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Date: Dec 18, 2020
When we look back at 2020, many of us may think that the uprooting of our lives and the global devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may push us to write the year off. Forget it, move on, and not look back.
The fact is, this year has come to be different than what we ever could have expected just 12 months ago. Across the world we have seen a fundamental shift in normality and a screeching halt to the lives we once knew. Amidst the chaos, however, we have learned to be innovative and bold, take risks, embrace our communities, care for one another, and to be nimble in the way we live our lives.
From the perspective of our government, one of our biggest hurdles this year was to maintain a dialogue with residents when we couldn’t meet in person. I commend the municipal staff for working quickly to ensure we could continue this in a virtual way. We filmed video updates, conducted tele town halls, and held virtual events to keep our community together. Despite working virtually, we were able to get the Station Street bridge completed; a project we had been working towards since the 1970s.
This work extends far beyond the walls of the municipal office; our community has never been stronger than it is today. This year, we have seen a tremendous amount of support for local restaurants and businesses even through the most difficult of times. We have learned how to adapt together and become closer, in order to support each other while following the COVID-19 guidelines.
As we look towards 2021, we need to continue thinking differently and innovating to adapt to the changes we see every day. For me, this means finding new ways to engage with residents. I am excited to be holding a virtual “ask me anything” event in the new year, and we have recently launched a new website to inform residents specifically about the upcoming wastewater treatment plant project. These are just a few of the ways we are learning to work in this new environment.
I hope everyone can look back at 2020 and remember the things we have learned. Our community coming together, learning together, and acting quickly to adapt to a new way of living. 2020 is not a year to forget, rather a year of growth and learning, which I am excited to continue into the new year.
Like many of you, I’m proud to call Erin home and I am excited for the things to come in 2021. Thank-you to our community, for all that you do to keep the Town’s charm alive. I hope you enjoy the holiday season while staying safe, and I wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Regards,
Allan Alls, Mayor