RM of West St. Paul response to Coronavirus COVID-19
The RM of West St. Paul has taken a number of proactive steps to help ensure the health and safety of community members during the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Mayor Cheryl Christian says the health and welfare of residents and RM staff is of utmost importance during this difficult time and the RM will keep the community up-to-date on the latest news as it is released by the Province of Manitoba.
"We are working in partnership with the Province of Manitoba to stay informed and help prepare our residents as best we can during this time,” Christian said.
"We will be sharing provincial and local updates to keep you informed. West St. Paul is a close knit, supportive community and there is no need to panic. I encourage everyone to be responsible and heed the advice offered to us by experts – practice social distancing, wash your hands frequently, don’t travel and avoid crowds.
"By doing this we are protecting our vulnerable population – the elderly and those who have chronic health conditions. Let’s work together and we can minimize the impact of COVID-19 in our community for our loved ones, our friends and neighbours.
In West St. Paul, the Municipal Emergency Coordinator (MEC) and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) have been making preparations in response to the pandemic over the last few weeks.
A resolution of Council on Thursday, March 12th authorized the CAO to cancel all Sunova programming as required and on Saturday, March 14th, all Sunova programing was suspended. The following day, all events and rentals were suspended.
The RM apologizes to those impacted by these cancellations and will do everything possible to help reschedule these events.
The CAO and EMC have been working on a business continuity plan. Staff and council members travelling abroad will have to self-isolate for 14 days, and all non-essential travel is discouraged.
Also:
· All municipal staff members have been advised to stay home if they do not feel well.
· Budget meetings will continue to meet legislative requirements and timelines as per the Municipal Act.
· Steps will be taken to ensure the safety of council and staff through social distancing, proper hand washing and other precautions.
· All other meetings and open houses are currently under review.
· The Rossmore West Local Improvement Open House planned for March 25th has been cancelled. RM staff are making arrangements to provide all information to every resident in that area and will provide an update to those residents very soon.
· Regular Council meeting dates and times are currently under review and may be rescheduled.
· Essential municipal business and services will continue for residents, including water and wastewater services. The RM has been updated on the continuity plan from Cartier Regional Water Co-Op and the City of Winnipeg and has been assured these services will not be disrupted.
Mayor and council have been working cooperatively with the other levels of government and will continue constant communication.
To view the latest Provincial communication on Covid-19 go to https://www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/index.html