Submitted
With the ever-increasing COVID-19 confirmed cases – the trend in BC is following other provinces and countries. In an attempt to support the call to help flat line this virus, the District of Clearwater (DOC) mayor and council will move to enact a local “State of Emergency” as of noon, Monday, March 23.
The declaration gives the DOC the opportunity to address emerging issues in order to enhance the provincial response to this pandemic and to make the necessary decisions that may arise.
“We are heading into uncharted territory and unprecedented times,” said Mayor Merlin Blackwell.
“These are precautions in support of our local health care workers, essential service workers (grocery store and pharmacy employees) our front line emergency responders and our community citizens.
“Closures of facilities to public, cancellation of programs and events over the past several days have been made based on recommendations and direction of our public health officials. This move is to ensure the best interest and wellbeing of employees and the residents of our community and beyond.”
The District is encouraging all residents and businesses to follow the direction of public health officials, including limiting public gatherings and practising social distancing. Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer, announced March 20 that all restaurants are ordered to move to take out only, no public seating as of midnight March 20.
In an effort to protect residents and our employees, and to ensure the practise of social distancing, the District will be winding down non-essential services and implementing work-from-home protocols wherever possible.