COVID-19 Update: Message from Mayor Miller

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us in so many ways and it is an on-going learning process as we navigate the road to recovery and the new normal. The safety of our community and its residents continues to be the number one priority for all of us.

Yesterday November 19th, the Province of British Columbia released new Provincial wide restrictions which will be on order until December 7th. By order and direction of the Provincial Health Officer, all individuals, places of work and businesses in BC must significantly reduce their level of social interactions and travel for the next two weeks.
These orders include:

• Mandatory face mask requirement within all Indoor facilities.
• No social gatherings of any size with anyone other than your household or core bubble.
• Non-essential travel is not recommended.
• In person religious services are banned until further notice, expect for weddings, baptisms and funerals. Those events are capped at 10 people.

These new measures are being put in place as a proactive measure to help reduce the transmission of COVID. At this time keeping the public safety from COVID-19 is a top priority throughout British Columbia, and that of course includes Invermere.

The District of Invermere is following all public health orders to help control the spread of COVID-19. Accordingly, everyone must wear a face mask in public settings. This is now mandatory in places such as local businesses, workplaces, and anywhere that people may be around others. Wearing a face mask has always been about protecting one another. I ask all of you to please be respectful and follow the Provincial Health Officer’s new orders.
This is a precautionary step. This is not a reaction to an immediate concern or threat in our community. We are very fortunate that the number of COVID-19 cases continues to be very low in our area; however, to help ensure we are doing everything possible to keep everyone safe, we will continue to follow the guidance given by Public Health Officials.

I ask that you all do your part by educating yourself on the importance of wearing a face mask and staying safe. Face masks should be worn correctly and consistently for the best protection. Be sure to wash your hands before putting on a mask and do not touch the mask when wearing it. Make sure the mask covers your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin.

The responsible decisions that you continue to make have made a positive difference in our area and will continue to do so. Now is not the time to travel. At this time, please stay local and avoid non-essential travel within BC. Do not travel outside of the province unless it is essential. People travelling to BC and the Columbia Valley from another province or territory within Canada should only come for essential reasons. This is only temporary to help keep everyone safe. Trust me when I say this, we love our visitors! Please keep in mind the more you go out, the more you put yourself and others at risk.

Social interaction and getting together with others in person and online are very important to our well-being and mental health. At this time, British Columbians must limit in-person social gatherings to the people they live with. This is not the time to invite friends or family over to your home. And please do not go to someone else’s home for a social visit at this time. Wash your hands and keep your distance from others.

The intent of these safety measures is to set ourselves up for success, not failure. A crucial component of our success in fighting this pandemic has been the cooperation and efforts made by all community members. I am grateful to all that continue to act responsibly and for the patience and respect you show one another. It is important for all of us to be reasonable and respectful in our expectations of each other during what has been a challenging time for all of us.

We are getting through this and we are doing it, together.

Your continued cooperation is much appreciated.

Thank you,
Mayor Al Miller