PITT MEADOWS, BC – On March 20, 2020 the City of Pitt Meadows enacted a state of local emergency following approval from the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Mike Farnworth.
“This state of local emergency gives the City extraordinary powers to enforce public safety measures in support of guidelines from the Provincial Health Officer and the Minister of Public Safety in terms of limiting public gatherings and social distancing,” says Mayor Bill Dingwall. “The community should not see this as a cause for concern, but rather a proactive step to ensure our citizens are being looked after with all available resources.”
Yesterday, the City closed all playgrounds, play boxes and play structures. With this declaration, the City has also made the decision to close all School District 42 playgrounds and they have agreed to comply. As an added public safety measure, police patrols have been enhanced.
“We have received concerns from the community that residents are not adhering to social distancing by continuing to gather in groups, on playgrounds, parks and neighbourhoods,” says Mayor Bill Dingwall. “I want to remind all residents of the important responsibility that we all share in doing our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.”
All City utilities and essential services will be maintained with appropriate staffing and service levels.
“Declaring a state of local emergency is an important step in our emergency management efforts,” says Chief Administrative Officer Mark Roberts. “It provides us with all options available to protect the health and safety of families in Pitt Meadows“
For the latest information, visit pittmeadows.ca/covid19 or the City’s social media channels.
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For more information please contact:
Carolyn Baldridge,
Manager of Communications & Community Engagement
City of Pitt Meadows
cbaldridge@pittmeadows.ca