Dear residents of the Pontiac,
I would like to start off by thanking everyone for the great effort you are making to stay at home, stay in the Pontiac and distance yourself from others. It is making a big difference.
I would like to thank all of our dedicated local businesses who are tirelessly working and risking their health on the front lines to provide for the needs of our population. I would like to thank the doctors and nurses and healthcare staff who are coping with long hours and stressful conditions. I would like to recognize the important work of the SQ, fire services and paramedics for protecting us and keeping us safe. I would also like to recognize the hard work of our mayors and councils providing leadership through this time. I send information to them every day so that we work like a team on your behalf. I also appreciate the dedication of our MRC employees especially Bernard Roy, our DG who I work with hand in hand every day.
As your Warden, I am giving daily reports on CHIP FM radio and on Facebook about COVID-19 and the spring water levels. We are working closely with the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board and Hydro Québec to monitor the situation. At next week’s meeting of the MRC and Council of Mayors by teleconference, we will be approving the new Inter-Municipal Emergency Plan prepared by Julien Gagnon, our Civil Security Coordinator. The MRC will play a strong role and will help to coordinate services to benefit the municipalities in times of crisis. I want to reassure you that the MRC and the Council of Mayors are prepared for any emergency with regards to flooding.
At the time of writing this message, we have been fortunate to have 5 or less cases of COVID-19 in the Pontiac. Just a reminder to continue to practice the three main priorities:
- Wash your hands and do not touch your face;
- Practice the social distancing of 2-metres with others;
- No non-essential travel. Do not leave your house and don’t leave the Pontiac;
The Premier announced that the isolation time and travel restrictions now extend to May 4th. The situation will be reassessed as we approach that date. We do not know how long the threat of COVID-19 will be with us, but we are optimistic and look forward to our recovery in the future.
If you have any comments or concerns please address them on my Jane Toller Facebook page or you can call me at 819-647-8198.
Keep safe, and have a healthy and blessed Easter!
-Jane Toller
