Mayor's Statement on COVID-19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25th, 2020

To my fellow residents of the Town of Deseronto.

Over the past few weeks, we have all had to adjust to changes in our lifestyle and personal habits. Many of these changes have been abrupt and challenging, but I am confident that by following the direction given by our health authorities and various levels of government, we will be able to control the situation.

On behalf of the Town and Council, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you in accepting the challenge of practicing physical distancing and following best practices when interacting within the municipality. Our community spirit has been inspiring and I am encouraging everyone to continue to communicate in safe ways, because together we can make a difference.

Our municipal staff are continuing to work safely and diligently and the primary focus is ensuring the health and well being of our residents, while continuing to provide the essential services required for supporting our community needs. As a result, the Town has enacted a series of safety protocols to deal with this situation. We continue to work with our governments and area partners to find ways to adapt to the situation so we can best serve you in a responsible manner.

We are all impacted by this situation and I would ask that we look out for each other. Please, reach out by making a phone call or sending a message to neighbours, friends and family members to see how they are doing. We are in this together, but are still facing individual challenges during this time. If you are able to help, please do, it will mean a lot. We have wonderful organizations in our area dedicated to helping those in need. If you are experiencing challenges and need help please contact Town Hall municipal staff and they will do their best to provide you with an agency that may be able to assist.

We will continue to share important community notices through media outlets such as our municipal webpage (https://www.deseronto.ca/covid19-response), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Deseronto) and various media partners so please watch for them. In addition, our Municipal staff are available by calling the town hall at (613) 396-2440 during business hours to answer your questions.

For up to date information about COVID-19 please visit:

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health: https://hpepublichealth.ca/
Public Health Ontario: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/

For local needs, visit https://www.deseronto.ca/covid19-response

I would like to thank our health care and social services providers and essential service workers who I know are committed to helping us get through this unprecedented crisis.

Thank you to our town businesses and staff that are still serving the public in order to ensure our essential needs are taken care of. From ensuring access to grocery, pharmacy, food and other daily services, your efforts are greatly appreciated.

I would also like to thank the businesses who had to close their doors. It is a sacrifice and is equally appreciated, as it will help stop the spread.

Thank you to our dedicated town employees who are working to keep our community safe and functional. Finally, thanks to you, Deseronto Residents, for doing your part.

Together we will get through this.

Stay safe and be well.

Sincerely,

Dan Johnston

Dan Johnston
Mayor Town of Deseronto

PRESS RELEASE