City provides alternative service delivery model for City business
By Nelson Daily Staff
In a media release Thursday, the City of Nelson said foreseeable future City Hall will be closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic that is overwhelming countries all over the globe.
“The City of Nelson is committed to working with the senior levels of government during this pandemic and has determined that we can continue to provide a high level of service through an alternative delivery model across all departments,” the release said.
“The City of Nelson is modifying the way we currently do business for the foreseeable future. Effective 2 p.m. (Thursday), we will no longer have our doors open to the public.
“However, staff will continue to work in our facilities and provide the necessary services through an alternative service delivery model.”
The media release said the majority of City business, including all bill payments, can be done online at www.nelson.ca or by telephone.
“The main City Hall number is (250) 352-5511,” the release said.
“For a complete list of services and departments, please visit our telephone directory available here. he public is invited to set-up an appointment with individual departments for those services that cannot be performed by phone or email.”
The media release said in an effort to support those in self-isolation, Council has extended the discount period for water, sewer and waste invoices to April 15, 2020.
“Mayor Dooley has asked that we continue support each other during this difficult time, whether it be checking on your elderly neighbours, delivery of groceries and supplies, or providing emotional support to those in need.”
Development Services to Continue to deliver all services
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Department of Development Services & Engineering has modified the way we deliver services. We are still working and processing all application types.
“We will be accepting applications by email as part of our alternative delivery model,” the release said. “Please scan your documents and email them to [email protected]. If you do not have a scanner, you can use a smartphone or other digital camera to take a photo of each document. It is extremely important that you retain all original, signed documents to bring to the office once we re-open. We will arrange payments by credit card over the phone or by cheque.”
Correspondence and meetings with Development Services staff will mostly be taking place over the phone or the internet until further notice. The public is invited to set up an appointment for those services that cannot be performed by phone or email.
General inquiries should be sent to [email protected]. If you have any questions about these interim measures, do not hesitate to contact us. If you do not have internet access, please call our front desk line at (250) 352-8260.
The City said these temporary measures are important to maintain the health and well-being of everyone in Nelson.
