COVID-19 information for staff

Joint message from the Mayor and Acting City Manager: Recognizing a year since the start of COVID-19 pandemic – March 9, 2021

To all City staff,

This month marks the one-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. And just a few days later, on March 19, 2020, the City of Vancouver declared its first ever local state of emergency.

We want to share with all of you our appreciation for how you have collectively responded over the past year to ensure that our city and its residents were informed, supported and served. We also recognize the significant effect the pandemic has had on each of your personal lives, on our communities, and on your work. 

In the early days of the pandemic, many of you quickly adapted and transformed the way you worked and, in many cases, made real personal sacrifices to continue doing your jobs. We each experienced incredible change in different ways. For some, that meant being off work, for others it meant doing your jobs in a completely new way. We greatly appreciate your commitment to the work you have delivered and continue to deliver.

Across the globe, many activities will commemorate the one-year anniversary of the start of the pandemic. In recognition, City Hall flags will be at half-mast and we will light City Hall and Bloedel Conservatory in blue, turning to yellow at 9pm as a symbol of hope, to show our support for those healthcare and front-line workers who continue to give so much throughout this pandemic. Burrard Bridge will be lit in blue for several hours.

You, our dedicated City staff, have worked harder than ever over the past year, often in very challenging circumstances, to continue to provide the services Vancouver residents and businesses rely on. Your ongoing professionalism and commitment are an inspiration.

With our deepest gratitude,

Kennedy Stewart
Mayor

Paul Mochrie
Acting City Manager