Grand Forks makes changes due to spread of COVID-19
By Boundary Sentinel
The City of Grand Forks is following guidance from Federal, Provincial, and Regional governments and health authorities to support efforts to control the spread of COVID-19.
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary has elevated their Emergency Operations Centre to Level 2 to allow for monitoring and responding to COVID-19; the Centre was already open at Level 1 monitoring Spring Freshet conditions.
City Staff have been in regular communication with area health and emergency service providers to ensure that essential services continue to be provided during the current situation.
Staff have been advised to cancel any non-essential travel and to practice social distancing wherever possible. We are currently monitoring best-practices being adopted by other municipalities as well.
Monday’s regularly scheduled council meeting was cancelled.
“Considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid rate at which the situation is changing, this was a precautionary decision in keeping with the goal of social distancing to reduce the risk of infection,” City website said.
“Council and City administration will continue to review upcoming meetings to determine if they will proceed as scheduled, be held in an alternate format or cancelled with items appearing on future agendas.”
Earlier this month public reception areas at the Public Works Yard and downtown Fire Hall were closed. Staff continue to be available to assist residents by telephone. The Fire Department will continue to respond to all emergency calls, however weekly practices for volunteers, public education sessions, and fire inspections are currently suspended. Public Works crews will continue to perform regular and emergency work.
Both the Fire Department and Public Works have mutual aid arrangements with other municipalities and contractors to ensure that essential services can still be provided should workers need to be self-isolated during this time.
Front Counter service remains open at City Hall, however any residents who believe they have need to self-isolate under Health Authority recommendations are kindly asked to contact us by telephone and refrain from visiting the office.
Residents have the option to pay utility bills and taxes online. Customers requiring service from the Building Inspection, Bylaw, or Planning departments are encouraged to call City Hall for assistance or to schedule an appointment.
- Public Works – 250-442-4148
- Fire Hall/Emergency Services – 250-442-3612
- City Hall – 250-442-8266
- By e-mail: [email protected]
Several civic facilities including the Public Library and Court House are operated by third parties and these operators will communicate any changes to their operations directly.
