As the COVID-19 pandemic continues globally, the District of Mission has taken steps and says it will continue to look for new ways to manage the impacts locally.
“Municipalities across the province want to keep as close to business as usual as possible, and Mission is no different,” said Mayor Pam Alexis.
“The District is constantly reviewing its financial situation amid an uncertain and challenging time that is evolving. What we’re seeing four weeks into these measures is that Mission is adapting. We are still conducting business, it is just done in a different way now. People are calling or emailing, and meetings are happening virtually, but the work that keeps our community moving is getting done.”
On Monday April 20, Mayor and Council will consider a report recommending the delay of metered utility billing collection by three months. They will also receive a report proposing a campaign that will boost support for local businesses.
Later in the month, staff plan to present a quarterly report that will include an update on the initial financial impacts of COVID-19 on the District.
Mission, along with many cities in BC, are awaiting direction from the Province on deferring property taxes this year.
“I’m listening to our residents and they want to know how long these measures will last; they’re wanting to know when life will get back to normal. COVID-19 has been difficult for our residents and businesses on many levels. I believe we’ll have an update on property tax deferral soon. We need to be aligned with the rest of the province on rolling out a deferral program.”
To date, Mission has temporarily laid off over 70 staff, mostly due to the closure of the Leisure Centre.
More information on the District of Mission’s response to COVID-19 can be found at mission.ca/covid-19.