The Village of Rockyford is finding its new normal in the age of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the spread of the Coronavirus throughout the country, villages are reacting to the threat of the pandemic. In Rockyford, Mayor Darcy Burke says the cancellation of their annual events will hurt the community.
The Mail reported in April that the annual Rockyford Rodeo and the annual Bullarama have been cancelled by the Rockyford Lions Club. Burke notes, not only will the loss of these events make it a less festive season, but these are also important fundraisers for non-profit groups in the community.
The loss of traffic of visitors could affect the bottom line of local business. Some local businesses have closed during the pandemic, while a few have been able to adjust and open for take out and delivery. Burke notices there has been more local shopping. Last week the province is looking at beginning to reopen some businesses which could be a good sign for the local economy.
The Village has made some concessions for residents who are dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Council passed a motion to allow those affected by COVID-19 to defer their utility payments for three months, and there will be no penalties or threat of utilities being cut off. Residents need to register for the deferral and will have to contact the Wheatland Regional Corporation to sign up. They also allowed residents to repay the deferred amounts over six months from July to December.
In the midst of the pandemic, the Village was able to pass its operating budget and this year residents will get a bit of a break, with a 3.5 per cent reduction in property taxes. There however was a 2 per cent increase in utilities. The flat rate for water increased from $30.70 to $38.38.
The village has no immediate plans for infrastructure projects this year, after doing extensive work in the years leading up to its centennial last summer. However, the province has called upon municipalities for shovel-ready projects in the event there are some programs put in place to stimulate the economy. Council asked MPE Engineering to look at some potential projects including water and sanitary replacement and possible paving.
Burke is most encouraged by the spirit of the community, with neighbours pitching in to support each other through this tough time.