Government of Ontario Announces Provincewide Shutdown until January 23, 2021

December 24, 2020

Government of Ontario Announces Provincewide Shutdown in Effect in Perth South until January 23, 2021

Perth South, ON – The Government of Ontario announced a Provincewide shutdown to take effect at 12:01 a.m. on December 26, 2020 and will remain in effect in Southern Ontario, including Perth South until January 23, 2021.

Perth South will continue its efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community by operating in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions from public health officials with a priority focus on encouraging Ontarians: to stay at home to the fullest extent possible; limit trips outside of the home for only essential purposes (accessing health care and medications, grocery shopping, child care); and to work remotely in all industries to the greatest extent possible.

Perth South is committed to serving the public and will continue to provide essential services to the community. In response to the provincewide shutdown municipal facilities and services will operate as follows:

Municipal Office (Township Office) – Effective at noon on December 24^th, 2020, the Municipal Office will be closed to all walk-in visits for the duration of the shutdown. In-person essential services will be conducted by appointment only. Residents who would like to report an issue in the Township are encouraged to use the “Report It” feature on the website www.perthsouth.ca. When possible, was ask that residents pay bills online or by dropping a cheque into the drop box located at the front of the building. For inquiries and appointments, residents my contact Township staff at 519-271-0619 or by staff email (listing available on website).

Landfill – The landfill will be closed to the public for the duration of the provincewide lockdown.

Waste and Recycling – Waste and recycling pick up will not be affected and will continue as regularly scheduled.

Winter Snow Removal and Road Maintenance - Services will not be impacted by the shutdown.

Community Centres – Both the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre and the Downie Optimist Hall will continue to be closed to the public.

Playgrounds – Municipal playgrounds will remain open on a “use at your own risk” basis. Residents are reminded to avoid using playgrounds if they are feeling sick, to wash their hands before and after using playground equipment, and to practice physical distancing while using playgrounds.

“We need to do our part to ensure fun and safe holiday celebrations” said Mayor Bob Wilhelm. “We urge residents to following all public health recommendations and avoid all non-essential travel this holiday season.”

Residents are reminded that the safest way to spend the holidays is by only celebrating in-person with the people you live with, and celebrating virtually with everyone else.

Additional questions about this media release can be directed to Rebecca Clothier, Administrator/Treasurer | 519-271-0619 Ext. 227 | rclothier@perthsouth.ca