COUNCIL CORNER: Town of Tofield warns to be cautious and understanding as restrictions lift
Recently, the Province of Alberta provided a formal statement on the impending relaxation of COVID 19 restrictions. The lifting of restrictions will be done in a three phase approach.
Phase one sees some of these restrictions being loosened by as early as May 4th. This will come to many as good news, and provides each of us something to look forward to.
This current state that we have been within for the past 60 days has provided immeasurable damages to our mental well being, our economy and to many, sadly, our health.
Although the role out strategy comes as good news, and provides hope, I must truly suggest caution in moving forward. Now is not the time to become complacent in our approach and to become lax on the provisions the Province has put in place. If we as a community become complacent, this could set back the role out approach and take us back to where we currently stand. People from within our region are strong, use this as the time to continue to show our strength and to stand together to once again be provincial leaders in our success model.
Throughout the pandemic we have often heard “we are in this together” or, we are all in the same boat. Well, yes, we are all in this together collectively, however to say we are all approaching this, dealing with, or affected by this the same would be incorrect. As was aforementioned, restrictions being lifted are pending, however, the long lasting effects could be here for the foreseeable future.
These implications could be from a mental, physical and economic standpoint. It’s important for each of us to be cognizant of this. Each person could be dealing with this differently, and we must understand that there is no right or wrong way to approach the pandemic from an element of acceptance and approach.
Now, I would be remiss if I did not say, approach and coping should be done from a healthy perspective to ensure success. This is the time for Tofield to be kind to one another as we always have. We have no idea what struggles or conflict a person is going through. Just because it may not be visually apparent, does not mean a struggle does not exist.
In going forward, let’s all please keep this in mind. I would also like to take this time to say, once restrictions are lifted and we see the gradual roll-out of the suggested phases, please take this time to support our local businesses and economy.
On behalf of Council, stay well, stay positive and be aware of your family, friends and neighbours in this time of need.
Sincerely,
Mayor and Council
Town of Tofield
