More Merritt residents will be allowed to return home on Saturday, Nov. 27, when Phase 2 of the City’s return home plan kicks in.
However, City staff that is dependent on the final water testing results that are due tomorrow, Nov. 26. If the plan goes ahead, everyone in the City of Merritt north of Nicola Ave., will be free to return home, though they will be on an evacuation alert.
“This is another major milestone in our journey towards recovery,” Mayor Linda Brown said, in a statement. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts and thousands of hours put in by all of our emergency operations staff, first responders, and volunteers.”
“I also wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our neighbours who have lent us resources over the last week to help expedite our recovery. We are stronger, together.”
As well, people who own property south of Nicola Ave. – which is part of Phase 3 of the return home plan – can expect information on day access to their properties tomorrow.
“It’s important to note that the city residents are returning to is not the same city they left,” city officials said, echoing the words of Mayor Brown from earlier this week.
A boil water advisory will be in effect for the entire City of Merritt, with people still being told to use as little water as possible in order to ensure there is water for fire protection, should it be needed.
“The City is in the process of bringing additional wells online, and we will communicate with residents as soon as water can be more freely used,” a statement said. “Prior to returning, residents should acquire sufficient food and supplies to be self-sufficient as supplies within Merritt are currently limited.”
Interior Health plans to open the Nicola Valley Hospital on Monday, the same day garbage and recycling pick up in Merritt is set to begin.
“9-1-1 service and BC Ambulance service is still available in the community with transport likely to Kamloops for any required hospital visit,” the statement added. “Local physicians continue to offer telephone health care services.”
A reduced level of snow clearing will be provided to residents who are allowed back home. Hydro, gas, and internet utilities are all operational across the Phase 1 and 2 area.
“Things have proceeded exactly as expected and in some respects they’ve gone better, and in some respects I think that there has been challenges but we’re really pleased with the process as it has been playing out,” Merritt Chief Administrative Officer, Sean Smith said, when asked if the three phase return home plan was progressing as expected.
“I think we are right on track with the plan that we’ve been discussing.”
The City of Merritt is also hosting a virtual information session for residents at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Details about that session can be found here.