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Township of West Lincoln

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release December 22, 2020

Update # 32 - Response to COVID-19 – West Lincoln Prepares for Province-Wide Shutdown

West Lincoln, Ont. December 22, 2020

West Lincoln – Effective Saturday, December 26, 2020, at 12:01 the Township of West Lincoln will join the rest of Ontario as it moves into a Province-wide Shutdown.

Yesterday, the Province announced the implementation of a Province-wide Shutdown beginning on Boxing Day. The current COVID-19 Response Framework will be paused when the Province-wide Shutdown comes into effect. The Province will monitor the impacts of these temporary measures during the 14 days in Northern Ontario (north of Sudbury) and 28 days in Southern Ontario, to determine if it is safe to lift any restrictions or extend if required.

A full outline of the new Province-wide Shutdown measures can be found at this link. This outline is a summary of O. Reg 82/20 which will be updated to impose shutdown measures that will come into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2020.

 Shutdown measures include, but are not limited to:

▪       Indoor organized public events and social gatherings are restricted to members of the same household (the people you live with.) Individuals who live alone, and single parents may consider having exclusive, close contact with another household to help reduce the negative impacts of social isolation.

▪       In-person shopping in most retail settings is prohibited - curbside pickup and delivery can continue. Discount and big box retailers selling groceries will be limited to 25 per cent capacity for in-store shopping. Supermarkets, grocery stores and similar stores that primarily sell food, as well as pharmacies, will continue to operate at 50 per cent capacity for in-store shopping.

▪       Indoor and outdoor dining is prohibited. Restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments will be permitted to operate by take out, drive-through, and delivery only.

It is the responsibility of each person who oversees a business or a facility to inform themselves of and act in accordance with these new Provincial rules.

West Lincoln Community Centre

As a result of this announcement, effective December 26, 2020 until at least January 23rd, 2021, the West Lincoln Community Centre including the arena rink is closed.

Township Office

Following the holiday shut down from December 24th to January 4th, the Township Office at 318 Canborough St. will remain closed to the public, however, operations and day-to-day work has been modified, with some staff working from home. While the Township Office is closed, staff continue to be available to assist the public, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm by phone at 905-957-3346 or by email. To find specific extensions and emails, please visit our Contact Us page. Although the Township Office is closed to the public, payments can still be made by mail, online banking or via the Township Drop Box (no cash) located at the back entrance.

West Lincoln Public Library

The Libraries in Smithville, Caistorville and Wellandport will be open during regular hours for curbside delivery only. Please call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Mayor Dave Bylsma stated,

“I have two main concerns as West Lincoln enters the Province-wide Shutdown.  Our local small business will be restricted to curb side pickup and will need our loyal support. Also, the social and mental well-being of our neighbours and friends will require special and creative attention. Write a letter or make a call this holiday season and lift spirits.  This is still a time for fellowship and good cheer.”

 To find out more about what is open please check: https://www.westlincoln.ca/en/living-here/covid-19-information-and-updates.aspx#What-Township-services-and-facilities-are-closed           

Media Contact:

Dave Bylsma
Mayor
Township of West Lincoln
905.957.3346
Bev Hendry
CAO
Township of West Lincoln
905.957.3346