Mayor Fraser Tolmie reassured citizens through a media conference that things will be OK through the COVID-19 pandemic.

He and city manager Jim Puffalt talked to the media, through a safe distance at a City Hall that was closed to the general public.

“We wanted to take some time to update the citizens of Moose Jaw on recent events within our community and for our community’s safety,” said Tolmie. “The measures we are taking now are to overcome this issue as quickly as possible and we are adhering to public health’s recommendations.”

In the last few days, city rec facilities have been shut down, and many public buildings like City Hall have been closed to the public. He said they are taking the measures to protect the most vulnerable in the community.

“We are going to get through this,” Tolmie said. “We are going to prevail.”

He said people in the community that he’s been talking to have a positive outlook.

“People are looking for ways to help one another in these times,” Tolmie said. “Find ways to help one another. Buy what you need, because limiting your purchases helps others who are in need.”

Moose Jaw has already had at least one presumptive positive test of the COVID-19, according to information through SaskHealth. 

Puffalt said that the city's emergency measures organization has been meeting daily to discuss their actions.