Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart says he has contacted the city's chief of police after several gatherings on the weekend violated COVID-19 health restrictions.
In a message posted on social media, Stewart says the Vancouver Police Department will be reassessing its approach to outdoor parties.
I know it’s been a long winter, I know it’s frustrating not being able to see your friends, but now is not the time to be gathering in large groups.
— Kennedy Stewart (@kennedystewart) April 18, 2021
I’ve been in contact with Chief Palmer and after a busy weekend the VPD will be reassessing their approach to outdoor parties. https://t.co/jM83qVs7wL
Large groups of mostly maskless people held impromptu gatherings in parks and on beaches Friday and Saturday as the first warm spell of the year created summer-like conditions.
Police can issue tickets and even make arrests if they see gatherings of more than 10 people, but a police spokeswoman says officers were stretched thinly on Saturday responding to a homicide, stabbing and a multi-vehicle crash.
In his message, Stewart says he understands it has been a long winter and many are frustrated they can't meet with friends, but now is not the time to gather in large groups.
