Emergency Preparedness
COUNTY OF VERMILION RIVER RESPONSE TO COVID-19
The County of Vermilion River is making every effort to limit the spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus. Effective March 17, 2020 at 4:30pm, the County of Vermilion River Administration Office, Gas Utility Shop and Public Works Shop will be closed to in-person public access.
The County of Vermilion River will remain closed to the public until further notice.
We are following the recommendations from Alberta Health Services, the Alberta Chief Medical Officer, the World Health Organization and federal health authorities as our key objectives are:
- Protecting workers and customers
- Limiting the spread of any infections
- Continuity of operations
The County of Vermilion River has now implemented processes and protocols to address and maintain all of our essential services, such as water, sewer, gas, fire and snow plowing. Staff are meeting daily to proactively implement measures to try to slow the spread of the virus and mitigate potential impacts on the community. County Council and Administration will contintue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will be posting updates through social media applications and on the County's website when a change in strategy or approach is required.
After closing the buildings to in-person public access, the County has initiated contingency measures to ensure critical infrastructure and services are maintained, while keeping employees and the public safe. We are pleased that the County continues to fully operate core services during this difficult time.
Ratepayers and customers are asked to use alternative methods of communication and make contact with the County by phone (780-846-2244) or email (office@county24.com). Inquiries will be handled by Administration and directed to the correct department.
If you have question about County operations, please contact the County of Vermilion River Administration Office at 780-846-2244 or office@county24.com or for information on gas utilities, the Natural Gas Utility at gasut@county24.com.
Business Continuity
Payments
Payments to the County can be made:
- via online banking at your banking institution
- on the County's website by OptionPay Credit Card
- by mailing a cheque or leaving it in the drop box at the front door of the County Administration Office
The Finance Department has developed modified work flows to ensure the accounts payable process is not disrupted. This means that despite the current situation all vendors will be paid on time. Should you notice any disruptions, please email us at payables@county24.com.
Public Works
Any utilities concerns (such as line breaks) can be directed to the office at 780-846-3309 or the after hours emergency line 780-846-2929.
Continue to place any concerns via the Report a Concern on our website or by calling the office at 780-846-3309.
All crews are continuing to work as normal - roads are being monitored with regards to Road Bans and the impending spring thaw.
Permits are still required to travel County roads. Although the office is currently closed to the public, you can sign your permit via fax or electronic signature via email.
Planning & Development
Customers are all encouraged to call, email or fax in permit applications and questions. mharvey@county24.com office: 780-846-2244 Fax 780-846-2716
Please visit the Safety Codes page for:
- Inspection Procedures During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Modified Inspection Process During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Agriculture
Strychnine sales commenced on April 1 so a new process can be put in place. Please visit our Pest Control page for more information.
Spring rat checks will be postponed until after the pandemic in order to comply with social distancing.
All Cropping Conversations producer meetings are cancelled.
Before the Plate/Before the Glass is postponed until a more appropriate time.
Animals
The COVID-19 crisis affects us all, including our animals, more information and resources can be accessed through the SPCA Help For Animals. To report an animal in distress, call 1-800-455-9003.
The Alberta SPCA recommends pet owners have the following:
- 14 day supply of food and other supplies for animals
- 14 day supply of pet medications
- a plan for who will take care of your animals if you become sick
Caring for livestock could be a challenge for anyone who becomes sick with COVID-19. The Alberta SPCA encourages farmers to plan ahead.
- develop a plan on who will take care of your animals if you become sick
- have feed on hand to get you through until the end of May
- have a minimum 14 day supply of medicine on hand
Recreation
All playgrounds in the County of Vermilion River are now open to the public. Click here for the notice.
Fire
Fire, Emergency and Protective Services response levels are unaffected by the public closure of our facilities. Fire Permits can be obtained by calling the office at 780-846-2244 or emailing jlevesque@county24.com.
Enforcement Services
Enforcement Services response levels are unaffected by the public closure of our facilities. Calls for service are being assigned and officers are patrolling County roads. To protect health and safety of Albertans, law enforcement agencies now have full authority to enforce public health orders and issue fines for violations. Read more here.
Transfer Sites
Currently, all transfer sites are open for regular business hours. Patrons are asked to maintain social distancing when visiting the site. Staff are happy to answer any questions and direct you to the correct compound for disposal of your waste. Until further notice, the Vermilion Transfer Site Scale House is closed to the public. The speaker at the scale is operational and questions can be asked at the window. For now, residential pickups will continue as scheduled, but that may change depending on our contractor's staffing levels.
Council
Currently, Council Meetings remain on schedule and will convene via an online platform. Links will be posted on our website when they are available.
Taxes
2020 Provincial Government Education Property Tax Deferral - Equivalent
2020 Provincial Government Education Property Tax Deferral - Six Months
Resources
Relaunch Resources
Alberta's Relaunch Strategy - A safely staged COVID-19 recovery plan to relaunch our economy.
Alberta's Relaunch Strategy puts safety first while gradually reopening businesses, resuming activities and getting people back to work. While we face a long road to recovery, there are signs our collective efforts are helping slow the spread of COVID-19. We must ensure the sacrifices we have already made are not wasted. To be successful, we must stay vigilant to slow the spread: follow public health measures, practice physical distancing and good hygiene and continue acting responsibly.
As businesses prepare to reopen as part of Alberta's relaunch strategy, resources are available to help keep you, your staff and your customers safe. All workplaces are expected to develop and implement policies and procedures to address COVID-19. Learn more at alberta.ca/biz-connect.aspx
Federal and Provincial Financial Aid
The Government of Canada is taking immediate, significant and decisive action to help Canadians facing hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Alberta Government will provide immediate financial relief to Alberta's families and vulnerable populations.
All individuals are encouraged to keep up to date on the latest developments throughout Alberta by viewing official information that can be accessed through the Government of Alberta's Website: https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx
24 hour call number for COVID-19 - Call Health Link 811 or https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/service.aspx?Id=1001957
Connection & Prevention
Please access our COVID- 19 Resource List for supports including: food security, mental health, social/health programs, violence, and crisis intervention.
Vermilion Food Bank - drop in for pickup at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church (4620-53 Ave. Vermilion) on Fridays, 1-3pm. To find ways to donate, click here.
Supports for farmers and agri-food businesses
Text4Hope - Supporting Mental Health & Wellness in a Time of Stress & Isolation
COVID-19 (Government of Canada)
Economic Developers Alberta COVID-19 Business Impact Survey
Being Prepared
There are a variety of local emergencies that could impact our municipality - weather related emergencies, such as wind storm, winter storm, or tornado, as well as events such as wildfires or flooding. Here are some resources that can help make sure you and your family are prepared:
KNOW THE RISKS. MAKE A PLAN. HAVE A KIT.
Severe Storms - What to Do Guide
Related Links
