State of local emergency declared in Armstrong

Mar 20, 2020 | 5:34 PM

The City of Armstrong has declared a state of local emergency to ensure it can respond to provincial directives over the Covid-19 crisis.

“In order to ensure that the City of Armstrong can respond as needed to provincial mandates, the city has declared a State of Local Emergency effective March 20, 2020 at 15:30,” read a city news release.

Mayor Chris Pieper broke it down for Vernon Matters, after what he said had been a “stressful day.”

“It’s a Level One [state of emergency]. It gives us extra ability for emergency services and supplies and stuff like that. It’s more protocol than emergency. We have no one in Armstrong or Spallumcheen infected that I’m aware of, but that’s kept very close in Interior Health. We have not been notified of anyone who has got the virus,” said Pieper.

Pieper said the emergency measure will stay in effect for one week.

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“It’s the lowest level of the emergency program, but it does allow access for evacuation of people, buying stuff without the proper protocol of going to tender, and allows us access to emergency services.”

City Hall has been shutdown to the public, but there will still be at least two staff working during normal hours to take calls and other duties.

“This is a very serious time in our life, and it’s evolving every day,” Pieper added.

A city news release noted all services will continue in the following capacities:

• Public Works building will be closed for public access however,the crew will continue to provide services (all provincial guidelines will apply). Please note essential services will be addressed first as water and sewer services, flooding, and road emergencies. Crews will attempt to address complaints or requests for service as time, priorities and public safety permit.

• City Hall (Administration and Finance) will be closed for public access. We will continue to receive payments through electronic means (through internet or telephone banking at your financial institution) or by cheque through our drop slot at the front door. Pre-authorized withdrawals will continue.

• Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Department will be closed for public access however, fire protection services will continue. Please call 911 with any emergencies.

• Bylaw and Dog Control Services related to the primary priority of health and safety will continue with limited public interactions. Other related bylaw complaint matters will be addressed on a case by case basis and as time permits.

• Building Inspection services will continue. Building inspections are being performed by appointment only. Please note, essential services will be addressed first with other related matters as time permits.

• Planning and subdivision applications will continue. Please submit inquiries by phone or email.

Please submit inquiries by phone or email. Arrangements can be made for web based or teleconference meetings when necessary. You can contact the City of Armstrong in the following ways: Email at info@cityofarmstrong.bc.ca Telephone at 250-546-3023 Fax at 250-546-3710.

The city will continue to monitor this situation closely and encourages residents to refer to their website for up-to-date information at www.cityofarmstrong.bc.ca.

by Pete McIntyre

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