NEWS RELEASE
THE TOWN OF PENETANGUISHENE
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The Town of Penetanguishene continues to monitor news and updates concerning COVID-19 in order to ensure we work to keep our community members safe. To make sure our community can stay involved and up to date, we will continue to provide weekly updates through our website email subscription service.
Current updates are as follows:
- It was announced on April 25 that the use of community gardens across the province is now permitted. Residents who rented a plot at the Ecology garden last year will be contacted to inquire about renewing their rental for 2020. An update will follow in the coming weeks if additional plots are available for rent. Please note we will be releasing new rules regarding the operation of the garden to ensure physical distancing and proper sanitization protocols are followed.
- The Ministry has clarified that building permits for residential projects including decks, sheds and other small residential projects that are solely owner-built (no hired contractors) can be issued and work can begin as soon as a permit is obtained.
- Any questions related to building permits and inspections protocol can be addressed by leaving a voicemail at 705-549-7453 (Penetanguishene offices) or 705-526-4275, Ext 2248 (Midland offices) or email [email protected]
- The Town of Penetanguishene and The Canadian Union of Public Employees have agreed to a reduced workweek by one day per week for employees in all areas of the Corporation. This reduction is necessary due to the extended cancellation of several non-essential Town services and the resulting financial impact.
- Read the full Media Release here: Penetanguishene Continues to Deliver Essential Town Services through a Reduced Work Week and subscribe to the News Portal to receive future updates.
- The Ontario government is allowing certain businesses and workplaces to reopen May 4 at 12:01 a.m. Those permitted to start up include seasonal businesses and some essential construction projects. To read the full list of approved businesses visit: ow.ly/lGw350zuuda Community
Reminders:
- OPP asks that you report allegations of non-compliance with the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act by phoning 1-888-310-1122 or utilizing the online reporting tool at opp.ca/reporting. If you have questions about what businesses can be open or impacts to your business or employment, call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.
- The provincial fire ban is for Ontario MNRF fire zones and doesn’t apply to Penetanguishene residents at this time. Fire permits are not required at this time. Please remember that fires are for recreational purposes and are only permitted between 4 p.m. to midnight.
- Please refer to the “Open Air Burning Permit Terms and Conditions” attachment for guidelines and more information.
- Our municipal parks and trails remain open however all park amenities such as play structures, courts and the dog park are closed. Our wharf and launch ramp also remain closed at this time. When out in the parks remember to always practice physical distancing by leaving at least 2 meters (6 feet) of space between you and anyone you may pass.
- The County of Simcoe has released the second phase of the COVID-19 Business Impact Survey. To date, the County has received approximately 354 responses. Local business is encouraged to complete the survey to help us and our business service partners understand the changing conditions and needs your business may face. The survey will close May 8.
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