Message From Mayor Wilhelm March 22, 2020

As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic develops throughout the world Perth County and its member municipalities, including Perth South, have already identified the need for a coordinated response and have activated their Emergency Control Groups on Sunday March 14, 2020 to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents.

The Emergency Control Group has been and will continue to meet regularly to receive updates from the group members including public health, ambulance, police, fire, and social services. Our next scheduled meeting will occur on the morning of Monday March 23, 2020.

Perth South has been monitoring communications from Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) and acting on recommendations made by  Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health.  In her most recent update Dr. Klassen stressed the importance to work hard to limit the spread of this virus in our community. “I call on you to take our public health recommendations seriously. We all need to maintain a healthy physical distance from others, self-isolate if we’ve returned from travelling, staying home if we’re sick, wash our hands often, and limit group gatherings at this time. These are all measures that may seem like they would not have an effect in the face of a global pandemic, but I can assure you that they matter and they will make a difference.” Dr. Klassen stated. For up to date information on COVID-19 visit Huron Perth Public Health - Coronavirus - COVID-19.

Perth South’s municipal office has been closed to the public but staff continue to work. If you would like to speak with staff they can be reached at 519-271-0619 and information and updates can be found on our website www.perthsouth.ca . In addition to the office closure, the landfill, community centres (Downie Optimist Hall in St. Pauls and Kirkton Woodham Community Centre in Kirkton) and most recently, the public playgrounds have been closed as we do our part to limit public gatherings and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

At this time waste and recycling will continue on its regular schedule and building inspections will be completed if the inspection as assessed as “low risk” to staff.

I encourage everyone to practice social distancing and good hygiene if you must go out in public spaces. Please check on your friends and neighbours and provide assistance where required. While this is a difficult and stressful time we will continue to work together to get through this.

Mayor Robert Wilhelm