First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge the frustration felt by some residents of Valleyview for what was perceived as lack of information the last week or so regarding the wildfire situation. Because we had not called the evacuation alert, we were not able to provide you with the information you would have liked. Town Council and I made the decision that information would become public only once it was authenticated at all levels to avoid the spread of disinformation.

I would like to extend my thanks to Town Council. Technically, they were not able to give you the information that you would have liked to hear sooner, as that needs to come via the government and from Emergency Management agencies. They were, however, available to answer what they could and provide reassurance to those reaching out.

Once the evacuation order was issued, I was very happy with the way residents handled the evacuation. Despite some minor incidents, you did an excellent job by quickly and efficiently leaving Town to the best of your ability. Thank you for that.

Although you may feel at this time that your houses were not in jeopardy and an evacuation was not warranted, it was in the best interest of your health and well-being that it was necessary to make this decision.

Fires are unpredictable, and if there is ever a point when your health and safety is in jeopardy, we will make the call to ensure you are safe. Once the proper authorities have deemed it is safe, we will allow people to come home.

At this time, the fire has not reached Valleyview and the Town is safe. I feel very confident the Town is being well looked after by RCMP and those assisting them with patrols.

My deepest thanks to RCMP, firefighters, emergency response personnel and all who have responded so quickly and expertly to reduce the impact of the wildfire.

Moving forward, we will be providing 6:00 p.m. daily updates that can be viewed on valleyview.ca.

Thank you for everything. I hope you are home soon.

Sincerely,

Vern Lymburner
Mayor
Town of Valleyview