Mayor Meed Ward’s Weekly Update: June 21-27, 2021

Hello Burlington,As we head into the last full week of June and the final days of the school year, I want to wish every student in Burlington a very good summer and congratulate each of you for the resilience, adaptability and fortitude you have shown throughout a remarkably challenging time. I know many of you have struggled with the difficulties of online learning, a lack of team sports and socialization with your friends, and missed out on truly important moments like class trips and big graduation ceremonies. You are all amazing and I am so proud of you! Adapting to change is a life skill that will serve you well in the years ahead so as you look forward, remember that you are now stronger and wiser as a result of what you have been through this year. I want to also thank the teachers and school staff who have supported our students through an ever-changing set of circumstances, and all the parents and guardians who have found a way to support your kids with at-home learning despite the demands I know you all face with your own jobs and obligations. Everyone has more than earned their time off this summer and I hope everyone can enjoy some restful and replenishing moments with friends and family in the months ahead.I know many people will be getting their second vaccine soon and I am so thrilled at the rate of uptake we are seeing here in Burlington. Our COVID numbers have remained one of the lowest in the GTA throughout the pandemic, and it is largely due to the diligence our residents and businesses have shown in their actions and safety precautions and our willingness to get vaccinated as soon as possible - and reschedule appointments to earlier dates when given the option. We are so fortunate as a community to have access to the great vaccine distribution system Halton Region has provided, and for many of our residents to be able to work from home. I am grateful to our partners at Halton Region for all the work they have done over many nights and weekends to keep this program running so smoothly amidst so many changes and unpredictable supply.I am keeping all our small business owners in my thoughts as well as we continue to see the province re-open in the weeks ahead. Our community is standing by to support you as soon as we are able to book our hair appointments, visit our gyms and fitness classes, and shop & dine indoors.My week ahead includes council workshops, our monthly city council meeting, and a call with the mayor of Apeldoorn, Netherlands - one of our twin cities through our mundialization program. Due to COVID-19, our trip there last year had to unfortunately be cancelled, and I look forward to hearing about how our friends there are doing in these challenging times. You can read my full weekly update here: Mayors Weekly Public Update June 21-27Have a great week and remember to be kind to one another and keep being careful and safe.Mayor Marianne Meed Ward