The City of Ottawa has declared a state of emergency due to the local spread of COVID-19.
Mayor Jim Watson says the declaration will help the city better deploy its emergency operations and staff — especially at a time when it might also have to deal with spring flooding.
Watson says it also allows the city to more quickly buy equipment required by front-line workers and first responders without having to go through the usual procurement process.
Ottawa Public Health confirmed the community spread of COVID-19 in Ottawa last weekend.
(The Canadian Press)