COVID 19 Update July 17

COVID-19 Update from Mayor Wade Mills July 17, 2020

Ontario is reporting 111 new cases within the past 24 hours and nine new deaths. These numbers bring our cumulative reported provincial totals to 37,274 cases, 33,162 resolved cases, and 2,746 total reported deaths. Locally within the Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health region, we have seen eight new cases crop up over the past day but not within Dufferin County specifically. Our cumulative total for the region is now at 506 cases, with 22 active cases but no hospitalizations. For Dufferin County, our cumulative case total has actually been adjusted down by one case to a total of 189, with only a single current active case being reported and no hospitalizations.

Much of the Province has now entered into Phase Three including Dufferin County. This does not mean that all businesses will necessarily be up and running immediately depending upon their own individual circumstances and ability to implement the necessary protocols. I would ask that we all try to remain patient with our local businesses and exercise some courtesy as they work to navigate themselves through this period.

Phase Three has allowed for the re-opening of park playgrounds and our Town staff have now completed their inspections and I’m happy to report that our playgrounds are open! We continue to follow the guidance from both provincial and public health authorities. It must be noted that our playgrounds must be used at your own risk and I would encourage all parents and caregivers to use their judgment and exercise the proper care (including hand sanitizer and regular hand washing) to ensure that their children remain safe.

Our Town operations continue to provide all critical services and Council has recently approved a tentative public re-opening date of Town Hall for September 8, 2020. This is in line with directives as well as the practices of a number of other municipalities. We are taking a cautious approach to ensure the safety of our staff first and foremost, and to limit any possible outbreak among staff which could have a crippling effect on our ability to maintain operations. Again, I ask for your continued patience as we move responsibly through this period.

I wish everyone a wonderful weekend and ask that you please stay safe!

Mayor Wade Mills