COVID-19

How Leamington is Prepared

The health and safety of all Leamington residents is our top priority. To mitigate risks and slow the spread of COVID-19, the Municipality of Leamington has expanded COVID-19 precautions with various service level changes.

The Municipality continues to closely monitor updates around the COVID-19 outbreak in collaboration with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada. The WECHU is also collaborating with local hospitals, emergency services and other local health agencies to ensure prompt reporting and follow up of individuals who may require testing for COVID-19. 

Service Levels 

The Leamington Municipal Building is open to the public by appointment only for select municipal services. To book an appointment, please contact a Customer Service Representative by phone at 519-326-5761. 

Although the Leamington Municipal Building is open by appointment only, municipal staff continue to assist and service residents by electronic means. Please contact us by phone at 519-326-5761 or use our website to access municipal information and services. Phones are answered during regular business hours, Monday to Friday between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM (excluding holidays), and online service requests remain available at all times at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue.

Mandatory Mask By-law

Wearing a mask is required in indoor public spaces within the Municipality of Leamington under Municipality of Leamington By-law 61-2020.

The mask should cover your nose, mouth and chin, without gapping. Wearing a mask or face covering is an additional measure we can take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep each other safe. This means that, with some exemptions, all persons, including staff, customers or visitors entering an indoor public space are required to wear a mask or face covering. 

Enforcement of Emergency Orders

Leamington By-law Enforcement Officers are working together with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to enforce Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) orders which include prohibiting persons accessing some outdoor recreational amenities; prohibiting persons attending organized indoor public gatherings of more than 50 people and outdoor public gatherings of more than 100 people; and prohibiting the operation of some businesses.

Effective September 19, 2020, the Ontario government reduced limits on the number of people permitted to attend unmonitored and private social gatherings across the entire province.

Unmonitored and private social gatherings include functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, BBQs or wedding receptions held in private residences, backyards, parks and other recreational areas.

The new limit on the number of people allowed to attend an unmonitored private social gathering across the province is:

• 10 people at an indoor event or gathering (previous limit of 50); or
• 25 people at an outdoor event or gathering (previous limit of 100).

Indoor and outdoor events and gatherings cannot be merged together. Gatherings of 35 (25 outdoors and 10 indoors) are not permitted.

Members of the public can report EMCPA infractions by calling the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Municipality at 519-326-5761 or reporting online at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue. Citizens are requested to use their judgment and only report blatant infractions.

Who to Contact

• Non-compliance at a municipal property, park or facility? Call 519-326-5761
• Non-compliance at a private property or business? Call 1-888-310-1122
• Questions for the Ontario Government about businesses? Call 1-888-444-3659 
• Questions about your health related to COVID-19? Call 519-258-2146 ext. 1420

 Stay Informed 

The Municipality will notify the public of future municipal cancellations, openings and updates through:

• Our website - Subscribe here
• Local Media
• Our social media channels:
• Twitter @TweetLeamington
• Facebook @MunicipalityofLeamington

On Monday, October 19, the Leamington to Windsor (LTW) Transit service will return to front-door boarding and begin cash-only fare collection.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, LTW passengers have been riding free and boarding the bus through the rear door since the service resumed in September. 

Cash-Only Fare Collection

Exact cash-only fare collection will begin Monday, October 19. Fares for the service are $10 for a one-way trip or $15 for a round-trip (same day only). Please note that our drivers do not carry cash, cannot make change and overpayments are not reimbursed.

Leamington municipal facilities remain closed to the public, except for by appointment-only, and therefore transit cards cannot be purchased or reloaded at this time.

COVID-19 Safety Precautions

Protective barriers are being installed to ensure employee safety while maintaining sightlines and visibility for drivers. Passengers will be asked to follow a one-way flow, boarding through the front of the vehicle and exiting through the rear doors. Exceptions will be made enabling customers with mobility issues to exit through the front of the bus.

Following the best advice of public health experts, the mandatory mask policy will remain in effect indefinitely and capacity limitations will continue to allow for physical distancing on board. It is mandatory for LTW passengers to wear a non-medical mask on the bus. Exemptions will be for children under the age of two and persons with disabilities or medical conditions that prevent a person from wearing a face mask.

Learn more:

Detailed information about the LTW Transit service is available at leamington.ca/LTW.

At its meeting held September 22, 2020, Leamington Council further extended financial relief measures to help residents and businesses manage the impacts of COVID-19. The move follows Council’s previous decisions to waive all penalties and interest charges on municipal payments since March 25, 2020.

Financial relief measures reflect the Municipality’s concern for the community’s well-being and economic condition. These measures include:

• Waiving all penalties and interest on any overdue account balances (including property tax, water and wastewater, and other accounts) through to and including November 30, 2020.

• Waiving all returned cheque or electronic payment fees through to and including November 30, 2020.

For questions about property taxes, please contact the Tax Office at 519-326-5761 or taxes@leamington.ca.

The Municipality of Leamington is excited to announce the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre will begin offering select programming and amenities by advance registration beginning this fall.

Due to COVID-19 protocols in place for the protection of the public and employees, all visits will need to be scheduled in advance and class sizes will be reduced.

Safety Precautions in Place

The safety of our patrons and employees is our highest priority. The changes we have made to our operations include enhanced cleaning protocols, reduced visitors in the building, room capacity limits and space utilization that allows for physical distancing and reduced face-to-face contact.

Visitors will be required to wear a mask inside the facility in accordance with the Municipality’s Mandatory Mask By-law. Patrons may remove their mask when engaging in a sport or other strenuous physical activity. Details regarding mask requirements will be provided in each of the registered activity descriptions.

How do I register for a program or book an amenity?

We are pleased to offer a modified fall season of group fitness classes and use of the pool, weight room, court and track areas with capacity limits by advance online registration only. Limited recreation programming is set to begin the week of September 21. 

Online registration for fall recreation programming and amenity bookings opens Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at 9:00 AM.

To create an online account or register for a recreation program or amenity, please visit our online registration portal

Unsure if you have an account or need to retrieve your login information? Contact us at 519-322-2337

No in-person registrations or payments are available at this time.

How do I request a membership refund?

Anyone who held a membership with us as of March 16, 2020, will have a credit applied to their account.  You may choose to have your credit refunded prior to November 1, 2020 by filling out our online form: www.leamington.ca/refunds or by calling us at 519-322-2337.

While we operate with reduced services and amenities, we are offering a discounted one-month membership for $30+HST or a $9 single visit fee.

Please note that your credit on account will be used toward your new one-month membership or single visit fees.

Changes to Programming and Access to Amenities

• Advance registration will be required for group fitness classes, the pool, weight room, court and track areas.
• Room capacity limits are in place to ensure physical distancing.
• The fitness studio will be marked to allow appropriate physical distancing and will have reduced class capacity.
• Some classes will be moved to the gymnasium to allow for additional class participants.
• Members are expected to maintain a two-meter distance from all other users.
• Visitors must follow all directional markings to allow for appropriate spacing between users of all spaces.
• Depending on the activity you are registered for, access may be through alternate doors. Please read the details of each of our activities closely to ensure you are prepared for your visit.

 Amenities Temporarily Unavailable

• Sauna
• Lockers
• Showers
• Yoga Mats
• Small to clean accessories such as yoga blocks, foam rollers, straps, resistance bands, ropes etc.
• Water Fountains (touchless water bottle filling stations will be available in some zones)

Services and Programming Temporarily Unavailable

• Child Minding Centre/Day Camp
• Youth Programming

Stay in the know

As more information becomes available, the Municipality will continue to update leamington.ca/recreation and our Facebook and Twitter pages with detailed information related to recreation program registration and COVID-19 health guidelines.

As of Tuesday, September 8, 2020, the Municipality of Leamington will be offering access to select municipal services by appointment only at the Leamington Municipal Building located at 111 Erie Street North, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30AM and 4:30PM. In anticipation of offering these services, the Municipality has been putting plans in place to welcome the public safely back into municipal facilities.

Available In-Person Services

Customers will have access to the following services in person, by appointment only, during normal business hours:

• Lottery and liquor licensing
• Business licensing
• Marriage licences
• Civil marriage ceremonies
• Interment services

Safety Precautions in Place

Individuals who have made an appointment to access services in person will see enhanced health and safety precautions, including glass barriers at customer service counters, hand hygiene stations, and enhanced cleaning. Visitors will be subject to COVID-19 pre-screening questions and will be required to wear a mask in accordance with the Municipality’s Mandatory Mask By-law when visiting the building.

Payment

The Municipality is no longer accepting cash payments. Any payments that are required in relation to an appointment will be completed at the time of the appointment.

Virtual Services

Municipal facilities that were closed in March due to COVID-19 have been offering virtual services, and will continue to do so, as technology becomes a bigger part of our new normal. We continue to encourage all residents to use our website to access municipal information and to seek alternative methods to connect with municipal staff, such as by email, telephone at 519-326-5761, or through an online service request at leamington.ca/reportanissue. 

How to book an appointment

To book an appointment, please contact a Customer Service Representative at 519-326-5761 during normal business hours. 

With the reopening of Ontario's economy in Stage 3, and in conjunction with the start of the school year, the Leamington to Windsor (LTW) Transit will resume service on September 8, 2020.

The LTW Transit service which travels from Leamington to Windsor with stops in Kingsville and Essex, was suspended in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The LTW Transit is set to return to full service of three round trips per day, Monday to Friday and two round trips on Saturday.

“Resuming the LTW Transit service will allow more people to access education, employment and other essential supports like health care in neighbouring communities,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “We are confident that this much needed service can resume with safety measures and protocols in place for the protection of riders and drivers.”

“As a region, our economies and communities are getting more and more connected,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “Increasing connections between Leamington and Windsor is another positive step forward for our region as we continue to re-start our economy and recover from the pandemic.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome the Leamington service back”, said Transit Windsor Executive Director Pat Delmore. “This is an important connection in our efforts of helping Windsor-Essex residents get where they need to go.”

All transit riders are required to wear a non-medical mask on buses in accordance with Transit Windsor’s mandatory face mask policy. Exemptions will be for children under the age of two and persons with disabilities or medical conditions that prevent a person from wearing a face mask.

Fares will not be collected at this time but are expected to resume in the near future. All passengers are asked to enter and exit the bus through the rear doors. Riders with accessibility needs may continue to use the front doors; one wheelchair passenger at a time may occupy this area. 

Information about the LTW Transit service is available at www.leamington.ca/LTW.

As we enter Stage 3 of the province’s reopening plan, we realize that many residents are anxious to return to the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre. However, at this time, the Centre remains closed to the public as we continue to host the COVID-19 Assessment Centre in the gymnasium as well as the emergency isolation pods in the Highbury Canco Rink in support of the efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the community.  Giving consideration to the current situation and in anticipation of the cessation of those emergency services, the Municipality continues to develop a gradual and phased approach to reopening the facility in adherence with provincial guidelines.

“We continue to carefully assess this well-used facility to determine how we can offer services to our community again using a gradual and phased approach,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “The health and safety of our guests and employees continue to be our top priority, and there has been a significant amount of staff time and planning to ensure a safe reopening for everyone.”

The following phased approach will help to ensure a safe and controlled environment while providing some limited services to our customers. As health and safety measures may be adjusted at any point, timelines are subject to change.

Phase 1 - Current

• Limited access is currently available for ice and pool rentals with organizations and groups that have specific COVID-19 guidelines in place. Booking requests may be directed to bookings@leamington.ca
• The introduction of some outdoor fitness classes.

Phase 2 – Fall 2020

• The introduction of use of the gym, weight room, courts, pool and fitness studio by advance registration only and in adherence with capacity and physical distancing guidelines.

Phase 3 - 2021

• Return to regular programming with adherence to capacity and physical distancing guidelines.

“This centre is a community hub that is accustomed to seeing over 450,000 visitors each year, all of whom use various aspects of the facility,” said Peter Neufeld, Chief Administrative Officer. “We will be taking a very cautious approach and will need to feel confident at each phase of our reopening plan before progressing to the next. We also need to be cognizant of the cost-benefit of reopening to ensure we are using budgeted taxpayer funds wisely,” added Neufeld.

As we progress in our reopening plan, we will notify the public through our website at leamington.ca/COVID-19 and our social media channels.

Public playgrounds in Leamington municipal parks are now open.

To ensure the health and safety of all park and playground users, and to abide by the rules for areas in Stage 3, the Municipality asks that users respect and adhere to the following requirements and guidelines that remain in place:

• Physical distance by remaining 2 metres (6 feet) apart from others outside of your social circle at all times
• If the park is crowded, please delay your visit or consider using another park/amenity until children can use the playground equipment safely while physically distancing.
• Outdoor playground equipment will not be cleaned or disinfected regularly.  Please be aware of risks, use proper hand hygiene, do not touch your face while on playground structures and do not share sports equipment or toys. 
• Children and adults should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and/or sanitize hands before and after using the playground. Be especially vigilant after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

• Wearing face coverings on outdoor playground equipment is not required under the Municipality’s Mandatory Mask By-law. Although masks are not required outdoors, they are recommended if physical distancing is challenging.

Tomato Spash Pad

Given the popularity of the Tomato Splash Pad located at Seacliff Park and the limited enclosed space around the splash pad area, change rooms and associated washrooms, physical distancing would be extremely difficult. To mitigate risks and slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community, the Municipality has closed the splash pad for the remainder of the 2020 season.

This requirement is effective immediately and means that, with some exemptions, all persons, including staff, customers or visitors entering an indoor public space are required to wear a mask or face covering.

“Our community continues to fight against COVID-19, and Council’s decision to mandate masks in indoor public spaces ensures we protect our residents while helping our businesses recover and our economy grow,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “This is a small sacrifice we can all make for the greater good of our community.”

Where is a mask required under this by-law?

The mandatory mask by-law applies to the following indoor public spaces:

• Transit vehicles
• Commercial establishments where goods and services are sold to customers, including retail stores; convenience stores; malls/plazas; restaurants; personal service settings; grocery stores and bakeries; gas stations; farmer’s markets; areas of mechanics’ shops/garages/repair shops which are open to the public; and car dealerships
• Community centres
• Libraries, museums, art galleries, theatres or performing arts centres
• Community service offices
• Banquet halls, convention centres, arenas, stadiums or other event spaces
• Laundromats
• Common areas, including: waiting areas, lobbies, service counters, washrooms, hallways, stairwells and elevators; unless such area is within a residential apartment building or condominium

Where is a mask not required under this bylaw?

The mandatory mask by-law does not apply to the following indoor public spaces:

• Schools and post-secondary institutions
• Day care centres
• Day camps for children
• Buildings or portions of buildings used for the training of amateur or professional athletes
• Churches, mosques, synagogues, temples or other places of worship
• Hospitals and independent health facilities
• Offices of regulated health professionals

Who is exempt from wearing a mask under this by-law?

The following are exempt from the requirement to wear a mask:

• a person under two years of age;
• a person that is two years of age or older, but under five years of age chronologically or developmentally who refuses to wear a mask and cannot be persuaded to do so by the accompanying parent or guardian;
• a person who is unable to wear a mask for medical reasons or who has a disability that prevents him or her from safely wearing a mask;
• a person who is providing care to or is otherwise assisting a person with a disability where wearing a mask would hinder the accommodation of that person’s disability

Residents are not required to show proof that they are exempt from provisions of the by-law. We ask Leamington residents and visitors to be respectful of the rights of individuals who are exempt from wearing a mask in conformity with the exemptions provided in the by-law.

What do operators of public spaces need to do?

Under the by-law, all operators of public spaces in Leamington must have a policy regarding the wearing of masks that prevents people from entering or remaining within the public space without a mask. Additionally, operators must ensure that employees receive training in the requirements of the policy.  Operators must enforce the policy and not permit anyone who is not exempt from wearing a mask from entering or remaining within the public space.

Windsor-Essex County Health Unit Instruction:

Prior to this by-law, the Chief Medical Officer of Health, Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, also issued a Public Health Instruction related to masks, along with an Order for the requirement of masks in commercial establishments. Details can be found here:  https://www.wechu.org/cv/faq/category/masks

Resources:

Mandatory Mask By-law 61-2020 - PDF

What the Mask By-law Means for Residents Infographic - PDF

Mask Required Sign in English - PDF

Mask Required Sign in Spanish - PDF

Mask Required Sign in Low German - PDF

To slow the spread of COVID-19, the Municipality of Leamington is extending the cancellation of municipal events and summer day camp through to September 7, 2020 (Labour Day).

The decision to cancel municipal events and summer day camp is in response to the provincial emergency order that prohibits organized public events and social gatherings of more than 10 people, and supports Public Health direction that physical distancing is critical to slowing the spread of COVID-19.

In addition, the facility where summer day camp programming is held remains closed to the public and has been established as a COVID-19 assessment and testing centre and as a pop-up isolation centre should the need arise as a result of outbreaks within the agricultural sector.

The following municipally run events have been cancelled:

1) Mill Street Markets – August and September

2) Summer Concert Series at the Sunset Stadium – August concert and Labour Day

3) Sunday Serenades at Rick Atkin Park – August/September

4) Music at the Marina – August/September

Municipal staff will continue to work proactively with event organizers to delay, cancel or determine potential alternative options for events planned up to September 7, 2020 on municipal property, as part of a collective effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

In alignment with Phase 2 of Ontario’s framework for reopening the province, the Municipality of Leamington is preparing to reopen sports fields and ball diamonds where physical distancing measures are feasible.

Starting July 20, Leamington sports fields, including the Leamington Soccer Field, Kinsmen Baseball Diamonds and Seacliff Beach Volleyball Courts will be open for training purposes only.

The Municipality is working with local sport organizations to ensure plans are in place to meet requirements from Public Health and their respective sports governing bodies, before facilities are reserved for use.

Sports fields will not be marked or lined for team play, and user groups must follow return-to-play guidelines, including but not limited to, maintaining physical distancing with no games or scrimmages, and a limit of 10 participants per field including coaches and trainers at all times.

Spectators are strongly discouraged. Family members or guardians should avoid the field unless they are picking up or dropping off players. Everyone visiting a sports field must stay at least two metres away from people outside their household or social circle.

All leagues and user groups are required to ensure coaches, volunteers, parents and participants understand and follow return-to-play guidelines.

For more information and to request a facility rental visit www.leamington.ca/bookings or contact the Municipality’s facility booking team at: bookings@leamington.ca

Additional Resources

• Learn more about Stage 2 of reopening Ontario

Financial relief measures reflect the Municipality’s concern for the community’s well-being and economic condition. These measures include:

• Waiving all penalties and interest on any overdue account balances (including property tax, water and waste water, and other accounts) through to and including September 30, 2020.

• Waiving all returned cheque or electronic payment fees through to and including September 30, 2020.

For questions about property taxes, please contact the Tax Office at 519-326-5761 or taxes@leamington.ca.

As part of the province’s framework for reopening under Stage 2, outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars, food trucks and other establishments, including temporary patio spaces are permitted to open with proper health and safety measures in place.

In anticipation of Leamington advancing to Stage 2, the Municipality developed temporary outdoor patio guidelines to assist business owners in extending existing or establishing new temporary patios on private and public property. In addition, a dedicated staff team has been assembled to streamline and expedite the review and inspection process.

“Leamington businesses have been hit hard by the extended COVID-19 restrictions,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “We are optimistic that this program is a key first step forward in the road to economic recovery. It’s vital that we come together as a community and support our local businesses any way we can: dine on a patio, order takeout, purchase a gift card, and buy from our local stores and service shops – together we can make a big impact.”

To learn more about the Municipality’s temporary outdoor patios program, please visit: www.leamington.ca/patios

Bruce Power has provided a 50-bed pop-up facility to the Municipality of Leamington to assist in the COVID-19 fight as the Windsor-Essex region battles an outbreak affecting local agricultural workers.

The pop-up ‘isolation centre’, located at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington, includes beds, dividers, gloves, gowns and linens and is ready to be activated if or when it is needed. Bruce Power previously donated 20,000 masks and a quantity of hand sanitizer to assist the County of Essex, and working through the Ontario Ministry of Health, arranged for the mobile 50-bed pop-up facility.

“We secured the hospital equipment for just this type of situation and we want Ontario to know we’re here for you and that by working together, we will get through this and come out of this pandemic stronger and more united than we’ve ever been,” said Mike Rencheck, Bruce Power’s President and CEO. “When we work together, good things happen an as our economy begins to recover our collective commitment to safe practices, such as good hand hygiene, physical distancing, cleaning, and wearing a mask when less than 2-metres apart are more important than ever.”

“We would like to thank Bruce Power for the very generous donation of isolation pods,” said Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “This proactive measure will provide additional isolation space should the need arise as we continue to combat COVID-19 in Windsor-Essex.  A municipality our size cannot do this on our own, and it is reassuring to know we have partners like Bruce Power coming to the aid of our community.”

In April, the Bruce Power Retooling and Economic Recovery Council (www.rerc.ca) was formed to operate for the duration of the pandemic and includes all of Bruce Power’s Ontario-based suppliers, many of whom are located in rural communities across the province. The focus has been and will be on continued retooling of the supply chain to meet front-line COVID-19 needs and to contribute to the province’s economy recovery in the short, medium and long term.  Many of these partners are involved in Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program, which is the largest private sector infrastructure project in Canada.

“Bruce Power and its partners in the Ontario nuclear supply chain have demonstrated incredible leadership and caring since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Government and Consumer Services and MPP for Huron-Bruce. “While continuing to provide clean, reliable electricity for Ontario throughout the crisis, they have also delivered medical isotopes for sterilization and stepped up to support Ontario with Personal Protective Equipment for front line workers during this time of need.”

Since April 1, Bruce Power has provided approximately 1.5-million pieces of PPE to health-care, front-line, essential-needs and other workers in Grey, Bruce and Huron counties in addition to other parts of Ontario.

“On behalf of the County of Essex, we want to thank Bruce Power and its employees for their generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand,” said Essex County Warden Gary McNamara. “By working together, we will combat the threat of COVID-19 in our communities.”

About Bruce Power
Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

“This afternoon Premier Ford announced that Leamington and Kingsville would be moving to Stage 2 in the province’s reopening plan as of Tuesday, July 7.  This is wonderful news and means that many of our local businesses may begin to reopen.

Today’s announcement recognizes the significant progress we have made as a community. It means that COVID-19 in Leamington and Kingsville, specifically within the agri-food sector, is being properly managed - and community spread has been slowed to a point where some normal activities may resume. 

We want to thank the people of Leamington and Kingsville for their efforts to help combat COVID-19. We know how frustrating and challenging it has been to not receive a steady paycheque and to have to postpone or even cancel major life events.

We want to thank our local business community for their patience and sacrifices, and assure them that we are looking at all options available to help support them through their recovery.  

As we move into Stage 2, we ask that you please support our local businesses. If we come together as a community and spend money at our local stores, restaurants and attractions, we can make a huge impact in rebuilding our local economy.

While we celebrate this important milestone today, we cannot let our guard down. The threat of COVID-19 has not disappeared. We must remain diligent – continue to wash your hands, don’t touch your face, physical distance, and wear a mask in commercial establishments and places where physical distancing is a challenge.

There is still much more work to do but I’m confident that if we continue to work together we can keep our community healthy, safe and thriving.” 

It’s garage sale season in Leamington. If you are planning to host or visit a garage sale, it’s important to know the applicable rules, and the measures you should take to stay safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In Leamington, garage sales are regulated by By-law 629-05. Key points of the By-law include:

• A “garage sale” includes a yard sale and means any sale held inside or outside a building which includes the offering for sale of used household items
• Garage sales are only permitted in non-commercial zones
• No person can hold or allow to be held more than three garage sales per calendar year
• Each of the allowable three garage sales per calendar year cannot exceed three consecutive calendar days
• Garage sales can only be held within the hours of 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM

If hosting a garage sale, the following guidelines from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit are recommended:

• If you or anyone in your home are feeling ill (even if symptoms are mild), do not host or go to a yard sale. Stay home, self-isolate and contact a health care provider
• Ensure there are no more than 10 people in total at the yard sale at one time, including the host(s)
• You are responsible for preventing crowds and ensuring people stay two metres or six feet apart from one another at all times
• Provide 70% alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Reduce contact when exchanging money
• Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as tables and countertops, often with household cleaner or diluted bleach solution. Ask buyers to avoid touching items for sale unless they are making a purchase
• Do not allow buyers into your home

If attending a garage sale, the following guidelines from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit are recommended:

• If you or anyone in your home are feeling ill (even if symptoms are mild), do not host or go to a garage sale. Stay home, self-isolate and contact a health care provider
• If possible, shop for used items online and arrange for delivery or curbside pick-up
• Limit the number of places you visit in one trip and stay local
• Stay two metres or six feet from others at all times
• Pay online (e-transfer) or provide exact change so that you do not have to exchange money multiple times
• Do not enter another person’s home
• Clean and disinfect any items purchased and wash hands after handling shopping goods. Avoid buying items that are difficult to clean.

"Today, the province announced that parts of Windsor-Essex would advance to Stage 2 in their reopening plan. Unfortunately, Leamington and Kingsville remain in Stage 1 of the plan.

To say I am disappointed is an understatement. However, as case counts continue to rise due to outbreaks among workplaces in the agri-food sector, I understand why the decision was made.

Daily, local mobile teams comprised of staff from local hospitals, Ontario Health West Region, Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network, emergency medical services, and interpreters are being deployed to farms in Leamington and Kingsville for COVID-19 testing and to complete regular health check assessments for positive and symptomatic agri-food workers.

Although we greatly appreciate the province’s assistance in our agri-food sector, our small business community continues to suffer significant financial hardship.  

Local business owners are hurting and we share in that frustration, and fear that remaining in Stage 1 any longer will be catastrophic and cause irreparable financial harm. For that reason, I implore the provincial and federal governments to take immediate action and provide a special financial relief package to the struggling businesses in Leamington and Kingsville. Immediate assistance is necessary before there is a crippling economic impact to our communities.  

To the residents of Leamington and Kingsville, we are in this together. There is still much more work to do, and I want to assure you that we will not stop until our communities are both safe and thriving.

I strongly encourage Premier Ford to return my phone call so that I can help him understand the needs of our communities." 

"Today, the province announced that Windsor-Essex would not advance to Stage 2 in their reopening plan. Although this is not the decision we had hoped for, it was to be expected, as the case counts across the region remain high, specifically due to outbreaks among workplaces in the agriculture sector.

For the past three months, we have been working tirelessly in collaboration with the province, multiple organizations, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit and community leaders to increase COVID-19 testing across the agri-food sector, and to develop a comprehensive response strategy to safeguard our farm workers and reduce the spread of infection in the farms and the community.

Our efforts have resulted in the province initiating proactive on-site targeted testing for agri-food workers in Windsor-Essex that began this past Saturday. While this is what we have been working towards, this approach will only be successful with the full support and cooperation of the farm owners.

I join the Premier and my local community leaders in strongly urging the farm operators to take responsibility and encourage testing for all of their employees. This is absolutely necessary for the health and safety of the agri-food workers and the community.

Over the course of this pandemic, there have been many sacrifices. We know businesses have been kept from reopening, and there is animosity surfacing because of the negative economic impacts being felt by the people of Windsor-Essex.

I ask that Leamington residents continue to be patient and respect the Premier’s cautious, regional approach to reopening.

We strongly encourage the farm operations to work diligently to help control the spread of COVID-19, so the rest of the region can move to Stage 2 in the province’s reopening plan." 

Leamington Council has approved further financial relief measures for residents and business owners affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The move follows Council’s previous decisions to waive all penalties and interest charges on municipal payments since March 25, 2020.

Financial relief measures reflect the Municipality’s concern for the community’s well-being and economic condition. These measures include:

• Waiving all penalties and interest on any overdue balances through to and including July 31, 2020.
• Waiving all returned cheque or electronic payment fees through to and including July 31, 2020.

“We know that many of our residents and businesses are facing uncertainty and financial challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “It is our hope that the new measures will alleviate some of the long-term economic burdens facing our community.”

“While financial relief may be necessary for some residents and businesses, property owners are encouraged to maintain their regular tax, water and wastewater payments to support Leamington’s ability to continue to provide essential services,” said Laura Rauch, Director of Finance and Business Services. “It is critical that the Municipality maintain positive cash flows in order to pay for ongoing operational costs and planned capital projects.”

For questions about property taxes, please contact the Tax Office at 519-326-5761 or taxes@leamington.ca.

Beginning Saturday, June 13, 2020, the Municipality of Leamington will open public washrooms at the Leamington Marina, Rick Atkin Park, Mersea Park, Seacliff Park and Seacliff Beach, daily from 8:00AM to 8:00PM.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, residents should avoid municipal parks and beaches if they are busy, and should avoid using washroom facilities unless absolutely necessary. 

If washroom facilities are required, users should maintain a distance of two metres or six feet from others at all times while waiting in line, and should wash hands with soap and water. It is also recommended that cloth masks or face coverings be worn, especially when physical distancing is not possible within the washroom facilities, and that users bring their own hand sanitizer.

For the protection of municipal staff and users, washroom facilities at these locations will be temporarily closed intermittently throughout the day to undergo both routine and extensive cleaning.

“Windsor-Essex County remains at Stage 1 in the Province’s reopening plan for a reason. It is important that we remain diligent in practicing physical distancing, washing our hands and using hand sanitizer regularly,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “Residents must continue to use their common sense and not attend parks and beaches if they are busy, and use public washrooms only as a last resort in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.” 

Signs will be posted in all public washrooms outlining warnings related to COVID-19 infection risk, and safe behaviour expectations while using any municipally owned washrooms. If the public does not follow washroom safety rules, restrictions could be placed on these facilities.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is hosting random drive-thru testing for COVID-19 on Thursday, June 11 at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre (formerly known as the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex) located at 249 Sherk Street in Leamington. Hours of operation are 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Residents of Windsor-Essex 12 years of age and older are eligible for testing. Please bring your health card.

Residents must use the Sherk Street entrance and follow posted signs. Traffic control persons will be on site.

For more information about COVID-19 or testing, please visit wechu.org/cv 

The Municipality of Leamington is announcing the cancellation of municipal events through to July 31, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision to cancel events is in response to the provincial emergency order to prohibit organized public events and social gatherings of more than five people, and supports Public Health direction that physical distancing is critical to slowing the spread of COVID-19.

Cancellations include the following municipally run events:

• Mill Street Markets – June and July
• Canada Day Celebration and Fireworks at Seacliff Park – July 1
• Summer Concert Series at the Sunset Stadium – July
• Sunday Serenades at Rick Atkin Park – July
• Windsor Symphony Orchestra Concert at the Sunset Stadium - July 25
• Music at the Marina – June and July

“While we are disappointed to have to cancel some of our summer events, the health and well-being of our residents and staff is our top priority,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “It’s important that we take these precautionary measures now to slow the spread of COVID-19 in hopes that things will get back to normal sooner.”

Municipal staff will work proactively with event organizers to delay, cancel or determine potential alternative options for events planned up to July 31, 2020 on municipal property as part of a collective effort to contain the spread of COVID-19.

More information about the Municipality’s response to COVID-19 is available at leamington.ca/COVID-19.

Leamington Parks are now open to the public with some restrictions.

Members of the public are asked to maintain a physical distance of two metres from others, limit groups to five people or fewer, and carry their own hand sanitizer.

Public washrooms in parks will remain closed as the Municipality develops necessary sanitizing and cleaning standards. As a result, it is recommended that trips to public parks should be of a limited duration. 

Outdoor playgrounds, play structures and equipment and splash pads remain closed until later stages of the province’s reopening plan.

Additional Resources

Leamington Opening Some Outdoor Recreational Amenities

Ontario Extends Emergency Orders to Keep People Safe

Effective immediately, the Municipality of Leamington will open the following outdoor recreational amenities:

• Municipal parks and parking lots
• Rotary Leash Free Dog Park
• The Leamington Skatepark
• Picnic sites, benches and shelters located in parks and recreational areas

The previous provincial restrictions that closed these areas to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 have been lifted as part of the Ontario Government’s first stage of reopening.

Park crews continue to work to set out picnic tables in advance of the weekend and citizens are advised that picnic tables, benches, railings, etc., located in municipal parks and recreational areas are not sanitized. 

Members of the public are asked to maintain physical distancing at all times, limit groups to five people or fewer and carry hand sanitizer.

Public washrooms in parks will remain closed as the Municipality develops sufficient sanitizing and cleaning standards.  

Outdoor playgrounds, play structures and equipment and splash pads remain closed until later stages of the province’s reopening plan.

As the Ontario Government continues to lift restrictions, the Municipality will require time to prepare amenities for safe use relative to the COVID-19 pandemic. As amenities reopen, the Municipality will continue to share information publicly at leamington.ca/COVID-19 and through our social media channels.

Additional Resources

Ontario Extends Emergency Orders to Keep People Safe

The Municipality of Leamington welcomed the provincial announcement and will open the Leamington Marina and boat ramp to the public on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 9:00 AM.

The Municipality began preparing the facility with minimal staff following the May 1, 2020 Ontario Government announcement where marinas were granted the ability to begin preparations for the recreational boating season. The Municipality continues to bring on remaining staff to run marina operations and ensure necessary measures are in place to protect the health and safety of employees and the public.

“The health and safety of our employees and the public remains our top priority,” said Peter Neufeld, Chief Administrative Officer. “We have been working to ensure appropriate safety protocols are in place and we are confident we can safely welcome boaters back to the Marina on Tuesday.”

“While this is a positive first step in reopening the province, we must proceed with caution,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “It is very important that people continue to keep a physical distance from others, and limit social gatherings of more than 5 people. It is the expectation that we will continue to do our part in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” added Mayor MacDonald.

Other Recreational Amenities

At this time, outdoor recreational amenities including Leamington parks, sports fields and pavilions remain closed to the public, in response to the Government of Ontario's emergency order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.  This includes playgrounds, beaches, basketball and tennis courts, skateboard park, picnic areas and gazebos, park shelters, benches, outdoor exercise equipment, the pedestrian pier and the off-leash dog park. Outdoor recreational amenities that are not otherwise closed remain open for walk-through access only.

As the Ontario Government continues to lift restrictions, the Municipality will require time to properly prepare amenities for safe use relative to the COVID-19 pandemic. As restrictions are lifted and amenities reopen, the Municipality will continue to share information publicly at leamington.ca/COVID-19 and through our social media channels.

Additional Resources

Ontario Announces Additional Workplaces that Can Reopen

Ontario Extends Emergency Declaration to Stop the Spread of COVID-19

At this time, outdoor recreational amenities including Leamington parks, sports fields and pavilions remain closed to the public, in response to the Government of Ontario's emergency order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA). This includes playgrounds, beaches, basketball and tennis courts, the skateboard park, picnic areas and gazebos, park shelters, benches, outdoor exercise equipment, the pedestrian pier and the off-leash dog park. Outdoor recreational amenities that are not otherwise closed, remain open for walk-through access only.

Closure signs have been posted at community parks to prevent public access and play structures and equipment have been taped off.

Members of the public can report EMCPA infractions by calling the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Municipality at 519-326-5761 or reporting online at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue. Citizens are requested to use their judgment and only report blatant infractions.

Additional Resources

Ontario Extends Emergency Declaration to Stop the Spread of COVID-19

Leamington By-law Enforcement Officers Working Together with the OPP to Enforce Emergency Orders during the COVID-19 Outbreak

With Victoria Day weekend approaching, many Leamington residents will be purchasing family fireworks to celebrate the holiday. Residents are reminded that fireworks can only be set off on your own property, and only on Victoria Day (May 18) and the two days immediately before (May 16 and 17).

Family Fireworks during the COVID-19 Pandemic

If you plan to have your own fireworks display, please note that the Ontario Government has issued an emergency order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) prohibiting organized public events and social gatherings of more than five people. This order does not apply to private households with five people or more.

Members of the public can report EMCPA infractions by calling the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) non-emergency number at 1-888-310-1122.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks have the potential to cause serious injury. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase and set off fireworks. Information regarding fireworks safety can be found here: Fireworks Safety

Resources

For information regarding restrictions and regulations of fireworks in the Municipality of Leamington, please visit: leamington.ca/fireworks

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Municipality of Leamington remains open for business but in a manner that will allow the public we serve and our employees to be both safe and productive. 

Leamington Building Services is accepting building permit applications by email at bldgdept@leamington.ca and through the drop box located at the entrance to the Leamington Municipal Building off Queens Avenue. 

All permit applications will be dated and processed in queue. Building permit review and inspections may take longer than usual due to COVID-19 screening measures and special procedures which have been put into place for the protection of municipal staff and the public. 

The issuance of a building permit by the Municipality of Leamington does not relieve the permit holder of the need to determine whether the construction is permitted to proceed in accordance with Ontario Regulation 82/20, as amended.

To schedule an inspection, please contact Building Services at 519-326-5761 ext. 1440.  You will be asked COVID-19 screening questions developed by Ontario Public Health and must have a permit for construction that is deemed essential by the Ontario Government under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.  

For questions regarding whether a construction project has been deemed essential by the Ontario Government, please call the Province’s toll-free Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. 

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Municipality of Leamington has suspended its Erie Summer Transit Route until further notice.

The Erie Summer Transit Route was initiated in 2016 as a tourism route operating on weekends during the spring/summer months to move people back and forth from Leamington’s uptown to the waterfront.

The transit route was slated to begin operation on the Friday before Victoria Day; however, with the halt of the tourism industry due to Ontario Government COVID-19 restrictions, the route has been suspended indefinitely.

Leamington Transit services within the urban area of Leamington will continue regular operations until further notice. 

The Leamington Marina and boat ramp will remain closed to the public until at least June 1, 2020, as required by the Government of Ontario’s emergency order amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Marina customers who have paid in full for the 2020 season will be appropriately credited/reimbursed once the Marina opens to reflect the start of the season. Customers with current account questions can contact us by phone at 519-326-5761 or by email at finance@leamington.ca.

We thank you for your patience and understanding, and we look forward to opening our Marina once Ontario Government COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. 

The Municipality of Leamington has extended the early dog tag registration deadline until June 30, 2020 as we work to get an online payment option in place to better serve the public.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Leamington Municipal Building remains closed to the public. Currently, residents can mail in their payment to 111 Erie Street North, Leamington, ON N8H 2Z9 or use the drop box located at the entrance to the Leamington Municipal Building off Queens Avenue.

Details regarding online payments will be released on our website at leamington.ca and through our social media channels as they become available.

2020 Dog Tag Fees:

• $20.00 on or before June 30
• $40.00 on or after July 1

We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience as we navigate through these challenging times.

Further details regarding dog tag registration can be found at: leamington.ca/dogs

To prevent public gathering and reinforce social distancing regulations, the Municipality of Leamington will hold Council meetings by virtual/electronic participation only until further notice. The next Council meeting will be held Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 6:00 PM.

“Council recognizes the importance for meetings to continue during this unprecedented time,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “We remain fully committed to conducting the business of the Municipality in a transparent and community-engaging manner as we navigate the new challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic,” added Mayor MacDonald.

Council meetings are streamed live online and can be watched from the comfort of your own home at leamington.ca/live.

Submit comments prior to the meeting

Please note that no in-person delegations are permitted at this time. However, if you wish to address an item listed on the Council agenda, you may send an electronic submission to the Clerk at clerk@leamington.ca  prior to the start of the meeting and your submission will be provided to Council at the meeting.

Provincial legislation passed in March allows municipalities to conduct council meetings electronically during the COVID-19 emergency.

Resources

• Council meetings will continue as scheduled and meeting agendas, when posted, can be found at leamington.ca/meetings
• Watch the Council meeting live online at leamington.ca/live

The Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) has closed the Public Drop-Off Depot and Transfer Station #2 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leamington residents who live in the rural area of the Municipality and do not receive municipal yard waste collection, are asked to store their yard waste, and other types of EWSWA accepted materials on their property until EWSWA facilities reopen.

Residents who live in the urban area of Leamington will continue to receive curbside yard waste collection on their regularly scheduled days.

Please note that the closures do not apply to commercial or municipal haulers (i.e. garbage/recycling trucks and EWSWA contractors).

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our healthcare and frontline workers may be required or may choose to isolate themselves for health reasons or for the safety of their family. In order to enable individuals to self-isolate near family support during this declared emergency, the existing provisions within the Municipality’s zoning by-law and its by-law regulating the parking of recreational vehicles (RVs) on lots within residential areas will be more flexible. The information below applies to the Municipality of Leamington only.

Know the rules

RVs may be used temporarily for self-isolation purposes with the following restrictions:

• The RV should be parked in a driveway and cannot block, obstruct, impede the sidewalk or the view of any vehicle on a road.
• Most RVs are only self-sufficient for three or four days, until tanks fill up or batteries run down.  RV owners must properly empty tanks that does not involve draining them in the public street, storm sewer or into a park or environmental reserve. 
  • For mobile RVs, residents can utilize the sanitary waste disposal station at the Leamington Pollution Control Centre (PCC) located at 435 Seacliff Drive East free of charge. The station is located directly north of the administration building (separate from the larger hauler station).
  • For stationary RVs, residents can have the sanitary waste pumped out of their RV by a licensed hauler and transported to the PCC for disposal. The customer would be assessed a fee by the hauler for this option.

• RV propane tanks and gasoline generators pose a potential fire hazard risk. As such, use of external propane tanks and gasoline generators will not be allowed. Electrical extension cords within lots will be allowed for power and heat; however, users should endeavor to limit cables and hoses on sidewalk surfaces.
• RVs must have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
• RVs cannot be rented out for self-isolation purposes.

Length of Use

The intent is for RV use during self-isolation only. Once there is no longer a need for RV use for isolation, the restrictions within the above noted by-laws will be applied and persons who choose to be non-compliant may be subject to fines.

Municipal Inspections

The Municipality reserves the right to inspect any RV parked on a residential lot to ensure compliance with other applicable legislation, e.g. safety codes.

The Municipality of Leamington continues to review services and implement measures to further assist Leamington residents and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
The following financial relief measures have been put in place to further assist the community:

• Waiving all penalties and interest on any overdue balances through to and including June 30, 2020.
• Waiving all returned cheque or electronic payment fees through to and including June 30, 2020.

“The Municipality continues to look at ways we can ease the financial burden placed on Leamington residents and businesses during this challenging time,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “Council has decided to take further action and provide additional relief and assistance to the community. It’s important that the community knows we’re in this together and we’ll get through this together,” added Mayor MacDonald.

Property Tax Relief Summary:

• All 10-month plan pre-authorized payments (PAP) will be withdrawn on the scheduled date unless property owners contact the Municipality of Leamington Property Tax Department by email at taxes@leamington.ca or by phone at 519- 326-5761 and make alternate payment arrangements 5 business days prior to the withdrawal.
• Property owners who have their property taxes included in their mortgage need to contact their respective financial institutions to discuss options.
• Interest and penalties on all overdue account balances are deferred until June 30, 2020. 

These relief measures are examples of the Municipality of Leamington taking action in response to COVID-19. 

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Municipality has changed its procedure for residents to obtain sandbags.

The following procedure is now in effect:                                                           

• Residents who require sandbags are required to call 519-326-5761 between regular business hours (Monday through Friday between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM), to request up to 200 sandbags for their address. We ask that residents be patient when calling, as the Municipality is experiencing higher than normal call volumes. 

• Leamington residents are limited to 200 sandbags per address per delivery. To obtain more sandbags, proof the previous 200 sandbags have been filled and stacked will be required.

• Municipal staff will deliver sandbags to properties on a once per day basis. Staff will drop sandbags off at the front of each property between regular business hours and will not interact with residents.
• A sandbag-filling station and free sand (for sandbags only) is accessible at Bayview Dog Park at 435 Bevel Line Road. Sandbags are self-serve, and residents must bring their own shovels to fill the bags

The suspension of operations has now been extended to at least Friday, May 1, 2020.

This is an evolving situation, and we will continue to update residents as new information becomes available.

Leamington Transit services within the urban area of Leamington will continue operations until further notice. 

To better protect people during this COVID-19 outbreak, the Ontario Government has signed a ministerial designation under the Provincial Offences Act to authorize municipal by-law enforcement officers to enforce emergency orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA).

Leamington By-law Enforcement Officers are now working together with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to enforce EMCPA orders which include prohibiting persons accessing outdoor recreational amenities; prohibiting persons attending organized public events, social gatherings or religious services of more than 5 people; and prohibiting the operation of non-essential businesses.

Anyone found to be violating an order under EMCPA, will be required, upon request, to provide their correct name, date of birth and address to the OPP and/or Municipal By-law Enforcement Officers. Failing to correctly identify oneself carries a fine of $750 for failure to comply with an order made under the EMCPA or $1,000 for obstructing any person in exercising a power if a provincial offences officer issues a ticket. In addition, failure to comply with an emergency order could carry punishments of up to one-year imprisonment or a fine of up to $100,000 for an individual, $500,000 for a director of a corporation, or $10,000,000 for a corporation itself if a provincial offences officer charges the individual by issuing a summons.

Members of the public can report EMCPA infractions by calling the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Municipality at 519-326-5761 or reporting online at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue. Citizens are requested to use their judgment and only report blatant infractions.

In addition to responding to calls from the public, Bylaw Enforcement Officers are also conducting community patrols.

In an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep people home, the Ontario Government has ordered the closure of all outdoor recreational amenities, which includes the Leamington Marina and boat ramp.

The Municipality of Leamington will continue to follow directions from the Ontario Government; however, at this time, there has not been a decision to close the Marina for the 2020 season.

In the event it is determined that the Marina will not be opening on May 1, 2020 as scheduled, the Municipality will provide further communication at that time.

The Municipality of Leamington is acting immediately on the Province of Ontario’s order to close all outdoor recreational amenities.

Effective immediately, all sports fields, the off-leash dog park and community gardens in Leamington are closed to public use.

Playgrounds, beaches, basketball and tennis courts, skateboard park, picnic areas and gazebos, park shelters, outdoor exercise equipment, pedestrian pier, Leamington Marina and other outdoor recreational amenities are also ordered closed to slow the spread of COVID-19 and encourage people to stay home.

The Municipality is working to tape off play structures and post closure signs in community parks to prevent public access.

Green spaces in parks and trails that aren’t otherwise closed remain open for walkthrough access only and not for congregation. Individuals must not gather in these spaces and are reminded to maintain a safe physical distance of at least two metres from others. 

In a continued effort to limit exposure and reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Municipality of Leamington has temporarily closed playground equipment located within municipal parks and the Leamington Skatepark, effective immediately until further notice.

This closure focuses on areas that have multiple touchpoints that are not sanitized, and have the potential to draw large crowds of people together.

As we recognize the importance of getting fresh air and daily exercise when not required to self-isolate, Leamington parks and trails remain open for your use. The public is reminded to maintain the appropriate physical distance of two metres from other users, as recommended by public health officials.

“We understand the impact this has on our children, especially considering the closure of schools and other programming, but we need to make these sacrifices today in order to flatten the curve in Leamington,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “We need parents to help children and teens understand the importance of this temporary closure.”

Signage at all municipal parks indicating these closures will be installed within the next week.

Anyone with concerns about large social gatherings and the lack of physical distancing during park use, is asked to call the Municipality at 519-326-5761 or report the issue online, rather than taking matters into their own hands or sharing images on social media.  

To help limit the spread of COVID-19, the Municipality of Leamington closed the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex (LKRC) to the public on Monday, March 16, 2020 until further notice.

LKRC membership and program cancellation information is as follows:

Fitness Memberships:

• All membership payments have been suspended effective March 16.
• All paid in full memberships will be put on hold until the LKRC reopens and expiry dates will be extended accordingly. However, if a membership was set to expire on March 20, 2020, the membership would only be extended for five days.
• Personal training and small group training appointments are cancelled and will be rescheduled when the LKRC reopens.

Aquatic and Youth Programming:

• All participants of the Winter 2 session will receive a credit on account for the classes missed between March 16 and April 19. Please note: Class was not scheduled during March Break (March 16-22), Good Friday or Easter Sunday. This was accounted for at the time of registration and you were not charged for a class during these dates.
• Swimming report cards will not be provided, as the session had not progressed enough. Progress will be noted for the next instructor. 
• Bronze Medallion will resume once the facility is reopened, with an additional class to refresh on topics covered before the closure. If unable to attend new dates, credits/refunds will be considered.
• Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Course participants have been contacted.  Participants are to continue with online learning and course dates will be updated as needed once programming resumes. If unable to attend new dates, credit/refunds will be considered.

Adult Programming, Red Cross – Stay Safe, and March Break Day Camp:

• Refunds have been processed for adult programming (First Aid, Health Track) in the form of original payment. Credit card refunds have been processed, debit and cash payments will be returned via cheque.
• Refunds have been processed to ‘Red Cross - Stay Safe' registrants in the form of original payment. Credit card refunds have been processed, debit and cash payments will be returned via cheque.
• Refunds have been processed for March Break Day Camp participants in the form of original payment. Credit Card refunds have been processed, debit and cash payments will be returned via cheque.

Room Rentals and Birthday Parties:

• All room rentals and birthday parties at the LKRC are cancelled. Customers have been contacted and refunds processed for all bookings until April 6.
• We are not accepting rental requests/bookings of any kind at this time including room, sports fields, parks, pool, ice etc.

Spring Registration:

• Spring registration is cancelled at this time. The Municipality will provide details once the LKRC reopens.

All refunds will be processed as quickly as possible and typically take four to six weeks to prepare. Please be patient as we are processing a high volume of refunds and credits. Please note that credits applied to accounts may be used for any LKRC program within 12 months of the LKRC reopening. Please direct questions to complex@leamington.ca or 519-322-2337.

The suspension of operations will last at least until Monday, April 13, 2020.

This is an evolving situation, and we will continue to update residents as new information becomes available.

Leamington Transit services within the urban area of Leamington will continue operations until further notice.

• Waiving all penalties and interest on any overdue balances through to and including April 30, 2020.

•  Waiving all returned cheque or electronic payment fees through to and including April 30, 2020.

•  Deferring the second instalment for the 2020 Interim Property Taxes until May 15, 2020.

"We have heard from residents and businesses that are worried and need relief,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “Leamington has decided to take action to provide relief and assistance to our community. We will continue to assess the situation in the coming days and weeks to ensure we are doing what we can to help during this difficult and unprecedented time.”

Property Tax Relief Summary:

• All 10-month plan pre-authorized payments (PAP) will be withdrawn on the scheduled date of April 3, 2020 unless property owners contact the Municipality of Leamington's Property Tax Department by email at taxes@leamington.ca and make alternate payment arrangements by March 27, 2020.

• All instalment due date pre-authorized payments (PAP) will be withdrawn on the scheduled date of April 15, 2020 unless property owners contact the Municipality of Leamington's Property Tax Department by email at taxes@leamington.ca by April 6, 2020.

•  Property owners who have their property taxes included in their mortgage need to contact their respective institutions to discuss options.

•  Interest and penalties on all overdue account balances are deferred until April 30, 2020. 

These relief measures are examples of the Municipality taking action in response to COVID-19. For more information on COVID-19 planning and preparations by the Municipality of Leamington, please visit our news page www.leamington.ca/news.

The Windsor Essex County Health Unit is a further resource for local updates on COVID-19.

Leamington Council will hold three special Council meetings on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM (closed session) and 2:30 PM to consider staff reports and decisions related to the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Due to precautions being taken due to the COVID-19 emergency, no in-person delegations will be permitted at this meeting. If a person wishes to address an item listed on the agendas, a person may send an electronic submission to the Clerk at clerks@leamington.ca prior to the start of the meeting and such submission shall be provided to Council at the meeting.

Although the meeting is closed to the public, it will be streamed live online at www.leamington.ca/live.

To view the Council agenda, please visit: www.leamington.ca/meetings

Garbage Collection:

Leamington residents are being asked to respect the social distancing recommendations of health officials and please stay at least 2 metres away from garbage and recycling workers.

The Municipality’s collection contractor, GFL is reporting that drivers are being approached for conversation and with offers to help load items. While the sentiment is appreciated, please remember that the need for social distancing is vital. Please do not approach GFL staff who are working to keep our Municipality clean.

Many residents are also taking advantage of the time at home for spring cleaning. Please note that all garbage requirements remain the same at this time. Garbage is limited to four bags/containers and each container must weigh no more than 20kg (44lbs).

If anyone has been missed during collection, please call GFL at 519-944-8009 or the Municipality at 519-326-5761, as we are still taking calls and still investigating uncollected stops.

We are happy to continue to collect garbage and recycling, but in order to do so, we need everyone to respect social distancing and adhere to the by-laws. 

Please note: Garbage needs to be bagged and tied for collection. Loose garbage in pails or untied bags will be refused due to health and safety concerns.

Municipal Workers:

The same social distance recommendations of health officials apply to municipal employees. If you see a municipal worker at a job site, please say hi from at least 2 metres away. If you have questions, please call the Municipality at 519-326-5761.

For information on municipal services, call 519-326-5761 between 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, visit our website www.leamington.ca or report an issue online at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue

Our community partners at the Windsor Essex County Health Unit have a webpage on the latest health advice and information on COVID-19.

The Municipality joins the County of Essex in sending a coordinated message to residents: We’re in this together

In conjunction with the County of Essex, the Municipality of Leamington declared a State of Emergency today, taking proactive and precautionary measures to prepare for the COVID-19 pandemic. Leamington remains committed to working collaboratively with all partnering municipalities, government officials, first responder agencies and healthcare organizations to ensure the Municipality is best prepared to respond to the needs of our residents as the threat of the virus grows.

 “The decision to declare a State of Emergency was not made lightly,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “We are in the early stages of this pandemic and based on the evidence we have seen from a global standpoint, we believe the time to call the emergency is now. It ensures we are as nimble as possible during these fast moving times in order to keep our community safe.”

Declaring the State of Emergency indicates the seriousness of the situation and then allows the Municipality to prepare by limiting activities to essential services. It ensures we have the flexibility to mobilize appropriate resources as needs arise, not only for COVID-19, but for other possible issues such as lake flooding, as water levels locally remain at record highs.

Mayor MacDonald joins her colleagues on County Council in urging residents to take this situation very seriously and to follow the advice of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit as it relates to social-distancing, proper hand washing and sanitizing as well as the 14-day self-isolation for returning travellers.

“I can’t stress it enough, it is imperative that residents take this situation seriously. We must do all we can to save lives and lessen the impact to our health care system. Stay home as much as possible. Wash your hands often. Sanitize surfaces. Remain calm and be safe,” said Mayor MacDonald. “We have a strong community - we’re in this together and we’ll get through this together,” added Mayor MacDonald.  

Community Preparedness – What Every Resident Can Do

• For more information on the Coronavirus, its potential impact on the community and tips on how best to protect yourself in your daily activities, please visit the WECHU special web page: Novel Coronavirus (2019). Along with the preventative information provided by the WECHU, the Municipality of Leamington would also like to advise residents, if you are sick, please stay home.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid rate at which the situation is changing, the following meetings previously scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2020 have been cancelled:

• Leamington Municipal Council Meeting
• Public Meeting held under the Drainage Act to consider the East Marsh Drainage Scheme Breakwall – Updated Maintenance Schedule of Assessment
• Public Meeting held under the Planning Act to consider Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA #208 and Consent Application B-02-20 – 1006 Mersea Road 5

This is a precautionary decision in keeping with the goal of social distancing to mitigate risks and slow the spread of COVID-19.

For further information, please contact clerks@leamington.ca or by telephone at 519-326-5761

Given the rapidly changing public health situation, and based on strong recommendations from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) to move to essential services to mitigate risks and slow the spread of COVID-19, the Municipality of Leamington is expanding COVID-19 precautions with the following service level changes:

• The Leamington Municipal Building will close to the public effective 12:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2020. Although the building will close to the public, municipal staff will be available to assist and service residents by electronic means only. Please contact us by phone at 519-326-5761 or use our website at www.leamington.ca to access municipal information and services. Phones will continue to be answered during regular business hours between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM from Monday to Friday, and online service requests will remain available at www.leamington.ca/reportanissue.

• Non-essential committee meetings have been postponed including the Special Leamington Police Services Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2020. Please visit our Council and Committee Meeting Calendar for more information at www.leamington.ca/meetings.

• Members of the public are encouraged to watch Council meetings live online from the comfort of their own home at www.leamington.ca/live.

• The early dog tag registration date has been extended until Thursday, April 30, 2020. 

• Spay and neuter vouchers for cats are currently sold out. Residents may call the Leamington Municipal Building to be placed on a waiting list. Once issued vouchers have passed their expiry date, additional vouchers may be issued.

• Civil ceremony bookings for weddings to be held at the Leamington Municipal Building have been suspended until further notice.

• Fire Services will not be issuing burn permits until further notice.

• Members of the public who need to make a payment are encouraged to use electronic options (bank, online), or mail in their payment or use the drop box located at the building entrance off of Queens Avenue.

These service level changes are being undertaken out of an abundance of caution to help mitigate the risk of transmission of COVID-19 within our community.

Due to these changes, response and wait times may be longer than usual. The Municipality appreciates the public's understanding and patience during this time.

This announcement is in follow up to Sunday's notice advising of the closure of the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex. Updates will be provided on the Municipality’s website, www.leamington.ca, as the situation evolves.

The health and safety of our residents, staff and visitors remains a high priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation and consult with the WECHU, going forward.

Community Preparedness – What Every Resident Can Do

• For more information on the Coronavirus, its potential impact on the community and tips on how best to protect yourself in your daily activities, please visit the WECHU special web page: Novel Coronavirus (2019). Along with the preventative information provided by the WECHU, the Municipality of Leamington would also like to advise residents, if you are sick, please stay home.

This communication is being provided as an effort to address the concerns of the community with respect to the potential impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Municipality of Leamington operations and facilities.

On Saturday, March 14, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) provided a detailed update for Windsor-Essex County. Given the continuously changing public health environment, and based on best advice from medical officials, the Municipality of Leamington is expanding Coronavirus (COVID-19) precautions with the following service-level changes:

• The Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex (LKRC) will close effective Sunday, March 15 at 6:00 PM.  All recreation programming including March Break Day Camp has been cancelled indefinitely.

• These closures will remain in effect at least until Monday, April 6 to remain consistent with Ontario Ministry of Education’s school closures.

• The only municipal facility that will remain open to the public is the Leamington Municipal Building located at 111 Erie Street North, Leamington.

• To the greatest extent possible, municipal staff who would regularly support the maintenance and operations of the LKRC other than recreation programming, will continue to attend the LKRC as scheduled and may be redeployed to increase cleaning of the facility and the Leamington Municipal Building, which will remain open.

As indicated by the WECHU, Windsor-Essex County still does not have any confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19), and as such, these additional steps are being undertaken out of an abundance of caution to help mitigate the risk of transmission within our community. The WECHU will continue to update the public in the days and weeks ahead; however, as of Sunday, March 15 at 11:15 AM, the overall risk is low for residents.

It is important to note that within the last 48 hours, Health Canada has updated the travel advisory to all foreign countries as a Level 3 risk, including the United States of America. Given the high number of residents that cross the border for tourism, the screening process has become more onerous for all municipalities in Windsor-Essex County.

As the situation evolves, further measures will be implemented and communicated to residents if necessary.

The health and safety of our residents, staff and visitors continues to be our highest priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation and consult with the WECHU going forward.

LKRC Membership and Program Accommodation

Prorated refunds will be provided to those who have already registered for cancelled programs. Further information will be provided on how refunds will be processed.
 
Active membership holders will have their memberships extended equal to the length of time the LKRC is closed.  

During this closure, LTW Transit passes can be purchased at the Leamington Municipal Building located at 111 Erie Street North, Leamington.

Community Preparedness – What Every Resident Can Do

• For more information on the Coronavirus, its potential impact on the community and tips on how best to protect yourself in your daily activities, please visit the WECHU special web page: Novel Coronavirus (2019).  Along with the preventative information provided by the WECHU, the Municipality of Leamington would also like to advise residents, if you are sick, please stay home.

This communication is being provided as an effort to address the concerns of the community with respect to the potential impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Municipality of Leamington operations and facilities.

The Municipality’s response is based on the current assessment by the Windsor Essex County Health Unit (WECHU). It should be stressed that the situation is being continuously monitored and could change at any time based on recommendations from the WECHU.

Although the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the virus a global pandemic, the WECHU has indicated that there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Windsor and Essex County as of March 13, 2020 at 1:00 PM, and the overall risk remains low for residents.

Based on the assessment by the WECHU, the Municipality of Leamington’s facilities will remain open and scheduled programming at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex will continue. 

As the situation evolves, further measures will be implemented and communicated to residents if necessary.

In the interest of caution and to help reduce the potential spread of infection and illness, the Municipality is taking the following precautionary measures at all municipal facilities:

• Increased frequency of cleaning.
• Increased frequency of staff hand washing with soap and water for 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Additional sanitization stations for visitors and staff have been made available.
• Limit gatherings of greater than 250 people.

The health and safety of our residents, staff and visitors is of the highest priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation and consult with the WECHU.

Community Preparedness – What Every Resident Can Do

• For more information on the Coronavirus, its potential impact on the community and tips on how best to protect yourself in your daily activities, please visit the WECHU special web page: Novel Coronavirus (2019).
• Along with the preventative information provided by the WECHU, the Municipality of Leamington would also like to advise residents, if you are sick, please stay home.