The City of Red Deer will enact its employee immunization policy starting on Monday.
Workers will be required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative rapid antigen test. City staff who have not submitted their immunization records must provide proof of ongoing valid negative rapid antigen testing, which are valid for 72 hours.
In a news release, the city said 1,256 or 86 per cent of staff have submitted their vaccine records. Officials say they have also set up a process for those who opt for a negative rapid test.
“We are pleased with the number of employees who have provided their immunization records, and we anticipate the majority who have not, will choose to provide proof of negative rapid antigen testing come Monday,” said Tara Lodewyk, interim city manager in a press release.
“Many thanks to the staff who have worked together to bring this to implementation. The policy respects the preferences of individuals without compromising the health and safety of our employees and our community. In creating good policy, we need to do what is best for the overall organization.”
City council will receive a report in January about what a potential policy for members of council may look like, as well as potential timelines for implementation.