As of Monday afternoon, Bowen Island Municipality has had four official calls concerning people not physical distancing said BIM’s interim manager of bylaw services Bonny Brokenshire in an email.
On March 26, the province enabled bylaw officers to support enforcement of the provincial health officer’s orders, including physical distancing (keeping two metres between people when outside the home).
Mayor Gary Ander mentioned in his April 3 video address that BIM had been receiving and following up on reports of people gathering outside and not respecting physical distancing.
“With regards to [physical] distancing, we are encouraged with the low number of calls Bylaw Services has received and subsequently responded to over the past few weeks,” said Brokenshire. “Bylaw Services Officers follow-up on calls of concern related to public health including social distancing issues. As mandated by the Province, Bylaw Services’ role is to gain compliance with public health orders through awareness and education.”
Brokenshire also said that BIM is helping with lineups at the General Store on delivery days and at with ensuring physical distancing at the post office.
Why it matters
In a press release Monday afternoon, provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said, “Every health region in British Columbia has people with COVID-19. Every community and home town - no matter how large or small - is at risk.”
“Wash your hands, do not touch your face, stay home if you are ill, and stay apart with physical distancing. Let's all do the right thing,” said Henry.
