In his weekly address to City of Powell River, mayor Dave Formosa expressed pride in the community’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the April 2 city council meeting, Formosa said he was proud of family, friends and neighbours and anyone who is on the front lines for the community.
“When you are at the drugstore, or the grocery store, or any of the retail stores that are managing to stay open, please thank them,” said Formosa. “They are risking their safety and well-being for us.
“Thanks to our nurses and doctors, caregivers and first responders. I know some of us are out banging pots and pans and making noises at 7 pm every night, cheering them on for their devotion to our health and well-being. Let’s make some noise for them. They are staying at work for us. The least we can do is stay home for them.”
Formosa said he also wanted to acknowledge those who are helping people with developmental disabilities. He said some residents do not understand and are not able to practice safe hygiene and physical distancing.
“These staff are also unsung heroes,” said Formosa.
He suggested that people look out for their neighbours, especially seniors. He said they may be people they have never met before.
“If ever there was a time to reach out with helping hands, now is that time, but, from a safe distance,” said Formosa. “Now is not the time to relax your physical distancing. It’s our defence during the COVID-19 state of emergency.
“Stay at home. Wash your hands, keep your physical distance from others – that’s how we will flatten the curve.”
Staying at home doesn’t mean people should not get outside for some fresh air, in parks or trails, said Formosa. It is important in these locations to observe physical distancing, he added.
He also urged residents to buy only what they need.
“It’s distressing to hear some of our residents are hoarding,” said Formosa.
He said since his last update the city has issued guidelines for the construction sector and launched a survey to measure the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses in order to help guide local agencies and to provide support. COVID-19 provincial guidelines have been released to retail food and grocery stores.
“We’ve all made sacrifices,” said Formosa. “These last three weeks have been hard on all of us. Be strong, stay together in our commitment to physical distancing and stay home. Don’t weaken your resolve.
“We must be 100 per cent committed to who we are and what we are doing.”
