COVID-19 Updates - Township of Elizabethtown Kitley

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Media Release #15
For March 21, 2022 Release
March 21, 2022 (2:00 p.m.)

Statement from Mayor Burrow regarding new COVID related Restrictions
Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario

Today marks a new milestone with the lifting of further COVID-19 public health restrictions within the Province of Ontario. In recognition of this recent change, the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley will be removing its mandatory masking for the public at municipal properties, such as at both Municipal Offices, Main Fire Station, library branches and Waste Site. The public is welcome to wear a face covering at these locations should they wish. At this time, the Council Chambers remains closed to the public.

The Township respectfully requests the public continue to practice precautionary measures, such as not attending our facilities if they are feeling unwell and continuing to sanitize their hands when entering our buildings. Individuals are advised to consult the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (www.healthunit.org) for information about safe practices, isolation guidelines, as well as testing and vaccination locations.

Council and Committee meetings will continue to take place virtually, with Council reviewing this direction sometime in April. The Township will be investigating ways to safely hold Open Houses concerning topics of interest to the public in the upcoming months, and will announce details concerning these events to the public in advance.

While the severity of COVID may be receding, its effects may be long lasting. Those who are experiencing times of difficulty are encouraged to reach out to one of the many local agencies available to offer support. A list of mental health and wellbeing organizations is available at https://ektwp.ca/resources-mental-health/.

Finally, the Municipal Emergency Management Committee would like to remind residents that the warmer weather can bring forward flooding concerns. Property owners are reminded to take precautionary measures to avoid damage to their property and to listen to announcements from the area’s Conservation Authorities concerning water levels.

Media Release #14 (January 6, 2022 at 2:30 p.m.)
For January 7, 2022 Release

Statement from Mayor Burrow regarding new COVID related Restrictions
Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario

In recognition of the new time-limited measures announced by the Government of Ontario earlier this week, the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley has elected to adjust its operation in an effort to limit the spread of the contagious omicron variant and other illnesses with the health of our staff and public in mind.

Effective Monday, January 10th, all municipal offices will be closed to the public. The closure is expected to remain in place until Monday, January 31st but may be extended based on new recommendation and direction released by the province.

Municipal operations will continue with limited disruptions. Township staff, where operationally feasible, will work from home and will be available via email. A list of contacts can be found at https://ektwp.ca/contact-us/. Council and Committee meetings will continue to take place virtually and available for viewing from the Township’s YouTube channel.

No changes are expected for waste disposal and collection, or snow removal. Emergency services provided to the public will also not be impacted by these new COVID measures. Outdoor recreational spaces remain open.

Business owners are encouraged to visit the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville’s Economic Development COVID-19 webpage for a list of supports, resources and programs available for businesses. The webpage is regularly updated as information becomes available. https://invest.leedsgrenville.com/en/contacts-news-events/covid-19.aspx.

Despite the high uptake in vaccinations, we all must continue to do our part for the safety of our community as a whole. Please continue to follow health guidelines of physical distancing and wearing a face covering. We recognize the toll the past 22 months may have on individuals and encourage those who may need help to reach out to one of the many local agencies here to support you. A list of mental health and wellbeing organizations is available at https://ektwp.ca/resources-mental-health/.

We encourage individuals to visit the Township’s website, www.ektwp.ca for updates to municipal services and Covid related resources, as well as both the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit (www.healthunit.org) and provincial website (www.ontario.ca) for the latest updates and vaccine information.

Media Release #13
For July 16, 2021 Release

Statement from Mayor Burrow responding to Step 3 of Reopening Ontario and Municipal Spaces
Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario

The Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley’s Emergency Control Group met Wednesday afternoon to discuss the upcoming transition into Step 3 of the provincial Reopening Ontario plan and the continuation of municipal services. The Township is pleased to announce that both municipal offices will be open to the public, without the need of an appointment, beginning on Monday, July 19th. Visitors will be asked to adhere to the following precautionary measures:

Wear a face covering while inside our offices, library branches, and while outside of your vehicle at our Waste Site;
Provide their name and contact number for contact tracing purposes;
Follow the physical distancing measures in place, which may include waiting outside of a building until granted access by a staff member.

While the area continues to see low case numbers and high uptake in vaccinations, recently confirmed to be the highest vaccination rate in Ontario, we must continue to do our due diligence. The Emergency Control Group unanimously agreed to continue with the guidelines and recommendations set forth by our Health Unit, leading for the continuing need for face coverings regardless of an individual’s vaccination history. This is extended to our Waste Site for the foreseeable future.

Council and Committee meetings will continue to be held virtually and livestreamed to the Township’s YouTube channel “Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley”. In line with the plans of other area municipalities, and due to social distancing limitations in the Council Chambers, public access to attend meetings in person remain restricted. Staff are working towards solutions to allow the safe return of the public who otherwise do not have electronic access to meetings.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the amenities available throughout the Township including its many parks, beaches, and library branches. With the easing of restrictions, the public are also encouraged to shop and support our local businesses as much as possible.

Media Release #12: June 14, 2021 (4:00 p.m.)

Statement from Mayor Burrow responding to Reopening Ontario and Municipal Offices
Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario

The Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley’s Emergency Control Group met this morning to discuss the provincial Reopening Ontario plan and its three steps, as well as how municipal operations should proceed under each step with the safety of residents and staff members in mind.

In an effort to minimize undue risks and unnecessary visits to our offices while many services can be conducted electronically, all municipal offices will continue to be closed to the public under Step 1. Emails can be sent to mail@ektwp.ca to be directed to the appropriate staff member. Alternatively, calls can be made to the Main Administration Office at 613-345-7480 for municipal business, or the Main Fire Station at 613-498-2460 for inquiries related to burning.

The Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley will implement the following for its offices under Step 2:

Offices will be open to the public. Face coverings and contact tracing will be required, and booking an appointment is encouraged.
Council and Committee meetings will be conducted in person with social distancing measures in place. Council Chambers will remain closed to the public, with meetings being livestreamed to the Township’s YouTube channel, Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley.
Public libraries will be permitted to open. Please contact your library branch to confirm their hours and any safety measures to follow once Step 2 of the Reopening Ontario comes into effect.

Municipal offices, including meetings in the Council Chambers, will open fully to the public under Step 3 with safety and distancing measures in place.

Finally, I would like to commend the residents of Elizabethtown-Kitley and the surrounding communities for the ongoing diligence and patience over the past year. Following public health guidelines have proven to be successful in curbing the spread of COVID-19 and its variants within the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark district. Our area is among the leading Health Unit districts with a low rate of confirmed cases and very high support and uptake towards vaccination. Each of these actions deserve recognition and bring us closer to returning to normal.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to continue the guidelines set out by health officials, to shop local, and be kind to your neighbours and service workers. We encourage you to visit the Township’s website, www.ektwp.ca for updates to municipal services and Covid related resources, as well as both the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit (www.healthunit.org) and provincial website (www.ontario.ca) for the latest updates and vaccine information.

January 14, 2021 (2:00 p.m.)
Statement from Mayor Burrow responding to Stay-at-Home Order
Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario
Media Release #11

This morning I met with the Township’s Emergency Control Group to discuss any appropriate municipal responses to the Province’s declared Emergency related to Covid-19 and the Stay-at-Home Order that took effect today at 12:01 a.m.

In an effort to respond to these Provincial directives, and to encourage everyone to stay home as much as possible to keep the community as safe as possible, the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley will implement the following responses:

Municipal Offices are closed to the public – Effective immediately, all municipal administration buildings (including municipal offices, libraries, fire halls, public works buildings) are closed to the public until further notice. Emails can be sent to mail@ektwp.ca and will be directed to the appropriate staff for response. At this time, a full reopening of our offices is anticipated once the Provincial orders have ended.

Most staff will be working remotely and as such in person meetings are highly discouraged and only arrange with the relevant staff where absolutely necessary for essential purposes and where alternate arrangements are not possible.

Although under the Provincial directives there are limitations on the types of new construction that can commence and the type of building permits that can now be issued, the office continues to receive all building permit applications for review and assessment. Building permits which cannot be issued at this time can be readied for issuance once the provincial orders are lifted. Planning applications continue to be received and processed in accordance with provincial requirements.

Council and Committee meetings continue to be held virtually – Meetings are held via Zoom and streamed live to YouTube.

Waste Site Operations and Roadside Collection – The Township’s Waste Disposal site at 8468 County Rd. 7 remains open during regular hours of operation. Face coverings are required at all times while on the property. Please note that waste site disposal tickets are available at the following business locations: Mr. Gas at 3065 County Rd. 29, Harvex at 8050 County Rd. 29, in the Toledo area at Grocery at 74 County Rd. 1 and the Toledo Post Office Location at 52 County Rd. 1 and in Jasper at Jerry’s Service Centre, 24 County Rd. 17.

Residents with roadside collection are reminded all waste must be securely bagged for the safety of our staff. Loose waste will not be collected.

Public Library Branches – Library Branches are closed to the public. Library users are encouraged to use their card to access free eBooks on the platform Overdrive. Those without a library card can email staff at elizndub@ektwp.ca to request one be issued electronically.

Township Road maintenance and Fire and Emergency services remain fully operational.

Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever cough, difficulty breathing) are encouraged to call the local health unit at 1-800-660-5853 or Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please remember not to call 911 unless it is an emergency.

The Township’s website www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information for residents and businesses, including www.healthunit.org and www.ontario.ca.

During this provincial emergency and stay-at-home order, it is imperative to stay home as much as possible and only go out when absolutely necessary for essential reasons such as groceries, health services, medications and essential work. Stay within your own household and if you live alone please only have contact with one other household. Continue to wear a mask when you need to be out in public and continue to practice physical distancing (staying 2 m apart), frequently wash your hands and practice other health official directives to protect yourself and others. Outdoor gatherings are now limited to 5 persons with physical distancing and mask wearing directives.

We need to absolutely stay-at-home and do our part to stay healthy. In doing so, we will reduce the strain on our health care system and health care workers. Staying home and safe is a small price to pay to keep yourself, your family and your community safe. We continue to applaud all the frontline health care and essential service workers for your continuous efforts in serving your community.

December 23, 2020 (11:00 a.m.)
Update from Mayor Burrow regarding the
Township’s Response to the Province Wide Shutdown related to COVID-19
Media Release #10

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met this morning to discuss the province wide shutdown scheduled to take effect on December 26 at 12:01 a.m. and any impacts on municipal operations.

Following the closure of the municipal offices for the holidays, in an effort to keep the community as safe as possible, effective January 4^th to January 23^rd, 2021 public entry into the Township’s municipal offices will be by appointment only. This applies to the main administration office at 6544 New Dublin Rd. in New Dublin (613-345-7480), the satellite office at 424 County Rd. 29 in Toledo (613-275-2277) and the fire administration office at 44 Main St. E. in Lyn (613-498-2460). Emails can be sent to mail@ektwp.ca. At this time, a full reopening of our offices is anticipated on Monday, January 25th.

Where possible, communications with staff by telephone and/or email are strongly encouraged versus scheduling in person meetings to keep everyone safe. To reduce capacity in the offices and to comply with provincial directives, many staff will be working remotely to serve you. Council and Committees will continue to meet virtually via zoom meetings which are streamed live to YouTube.

The Township’s Waste Disposal site at 8468 County Rd. 7 remains open during regular hours of operation (noting that holiday hours do apply). Despite being outdoors, all are encouraged to wear masks when attending the waste site and ensure physical distancing (staying 2 m apart). Please note that waste site disposal tickets are available at the following business locations: Mr. Gas at 3065 County Rd. 29, Harvex at 8050 County Rd. 29, in the Toledo area at Kitley.

Grocery at 74 County Rd. 1 and the Toledo Post Office Location at 52 County Rd. 1 and in Jasper at Jerry’s Service Centre, 24 County Rd. 17.

Township Road maintenance and Fire and Emergency services remain operational. Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever cough, difficulty breathing) are encouraged to call the local health unit at 1-800-660-5853 or Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please remember not to call 911 unless it is an emergency.

During this province wide shutdown, it is imperative to stay home as much as possible and only go out when needed for groceries, health services and medications, child care and to assist those in need with obtaining such needed items and services. Stay within your own household and if you live alone please only have contact with one other household. Continue to wear a mask when out in public and continue to practice physical distancing (staying 2 m apart), frequently wash your hands and practice other health official directives to protect yourself and others.

We are all in this together, despite having to stay apart and mainly within our own homes over the next month or so. We salute all the front line health care and essential service workers for your continuous commitment to our community.

June 12, 2020 Update from Mayor Burrow
Township preparing to open to the Public
Media Release #9

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to monitor the on-going COVID-19 pandemic and to adjust municipal responses and messaging where needed.

While the Township’s waste site is open, Township municipal buildings, libraries and playground structures continue to be closed to the public until further notice. Various operational plans are currently being prepared to ensure the safe re-opening of municipal facilities. These plans are being developed, and will require updating, based on provincial and Health Unit safety directives. Although offices are closed to the public, staff are attending the offices and working remotely to serve you. Council continues to meet virtually via zoom meetings which are streamed live via YouTube and Township Committees are resuming their regular meeting schedules in the same manner.

Bellamy Park will open for seasonal camping sites on June 19, 2020, with a new operational plan in place. Anyone interested in inquiring about seasonal site availability should contact Bellamy Park directly at (613)275-2361 or by email to bellamypark@ektwp.ca.

As a reminder, tax bills will be mailed out at the end of June, with the two final tax due dates being July 20^th and September 21^st. Included in the upcoming tax bill mailing will be a newsletter offering further information and updates on Township services.

Please stay committed to practicing physical distancing (stay 2 m apart) or wear a mask where this is not possible, frequent hand washing, and all of the other health official directives to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The Township’s website www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information for residents and businesses. As a reminder, anyone experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 (such as a fever, cough, difficulty breathing), should reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or call Telehealth at 1-800-797-0000. The Brockville Memorial Centre assessment facility is also open to anyone who feels they should be tested, regardless of symptoms.

As a reminder, please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

May 8, 2020 Update from Mayor Burrow
A Reminder to Cottagers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Media Release #8

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to monitor the on-going COVID-19 pandemic and discuss adjusting any municipal responses and messaging where needed.

All Township municipal buildings, libraries and playgrounds/sports fields remain closed to the public until further notice. Bellamy Park also remains closed to any seasonal camping at this time.

As the weather warms, it’s recognized that Cottagers will be soon be reattending their cottages properties to open them up for the season. Cottages offer an enjoyable get away and retreat. During this pandemic, the Provincial government has provided some directives to cottagers that the Township wishes to echo. The Township is encouraging cottagers to be respectful in doing the following:

-Have only one household attend the cottage (avoid co-mingling of households);
-Bring your own groceries and supplies with you to the cottage so you will be self-sufficient there, without needing to venture out;
-When enjoying any common areas and talking with your neighbour, continue to respect the 2 m (6 ft.) physical distancing practice and;
-Avoid gatherings of more than 5 persons;
-Seek approval for any open burning/campfires by applying for a Burn Permit.

The burn ban has just been lifted today and Burn Permits must be obtained prior to having any open burning. Burn Permits can be obtained immediately by applying at ek.burnpermits.com. If you do not have internet access, you must apply for a Burn Permit by contacting the Fire Department at 613-498-2460 during office hours Monday-Friday between 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and you must speak with a staff member in order to gain permit approval (leaving a message does not constitute approval). Fines will be levied for open burning without a permit.

As a reminder, although Township offices are closed to the public, staff are attending the offices on a rotating basis and continue to work remotely to serve you. The tax due date (that was extended for the first installment) is May 22, 2020. Council continues to meet virtually and further meeting information is available at the Township’s website.

It is imperative whether we are at home, at the cottage, or at work, that we all stay committed to practicing physical distancing, frequent hand washing, and all of the other health official directives to continue to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The Township’s website www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information. As a reminder, anyone experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 (such as a fever, cough, difficulty breathing), should reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or call Telehealth at 1-800-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

May 1, 2020 Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Continued Impacts on Municipal Operations
Media Release #7

I cannot stress enough how important it is to stay committed to physical distancing, frequent hand washing, and all of the other health official directives to limit the spread of COVID-19. The required timeline for these efforts is still largely unknown and I appreciate that the uncertainty can be quite stressful, but we must remain vigilant. We are strongest when we are united, and I am proud of the dedication that everyone has demonstrated throughout this historical event.

Complacency is the emerging enemy, so let’s double down against reverting to old habits. We cannot afford to squander the significant investment we have already made in planking the curve in our community.

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to monitor the on-going COVID-19 pandemic and discuss adjusting any municipal responses where needed.

All Township municipal buildings, libraries and playgrounds/sports fields remain closed to the public until further notice. Staff are attending the offices on a rotating basis and continue to work remotely to serve the community. As a reminder, the tax due date for the first instalment was extended to May 22, 2020. Council held their first virtual Council meeting on April 27^th, 2020 and the meeting can be viewed via a link on the Township’s website, www.ektwp.ca. Members of the public are asked to check our website for future upcoming meeting dates.

The Township is preparing a “Special Edition” newsletter for the business community to offer business related resources in one place. This newsletter will be released early next week and Notice will posted on the Township’s website www.ektwp.ca The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Department also offers updated business related resources on their website link https://invest.leedsgrenville.com/en/contacts-news-events/covid-19.aspx. Here businesses can subscribe to receive notification of when this page is updated as new announcements and developments continue to be made by agencies and the different levels of government.

The Township’s Waste Site continues to operate under modified conditions, accepting only recyclables, bagged household garbage/small unbagged items and yard waste. The site will now also be accepting “tires” (as usual, free of charge for Township residents and ratepayers). These modifications are done with achieving physical distancing in mind.

As an Open Air BURN BAN remains in effect for the entire County, the accepting of yard waste at the Township’s waste site provides a ready alternative to dispose of leaves and brush from properties.

Anyone experiencing challenges in having your essential needs met during this time, due to self-quarantining or aged/compromised health, are reminded that they can call the Township office (613-345-7480 or 1-800-492-3175, extension 10) so that we can better understand your needs and do our best to coordinate a solution for you.

The Township’s website www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer a COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information. As a reminder, anyone experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 (such as a fever, cough, difficulty breathing), should reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or call Telehealth at 1-800-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

April 17, 2020 Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Tax Due Date Extended to May 22^nd as Municipal Buildings Remain Closed
Media Release #6

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to monitor the on-going COVID-19 pandemic and to adjust municipal responses where needed.

To comply with recent Provincial directives, all Township municipal buildings, libraries and playgrounds/sports fields remain closed to the public until further notice. As such, the first instalment of the Township’s tax due date has been further extended to May 22^nd, 2020. The Township has also paused pre-authorized tax payments at this time until June 1^st. Monthly payments from July 1^st onward would be recalculated to include the April 1^st and May 1^st payments.

The Township’s Waste Site which continues to operate under modified conditions, accepting only recyclables and bagged household garbage/small unbagged items, as of Monday, April 20^th, will be accepting ‘yard waste’. The public is reminded that a total Open Air Burn Ban is in effect for the entire County.

The public is advised that Council meetings will soon be operating virtually and members of the public are asked to check our website for upcoming dates and further information.

Property owners should soon be receiving a Mayor’s letter related to the COVID-19 response. Those experiencing challenges in having your essential needs met during this time, due to self-quarantining or aged/compromised health, are reminded that they can call the Township office (613-345-7480 or 1-800-492-3175, extension 10) so that we can better understand your needs and do our best to coordinate a solution for you.

The Township’s website www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer a COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information.

Anyone experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 (such as a fever, cough, difficulty breathing), are reminded to reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or call Telehealth at 1-800-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

April 7, 2020 Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Community Outreach Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ontario
Media Release #5

The Township will soon be posting signage around the municipality to remind people to keep a physical distance. The signage conveys the 2 metre physical separation distance being recommended by health authorities when outside your home. The signage is in keeping with the messaging issued by the Province of Ontario.

The signage will be added to the Township’s municipal identification signage along roadways and posted at other prominent locations throughout the Township, including the Waste Site as a reminder of the necessity to physically distance to avoid the COVID-19 virus and it’s spread.

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to monitor this ongoing health event and continues to meet regularly to adjust municipal responses where deemed necessary. A Mayor’s letter will be mailed out to all property owners to update everyone on the actions taken to date. This mailed outreach was deemed desirable in an effort to reach everyone with this information, including those whom may not use internet or television services.

For those of you who are self-quarantined due to age or health concerns/ compromised immunity, or who are experiencing challenges in having your essential needs met, you are invited to call the Township office (613-345-7480 or 1-800-492-3175, extension 10) so that we can better understand your needs and do our best to coordinate a solution for you.

Residents are reminded that a County wide open air burn ban is in effect.

Residents are also reminded of the current added provincial directives that no more than 5 persons assemble and to stay at home as much as possible. To respect these directives:
– please do not host a garage or yard sale (these are not an essential service);
– enjoy the upcoming weekend celebration within your own household;
– respect physical distancing when out for walks and remember to not use playground equipment or sports fields as they remain closed.

Also, many community donation clothing collection boxes are full and overflowing and it is understood that these donations are not being picked up at this time. Do not leave items outside these boxes. Items left out in the open are exposed to bad weather conditions and such items cannot be useful to these agencies when damaged. Residents are being asked to hold on to these useful items until life returns to normal.

As a reminder, our Township offices, buildings and libraries remain closed to the public until April 20, 2020. The Waste Site remains operational, accepting only recyclables and bagged garbage/small household items at this time. This date may be revisited as this pandemic continues to unfold.

The Township’s website at www.ektwp.ca continues to be updated to offer COVID-19 (coronavirus) health and protection information and links to reliable sources of information.

Anyone exhibiting health symptoms of concern related to COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing) are again reminded to reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5683 or call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

Again, if you are self-quarantined due to age, health concerns or compromised immunity, or are experiencing challenges in having your essential needs met, you are invited to call the Township office (613-345-7480 or 1-800-492-3175, extension 10) so that we can better understand your needs and do our best to coordinate a solution for you.

March 31, 2020 (4:00 p.m.) Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Media Release #4

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today regarding this on-going health event. In accordance with Provincial directives, to reduce the spread of COVID-19 playgrounds and sports fields through the Township are closed to discuss this on-going health event. To support the recent clear directives from both the Prime Minister and the Premier of Ontario, to stay at home and mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19, effective tomorrow March 25^th, where possible Township staff have been directed to stay at home and work remotely until Tuesday, April 14, 2020.

The public is reminded that all municipal buildings, including libraries, remain closed to the public and that playground equipment in Township parks is not disinfected and should not be used.

The following essential Township services will remain in effect during this period:

core Fire and Emergency Services;
essential road maintenance;
waste site operations (modified to accept recyclables and bagged garbage only);
regular curb side pick-up throughout geographic Kitley;
building permit application receipt and issuance, with a modified acceptance/issuance process, and limited site inspections.

The Township’s website at www.ektwp.ca continues to offer updated COVID-19 (coronavirus) information and links to reliable sources of information. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of concern related to COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing) are again reminded to reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5683 or call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

Let’s all do our part and stay at home where possible. It is only with such collective action that we can protect our communities from this virus.

Please show your thanks and appreciation to our frontline emergency service and health care workers and to those workers keeping essential supply and service outlets open by simply staying at home and staying 2 m (6 feet) apart when you must go out.

March 24, 2020 (12:00 p.m.) Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Media Release #3

We are doing our part and staying home until April 14^th, 2020.

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again this morning to discuss this on-going health event. To support the recent clear directives from both the Prime Minister and the Premier of Ontario, to stay at home and mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19, effective tomorrow March 25^th, where possible Township staff have been directed to stay at home and work remotely until Tuesday, April 14, 2020.

The public is reminded that all municipal buildings, including libraries, remain closed to the public and that playground equipment in Township parks is not disinfected and should not be used.

The following essential Township services will remain in effect during this period:

core Fire and Emergency Services;
essential road maintenance;
waste site operations (modified to accept recyclables and bagged garbage only);
regular curb side pick-up throughout geographic Kitley;
building permit application receipt and issuance, with a modified acceptance/issuance process, and limited site inspections.

Let’s all do our part and stay at home where possible. It is only with such collective action that we can protect our communities from this virus.

March 20, 2020 (4:00 p.m.) Update from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Media Release #2

The Township’s Emergency Control Group met again today to discuss the COVID-19 (coronavirus) health event, the Township’s implemented responses to date and any further actions needed in our efforts to keep the community and staff safe. In addition to response measures announced on March 17, 2020, the Township has since:

posted warning signage recommending that playground equipment not be used to avoid the spread of COVID-19 (as play structures are not cleaned or disinfected) and;
updated the Township’s telephone message system and the Township’s COVID-19 website page (www.ektwp.ca) to offer added/updated information, including mental health resource information.

While all municipal buildings and libraries remain closed to the public, emails and telephone calls are still being accepted by staff. Staff are working with the public to provide necessary services. The public is advised that as staff are focused on addressing the growing COVID-19 concern, this may impact their ability to respond in a timely manner to other inquiries.

The Township is appreciative of the noticed understanding and cooperation from members of the public to the Township’s responses and measures taken to date. The Township also acknowledges the efforts of health and emergency responders, and local businesses, during this unprecedented time.

To summarize, the following Township responses remain in place at this time:

All municipal buildings are closed to the public. Email and telephone inquiries are still being accepted;
All Council and Committee meetings are cancelled;
The tax due date for the first installment is postponed to April 24, 2020;
Waste Site Operations are modified, in that only recyclables and bagged garbage is being accepted (curb side pick-up throughout the north end of the Township, geographic Kitley, remains operational);
Signage has been posted at parks with playground equipment warning that equipment is not cleaned or disinfected;
The Township’s website at www.ektwp.ca offers updated COVID-19 information and links to reliable sources of information.

The public is also reminded that Township road maintenance and Fire and Emergency Services also remain operational. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of concern related to COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing) are again reminded to reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5683 or call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

To reiterate the latest directives of health officials, please reduce the spread of germs by:

washing your hands frequently with soap and water and use hand sanitizer;
not touching your face with your hands;
covering any your cough or sneeze with a tissue or into your arm (not into your hands);
practicing social distancing (now at a distance of 2 m) and staying home as much as possible.

Our Emergency Control Group will continue to meet as needed to review and adjust the various measures we are putting in place to respond to COVID-19. As always, our aim is to take a cautious but level-headed approach.

Residents should look to trusted sources for accurate information and guidance, and should resist the urge to circulate unsubstantiated opinions. Please limit your exposure to COVID-19 by vigilantly practicing social distancing, so that our region may capitalize on its fleeting opportunity to mitigate the impacts of this unprecedented pandemic event.

March 17, 2020 (1:00 p.m.)
Statement from Mayor Burrow regarding COVID-19
Media Release #1

This morning I met with the Township’s Emergency Control Group to assess the ever-evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) and to discuss an appropriate municipal response to this health event in an effort to keep our community and staff as safe as possible. Given the directives expressed to date, including Premier Doug Ford’s Declaration of an Emergency for Ontario as of this morning, the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley will implement the following responses:

Municipal Buildings closed to the public – Effective immediately, all municipal buildings (including municipal offices, libraries, fire halls, public works buildings) are closed to the public until April 20, 2020. Emails and telephone calls are still being accepted.
Council and Committee meetings are cancelled – Effective immediately all Council/Advisory/Board/Committee meetings are cancelled until April 20, 2020.
Tax due date extended – The tax due date for the 1^st tax payment installment is postponed from March 27, 2020 to April 24, 2020 and this date may be subject to a further extension if necessary. Various options for payment during the municipal building closure timeframe are available (please call the office or visit the Township’s website at www.ektwp.ca).
Waste Site Operations to be modified – Effective Friday, March 20, 2020 only recyclables and bagged garbage will be accepted. This will remain in effect until April 20, 2020.

All end dates noted above are subject to further review and reconsideration.

The Township will continue to monitor developments, directives and reliable sources of information as it becomes available. In turn, the Township may further adjust responses when deemed appropriate.

Reliable sources of local, provincial and federal information can be viewed on the Township’s website www.ektwp.ca. The Township’s website also offers a link to the COVID-19 self-assessment tool. If you are experiencing symptoms of concern that may be related to COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing) reach out to the local Health Unit at 613-345-5685 or call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000. Please do not call 911 unless it is an emergency.

To reiterate the directives of health officials, please remember that the best way to reduce the spread of any germs are simple measures you can take:

wash your hands frequently with soap and water and use hand sanitizer;
avoid touching your face with your hands;
cover your cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your arm (not into your hands);
practice social distancing (1 m separation or a 2 m distance if you are sick).

The current situation we find ourselves in is new for all of us. If you are feeling overwhelmed reach out for help. The Health Unit website at www.healthunit.org offers tips and resources available.

Be assured that we will continue to monitor this health event and we will take any further actions that may be deemed warranted based on the best information available from the local health unit and upper levels of government.

In these unusual times, it is important for residents to know that the Township’s primary concern rests with everyone’s safety and well-being. We are taking steps, both public-facing and internally, that we believe are prudent and responsible while also being mindful of over-reaction. Although the local Health Unit tells us that we are currently in a relatively low risk area, we feel strongly that such an opportunity should not be squandered and that is why we will always err on the side of caution.

March 13, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
Statement
As of this morning, there are no reported cases of COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus, in the Leeds and Grenville area. The Township, its surrounding Leeds and Grenville municipalities, and the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit are all following the developments of the virus which was recently confirmed to be in the City of Ottawa.

The Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley continues to operate as normal and has not suspended any of the services of programs it provides. Hand sanitizers are readily available and staff are cleaning counters with greater frequency.

Residents are encouraged to to practice preventative measures such as frequently washing hands and shared surfaces, keeping social distance, covering coughs and refraining from touching your face. Additional tips can be viewed from https://healthunit.org/coronavirus/

The public is also encouraged to verify the information they hear about Coronavirus as there has been an increase in misconceptions circulating on platforms, such as social media. Reliable sources for current information can be viewed at:

Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (https://healthunit.org/coronavirus/)
Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (https://www.ontario.ca/page/how-ontario-is-responding-covid-19)
Health Canada (https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html)

For general information about Emergency Planning, visit https://ektwp.ca/content/emergency-planning.