Yorkton Mayor Bob Maloney took to the internet to give the City of Yorkton an update on the COVID-19 pandemic. In a livestream broadcast from City Hall, Maloney provided an update on what is happening within Yorkton.
The main message was that continuing lockdowns, practicing social distancing and frequent hand washing is working, and Maloney said that he’s encouraged by the latest numbers.
“There have been some hopeful signs in provinces like Saskatchewan and BC where the curve of infections may be flattening… Compare this to what is happening in the United States at this stage and we are indeed most fortunate here in Saskatchewan.”
As the numbers are broken down by region, and not by community, Maloney said the city also doesn’t have exact numbers for what is happening within Yorkton itself.
The numbers being positive, of course, does not mean that it’s safe, and Maloney said that it’s important to spread that message given that it’s Easter.
“Now is the time for all of us to forego those big family gatherings and stay at home as much as possible.”
Maloney noted that his family, for example, will be holding their Easter celebrations via video conferencing.
Maloney took the opportunity to “profusely thank” emergency service workers, hospital and medical staff and all those who keep food stores and pharmacies running.
“They are doing this while running more risk of exposure to the virus than those of us working in more confined locations or working from home.”
Maloney also used the opportunity to provide advice to residents during the outbreak. He recommended only having one person from each household doing shopping, and also remember senior friends and neighbours who may need help getting groceries and exercises. He also reminded people to get fresh air and exercise, so long as physical distancing is practiced while doing so. Parks, pathways and green spaces are open, but Maloney requested people refrain from using shared or communal park amenities, or playing games, sports and activities that put people in close contact with others or require sharing of equipment. Playgrounds should also not be used, Maloney said, because the equipment is high touch.
City Hall is operating, but is not open to the public. If someone needs to do city business they have to call 306-786-1728 to make an appointment.
All events at the Farrell Agencies Arena, Access Water Park, Flexihall, Sports Lounge, National Bank Convention Centre, Yorkton Curling Rink and different meeting rooms are cancelled through May 31, 2020. The Gallagher Center and Kinsmen Arena are closed to the public as well, as are the Gloria Hayden Community Centre, Yorkton Public Library, all sports fields, Deer Park Golf Course and Wiggly Field off leash dog park. The Access Water Park is closed, and Maloney said they are using the closure to push up the shutdown and maintenance program normally scheduled for late summer in an effort to minimize future disruptions.
Yorkton Transit and Access Transit still operate, but at reduced hours.
Garbage and recycling collection continue to operate, and the landfill remains open.
The city is not going to disconnect water services for non-payment and have stopped all active collections, and will not apply interest to overdue accounts. Interest is deferred on all city accounts until June 30, including property taxes and general accounts receivable in addition to water bills.
City council will vote to defer payment of taxes from June to September 30. While this vote will occur at the next council meeting, Maloney said he expects unanimous approval.
More updates on COVID-19 from the city’s perspective can be found at www.yorkton.ca
“When safety allows and, to paraphrase the Queen and her address to the Commonwealth Nations and Britain earlier this week, we will see each other again and we will be able to hug our friends and family members again. We just have to stay the course,” said Maloney.
