A Letter to the Community from Your North Shore Mayors

Friday, Mar 27, 2020

We write to you today on behalf of the members of all three Councils, who care deeply about the health and well-being of those who live and work on the North Shore. It has been heartbreaking to learn that COVID-19 has caused the passing of a number of our residents, and our sincere condolences go out to their families and friends. 

Life on the North Shore has changed dramatically in the past two weeks, as we all struggle to deal with the uncertainty and challenges brought about by this pandemic. Many of you have lost work and face significant financial hardship; and all of us feel the loss of social connection with friends and family. 

The health of our residents and essential service workers is our top priority. Over the last several weeks the NS Emergency Management Office has been activated, our municipalities have been putting business continuity plans in place while keeping core services running, and we are coordinating with multiple agencies that support our most vulnerable. We are working with senior levels of government on these emerging issues, and the economic impact that will be very real for many people. 

We offer special thanks to those who risk their own well-being to ensure that essential services continue—those in health care and public safety, those who greet us at the check-out counter, those who look after our most vulnerable seniors, and so many others.

The North Shore is a very special place, known as much for its sense of community as it is for its spectacular natural environment. We are North Shore strong, and it is this resilience that will get us through this crisis. In the coming weeks we will need to find new ways to support each other, so we encourage you to check in with your friends and neighbours to see who might need your help.

Most importantly, you must follow the orders of British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.

And always remember to:

  • Stay home and do not go out unless absolutely necessary;
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap, do not touch your face, and cough or sneeze into your arm;
  • Keep two metres away from each other at all times; and
  • Meet and socialize virtually—do not gather in groups.

For the latest vital information, please visit your municipality:

Now is the time to act, and we must act together.
 

Mayor Mary-Ann Booth, West Vancouver
Mayor Mike Little, District of North Vancouver
Mayor Linda Buchanan, City of North Vancouver