COCHRANE— The Town of Cochrane is continuing to adapt to the far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cochrane Mayor Jeff Genung and Chief Administrative Officer Drew Hyndman provided their weekly COVID-19 update Thursday (April 23) focusing on how the Town is successfully coping with the virus.
Genung reported that there have been 15 COVID-19 cases, 12 of which have recovered, in the Cochrane-Springbank region.
He added despite only being a short commute away from Calgary and its high volume of cases, Cochrane has not seen a significant increase in cases over the last few weeks.
"What does that tell us? It tells us that here in Cochrane we are doing the right things," Genung said.
Town crews will begin to get back to some regular operations Hyndman said, as street cleaning will be taking place. Hyndman said first on the list will be the major roads and Historic Downtown followed by residential neighbourhoods on May 11. Hyndman pointed out that due to the number of people at home during this time there will be a number of vehicles parked on the streets. He says the publics' cooperation in moving vehicles during scheduled street sweeps will be greatly appreciated.
With Cochrane's Eco Centre still closed, Hyndman encouraged residents to continue to use their green bins for any yard clean up during the warmer weather.
"We are going to consistently re-evaluate the status of the Eco Centre and consider potentially re-opening it, if a number of things that have prevented us from re-opening the facility can be adequately addressed including public safety and the safety of our staff," he said.
In a feat to get back to normal the third council meeting will be hosted next week (April 27). Hyndman said there will be a number of public hearings on the agenda and urged the Cochrane residents to participate.
Also on the schedule for next week's council meeting will be the Town's response to COVID-19. Genung explained that further debate will be had on the creation of two local task forces— the Economic Recovery Task Force and a Social Recovery Task Force.
"The Economic Recovery Task Force will collaborate with local business, community organizations, along with provincial and federal governments to create opportunities to support our local economy," Genung said.
Genung added that as we slowly come out of COVID-19 and continue down a path of normality, the Social Recovery Task Force will collaborate with local support agencies and provincial and federal governments to enhance well being, safety and resilience in our community.
The Mayor also provided an update on the status of the Horse Creek pedestrian crossing. He said Canadian Pacific Railway has been on-site and work is underway.
"What is now remaining is for the Town to complete the paving to the approaches," Genung said. "We will complete paving as soon as the ground conditions permit."
He concluded by touching on the importance of looking after mental health during this time. Activities like going out for a walk, staying active and waving hello to a fellow resident can go a long way, he said but asked Cochranites to remember to follow the health measures in a place.
