Mayor calls for calm as City Council plans COVID-19 response

MAYORAL TILT: Mount Gambier business leader Lynette Martin OAM will be a contender in the upcoming mayoral elections.

MOUNT Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin has urged the Blue Lake city community to be “alert but not alarmed” as the current COVID-19 situation unfolds.

In a statement issued this afternoon, Ms Martin said City Council was currently reviewing its response to the global issue to help protect the community and slow the spread of coronavirus.

“As we continue to review our response to the virus it is imperative that as a community we remain alert but not alarmed,” Ms Martin said.

“We must remain calm and remind each other that there is no need to panic as this will only place even more strain on precious resources and cause unnecessary stress.”

Ms Martin said the health and well-being of the community was paramount.

“The status and messaging relating to COVID-19 is changing quickly,” she said.

“Council continues to monitor timely advice from federal and state governments and will endeavour to keep you updated as we work through what this means for our community.”

Ms Martin encouraged residents to look after one another, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, and to consider the whole community when making purchases and moving around in public spaces.

The civic leader also urged residents to consider limiting non-essential contact and activities in line with health authorities advice and to use social distancing measures.