Beaumont, AB – Beaumont Mayor John Stewart had the following statement regarding the COVID-19 pandemic:

“Today, we closed all city buildings to the public. This is another step in stopping the spread of COVID-19. We are now working on alternatives to deliver services that were available through City Hall and will update you as information becomes available. Be assured, we have plans and contingencies in place that make sure fire protection, policing, ambulance, drinking water and other critical services remain available without disruption.

“Earlier today, the federal and Alberta governments announced new measures to help families and businesses struggling with expenses as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have deep impacts on our economy. I want to thank both levels of government for stepping up in this time of global crisis. Links to information about those programs will be provided on our website at www.beaumont.ab.ca/covid19

“Council is also examining steps that we can take to ease financial challenges for Beaumont residents and businesses – you will likely hear more about that in the days ahead.

“I’ve mentioned before that this is an unsettling period right now. We’ve never experienced anything on this scale in our lifetimes and experts are predicting that the health, economic and social impacts will be with us for some time.

“That doesn’t mean there is no hope. In fact, I see every reason for hope in the strength, connectedness and resiliency in this community. Those characteristics will carry us through the days and weeks ahead.

“I want you to know it’s OK to feel scared, stressed or anxious. There are still many unknowns and those are normal reactions, especially when people are apart from their usual social circles. I would like to offer a few tips to help manage those overwhelming feelings: start by limiting your time consuming news about COVID-19. Get your facts from reliable sources, such as government and health agency websites. Eat healthy and get plenty of sleep.

“Finally, remember that this is temporary and there is every reason to hope. All levels of government have your back, as does the entire community of Beaumont.

“More mental health resources are posted on our website. Please, take of yourself. Take care of each other. We will get through this together.”

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Media contact:
Mike Berezowsky
Manager, Communications & Marketing
780-243-0458