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If you spent any time on Highway 97 over the long weekend, you were not the only person who noticed an increase in Alberta license plates.
Peachland Mayor Cindy Fortin took to Facebook Monday to urge visitors to stay away from her community.
“I’ve had several people express their frustration with seeing visitors (not just from Alberta, to be fair) out and about in Peachland during the COVID-19 health crisis,” she said, noting “not everyone with an Alberta licence plate is visiting, as there are a number of residents who moved here from Alberta and maintain their Alberta insurance. That’s between them and ICBC.”
But for those visiting the area, Fortin said while she appreciates them choosing Peachland as a destination, “we welcome you at any other time, this is NOT that time.”
“What it is, is the time to stay home and to shelter in place (except for essential reasons, such as for needed groceries and medical reasons),” she said. “Your actions could mean the serious illness and death of someone else’s loved one.”
Pointing to the rapid spread of COVID-19 around the globe, Fortin said everyone need to play their part.
“Our local businesses need you to patronize their restaurants and shops, but most are not open right now. Please don’t put Peachland residents at additional risk because of your own needs. Think of others,” she said.
As for the Peachland residents who are ostensibly calling the mayor to complain about visitors, Fortin says there is little the municipality can do unless the province issues more strict directives.
“I share your frustration, not just with visitors, but with everyone out and about right now, ignoring the stay at home recommendations,” she said.
“But, we will never convince everyone of the seriousness of the situation. The most the rest of us can do is to continue to do our part, protect each other and our families, and try not to obsess over the actions of others. It will drive you crazy, and that’s not good for your health either,” Fortin said.
“I know the majority of residents are doing the right thing.”
