A Moment with the Mayor: Supporting local businesses

As we start to look forward to the Phase 3 reopening plan outlined by the Government of Saskatchewan, the need has never been greater to support our local business community.

We are blessed with a broad and diverse range of goods and services to meet your every need. The past 100-plus years have seen growth from the blacksmith and general store to a wide variety of specialty shops. A quick tour around town reveals stores catering to infants to our seniors, sports and vehicles, and so much more. We also have international dining cuisine alongside the traditional poutine.

Parts of our business community are deemed essential services and have been open throughout this uncertain time. Others are slowly reopening in the phases being rolled out. Many are looking forward to the reopening of dining areas and lounges to enjoy time with loved ones, friends or co-workers. This trek to what’s next has been long and isn’t over yet. As I pen this article, the cases of COVID-19 in both Saskatchewan and Alberta are decreasing, which is good news for us all.

The changes we’re facing require patience with each other and with our businesses as they navigate the new rules and regulations for transactions and interactions. With so many new rules and regulations, it will take time to figure out so we can breathe deeply and enjoy the fact that we are moving forward. Some businesses may take longer trying to wrestle with the safety requirements for reopening. Everything is different, and yet our businesses are working hard to adjust and provide service and products.

Our community is beginning the journey to the next stage. We are all needing to learn to live in the now. Maybe we are still yearning for what was but let’s appreciate what we have. Let’s be grateful for all the efforts being made to care for our needs and our wants

I have been spending my free time out in our yard, soaking up the sun when it shines, fixing the lawnmower and enjoying the rain and the sun. I am so looking forward to seeing you out and about as we support our local business community!

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster