A number of effective actions have been taken by St Albans City and District Council in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Councillor Chris White, leader and portfolio holder for climate and environment, said the council worked with partner organisations to help residents and businesses.
He gave an update on the council’s efforts at an online meeting of the cabinet on April 23.
Cllr White said: “This has been an unprecedented challenge that has placed huge demands on all our public services and the key workers that maintain them.
“As a council, we have taken a number of robust and effective measures to help combat the local impact of COVID-19. We have also worked closely with other local authorities, public agencies, charities and community groups as we are all in this together.”
During the past few weeks, the council has distributed around £17 million of government grants to 1,100 qualifying businesses in the district, including pubs and restaurants, with a further £6 million due to be sent out shortly.
Secured accommodation, with the help of Hightown Housing Association and charities, for all the district’s rough sleepers, ensuring they have somewhere safe to go.
Maintained waste collection, recycling and street cleaning services to ensure rubbish does not pile up at homes or on the streets.
Provided free parking at all council car parks to NHS staff and other key workers. Civil Enforcement Officers have also ensured roads remain accessible to emergency vehicles while deterring dangerous parking at junctions or loading bays.
Helped with the administration of the volunteer scheme run by communities to help the elderly and other vulnerable groups, and identified vulnerable people such as older housing tenants to ensure they are getting the help they need.
Cllr White added: “I have also been impressed with the support that the public has shown. Our bin crews, for instance, have been overwhelmed by the many thank-you messages they have received from people isolated at home.
“They have come across countless notes left on bins while other residents have even put up homemade posters of support in their windows.
“That is that sort of community spirit, combined with the heroic efforts of those on the frontline, that will eventually get the district through this crisis.”
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