Important Announcement: 

Effective March 18, 2020 at 4:30 pm, all municipal buildings have been closed to the public in support of Provincial and Federal efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  This includes City Hall, the Welton Common Building downtown, Public Works, the Visitor Information Centre, the RCMP front counter and Crime Prevention Office, and all Fire Station front counters.

Staff will continue to serve the public via phone and email, and emergency services will continue to function.  The Mission Leisure Centre and the Mission Public Library remain closed.

We thank you for your understanding and your support as we work together to reduce the burden on our health care system during these unprecedented times.

Contact Information by Department:

• Switchboard/Corporate Administration 604-820-3700 info@mission.ca
• Finance 604-820-3717     tax@mission.ca
• Forestry 604-820-3762    forestry@mission.ca
• Building Inspections 604-820-3726 inspections@mission.ca
• Bylaws/Business Licence 604-820-3727 bylaw@mission.ca  / businesslicence@mission.ca
• Planning 604-820-3748   planning@mission.ca
• Engineering 604-820-3736 engineering@mission.ca
• Public Works 604-820-3761 pworksadmin@mission.ca
• Parks, Recreation and Culture 604-820-5350 leisureservices@mission.ca
• Mission Fire & Rescue Service (Non-Emergency) 604-820-3793/3794 firehalladmin@mission.ca
• Visitor Information Centre/Economic Development 604-820-5375 or Toll Free 1-866-814-1222 edc@mission.ca  / tourism@mission.ca
• R.C.M.P. (Non-Emergency, Phone Only) 604-826-7161

A Summary of the Timeline of Updates from the District of Mission:

April 3 – Washrooms in all parks in Mission closed, COVID-19 volunteer opportunities available and Tax Deferral information. 
April 2 – Rot pot compost giveaway & social distancing tips.
March 26 – Skate Park, Boat Launch, Rocky Point Gate and Flats closed. Bike to Work Week 2020 cancelled.
March 24 – Spring Cleanup and Household Hazardous Waste Day postponed, Curbside Collection and Recycling Depot Changes announced.
March 23 – Mission COVID-19 Assessment Centre and Vulnerable Persons Action Team announced, Mission Public Schools playgrounds closed.
March 22 – District playgrounds to be closed.
March 20 – Parks programs cancelled, Landfill no longer accepting cash and free BC Transit and rear-door loading.
March 18 – Municipal Buildings close to the public.
March 17 – Leisure Centre and Library close to the public.

Expand the sections under “Latest Updates” below to read more details about each update.

Find Helpful Health and Business Resources in this section.

BC Centre for Disease Control:

The Provincial Health Officer maintains an up to date website with comprehensive information regarding the virus, its symptoms, how it spreads, how to protect yourself and family, etcetera: BCCDC

This site also contains information for schools, childcare, self isolation and testing.

Health Canada:

Health Canada provides updates on the outbreak, travel advice, symptoms and treatment, etc: Health Canada

Information for Travelers:

The Government of Canada issues Travel Health Notices at this site: Travel Notices

 Additional resources:

• BC Centre for Disease Control channels to follow:
  • Twitter: @CDCofBC
  • RSS Feed
• Fraser Health
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• World Health Organization Situation Reports
• Speak to someone:
  • Novel Coronavirus information: 1-833-784-4397
  • Health information 8-1-1
• Email for Novel Coronavirus information: phac.info.aspc@canada.ca

Helpful Business Resources:

Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce – COVID-19 & Your Biz

Small Business BC: Resources for Small Businesses Affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19) (regularly updated)

PreparedBC – Emergency Plan for Small Businesses

World Health Organization (WHO) – Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19 (Feb 27, 2020)

Greater Vancouver Board of Trade – Business Preparedness Checklist 

British Columbia Economic Development Association

Money for Businesses

The Government of Canada is taking immediate, significant and decisive action to help Canadians facing hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

On March 18, 2020, the Prime Minister announced a new set of economic measures to help stabilize the economy during this challenging period. These measures, delivered as part of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, will provide up to $27 billion in direct support to Canadian workers and businesses.

Support for Businesses

Support for Canadians

In the links above you can find information and resources for:

• Temporary Income Support for Workers and Parents
• Longer-Term Income Support for Workers
• Income Support for Individuals Who Need It Most
• Flexibility for Taxpayers
• Role of Financial Institutions
• Mortgage Default Management Tools
• Supports to Businesses
• How the Government of Canada will support Business through the Canada Account
• Helping Businesses Keep their Workers
• Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes
• Ensuring Businesses Have Access to Credit
• Supporting Financial Market Liquidity 

Business Development Bank of Canada

As part of the Federal Government’s announcement about help for businesses, BDC is offering:

• Small Business Loan Up to $100,000 can be obtained online in as little 48 hours from time of approval.
• Working capital loan Get extra funds to bridge cash flow gaps and support everyday operations.
• Purchase Order Financing Increase your cash flow to fulfill domestic or international orders with very flexible terms.

Hubs & Groups: Check out these grassroots communities of support. Most are on social media platforms and many include an ask/offer component. Please respect the guidelines of each group.

Esquimalt Farmers Market Online Market Place Group – An online Facebook group for vendors to connect with customers directly, outside of market hours. Vendors must be a current EFM Vendor in good standing to use the group for sales or connections.

COVID-19 Coming Together: Regional Facebook groups to help people connect to share resources, support each other, show solidarity for healthcare workers and the vulnerable, build community, and amplify social movements fighting for critical access to healthcare, housing and workers’ rights. Current regional groups: Vancouver and Victoria/Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ Lands.

Utilities Links/Resources:

BC Hydro
Shaw
Telus
Rogers
Fortis BC
West Coast Express (Translink)

The Mission Division of Family Practice, in partnership with Fraser Health and the District of Mission, has opened a COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Mission – see missioncovidresponse.com.

Do not attend the Mission Assessment Centre without receiving an appointment.

You must receive an appointment in one of the following 2 ways:

1. Referral from a family physician or nurse practitioner (do not visit your doctor – always call ahead)

2. Take the COVID-19 assessment on the missioncovidresponse.com website. 

All patients at the centre will be assessed, however most people who are showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be tested. Find more information here.

Non-medical info:
  1-888-COVID19

British Columbia COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool:
 https://covid19.thrive.health/ 

If you need immediate medical support, call 811.

The most important thing you can do to prevent COVID-19 and other illnesses is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.

Here are some other tips to avoid spreading germs:

• maintain 2 metres between people as much as possible;
• practice proper sneezing and coughing control (cough onto arm);
• refrain from touching eyes and mouth;
• avoid shaking hands; and
• in the workplace, ask staff that are ill to stay home until they are feeling better or make the decision to stay home from work if you are sick.

The info-graphic below compares COVID-19 symptoms to other common conditions. Know the difference!

Date: April 1, 2020
Title: Mayor’s Statement

A message from Mayor Pam Alexis: Last night, Premier John Horgan extended the state of emergency in our province.

He also said, we may be separated, but we are not alone. And I want to extend this powerful message to everyone in Mission. We need to take this situation seriously and we all have a part to play. Staying home and keeping attentive to physical distancing is making a difference. The next two weeks are critical to bending the curve of the COVID-19 virus in BC.

These measures will not be forever, and I know it’s not easy. But our commitment is needed now and here in Mission we can do it.

Take care, everyone.

Date: March 30, 2020
Title: Mayor’s Message

A message from Mayor Pam Alexis on COVID-19 Food Preparedness

I want to check-in with you and talk about a topic that I know hits close to home for everyone during this anxious time: having enough food for our families.

While it’s a good idea to pick-up a few extra non-perishable food items to have on hand, there is no need to stockpile.

The stores in Mission have enough food and supplies for everyone to buy.

In fact, I wanted to thank our local grocery stores for their hard work keeping our community stocked with the food and essentials we need for daily life—while keeping vigilant to critical physical distancing measures.

Particularly, I want to acknowledge a few incredible steps some of our local grocery stores have taken to ease the spread of COVID-19:

• Many stores have dedicated their first hour of shopping to seniors, people with disabilities and those who are vulnerable;
• I’ve seen stores mark their floors with tape to ensure customers have enough physical distancing while waiting for the check-out, and;
• I’m starting to see frontline workers, such as first responders and healthcare workers, also receive exclusive shopping time.

These measures go a long way to keep people safe, while ensuring everyone has access to what they need.

Thank you again, Mission, for all your vigilance in helping stop spread the COVID-19 virus. We’re a community that cares about each other and it absolutely shows.

We need to keep up our 100% commitment to doing our part to help bend the curve of this virus. We have to keep going. We are in it together.

Mayor Pam Alexis

Date: March 27, 2020
Title: Mayor’s Message

I want to thank everyone for their hard work helping protect our community from the spread of COVID-19 by keeping vigilant to critical physical distancing measures.

As we go into the weekend, I want to remind everyone to remember to keep their 100% commitment to the measures put in place by the provincial and federal governments.

This means:
– Staying home if you are sick
– Limiting errands and appointments
– Staying 2 metres from others outside your home
– No group gatherings

Date: March 24, 2020 
Title: Mayor’s Message

Please view the message from the Mayor in the video below.

Date: March 20, 2020 5:10 pm
Title: Mayor’s Message in the March 20th edition of the Mission Record

Dear Residents of Mission,

We are living in challenging times and are, in fact, in uncharted territory. This situation requires courage, kindness, compassion, patience and restraint. We have to stay calm yet strong as we navigate these waters.

Things are changing by the hour. Consequently, it is important to ensure that we are all following the official Provincial and Federal government websites and social media for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Links to BC Centre for Disease Control, Fraser Health etc., and other useful information, can be found on the District of Mission’s website at https://www.mission.ca/covid-19/.

For the health and safety of us all, it is essential that we follow the protocols laid out by the Federal, Provincial and local health experts. We must all do our part so that we can reduce the number of patients requiring care. We are fortunate to have excellent health care professionals in our midst. We are also fortunate to live in such a deeply caring community. By practising social isolation and social distancing, we are not just taking care of ourselves; we are taking care of each other. At the same time, we need to be touching base with those who are most vulnerable in our midst. This week I have heard of many acts of kindness and generosity. It warms my heart but does not surprise me. From you, Residents of Mission, I would expect no less. I am proud to be a part of this wonderful, resilient community. We will get through this together.

Please be safe, stay well, and look after yourselves and one another.

Pam Alexis, Mayor

Date: March 16, 2020 4:30 pm
Title: March 16 COVID-19 Update – Message from the Mayor

“We have now received instructions from both levels of government about how we can all help limit the transmission of COVID-19. Things are happening very quickly, sometimes even by the hour. We are going to do our best to keep you as informed as possible, because your safety is first and foremost for us as a Council.
Consequently, we will be closing the Leisure Centre as of March 17th. In addition, we have heard from the Executive Director of the Fraser Valley Regional Library and the library will also be closed effective March 17th.

Tonight’s council meeting is cancelled. Staff will need some time to sort out how we engage with the public remotely so that the public, staff and Council can remain safe. I encourage everyone to take the precautions necessary to protect their health, and the health of their loved ones while still remembering that we’re all part of a greater community. We recognize that we are in uncharted territory, and that there is some fear associated with this.
In particular, parents, please re-assure your children that we have excellent healthcare professionals in our midst, and everyone is working hard at ensuring our community’s safety. We will get through this, Mission. Stay strong.”

Mayor Pam Alexis

Date: March 14, 2020
Title: March 14 Coronavirus Update – Message from the Mayor

“We find ourselves in very challenging times these past few weeks with respect to the COVID-19 situation. It is my deepest wish that everyone stay calm, strong, and healthy in the face of this challenge. We are very fortunate to live in a resilient, close-knit and caring community with excellent health services. This is what makes Mission special. It is also what will see us through. I encourage everyone to take the precautions necessary to protect their health, and the health of their loved ones, while still remembering that we are all part of a greater community.

Over the next few weeks, we will need to approach things with good old-fashioned common sense. It is times like this when I am reminded of my mother’s advice to get plenty of rest, eat well, drink lots of fluids, wash your hands, exercise and get plenty of fresh air. I would like to add to these the importance of social distancing and self-isolation when appropriate. We need to take good care of ourselves and any neighbours that are vulnerable or need assistance in any way. This is the Mission way.

There is also an extraordinary amount of information available online about the coronavirus. I encourage you to go to Provincial and Federal sites for the most accurate and up-to-date information. My favourite is the BC Centre for Disease Control. We will try to provide timely updates on the District’s channels as well.

We are a strong community and I have full confidence that we will pull through this like we have done many times in the past.”

Mayor Pam Alexis

Date: April 3, 2020
Title: Enforcement of Provincial Orders

Enforcement of Provincial Orders

• The Ministry of Health/Mission Public Health is responsible for enforcing the Orders given by the Provincial Government to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
• District Bylaw staff do not have any authority other than monitoring, educating and passing information on to Mission Public Health.
• There is no Provincial Order against formal/informal gatherings of less than or equal to 50 people, nor for informal gatherings or unsanctioned events greater than 50 people.
• Physical distancing and less than or equal to 50 people in a large retail store is recommended but not included in an Order. In the event that a store is allowing more than this number into their stores at one time, we will take the information from the public and respond by speaking with the store manager. If suspected non-compliance continues, staff will pass the information to Mission Public Health.

Date: April 3, 2020
Title: Parks Update

All washrooms in all parks within the District of Mission are now closed.

Date: April 3, 2020
Title: BC Hydro Relief & Tax Deferrals

BC Hydro

BC Hydro is offering relief to customers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Access that information here.

Tax Deferrals

The District, along with many other municipalities, has raised the issue of expanding the tax deferral program given the COVID-19 situation with the Province of BC. The provincial government has committed to reviewing the situation as part of its overall COVID-19 response plan.

Date: April 3, 2020
Title: Easter Long Weekend/Travel

With the Easter long weekend approaching, residents are being asked not to travel to other towns or to spend time with people, other than those in their direct family unit.

Date: April 3, 2020
Title: Vulnerable Persons Action Team (VPAT) Update & COVID-19 Volunteer Opportunities.

Volunteer Opportunities

Those looking to volunteer in Mission to assist those in need during the COVID-19 outbreak, can contact Chelsey Hogness at chogness@mission.ca  or at 604-217-7598.

Vulnerable Persons Action Team Update

Some highlights from the work that the VPAT has been doing in the community:

• A COVID-19 task force has been established and they having been holding weekly Conference Calls.
• Setting up an emergency food security plan is one of the VPAT’s top priorities.
• The team has been collecting social services staff cell numbers for vulnerable people to access.
• The VPAT has been performing daily risk assessments in the community to respond to those most in need.
• The group has been connecting with Mission Community Services Society on Senior Needs.
• They are keeping track of how much food that food serving agencies have in stock.
• 5 Food Drop Spots have been identified for homeless by the VPAT. A Map is being created to outline these areas.
• The team is working to ensure that the population can obtain the food they need, especially the most vulnerable individuals including but not limited to: infants, young children and women, elderly people, homeless people, people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illness, disabled people, and home-bound individuals.
• The VPAT has been inquiring with restaurants and schools that have recently shut down for leftover food that could be donated for vulnerable persons/the homeless.
• Door to door services that are currently in operation and VPAT is working to keep sustained: Meals on Wheels, Starfish Backpacks prioritized with other school food programs, Food Bank, Food Centre.
• Working with local food supply companies/stores to limit stock, disallow hoarding.
• Develop a network of volunteers for food provision work including: obtaining food, preparing food, storing food and distributing food. Those looking to volunteer can contact Chelsey Hogness at chogness@mission.ca  or at 604-217-7598.
• The Following Food Services are available:
  • Copper Hall: Providing breakfast 8am – 9am M/W/Fri & Dinner 6pm – 7pm T/Th/Sun
  • MY HOUSE: Open M-F 11am – 5pm for takeaway food, showers, laundry, crisis referral
  • Haven: Providing 3 meals per day
  • Mission Friendship Centre Society:  M-F lunches via brown bag takeaway
  • Food Centre: Hamper distribution available for pickup on Monday and Wednesday between 0900-1100, and Friday between 0900-1200.
  • St. Joseph’s Food Bank: Drive through only, Inventory slightly down, taking guidance from Food Banks Canada. Contact Wendy Neigel (Food Bank Manager) at 778-201-5000

Date: April 2, 2020
Title: Compost Giveaway April/May

District of Mission residents can receive up to 1 cubic yard of free Rot Pot compost at the Mission Landfill any day of the week in April and May.

To protect yourself, your family, and other landfill visitors:

• • Please ensure you stay at least 2 metres away from anyone else loading compost or while waiting to load compost. If you need to wait, please be patient.
  • Please bring your own shovel and gloves for loading the compost.
  • Please do not visit the landfill or other municipal facility if you are in quarantine or self-isolation related to COVID-19.

Date: March 26, 2020
Title: Skate Park Closed

The Skate Park is closed to the public until further notice; fencing is being installed today.

The gate to Rocky Point has been closed, and access to the flats has been stopped until further notice.

Date: March 26, 2020
Title: Bike to Work Week Cancelled, Boat Launch Closed.

The annual Bike to Work Week in Mission has been cancelled for 2020.

The Boat Launch on Harbour Avenue is closed to the public until further notice.

Date: March 26, 2020
Title: COVID-19 Curbside Collection & Recycling Updates

COVID-19 Related Curbside Collection Updates

To help stop the spread of COVID-19 and to protect our waste collection workers, please note the following changes:

CONTAMINATED PAPER PRODUCTS, such as facial tissues, paper napkins and paper towels, must be contained in a SECURELY TIED PLASTIC BAG for curbside collection. For inclusion in the compost, bags must be certified “compostable” (see 2020 curbside collection calendar for details). Alternatively, these paper products can be put in the garbage in a securely tied, regular plastic bag.

PERSONAL PROTECTION ITEMS, such as face masks, gloves, personal hygiene products, and “flushable” sanitary wipes, must be contained in a SECURELY TIED PLASTIC BAG and put in the garbage. Despite their label, “flushable” wipes do not break down in the sanitary sewer system and can cause sewer backups.

Date: March 24, 2020
Title: Spring Cleanup and Household Hazardous Waste Day postponed.

Spring Cleanup and Household Hazardous Waste Day in Mission are postponed.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Spring Cleanup, originally planned for April 27 to May 8, and Household Hazardous Waste Day, originally slated for May 9, will both be postponed to September or October of this year. The new dates will be made public once they have been determined.

Date: March 23, 2020
Title: Mission COVID-19 Assessment Centre

The Mission Division of Family Practice, in partnership with Fraser Health and the District of Mission, will open a COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Mission on Tuesday March 24, 2020 – see missioncovidresponse.com.

Do not attend the Mission Assessment Centre without receiving an appointment.

You must receive an appointment in one of the following 2 ways:

• • Referral from a family physician or nurse practitioner (do not visit your doctor – always call ahead)
  • Take the COVID-19 assessment on the missioncovidresponse.com website

All patients at the centre will be assessed, however most people who are showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be tested. Find more information here.

Date: March 23, 2020
Title: Vulnerable Persons Action Team (VPAT)

An update from the department of Social Development:

We appreciate the calls and emails of concern for our vulnerable populations in Mission which includes persons living homeless, families facing minimal income and food insecurity, shut in Seniors and other population groups.

Municipal Social Development staff collaborate with BC Housing, Fraser Health and community social service and housing agencies on action steps moving forward. A Vulnerable Persons Action Team (VPAT) has been established for Mission as an emergency response measure to act as a communication hub for core agencies providing food and urgent medical and mental health needs to vulnerable pockets of the community. The VPAT will identify resources in critical need among agencies including items, food and staff/volunteers moving forward as well as share communication and directives from BC Housing and Fraser Health.

It is important to note that at this time there is no interruption to the community food supply in mission, hoarding of items is not necessary and the lack of items on shelves impacts the exact people we are trying to assist.

20 Things We Are Doing Right Now

1. A Vulnerable Persons Action Team has been established and will hold weekly conference calls (more as needed) communicating need to the public as it arises through the District website and social media channels.
2. A Food Security Plan has been started looking at Access and Utilization.
3. Communication has been developed with the School District on families previously accessing meal supports through the school to identify those in greatest need and offer continuation where possible.
4. Identifying telephone resources for public use to assist in stress management and anxiety reduction.
5. Communicating with food suppliers and grocers to ensure an ongoing and stable food supply in our grocery stores as well as strategies to store, prep and distribute meals for large groups of people if necessary.
6. The Outreach walkabout teams are distributing the following items to homeless camps: food packs, soap, bottled water, hand sanitizer, information sheets (COVID-19 symptoms and emergency response phone numbers, self isolating, safer drug use, etc.), disposable gloves as well as communicating the importance of hand washing.
7. Tracking the locations and numbers of people in each encampment across Mission for adequate emergency response.
8. Engaging those living in encampments to establish drop sites for food and supplies moving forward.
9. Delivery of hand sanitizer to camps and sustaining stock.
10. Exploring a regular schedule for garbage pick up, biohazard material pick up, etc.
11. Identifying critical hot spots that persons living homeless gather that can be utilized in the event of a community blackout of services (food delivery, health check insurance, etc).
12. Creating signage for encampments that communicate the current situation, key contacts and numbers to call if one feels they are symptomatic.
13. Creating a form that outreach teams can use to communicate with public health and keep track of symptomatic individuals.
14. Ensuring adequate harm reduction supplies where possible and discouraging shared needle use.
15. Exploring access to safe storage for individual possessions should quarantine be necessary.
16. Exploring care options for pets for individuals should quarantine and temporary removal from pet be necessary.
17. Exploring transportation options for ill individuals to quarantine sites.
18. Exploring viable quarantine sites.
19. Exploring frequency of outreach walkabouts and future staffing/volunteer needs.
20. Establishing communication hub with social service agencies on individual pandemic strategies, increased cleaning protocols, agency skills checklists, etc.

How Can I Help?

1. Donations such as feminine hygiene products, soap, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, masks, baby formula, diapers, hand wipes, new and unused Tupperware and takeout containers, cleaning supplies, hydration tablets, extra food,pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, vitamins – please contact one of the people listed below to arrange drop-off.
2. Donations of food items that are not expired are valued however as food products pass through multiple hands they can be a source of contagion. Please contact specific food distribution sites  for clarity on the current donation process for that specific site.
3. Read and share reputable science/evidence based information such as through Fraser Health and the BC Centre for Disease Control  – Stay posted on Municipal communication updates which will include call outs for volunteers and help from community as needed.

Addressing Recent FAQ’s

1. Why are non-profits closed? Aren’t they in place to help people? 

While the main offices of our core non-profits may be closed to limit the spread of the virus to staff and clients, the following services are still being offered:

Mission Youth House – Food takeaways, showers, laundry, crisis conversations

Mission Friendship Centre – Lunch takeaways, medical and mental health needs by appointment

Copper Hall/Hope Central – Breakfast (8am – 9am) Mon, Wed & Fri, Supper (6pm – 7pm) Tues, Thurs, Sun)

Haven in the Hollow – Shelter beds still in operation and food provided

Emergency Weather Response Beds – Still in operation

2. I am seeing persons living homeless clustering together – why aren’t people keeping separated?

Thinking about the uncertainty and stress you may be experiencing, people living homeless face many more unknowns and barriers and are also experiencing stress and fear which draws people sleeping outside into closer contact for survival safety. Staff from multiple agencies are communicating the need loud and clear to maintain physical distance however it remains a personal choice as to whether a person chooses to do so. We continue to work on options for physical distancing moving forward.

3. Is someone thinking about the kids who are dependent on school breakfast programs and starfish backpacks for food?

Yes, we are in communication with both the School District and Starfish Backpack Coordinator to ensure continuation of these services where possible

4. Where are the drop sites for the homeless?

We do not publish the locations of these drop sites to protect the safety of the camp residents. If you are interested in donating to this need please contact one of the people below.

Donation Contacts:

Kirsten Hargreaves (Manager of Social Development), Office: 604-820-3752, Mobile: 604-302-8567  khargreaves@mission.ca

Chelsey Hogness chogness@mission.ca

Date: March 23, 2020
Title: BC Hydro Recreation Sites & playgrounds closed in Mission

The following updates are in regards to new closures to the public to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

From BC Hydro:
“Due to the high concentration of visitors on site and the need to enforce social distancing in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, BC Hydro recreation area facilities are now closed. This includes campsites, boat launches, washrooms, day-use facilities and parking lots.

BC Hydro will continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak closely and is following recommendations set out by the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) and Minister of Health for decisions related to closure and reopening of recreation areas. During this time, we ask everyone to adhere to the directives for social distancing and other measures recommended by the PHO and the BC Centre for Disease Control.”

Parks and Playgrounds: All District of Mission playgrounds are closed, effective today March 23. Mission Public Schools playgrounds are also closed. The Centennial Park off-leash dog park is closed, as well as the washrooms at Centennial.

Date: March 23, 2020
Title: Be Sewer Savvy

A reminder from Abbotsford-Mission Water & Sewer Services to be Sewer Savvy during the COVID-19 pandemic:

“Everything that you put down your toilet and household drain ends up in our sewer system. Flushing non-flushables can cause sewer blockages, damage pipes and treatment systems, backup sewers in your home and result in sewer overflows that harm the environment. This could mean expensive repairs for you and often, increased operations and maintenance costs to the collection system and wastewater treatment plant. The only things you should be flushing are human waste and toilet paper!” 

Date: March 22, 2020
Title: Playground & Personal Service Establishment Closures

Effective Monday, March 23rd all District of Mission playgrounds will be closed to the public.

Personal Service Establishments such as, but not limited to, barbers, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlours, spas, massage parlours, etc. have been ordered to close immediately by Dr. Bonnie Henry, the BC Provincial Medical Health Officer.

Date: March 20, 2020 2:45 pm
Title: Parks, Recreation and Culture Programs Cancelled and Memberships on Hold

From our parks department: All Parks, Recreation & Culture programs that have been previously scheduled at the Mission Leisure Centre or satellite facilities have been cancelled until May 31, 2020. Staff are processing a full refund issued or credit placed on account depending on the original method of payment for registered programs.

All time-durated memberships such as 1, 3, 6 & 12 month passes have been placed on hold and will be extended based on the amount of time the facility is closed.

We understand this is a difficult time for all and that these closures and cancellations may impact you, your family and/or your organization. We appreciate your understanding during this unprecedented time and hope you stay well.

Date: March 20, 2020 11:00 am
Title: Mission Landfill Changes

As of today the Mission Landfill will no longer be accepting cash. Payment will need to be by credit card or by debit. Visitors to the landfill should expect longer lineups at the scalehouse due to these necessary changes to protect staff and visitors.

We ask that disposal at the landfill be limited to necessary disposal, and if your disposal can delayed until after the COVID-19 pandemic is over, it should be delayed to protect the community.

We ask that visitors be patient and respectful in the longer lineups, and with changes to the landfill operation during this difficult time.

Garbage Stickers: Residents will be able to purchase additional garbage stickers through the Welton Common Building located at 7337 Welton Street. Payment will need to be made by cheque, and the cheques can be mailed in to the office or dropped off in the secure drop box located in the vestibule at the front door. Payment must include your mailing address, clearly stated, and the Engineering Department will mail the stickers to you. Please call the Engineering Department to arrange this, at 604-820-3736.

Need Blue or Orange Recycling Tape?
Please call the Engineering department at 604-820-3736 or email them at engineering@mission.ca.

Date: March 20, 2020 10:30 am
Title: Park Closures in Mission

Date: March 20, 2020 9:15 am
Title: BC Transit implements rear-door boarding

From BC Transit:

“Fraser Valley transit systems update:

BC Transit, our local government partners and our local transit staff in the Fraser Valley are continuing to work to ensure we have service on the road for customers that need to get to work, including hospitals, and going out for groceries or other needs.

We are implementing rear door boarding in to enhance social distancing for drivers and passengers. Passengers can still load through the front door if they require use of the ramp or other accessible features of the bus.

In addition, customers who normally pay with cash or tickets will not be required to pay.

These changes are for the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (Abbotsford-Mission), Chilliwack Transit System, the Fraser Valley Express, Hope Transit System, and Agassiz-Harrison Transit System.

BC Transit continues to adjust to the fluid situation along with other businesses and agencies in Canada and around the world. We are working to match ridership with demand and expect to have daily trip cancellations for the foreseeable future in various systems. We will update customers on a day-by-day basis while we work on implementing and communicating a new sustainable plan for service.

We encourage people to stay up to date for daily trip cancellations at BCTransit.com, or by calling 604-854-3232.”

Date: March 19, 2020 11:45 am
Title: BC Hydro closes Buntzen Lake and Hayward Lake Recreation Areas

From BC Hydro:

“We’re committed to ensuring the safety of the public and our employees during the COVID-19 outbreak, and have been closely monitoring the situation.

In response to concerns related to COVID-19, we have adjusted access to Buntzen Lake and Hayward Lake Recreation Area facilities. This includes closing picnic areas, docks, beach and boat launch.

Operating hours and parking availability have also been reduced.”

View BC Hydro’s Response to COVID-19 here.

Date: March 18, 2020 4:15 pm
Title: Municipal buildings closed to the public.

Effective March 18, 2020 at 4:30 pm, all municipal buildings will be closed to the public in support of Provincial and Federal efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  This includes City Hall, the Welton Common Building downtown, Public Works, the Visitor Information Centre, the RCMP front counter and Crime Prevention Office, and all Fire Station front counters.

Staff will continue to serve the public via phone and email, and emergency services will continue to function.  The Mission Leisure Centre and the Mission Public Library remain closed.

We thank you for your understanding and your support as we work together to reduce the burden on our health care system during these unprecedented times.

Contact Information by Department:

• Switchboard/Corporate Administration 604-820-3700 info@mission.ca
• Finance 604-820-3717     tax@mission.ca
• Forestry 604-820-3762    forestry@mission.ca
• Building Inspections 604-820-3726 inspections@mission.ca
• Bylaws/Business Licence 604-820-3727 bylaw@mission.ca  / businesslicence@mission.ca
• Planning 604-820-3748   planning@mission.ca
• Engineering 604-820-3736 engineering@mission.ca
• Public Works 604-820-3761 pworksadmin@mission.ca
• Parks, Recreation and Culture 604-820-5350 leisureservices@mission.ca
• Mission Fire & Rescue Service (Non-Emergency) 604-820-3793/3794 firehalladmin@mission.ca
• Visitor Information Centre/Economic Development 604-820-5375 or Toll Free 1-866-814-1222 edc@mission.ca  / tourism@mission.ca
• R.C.M.P. (Non-Emergency, Phone Only) 604-826-7161

Date: March 17/18, 2020 10:30 am
Title: March 17 Statement from Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on COVID 19 & updated links/resources.

A joint statement from Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on COVID 19 has been provided with updated links and resources for the public. Find that statement here.

Fraser Health has provided information and downloadable material to help answer questions about COVID-19; that information is available here.

Learn More: Click on the links below to view.
Provincial health officer’s order on people returning from travel
Provincial health officer’s order on mass gatherings
More information on the updated testing strategy and self-isolation
Recommendations on protecting yourself and your community
COVID-19 pandemic preparedness and planning materials

For more information and latest updates on COVID-19, follow the BC Centre for Disease Control
on Twitter @CDCofBC or visit its website: http://www.bccdc.ca/

Date: March 18, 2020 9:55 am
Title: Mission Public Schools Update from Superintendent Angus Wilson

To view the complete statement & letter from the Ministry of Education, visit the Mission Public Schools Website, and click on the announcement banner at the top.

“Dear families,

Yesterday afternoon, the provincial government announced that it would be indefinitely suspending all in-class instruction for BC’s Kindergarten to Grade 12 learners. This means that schools will NOT be opening after spring break for regular daily instruction. This temporary measure is being put in place to help keep students, staff, families, and the wider community safe as the province responds to the COVID-19 outbreak.

I know you will have many questions about what this announcement will mean for you and your family.

Minister Fleming stresses that every student will receive a final mark, that all students on track to graduate this year will graduate, and that the province is working with post-secondary institutions to ensure the transition for our grade 12 graduates is supported.

The Minister also outlined a number of key directives for school districts. School districts are expected to:

• begin planning for continuity of learning;
• develop plans to maintain some level of service for children whose parents are performing essential services;
• address the question of important services like school meal programs and childcare services operating on school grounds.

Our school district has already begun some of this planning work as a part of our Pandemic Response Plan. We will provide you with additional information as soon as these plans are more fully developed and will continue to update you through the parent portal and the school district website at www.mpsd.ca/District/covid19.

For information about COVID-19, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control website http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19

I know these are challenging and uncertain times, but I am confident we will get through them together. Thank you for your patience as we work through this evolving situation.

Sincerely,

Angus Wilson, Superintendent of Schools”

Date: March 17, 2020 10:00 am
Title: Leisure Centre & Parks Update

Effective March 17, 2020 the Mission Leisure Centre is closed to the public to curb the spread of COVID-19 and focus on providing essential city services.  Spring Camp continues to run for our existing 2019/20 Club Kids participants at Heritage Park Centre to help assist parents with their child-care needs.  Registration for this program is available by calling the Leisure Centre.

All time-durated memberships such as 1, 3, 6 & 12 month passes have been placed on hold and will be extended based on the amount of time the facility is closed.

All programs that take place during spring break have been cancelled and a full refund issued or credit placed on account depending on the original method of payment.

At this time, all District of Mission operated parks & trails remain open.  However, all gatherings over the recommended number as dictated by health authorities is restricted.

District of Mission residents are encouraged to follow @mission_bc on Twitter or MissionParksRecCulture on Facebook to receive the latest updates on the COVID-19 response.

Date: March 16, 2020 3:45 pm
Title: Council Meeting Cancelled
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, Mission is cancelling its regular public Council meeting scheduled for March 16, 2020. In light of the recent announcement from the provincial government regarding limiting gatherings to 50 people or less, the District of Mission, Mayor and Council have made the decision to cancel the meeting.
We are taking this evolving COVID-19 situation seriously, and the health and safety of Council, our staff and the public is our top priority. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates/alternative meeting dates when they become available.

Date: March 12, 2020
Title: March 12 Statement from the Leisure Centre

The health and wellness of our staff and participants is a priority.  With the heightened awareness around COVID-19 please know that we are closely monitoring the situation and will follow instructions and recommendations issued by the public health authorities or government agencies as needed.  In the meantime we are being proactive and taking additional preventative measures, in particular, increasing our cleaning and disinfection practices at the Leisure Centre including providing numerous sanitizer stations for the public.  You can also do your part to help by not attending programs if you are sick and by following the hygiene best practices being promoted by the BC Centre for Disease Control.  Further information may be found on the websites below.

BC Centre for Disease Control
Fraser Health

Thank you for helping us to ensure our programs and facility remains safe and healthy during this time.