Kelowna Mayor Colin Basrans press conference with measures the city is taking in response to COVID19.
At a press conference Monday, Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran said we are “living in uncertain and unprecedented times.”
He thanked health care providers, senior home care staff, first responders and others providing essential services.
He reiterated the importance of listening to B.C.’s Medical Health Officer and following directives such social distancing, hand washing, stay home if you are sick and avoiding unnecessary travel in the area.
“There are serious consequences of these unprecedented times and more measures might be coming,” said Basran. “These measures give us the best chance to avoid the long-term repercussions of not doing everything we can now to minimize the spread of the virus.”
He also said that effective now, all 81 city playgrounds, and all outside exercise facilities are closed (tennis, Pickleball and basketball courts). Also closed, other places where groups gather. Open spaces and walkways are open. But, further actions will happen if users don’t abide by safe distancing measures.
Transit fees will be waived – for the next 30 days as passengers use rear-door boarding.
Basran also explained the reason there has been no local state of emergency issued. He says the answer is that the powers granted under the provincial state of emergency are addressing immediate needs in our community for safety and compliance.