Blind River Mayor Sally Hagman is asking people who have summer residences in Blind River and area to stay home.
Her statement is in regard to ongoing efforts to stop the risk of COVID-19 spreading to the community. To date there are no confirmed cases of the virus in Blind River.
“We are asking seasonal residents to remain in their hometown,” the mayor said in a statement read at Monday evening’s council meeting. “Please stay put. Please understand that our tiny communities cannot risk any infection.”
“I mean this from the bottom of my heart, that council as a whole eagerly awaits the safe return of all of our seasonal residents,” she added. “We miss you, and can’t wait to see you. However, now is not the time to visit.”
The mayor thanked councillors for participating in the meeting remotely via Zoom.
Mayor Hagman said urging seasonal residents to not travel to the Blind River area is in step with restrictions put in place by the federal and provincial governments.
“These are unprecedented times and things are changing by the hour,” she said. “We are watching what our federal and provincial governments, as well as what Algoma Public Health, are telling us with respect to COVID-10. This situation affects all of us.”
“Mayor and council are taking all directions with regard to COVID-19 and attendance at seasonal properties. The message from Premier Ford – stay home,” Mayor Hagman said.
Blind River has already put measures in place, including cancelling events at municipal buildings and closing playgrounds. Mayor Hagman said residents can get up-to-date information about the measures at the town website.
With warmer weather expected, she said, “Council understands the sacrifices people are making in this fight against COVID-19.”
“As the weather changes, it is difficult to distance and many have cabin fever. We are not through this battle yet. There is still work to do. The health of our most vulnerable in Blind River is council’s top priority. We will not waiver.”
Mayor Hagman took the opportunity to “applaud our frontline staff, the health care workers and everyone who works diligently to meet our needs.”
“To the many people who are volunteering their time to help those who are vulnerable – you, too, continue to be the unsung heroes of our community.” She said. “Thank you.”