March 22, 2020

BRACEBRIDGE MAYOR SORRY FOR HEALTHCARE TWEET

BRACEBRIDGE — A tweet by the mayor about people flocking to Muskoka to escape the COVID-19 threat has him in hot water.

Sunday he had to apologize for his flippant, careless and insensitive remarks.

Saturday on Twitter, he said: “I think we’ve got a lot of people heading up here to try and get away from others and our resources, especially food and healthcare may be overwhelmed.

“I’ll be talking to the Province about this shortly.”

It was meant to get the attention of Premier Doug Ford, who Smith hosted last year in the wake of spring flooding; and who the mayor also lobbied to help keep Muskoka’s two hospitals.

Some took exception to the tone they interpreted as divisive and unwelcoming to thousands of cottagers and the tens of thoursands of tourists the district will struggle to serve once the cornavirus subsides enough for the challenging economic summer ahead to proceed.

Sunday, Smith retweeted: “Hey folks. This has been a stressful day for many. I want all to understand that the discussion about healthcare and other resources is not an us vs anyone scenario. Everyone is concerned and trying to do what brings some comfort.

“Respect everyone. EVERYONE!”