Since my last update only 2 weeks ago so much has changed with respect to COVID. Sadly, in the past two weeks in our Province 16 more residents have passed away, and another 3,000 people have contracted the virus. And as we enter another week, I want to remind everyone how important it is that we follow the social distancing guidelines that are being recommended by our public health experts. Wear a mask in all public places, keep you household numbers to 5, wash your hands, and stay home if you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID, even mild ‘cold’ symptoms. Finally, if you want to get tested, call the HealthLine at 811, or your family physician. You can take the online self-assessment at www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19.

Since the escalation of the virus in our community, we have been having weekly briefings with the Saskatchewan Health Authority. On the positive side, they report that residents seem to have taken notice and are cooperating with contact tracing which is showing fewer close contacts involved in each case. However, cases are still rising. We are hopeful that with new restrictions now in place, the number of cases in our community will slow. 

Our number one priority as we enter the holiday season is the health of our residents and our staff. It is important for all of us to keep our ‘bubbles’ small to continue to self monitor our health. We also want our local businesses to survive this pandemic. Please continue to Love What’s Local and support our local retailers as you begin your holiday shopping. Whether their doors are open, or they are offering curbside or online service, please support them if you can.

As of today, there are 3,879 active cases of COVID-19 in Saskatchewan. To date, we have had 8,564 cases. The number of recoveries is 4,638. Forty-seven people have died. We send our condolences to all of the families and friends of these individuals.

Our City and Emergency Services continue to work with other municipalities and to share information from the Province to ensure the safety of our residents and staff.

An update on City programs and services:

• All priority programs and services continue to be provided.
• The alternating water meter read/estimate schedule continues. With water usage typically higher in warmer months we encourage residents to keep accounts accurate and current by submitting your reading on your ‘estimate’ month.
• City Hall, Wheatland Regional Library, the MAP, the Sports Centre, Northridge Centre and Heritage Centre are all open with occupancy limits in place and safety guidelines being followed. The MAP is open but all drop-in programs and pick up games are cancelled.

• Water service will not be discontinued due to non-payment or overdue account status.

The majority of our snow clearing and removal after the massive snowfall a few weeks ago has been completed. Thank you again to everyone for your patience and to all our snow angels who helped others out.  The Fire Department is still taking donations (money or gift card) for the annual Christmas Hamper Program. If you would like to participate, please drop off your donation at Martensville City Hall.

Sincerely,

Mayor Kent Muench 
 

Links to Important Resources

Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
Re-Open Saskatchewan
Featured articles on mental health services available in Saskatchewan
COVID-19 Self Assessment Tool and the most up-to-date information on the coronavirus
 

A reminder to sign up for online services available at the City of Martensville:
Our City’s webpage dedicated to information on the pandemic
City of Martensville social media links:
Facebook
Twitter: @Martensville
Business Task Force (City of Martensville, City of Warman, Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce)