City of Calgary making some changes under new COVID-19 restrictions

Some changes are being made in Calgary in the wake of the province’s newly announced COVID-19 restrictions.

A release from the city on Wednesday details how the municipal government is planning to shift its operations to support the public health orders that were announced on Tuesday by Premier Jason Kenney.

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“The City of Calgary fully supports the new measures and is reviewing how these changes will impact our operations,” said Chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), Sue Henry, in the release.”

“Once received, we will be reviewing the Provincial orders and determining the City’s response in support of them. We recognize these restrictions aren’t easy, especially during the holiday season and would like to thank all Calgarians for their efforts, including staying home as much as possible.”

The popular public fire pits that the city installed a few weeks ago will remain in place for use, but will be limited to existing permits and can only be used by those living in the same household.

Unfortunately, the city states that it will not be able to process any new permits going forward.

Level 2 Peace Officers have been given the go-ahead to enforce the Public Health Act, meaning that an additional 100 Peace Officers can write tickets to Calgarians found breaking the new restrictions.

Fines can be up to $1,000 for the initial ticket and up to $100,000 if brought to court.

The city also notes that Calgarians can still support their local businesses throughout the holidays by getting takeout from local bars and restaurants, buying gift cards for later use from services or recreation facilities, and by taking online classes from a local gym.

“Even though retail remains open with limited capacity, consider getting curbside pickup or shop at local businesses online. If you are going into a store, wear a mask, keep your distance and practice good hand hygiene,” the release states.

“Provincial health restrictions are necessary to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Our economy can’t be healthy unless our people are too.”