The following is a statement released by Red Deer Mayor Tara Veer from October 20th, 2020, following an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in Red Deer and across Central Alberta.

“The number of active COVID-19 cases in Red Deer and Central Health Zone rose over the past week, which is concerning, especially considering how low they were the week before. As a community, we need to continue to be diligent in ensuring we limit the spread of the virus.

In addition to other public health protocols in place, City Council adopted a bylaw requiring all transit users to wear face coverings, and The City also requires face covering in some parts of City facilities. In addition, City Council may revisit the topic if or when Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health indicates further measures are warranted.

As active cases rise in our community, Council and administration are closely monitoring the situation and are continually responding to public health guidelines to determine what additional steps may need to be taken.

This year has been a challenging one for everyone, but we will come through this if we continue to work together. Please continue to take personal precautions to limit the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by practicing physical distancing, wearing a face covering when distancing cannot be maintained and limiting the number of people you share close contact with.

It is imperative that we remain diligent and remember that every measure we take is not only to protect ourselves, but to protect all Red Deerians and capacity at our local hospital.” 

(L-R) Mayor of Calgary, Naheed Nenshi Mayor of Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Don Scott Mayor of Lethbridge, Chris Spearman, and Mayor of Red Deer, Tara Veer. Photo courtesy of the City of Red Deer.