A state of local emergency was declared at 9:20 a.m. Monday, March 16, to assist the City’s efforts to respond to the impacts from COVID-19 on city services, facilities and programs. The state of local emergency gives The City access to additional resources, and special powers under the Emergency Management Act.

“We know citizens are concerned and have many questions about the impact of this pandemic,” said Mayor Tara Veer. “The City is actively working with the province and other stakeholders to decisively respond to this rapidly evolving situation as new information arises. Citizens safety is our top priority.”

While the risk to residents remains low, we remain vigilant and prepared to support our community’s needs.

Other measures taken by The City at this time include:

• All City of Red Deer operated recreation and culture facilities are closed to the public
• Continued activation of The City of Red Deer Emergency Operations Centre
• Continued activation of The City of Red Deer call centre daily from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. for residents to make non-emergency inquiries about City services and policies (403-342-8111)
• Enhanced cleaning and janitorial services in high traffic areas
• Mandatory 14-day isolation period for City employees who are symptomatic and/or have returned from international travel after March 12, 2020
• Notifying customers affected by program cancellations and City facility closures
• Revised cancellation policies for passes, programs and room rentals. Details are posted on our COVID-19 information page.
• We continue to work with the provincial government to protect our vulnerable population.

In addition, the following City facilities remain open to the public at this time, however with potentially amended service levels:

• City Hall and Professional Building
• Sorenson Station and Red Deer Transit service
• Downtown Red Deer RCMP detachment
• Cemetery services

“The actions we have taken today, and will continue to take, are to protect our citizens and our staff,” said City Manager Allan Seabrooke. “While the situation in Red Deer has remained stable, we believe that as a municipality we have the responsibility to be proactive in the prevention of the spread of COVID-19. We are working hard to maintain essential City services, including but not limited to RCMP, Emergency Services, water and waste water.”

Residents are reminded not to attend City facilities or any public facilities if they are feeling ill. Call Alberta Healthlink at 8-1-1 for non-emergency health information about COVID-19 and 9-1-1 only in the case of a life-threatening emergency or crime in progress.

The COVID-19 outbreak remains a fluid situation and information can change quickly and often. The City of Red Deer is prepared to make additional changes to policies as required in order to keep residents safe and reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Residents are urged to visit the Alberta Health Services website at www.ahs.ca for the most up to date information.