There are few cases of COVID‑19 in the Outaouais right now, fewer than 5 in the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais. We’d all like it to stay that way, but the reality is that we have to expect it to increase. However, we can save lives and make a difference. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to remind you to follow the instructions issued to the letter and only to leave the house for essential services. Human lives are at stake. It is the actions we take now that will allow us to maintain capacity within our healthcare system and make sure everyone who’s hurt or ill receives all the care they need.
Since April 1 there have been random checkpoints on the outskirts of, and within, the Outaouais to limit the spread of the virus and protect our region. To me as mayor, this is welcome news, since it strengthens our collective effort.
With the arrival of spring, some people may be tempted to enjoy a change of scenery by visiting our beautiful region. The checkpoints and the current ban on short-term rentals will keep people from travelling to and visiting Chelsea. This is good news for our fight against COVID‑19, but obviously it adds to the strain on our local businesses. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to invite everyone in Chelsea who can to buy local so that we can all get through this together. Some of them are able to continue to offer certain services through online delivery and ordering. The Municipality will be launching on Monday a new page on its website that lists all the services offered by our local businesses. There will also be a campaign to support them.
COVID-19 is forcing us to act quickly to keep our operations going with as little interruption as possible. We’ll need to make decisions quite soon about events that were planned for the coming months, including recreation and leisure activities and public consultations. The next Council meeting is on April 7 and will be held by videoconference. Full details are posted here.
Many of us in Québec are on high alert regarding possible spring flooding. Rest assured that we are keeping a close eye on the situation. If you see any flooding, please contact Public Works at 819‑827‑1160, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or 819‑827‑9911 evenings and weekends.
In closing, I would like to invite everyone to keep on being patient and follow the current measures to the letter. If we all work together, we’ll be able to get through this trial more quickly. I also invite you to visit the Government of Québec and Government of Canada websites. You will also find information on the MRC des Collines police website and on our pandemic webpage. If you haven’t already joined up, follow us on Facebook and sign up for our municipal newsletter. With the situation evolving rapidly, it’s more important than ever to stay informed.
Sincerely,
Caryl Green
Mayor
