Town of St. Marys ends State of Emergency

After more than two years, the Town of St. Marys is ending its State of Emergency. The municipality declared an emergency on March 19, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision was led by Mayor Al Strathdee and supported by Town Council and staff.

“After consulting with Huron Perth Public Health, I feel confident in our decision to lift the State of Emergency,” said Strathdee. “While we see this move as a positive and hopeful step forward, I want to remind residents that the pandemic is not over.”

“We need to be mindful of the valuable – and difficult – lessons we’ve learned over the past two years,” he continued. “Please continue to follow all public health recommendations: get vaccinated, stay home if you’re sick, wash your hands regularly, and practice masking and physical distancing, when appropriate.”

Declaring a State of Emergency allowed the Town to act quickly and decisively in response to COVID-19. It also offered protection to the many volunteers who played a pivotal role in helping vulnerable residents during the height of the pandemic.  

“I want to acknowledge the individuals in our community who stepped forward to help others during this incredibly challenging time,” said Mayor Strathdee. “From delivering groceries to making social check-in calls, the work of our volunteers throughout this pandemic has been invaluable.”

“I also want to thank all St. Marys residents for their vigilance, cooperation and patience over the past two years,” he continued. “Your willingness to make sacrifices to protect one another has been outstanding.”  

Despite lifting its emergency declaration, the Town will continue to monitor current recommendations from Huron Perth Public Health and the Province of Ontario. Updates about the Town’s response to COVID-19 are available at www.townofstmarys.com/COVID19.

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For media inquiries:

Brett O’Reilly | Corporate Communications & Events Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | boreilly@town.stmarys.on.ca