The COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted all of our lives in countless ways. Over the past three months, you have made incredible sacrifices to limit the spread of the virus. I am proud of our community’s response. Your efforts have helped limit the number of COVID-19 cases here in Prince Edward County and kept our community relatively safe and healthy. Let’s keep up the fight against this virus while at the same time continuing to show patience and understanding toward one another.

While the pandemic has pushed us apart physically, now is the time for us to come together as community. We must resist the urge to engage in divisive debates and instead focus on the common ground we share. No matter where you come from, we are united by our love for the County’s beauty and natural charm.

Over the past several weeks, the province has gradually reopened sectors of the economy. Last week, the provincial government allowed short-term accommodations to open. And on Monday, the province announced Stage 2 with more workplaces and outdoor spaces permitted to reopen.

As a result of these decisions at the provincial level, we expect the return of seasonal residents and people visiting. As we move from response to recovery, we all have a role to play in safeguarding the health of our community and the virtues that make the County an attractive destination to visit. Cooperation, understanding, patience, and tolerance are key.

I’m calling on everyone – regardless if you live here year-round, most of the year, or are visiting – to respect the provincial guidelines: stay 2 metres apart, wear a mask if physical distancing is a challenge and wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. If we all abide by these rules, we will get through this together and keep our COVID cases low.

As we all do our part, we owe a special thanks to frontline workers in Prince Edward County. Each and every one of our frontline health-care professionals, first responders, and goods and services providers are playing an important role during the pandemic. While their employers are ensuring they have a safe work environment, there are things we can do to make them feel more comfortable. Please respect the rules that are in place and be patient and kind to frontline workers during these especially trying times. Do your part by maintaining a safe physical distance, washing your hands thoroughly and often, and wearing a mask when physical distancing is a challenge.

I and my fellow council members are committed to maintaining health and safety while fostering a community that is welcoming to all. We will advocate for the best interests of the community at every turn. Furthermore, staff are also doing their best to deliver the services that residents, businesses, and visitors rely on.

Prince Edward County has always been known as a friendly, down-to-earth rural community. Let’s not allow COVID-19 to change that.

Steve Ferguson

Mayor

County of Prince Edward