods for residents and business owners including for utility payments, late fees, and utility disconnects.

Two days later, the Veiner and Strathcona centres were closed until further notice along with the Family Leisure Centre and hockey rinks as well as the Esplanade.

More to come……

by Alex McCuaig & Scott Roblin

“The city is not closing down,” says mayor during Thursday afternoon update

Our Community