Wine Country Times

Napa city’s manager, Steve Potter, wrote an open letter to his community, heralding in the new year of 2021 after one of the most challenging years on record. 

“The past year was filled with unimaginable challenges, but as I have said before I am so very proud of our community, businesses and our City of Napa employees for demonstrating the very best of Napa through the upheaval and tragedy of 2020,” Potter wrote.

The letter, which was written on Jan. 6, stated that there are still concerning rates of COVID-19 rising. Potter stated that we must remember to always practice safe social distancing, hand washing, face mask usage and staying away from others if experiencing symptoms. 

While there are concerning factors to consider, Potter said that he is confident that the future holds great things. 

“Even before the vaccine arrived, our employees were dedicated to finding ways to continue necessary operations, and were creative in finding ways to adapt their work environments so we could continue providing excellent service to our community,” Potter wrote. 

Everyone in the community has come together to do their part and it has made an incredible difference in a challenging year. Though everyone has had enough of the pandemic, we must remember to stay vigilant until the virus is truly over and gone. 

“The year ahead will remain difficult, our businesses will continue to struggle, and the city’s finances will likely not fully recover for several years,” Potter wrote.

If we are able to continue to fight the virus and keep our precautions in place, we may have a chance at bouncing back in 2021. Even if the new year is difficult, however, the strength of the community of Napa will enable the residents to thrive.

“Thank you for your support. I wish you all hope and health in the new year,” Potter wrote.