COVID-19 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions By Topic

General

What are the Provincial Health Officer orders? What about BC's Restart Plan?

The City of Fort St. John is able to provide education regarding all Provincial Orders issued by the Provincial Health Officer, but enforcement is done through provincial enforcement officers or the RCMP. 

While enforcement is possible, the City and Provincial Government are hopeful that all businesses and citizens will obey all Provincial Health Orders.

On Wednesday, May 6, 2020, Premier John Horgan released the four-phased BC Restart Plan which outlines the Province's plans to continue to ensure the health and safety of everyone while resuming additional activities.

How can I get more information about COVID-19?

The province has created a phone service, available 7:30 am to 8 pm daily, at 1-888-COVID19, to provide non-medical info about COVID-19, including the latest information on travel recommendations and social distancing.

Northern Health also has set up an information line at 1-844-645-7811.

If you have a health-related issue, please call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1. 

The Public Health Agency of Canada has also created a toll-free phone number 1-833-784-4397 to answer questions about COVID-19.

Additionally, here are some trusted online sources of information:

Both the Provincial and Federal governments are providing regular updates that are streamed online from one of the many broadcasters. 

What can I do if I think I may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19?

According to the BC Ministry of Health, if you are experiencing the following symptoms: a fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat, or difficulty breathing you need to self-isolate for at least 10 days. You can check your symptoms online through the BC Ministry of Health's COVID-19 symptom self-assessment tool. 

Are there any cases in Fort St. John?

The Provincial Health Officer is not releasing that information, but everyone needs to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Whether at home or in public, all staff, residents, and visitors are asked to take the following personal precautions, as recommended by public health authorities:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
  • Cough and sneeze into your sleeve
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Stay home
  • Practice social distancing, ensuring people stay 2 metres apart and avoiding close personal contact

Why is the City allowing construction on Site C to continue?

The City does not have jurisdiction over construction activities at BC Hydro's Site C project. Visit the Site C project website for the latest information about their response to COVID-19 and the effects on construction activities. The Provincial Health Officer has issued several guidance documents and orders related to industrial camps.

Council Meetings

Are Council meetings continuing? Are they open to the public?

Based on the current Provincial Health Officer's orders, Council meetings will no longer be open for the public to attend; however, residents are reminded they can watch Council meetings live or recorded.

Residents can submit correspondence to Council related to Public Hearing and Public Meeting topics, to be included as part of the meeting agenda:

City Services

For updates on City Services visit our COVID-19 Municipal Updates page.

Will my garbage and recycling still be picked up?

Yes, City services are operating as normal; this includes garbage and recycling collection, water supply, roads, and sewer services. Please help keep our workers safe by ensuring disposable wipes, used tissues and paper towels, and other cleaning supplies are thrown in the garbage. For more information, visit our COVID-19 Municipal Update page.

Is the landfill still open?

Yes, the North Peace Regional Landfill is still open. As it is operated by the Peace River Regional District, any changes would be posted to the PRRD website.

Will the collection of Property Taxes be deferred? 

Property Tax collection is mandated by Provincial Legislation, the Provincial Government has created a webpage for Provincial Tax Changes that have been announced to date. Council passed the City Relief, Recovery and Resilience Plan that included the cancellation of the proposed 1.25% tax rate increase for 2020 and moved the late penalty date for all property taxes to October 1, 2020.

Where can I find more information and updates on the latest developments?

Further updates on the City of Fort St. John's operations will be provided on our COVID-19 Municipal Updates page and shared through the City's social media channels, specifically Facebook and Twitter.