Good Afternoon Residents of Coalhurst:
RE: TOWN OF COALHURST COVID-19 RESPONSE
The COVID-19 pandemic has created concerns for the world, including our community. The Town of Coalhurst will abide by directives provided by Alberta Health, the Provincial and Federal Governments. As well, we will be working in consort with neighbouring communities to ensure consistency in our approach. Mayor, Council and Town Administration, including public works and emergency services, are committed to maintaining the health and well-being of our residents. Although this is unlike anything we have ever experienced, working together as a community will allow us to overcome this difficult time. I further believe that we need to support one another, helping neighbours in need and to seek support for ourselves when necessary. The Town is looking at creating a registry of residents in need of assistance, whether that be seniors, disabled, health conditions, or otherwise, in addition to volunteers available to assist in this regard. Please watch for more information on this initiative. The Mayor and Council will continue to meet on a regular basis to ensure the safe operation of the Town.
As of recent, the Town of Coalhurst’s Emergency Advisory Committee met (March 16, 2020) as well as Town Council to discuss our response to COVID-19. The following short-term measures are in effect as of March 17, 2020:
• All Town facilities and events will be closed and cancelled until further notice.
• The Town Office will remain open, however, we are encouraging residents to avoid in-person visits and use telephone, email, website, and the Town app to conduct business. The office drop box can also be used for payments.
• Council will continue to meet via electronic means to monitor and provide regular updates.
• The Emergency Management Committee, Public Works, CAO, and the Mayor will be meeting on a regular basis and working closely to ensure timely responses are in place.
• We will continually update Coalhurst residents on changes via social media and website.
• Staffing and service levels will be adjusted keeping core services operating such as fire, water, sewer, garbage, etc.
As you have all heard in the news reports, these are measures individuals and families should be taking:
• Please be considerate and understanding of others, especially those who are high risk.
• Discourage hoarding supplies and making unnecessary visits to others or businesses.
• Please stay informed via www.alberta.ca/covid19. This gives up-to-date and correct prevention tips, and other helpful information.
• If you are ill (even if these are not symptoms of COVID-19) please stay home.
• Practice social distancing. Avoid touching face. Use sneeze and cough etiquette.
• If you think you have symptoms, please use Alberta Health Self-Assessment at https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Journey/COVID-19/Pages/Assessment.aspx
• Call Health Link at 811 to discuss your symptoms and to receive directions on next steps.
I thank all the residents for their understanding as we make these temporary adjustments. Hoping everyone stays safe and healthy.
Sincerely,
Mayor Dennis Cassie