City of Calgary renews State of Local Emergency – May 21, 2021

Health and safety are top priorities for The City of Calgary during the COVID-19 pandemic as we make decisions on services and programs at our facilities. The City announced today it is renewing the State of Local Emergency.

On November 25, 2020 The City declared a second State of Local Emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which was renewed on February 23, 2021. Given the number of cases, The City of Calgary is extending the State of Local Emergency to remain responsive to emerging needs, and ensure prompt coordination of City services to protect the safety, health, and welfare of Calgarians. We will be closely monitoring infection, hospitalization and vaccination rates across Calgary and we’ll lift the SOLE as soon as the situation improves.

“We are encouraged to see the number of people getting vaccinated and doing their part to stop the spread of COVID,” said Chief Sue Henry, Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA). “Over the last week, we have started to see case counts decline and we are hopeful this trend continues. Until more people are vaccinated and we are able to reduce the spread of the variants, we must continue to be diligent.”

As we start the May long weekend, please continue to follow all public health guidelines from The Government of Alberta, even if you have had one dose of the vaccine. Indoor gatherings are still prohibited, and outdoor gatherings are limited to five people. “I encourage you to spend this weekend close to home, working on your garden, firing up the BBQ or setting up your camping gear in your backyard for a new adventure,” said Chief Henry. “We are getting closer to the end of this pandemic as we build up vaccine protection. Please continue to be compassionate, caring and careful.”

More information on specific programs and services will be updated on Calgary.ca/covid19 as it becomes available. Please continue to follow restrictions that remain in effect, which can be found at www.alberta.ca/covid19. The City acknowledges how difficult restrictions have been for individuals, families, businesses, and the mental and economic health of our city and we thank all Calgarians and businesses for their efforts to follow Provincial health orders.

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