COVID-19 Information

September 2, 2021: All open while following provincial gathering limits. 

July 16, 2021: In accordance with the Grey Bruce Health Unit media release, it is recommended that outdoor gatherings be limited to no more than 25 persons. 

 June 30, 2021: In accordance with the provincial Roadmap to Reopen, the Municipality of Grey Highlands will begin a safe and cautious reopening of its many parks and outdoor spaces, effective today. Please review the Grey Highlands COVID-19 Parks and Recreation Protocol Document  and the Covid-19 Parks and Recreation FAQ for more information. 

April 6, 2021 - Emergency Break Information: Outdoor recreational amenities remain open as long as rules are followed including (but not limited to) that physical distance of at least two metres from any other person is maintained and team sports or any other games that are likely to result in individuals coming within two metres of each other are not practised or played.

October 19, 2021 - In accordance with the recently announced lifting of capacity limits in select setting, the Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) has lifted the previous additional capacity limits within Municipal Arenas. All arenas will follow the provincially mandated capacity limitations in place at the time of the rental. The MECG has also approved a recommendation from the Manager of Recreation in light of the provincial mandate for vaccinations to amend the cleaning and sanitization requirements for Municipal arenas. This will eliminate the previous need for the 30 minute buffer between rentals. Change rooms will be sanitized immediately following each rental and all other public spaces will be cleaned and sanitized at minimum twice daily in accordance with Public Health guidelines. Any person or organization renting a Municipal Facility is responsible for ensuring their group is in compliance with provincial legislation as of the date of their rental including but not limited to capacity limits, screening requirements and proof of vaccination upon entry. 

September 21, 2021 - In accordance with Ontario Regulation 364/20 and its recent amendment 645/21, starting September 22, 2021 individuals will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination and identification to access the indoor areas of recreation facilities. 

Upon entry to the any recreation facility, participants, patrons and spectators will need to provide proof of vaccination and proper identification to those persons designated by the Municipality or appropriate rental group. Individuals not providing the required proof will not be permitted to enter to attend their program or visit the facility. This applies to the following:

• Spectators: Individuals 12 years of age and older attending indoor Grey Highlands recreation facilities.
• Participants of sport groups, including; minor hockey, skating clubs, adult sport leagues 18 years of age and older or as per governing sport organization vaccination directive or mandate will be required to show their proof of vaccination to their club representative.

The COVID-19 proof of vaccination and proof of identification requirements do not apply to:

• Workers, contractors, repair workers, delivery workers, students, volunteers, inspectors or others who are entering the facility for work purposes.
• A patron who is entering an indoor area solely for the purpose to use a washroom.
• Children under 12 years of age.
• Patrons under 18 years of age who are entering the indoor premises of a facility used for sport and recreational fitness activities solely for the purpose of participating in an organized sport. This applies to training, practices, games and competitions including sports leagues and organized pick-up sports.
• Patrons 18 years of age or older who are entering the indoor premises of a facility used for sport and recreational fitness activities solely for the purpose of participating in an organized sport as a coach or official, unless required by the sport’s governing organization.
• Patrons who provide a written document, completed and supplied by a licensed doctor or Registered Nurse Practitioner stating that the individual is exempt for a medical reason from being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and the effective time-period for the medical reason.

Providing Proof

All persons required to provide proof of vaccine must show either a paper of electronic vaccine receipt provided by the province along with a form of identification that shows the person’s name and date of birth upon entry to any facility. 

Designated persons will verify the following:

• The name and date of birth match
• The receipt shows the holder is fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entry of the facility.

Acceptable ID includes:

• Birth certificate
• Citizenship card
• Driver’s licence
• Government (Ontario or other) issued identification card, including health card
• Indian Status Card /Indigenous Membership Card
• Passport
• Permanent Resident car

Note: expired versions of the above are permitted to be used as proof of identity. 

At no time shall any person track or keep record of any other person’s vaccination information to be used for entry purposes into Municipal recreation facilities. Proof is required to be shown upon entry every time.  

The above requirements are required as per the provincial legislation. Please remember to conduct yourself in a courteous and appropriate manner when dealing with those people tasked with following the provincial laws.   

Additional information:

• The Grey Highlands Municipal Emergency Control Group has established a spectator capacity limit of 50 persons at Municipal arenas. This is in addition to the number of players, coaches, bench staff, referees and arena staff.  
• There will be a 30 minute interval between ice times in order to complete Public Health recommendations for cleaning and sanitizing. 
• Contact tracing and screening is required upon entry. 
• Physical distancing is required in all areas of the facility. 
• There are lower capacities in change rooms to allow physical distancing between participants.
• Rental contracts should be requested at least 1 week in advance of any requested ice time to allow for processing. 
• There will be no public skating at the present time. 

September 2, 2021 - Proposed ice-season reopening schedule

Flesherton Arena - on or around September 20th 

Markdale Arena - on or around October 12th

Osprey Arena - on or around October 12th

Rocklyn Arena - on or around November 1

October 19, 2021 - As of November 1, 2021, Municipal halls and kitchens will be open for bookings with the Provincially legislated capacity limits as of November 1, 2021. This means that as of November 1, 2021, the maximum 25 persons allowed for bookings will be increased to the number of persons that can maintain physical distancing as per the legislation. Any person or organization renting a Municipal Facility is responsible for ensuring their group is in compliance with provincial legislation as of the date of their rental including but not limited to capacity limits, screening requirements and proof of vaccination upon entry.

Staff will be providing a minimum of 4 hour buffer between any rentals at the same facility to ensure cleaning, sanitization and any required room set-ups can be accommodated. 

September 21, 2021 - As of September 1, 2021, hall rentals are permitted for small indoor social gatherings, up to a maximum of 25 people (or 50% of the space capacity, whichever is less). For more information, please email facilities@greyhighlands.ca. 

• For private rentals, the onus will be on the event organizer/renter to  be responsible for verifying proof of identification and of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as per for O.Reg 645/21 for all attendees at point of entry into the facility. 
• All other COVID-19 related protocols and documents as outlined in the rental agreement remain applicable and will be communicated to facility users at the time of booking.

Additional information and specific requirements for hall and indoor space rentals will be communicated to facility users at time of booking. 

Municipal Administration Office - The Municipal Office is open to in person service as of June 14th, 2021.  

Libraries - Open with limited capacity. See https://www.greyhighlandspubliclibrary.com/ for information. 

October 19, 2021 - Update

All capacity limits placed by the province - at any time - are to be followed.  Arena capacities to commence immediately and halls to commence November 1st.

The 30 minute buffer between arena rentals will be removed. Cleaning and sanitization of change rooms will occur after every rental and all other spaces will be cleaned and sanitized at least twice daily. 

A 4 hour buffer will be allocated between each hall rental to allow for room set up, cleaning and sanitizing requirements.

That the onus remains on the renter of any Municipal Facility for ensuring compliance with provincial legislation - including but not limited to capacity limits, screening and proof of vaccination upon entry. 

September 2, 2021 - Update

Grey Bruce is in full step 3.

Municipal Office is open to in-person services with limited capacity.

Council commenced Hybrid Council meetings on September 1, 2021. Committee meetings remain fully virtual. Public is not permitted in physical attendance at any Council or Committee meetings at the present time. Virtual attendance is available.

Community Halls opened to small indoor social gatherings of 25 persons or less only on September 1, 2021.

Province announce Vaccine Certificate requirements for event spaces to commence on September 22, 2021. Stay tuned for more information. 

Arenas plan to reopen at various dates in September and October. (See above)

July 16, 2021 - Update

The province has moved into step 3 of the roadmap to re-open, however Grey Bruce Public Health has recommended a modified step 3 for our region. Please see the Media Release from Public Health above for more information. Further information on how this modified roadmap will affect community hall re-opening will be released at a later date. 

June 11, 2021 - Update

Administration Office to open to the public on June 14, 2021. Hall and community space bookings will remain closed until July 30 or Step 3 of the Provincial Roadmap to Reopen - whichever is later. Libraries may reopen in Step 2. Museums may re-open in Step 3. All other Municipal Services are operational at the current time.

The current anticipated progression through the steps* could be:
Step 1 - June 11, 2021,

Step 2 - July 2, 2021

Step 3 - July 24, 2021

*if all goes according to plan and conditional on Provincial approvals. 

May 13, 2021 - Update

Administration Offices remain closed for the remainder of the Stay at Home Order (currently extended through to June 2, 2021). Hall bookings suspended/cancelled until at least June 30, 2021. Staff continue to work remotely whenever possible and are available by phone and email.  

April 15, 2021 - Update

In response to the April 14, 2021 Grey Bruce Public Health Unit’s media release, all Grey Highlands in person services will be ON HOLD/CANCELLED for Thursday April 15th and Friday April 16th as per Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ian Arra’s directive.

The ONLY services that will continue (aside from those working from home) are Fire Department/Emergency Services and critical operations including waste collection and water operations that are completed with no interaction between staff or the public.

Additional notes to update:

• The Administration Offices will remain closed to the public for the remainder of the Stay at Home legislation.
• Library curbside pickup is suspended indefinitely.
• Landfills are CLOSED until Monday April 19, 2021.
• Grey County forests closed until April 17, 2021.
• All Saugeen Conservation properties and public spaces (including forests, properties, and trails) are closed until Saturday April 17, 2021.
• All municipalities in Grey County following similar restrictions to service for the 48 hour period. 

Staff are still working remotely and available via phone or email. info@greyhighlands.ca 519-986-2811

April 6, 2021 - Update

On April 1, 2021, the provincial government announced a province wide emergency break commencing on April 3, 2021 for at least 4 weeks. During this time, the Municipal Office and all municipal facilities will be closed to the public. Staff remain ready to assist by phone or email. 

February 13, 2021 - Update

On February 16, 2021, Grey Highlands will return to the yellow zone of the provincial colour-coded chart. Upon return, the Municipality will re-open the Municipal Office and the Municipal Arenas. Both with specific limitations in place including masks, screening and social distancing. The Municipal Office shall only permit 3 persons inside at a time, and Municipal Arenas will only be permitting residents of Grey County to enter (with limited exception). Read the new COVID-19 Arena Use Policy Here. 

January 14, 2021 - Update

The Province of Ontario declared an Emergency on January 12, 2021. Premiere Ford also announced a Stay at Home Order effective 12:01 am on January 14, 2021.

Under this Order, every individual shall remain in their place of residence at all times unless leaving their place of residence is necessary for one or more of the purposes outlined in the Order. 

For the duration of the Order, the Municipal Office will remain closed to the public and staff that are able to work from home will be required to do so. Staff will remain available by telephone and email.

Outdoor recreational amenities remain open under the order as long as rules are followed including (but not limited to) that physical distance of at least two metres from any other person is maintained and team sports or any other games that are likely to result in individuals coming within two metres of each other are not practised or played.

December 21, 2020 - Update

Province-wide shutdown announced effective December 26, 2021 at 12:01 am through January 24, 2021

- All Arenas ordered closed

- Funerals limited to 10 persons

- All meeting or event spaces remain closed

- Libraries open for contactless curbside delivery and pick-up

- Museums remain closed

CMOH Advice to Ontarians for the Provincewide Shutdown

General

• Ontarians should stay home to the fullest extent possible

• Trips outside of the home should be limited and only for essential purposes (accessing health care and medication, grocery shopping, child care, exercise alone or people in your household (the people you live with) and in the community where you live, walking pets when required, and supporting vulnerable community members to meet the needs above)

• Remote work should happen in all industries to the greatest extent possible

o Employers should enable and support workers to work remotely and accommodate household needs related to virtual education and dependent care

• Face coverings should be tightly fitted to cover the nose, mouth and chin. Scarves and bandanas are insufficient

Close Contact, Gatherings and Events

• Indoor organized public events and social gatherings are not permitted except with members of the same household. Limit close contact to your household (the people you live with):

o Families should not visit any other household or allow visitors in their homes

o 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

o Virtual gatherings or events are the safest way to visit or recognize occasions with people outside your household, especially during the holiday season

• Maintain two metres of physical distancing from everyone outside of your household (who you do not live with)

• Wear a face covering indoors; outdoors if physical distancing cannot be maintained; or if wearing one is required

Travel within Ontario

• Stay home. Travel outside your region should be limited to only essential purposes.

Inter-Provincial Travel

• Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. Travel out of province should be limited to only essential purposes

• Individuals and families who arrive or return to Ontario during the Provincewide Shutdown period should self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival

December 8, 2020 - Update

Municipal Halls remain closed through to February 1, 2021.

Municipal Office remains open with contact tracing and limited persons permitted to enter. Limited staff in office. 

Grey Highlands currently in stage Yellow of the Covid-19 Ontario Framework. Precautionary measures in place in all departments. 

November 24, 2020 - Update
Cemeteries:
Bereavement Authority of Ontario releases colour-coded chart to match with provincial movement phases. Current limits at funerals at the cemetery includes 100 people with 1 staff for every 10 guests provided by the funeral home. 

Arenas:

Arena operators have been directed to only accept contracts from previous users of the facility or those who reside within Grey and Bruce. 

Municipal Administration Office: 

Currently open with limitations in place to accept payments etc. now that safety barriers are in place. 

Covid-19 Framework Map
Grey Highlands are currently meeting, and in most cases exceeding, all of the safety measures and requirements for zone yellow of the Ontario Covid-19 response framework.  

Municipal Halls

Municipal Halls remain closed at the present time and all booking cancelled through to January 2021. This closure is reviewed regularly based on current numbers. 

November 20, 2020 - Update

Grey Bruce Public Health will be moved from stage green to yellow. For information on what that means, please visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-response-framework-keeping-ontario-safe-and-open#levels 

November 17, 2020 - Update

Halls remain closed at the present time. All bookings have been cancelled through to January 1, 2020. Arenas remain open for bookings only to organized sport within Grey Bruce and contracted rentals for previous contracts and residents of Grey Bruce. Masks are required for entry. 

Municipal Office front counter covid guard to be installed this week to allow for opening of the Municipal Office in the coming week with restrictions on capacity and contact tracing required. Once all guards are in place, the service window will close and residents will be able to complete transactions inside. Limited staffing remains in office to perform routine transactions. 

October 27, 2020 - Update 
Arenas: All Municipal Arenas have now been permitted to open in accordance with the process approved by Public Health (see Municipal Services Updates and Cancellations for further information on arena process). Flesherton Arena is already open. Osprey and Rocklyn should be opening in the coming week as we await delivery of disinfectant foggers required by Public Health. Markdale is underway with ice installation. No specific dates are available at the present time. 

Halls: Municipal halls will remain closed to bookings through the end of November. The closure is reassessed at regular intervals. 

Mask Rule: The Municipality requires masks for all staff and any patrons entering any facility owned by the Municipality. Should any person meet the legislated reasons for exemption to the mask rule, the municipality will allow them to wear a shield instead, however a mask is preferred whenever possible. 

October 20, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 9 - Edition 9 provides current updates from all departments including arena openings, hall rental cancellations and more. Read it here. 

October 14, 2020 - Update - Flesherton Arena commenced its soft opening on Tuesday, October 13, 2020. The Municipal Emergency Control Group are awaiting information on how the soft opening proceeds prior to announcing any additional phases. In the meantime, staff will be begin preparations at other Municipal Arenas to facilitate a timely response if/when any further announcements are made.

October 6, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 8 - Current updates from all departments in one document. Read it here.

September 29, 2020 - No changes to announce from Edition 7 - Edition 7 provides current updates from across the departments. The MECG continues to constantly evaluate additional phases for re-opening arenas and other facilities. 

September 17, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 7 - Current updates from all departments in one document. Read it here. 

July 22, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 6 - Current updates from all departments in one document. (Posted August 11) Read it here. 

July 10, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 5 - Current updates from all departments in one document. Read it here. 

June 5, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 4 - Current updates from all departments in one document. Read it here. 

April 17, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 3 - All you need to know in one document. Read it here.

April 6, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 2 - All you need to know in one document. Highlighted items show changes since last edition including Virtual Town Hall scheduled for April 20, 2020 and new cemetery guidelines. Read the full document here.

March 30, 2020 - Grey Highlands COVID-19 Update - Edition 1 - All you need to know in one document. Read it here. 

March 26, 2020 - Mayor McQueen declares a state of emergency in Grey Highlands. “Grey Highlands is one of the strongest and most resilient communities I know, and I feel honoured to live in this wonderful place,” said Mayor McQueen. “I call on all of you to do your part, self-isolate, practice physical distancing and be there for one another, and I will do my best to help keep all of you safe as well.”

Read the full media release here. 

March 23, 2020 - Mayor's Address regarding COVID-19

March 17, 2020 - Grey Highlands Comprehensive departmental overview of cancellations, updates and services provided in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as of March 17, 2020. The full document can be found by accessing the following link: https://greyhighlands.civicweb.net/document/221005 

As of September 1, 2021, hall rentals are permitted for small indoor social gatherings, up to a maximum of 25 people (or 50% of the space capacity, whichever is less). For more information, please email facilities@greyhighlands.ca. Commencing November 1, 2021, capacity limits will increase to be in line with the current provincial legislation requirements. 

Grey Highlands is gradually reopening indoor recreational amenities following the Provincial Roadmap to Reopening. However, even as provincial limitations are lifted, Municipal limitations may continue for the safety of our community. The Municipality continues to follow the guidance and recommendation of the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit.

Specific requirements for hall and indoor space rentals (including COVID-19 measures such as contact tracing protocols) will be communicated to facility users at the time of booking.

Return to Play Form

You can now watch all of our Council meetings while they happen from the comfort of your home.  Visit the Live Stream page to view the last meeting and visit the portal for the meeting calendar.  

April 20, 2020 - Virtual Town Hall meeting where Mayor Paul McQueen, CAO Karen Govan and Medical Office of Health Dr. Ian Arra answered your questions related to the COVID-19 Pandemic and Grey Highlands. View on YouTube 

March 25, 2020 - Council and Committee of the Whole will continue to meet virtually. All other advisory committees and working groups are on hold. 

March 24, 2020 - Due to the passage of Bill 187, Council is able to resume Council meetings electronically. Grey Highlands Council will be holding a Special Meeting on March 25, 2020 at 10 am to amend the procedure by-law in order to implement the legislation during a declared state of emergency. Council will then meet at 1 pm to continue on with the business of the organization. Both of these meetings will be live streamed to the Grey Highlands YouTube channel. Links are provided below. 

2020-03-25 - 10:00 am - Virtual Special Council Meeting Agenda

2020-03-25 - 1:00 pm - Virtual Council Meeting Agenda

Grey Highlands YouTube Channel

March 17, 2020 - All Council and Committee Meetings Cancelled - All Council and Committee meetings have been cancelled effective immediately until further notice to ensure the health and safety of our staff, Councillors and members of the public. 

October 19, 2021 - Update

There are no Covid-19 related cancellations at the present time. 

June 11, 2021 - Update

Administration Office to open to the public on June 14, 2021. Hall and community space bookings will remain closed until July 30 or Step 3 of the Provincial Roadmap to Reopen - whichever is later. Libraries may reopen in Step 2. Museums may re-open in Step 3. All other Municipal Services are operational at the current time.

The current anticipated progression through the steps* could be:
Step 1 - June 11, 2021,

Step 2 - July 2, 2021

Step 3 - July 24, 2021

*if all goes according to plan and conditional on Provincial approvals. 

April 6, 2021 - Update

Municipal Arenas and facilities will remain closed during the Emergency break period. 

February 13, 2021 - Update

Municipal Arenas will re open the week of February 16, 2021. A new COVID-19 Arena Use Policy has been established. 

The Municipal Administration Office will re-open to in-person service the week of February 16, 2021.

January 14, 2021 - Update

Provincial Declaration of Emergency and Stay at Home Order in effect until at least February 11, 2021. 

December 21, 2020 - Update

Province-wide shutdown announced effective December 26, 2021 at 12:01 am through January 24, 2021

- All Arenas ordered closed

- Funerals limited to 10 persons

- All meeting or event spaces remain closed

- Libraries open for contactless curbside delivery and pick-up

- Museums remain closed

- Municipal Office not open to the public for walk-in service. Please call 519-986-1216 or email info@greyhighlands.ca for service. 

October 27, 2020 - Arena Re-opening - All Municipal Arenas have now been permitted to open in accordance with the process approved by Public Health.

Flesherton Arena - Now open.

Osprey Arena - Ice is almost ready. Anticipated opening in the next week.

Rocklyn Arena - Ice is almost in. Anticipated open in the next week.

Markdale Arena - Ice is going in. Currently scheduling contractors required to complete ice installation. Anticipated opening in the coming weeks.

The Municipality purchased disinfectant foggers as per public health approved opening guidelines almost a month ago. The Flesherton Arena was able to open by utilizing a fogger on loan by the Grey Highlands Fire Department as the arena foggers had not yet been delivered. No arena is permitted to open without the approved sanitization equipment. As such, no specific dates for opening is available at the present time. 

For reference, the new process for arena rentals generally includes:

• • Contact Tracing and Health Screening: All patrons must complete a contact tracing and symptom free verification process prior to entering the facility each day. This takes the form of a scannable QR Code at the entrance to the facility.
  • Numbers: A maximum of 20 people are allowed on the ice surface at one time.
  • Spectators: Spectators are being discouraged, however 1 guardian is permitted to attend the facility with any child under the age of 11. Stands have been sectioned off and will be allocated to each user group for the allowable spectators.
  • Changeroom Time Limits: Changerooms are open and will be allocated to each user group with limited capacity to allow space to put on and take off gloves, skates and helmets. Changerooms are only accessible for 10 minutes before and after the rental, after which time all patrons must vacate the facility. 
  • Social Distancing: All spectators and users must maintain a minimum 6 ft distance from all other spectators and users. The only exception is for guardians with their child.
  • Sanitization: There will be a 30 minute gap in between each user group to allow for in, out and sanitizing. Patrons are not permitted to enter the arena earlier than 10 mins prior, nor loiter longer than 10 minutes after the scheduled ice time. This allows for 10 minutes where sanitization can occur prior to the next group entering the facility. The facility doors will be locked in between user groups and no groups shall be permitted to be in the facility at the same time as another group. Delays leaving the facility after your ice time, may result in further ice times being revoked. 
  • Staffing: Additional staff have been deployed to maintain contact tracing logs, cleaning and sanitization, and mainiting time gaps between users.
  • Rosters Required: Rosters are required to be submitted when booking ice times. 
  • Masks Required: Masks must be worn while inside the building, with the exception of the users on the ice. Should a patron meet the legislated exemption for mask use, the municipality will accept a shield as an accommodation for the patron. 

October 27, 2020 - Halls Remain Closed - All Municipal Halls remain closed to bookings through to the end of November. 

October 27, 2020 - Municipal Office Walk-up Service Window - The Municipal Office remains closed with limited staff on site. The Municipal service walk-up window located immediately to the left of the main office door is still available for walk-up service. 

October 20, 2020 - Arena Re-opening - After a successful first week of ice at the Flesherton arena, and staff well under way preparing other municipal arenas for opening, the MECG provided approval for both Rocklyn and Osprey arena to open when the ice is ready and the safety procedures are in place. Although we can not provide a definitive date at the present time, the process is under way and we are anticipating around the beginning of November. Staff are still working at securing users anticipated ice needs at Markdale and continuing to prep Markdale arena in anticipation of future opening approval that may come from the MECG. Staff will be reaching out to current and past users in the coming days. If you know someone who may be interested in ice in Grey Highlands, please direct them to rouses@greyhighlands.ca 

October 14, 2020 - Arena Re-opening - Flesherton Arena commenced its soft opening on Tuesday, October 13, 2020. The Municipal Emergency Control Group are awaiting information on how the soft opening and new process noted below proceeds prior to announcing any additional phases. In the meantime, staff will be begin preparations at other Municipal Arenas to facilitate a timely response if/when any further announcements are made.

October 6, 2020 - Arena Re-opening Discussion The Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) meets regularly to review new and pending Provincial legislation and Public Health guidelines related to the ongoing pandemic and how this affects the operational needs of the Municipality during the declared Emergency.

At the meeting held on October 6, 2020, the group discussed the re-opening plan for Municipal Arenas. The Flesherton Arena is prepared to open on October 13, 2020, with numerous new policies and procedures in place to meet provincial and public health requirements.

This soft opening will allow staff and the MECG to become better acquainted with the new guidelines and how they are put into practice. The MECG agreed that having this information prior to making decisions on timelines for additional arena openings would be in the best interest for the safety of the community. 

The new process includes that:

• All patrons must complete a contact tracing and symptom free verification process prior to entering the facility each day. This takes the form of a scannable QR Code at the entrance to the facility.
• A maximum of 20 people are allowed on the ice surface at one time.
• Spectators are being discouraged, however 1 guardian is permitted to attend the facility with any child under the age of 11. Stands have been sectioned off and will be allocated to each user group for the allowable spectators.
• Changerooms are open and will be allocated to each user group with limited capacity to allow space to put on and take off gloves, skates and helmets. Changerooms are only accessible for 10 minutes before and after the rental, after which time all patrons must vacate the facility. 
• All spectators and users must maintain a minimum 6 ft distance from all other spectators and users. The only exception is for guardians with their child.
• There will be a 30 minute gap in between each user group to allow for in, out and sanitizing. Patrons are not permitted to enter the arena earlier than 10 mins prior, nor loiter longer than 10 minutes after the scheduled ice time. This allows for 10 minutes where sanitization can occur prior to the next group entering the facility. The facility doors will be locked in between user groups.
• Additional staff have been deployed to maintain cleaning and sanitization requirements.
• Masks must be worn while inside the building, with the exception of the users on the ice.

The Municipality thanks everyone for their patience as we embark on this initial soft opening and look forward to providing additional updates in the near future.  

September 17, 2020 - Arena re-opening The Municipality of Grey Highlands Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) has commenced plans for a phased in gradual approach in relation to the opening of Grey Highlands arenas. The initial phase will include the opening of the Flesherton Arena only. Decisions on opening additional arenas will be discussed as time goes on. 

April 1, 2020 - Garbage bag tags now available to purchase online during this time and wil be mailed out to your residence. Bag tags are also available at Foodland if you are out to get your essentials. Visit our e-services page to order yours.

March 26, 2020 - Payments and Funding resolutions passed - Council met on March 25, 2020 and passed the following resolutions in relation to COVID-19 situation:

• That the charging of penalty and interest on the first of the month be waived for April, May, June, and July for all payments including Taxes and Water.
• That Council approves a $5000 fund to assist community service providers in the short term to come from the Community Grant Program for local food banks 

March 17, 2020 - Tender Submissions and Public Opening - Due to concerns surrounding COVID-19, the Municipality of Grey Highlands is taking proactive measures to limit the transmission of the virus and are monitoring the situation closely. The Municipality has closed all offices, facilities, and non-essential services beginning March 16, 2020 until further notice. The Municipality will accept tender submissions in the drop box at the Municipal office at 206 Toronto Street South, Unit 1, Markdale, ON. If your tender is being delivered by Courier, please instruct them to leave the envelope or parcel in the drop box. The drop box will be emptied on March 18, 2020 at 9:01 a.m. and no tenders will be accepted after this point.

The tender openings will be available to the public by live stream at the following address: https://www.greyhighlands.ca/en/municipal-government/live-stream.aspx

The unofficial tender opening results will be posted to the website within 24 hours of the tender opening: https://greyhighlands.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/217164. We thank you for your patience and understanding. 

March 19, 2020 -  Due to COVID-19, many municipal staff are working remotely or from home.  Staff will be checking voicemail on a regular basis and returning calls. Please use the Staff Directory for contacts and leave voice messages or send an email. Staff are working and will provide the best service possible during this time.  For general inquiries email info@greyhighlands.ca.

March 17, 2020 - Grey Highlands 2020 Home Show, originally scheduled for April 18th, 2020 has been cancelled. Municipal staff will be in touch with all vendors and suppliers to notify them of the cancellation and will make arrangements to issue refunds for any payments that have been received to date. 

March 16, 2020 - Facility Closures - To maintain social distancing and minimize the spread of this virus ALL Municipality of Grey Highlands facilities including the Administration Offices will be CLOSED to the public until further notice.

All current Municipal facility rentals have been CANCELLED.  Staff will be contacting the person(s) who have rented the facility during the affected time. 

The following facilities are CLOSED to the public:

- Municipal Administration Offices (206 Toronto Street and 50 Lorne Street Markdale)

- All Arenas, Facilities, and Halls

- All Grey Highlands Public Libraries

- South Grey Museum

Account payments can be made to the Municipality through online or mobile banking or by credit card. There is a drop box at the Municipal Office (206 Toronto Street South Markdale) to leave payments. At the present time, we will not be imposing penalties on any payments that come due during the office closure.

There will be no interruption to essential services related to roads, water/wastewater, or waste/recycling services.

For any emergencies related to roads please contact 519-986-4069.

For emergencies related to water/wastewater please contact 519-986-4784.

For any fire related emergencies, please call 911.

March 14, 2020 - Recreation Closures - All recreational programs and public bookings at Municipal facilities are cancelled effective immediately. Refunds will be issued to those affected.

March 14, 2020 - Library March break programs are cancelled. See the Library website for more information.

May 4, 2020 - Considerations for Seasonal Residents and Visitors - Public Health recommends limiting non-essential travel within and outside of Grey Bruce. If you are already at your seasonal residence, please stay there and do not regularly travel back and forth. Do not invite friends and family over. Follow measures to stop the spread. The following considerations may be helpful for seasonal residents and visitors who are considering relocating to or visiting Grey or Bruce Counties. For most people, staying at your primary residence will be the safest decision. 

Consider the availability of supplies and essentials.
 Consider bringing supplies with you for several weeks so that you will not need to make any stops.
 Grocery stores in rural areas may have limited supplies and capacity.
 Many stores and restaurants may be closed or have limited hours.
 Options for take-out food may be limited or not available.
 Delivery or curbside pick-up services for groceries or food may be unavailable.

Consider the availability of services.
 Many services to help you open your cottage for the season may not be available. These services may not be available should any issues arise if you choose to open your seasonal residence yourself.

Understand the current restrictions and lack of recreational amenities.
 Ontario Provincial Parks, picnic areas, and National Parks are closed.
 Many hiking trails are closed.
 Most beaches, boat launches and municipal recreation facilities are completely closed.
 Parks, trails, beaches and conservation areas that are not closed remain open for walk through access only.

April 15, 2020 - More testing available - Grey Bruce Health Unit expands eligibility criteria for COVID-19 testing making testing a priority for older adults, vulnerable and high-risk populations. For the general public, testing is available for those:

• Who have the following medical conditions, and any new or worsening respiratory symptoms:
  • Heart disease
  • Lung disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Immunocompromised, including HIV, autoimmune diseases, and those taking immunomodulating medications
  • Transplant recipients or donors
  • Those who are on dialysis
  • Those who have cancer
• Living in communal or shared settings such as shelters, group homes, etc., and who have any new or worsening respiratory symptoms
• First responders (paramedics, fire and police) with any new or worsening respiratory symptoms
• Healthcare workers with any new or worsening respiratory symptoms, regardless of work setting
  • This includes home care workers or others caregivers who go into the home
  • This includes staff and volunteers in hospitals, long-term care and retirement homes who do not have direct contact with residents

Assessment Centre is located at:

Grey Bruce Health Services – Owen Sound Regional Hospital

Location:  Portable facility just outside the entrance to the Owen Sound Hospital Emergency Department

Hours of Operation: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM, 7 days per week

For more information, visit the Grey Bruce Health website. 

*As of April 14, 2020, there have been 3 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Grey Highlands. 

March 31, 2020 - Ontario Extends School and Child Care Closures to Fight Spread of COVID-19. Province announces second phase of Learn at Home to support continuity of learning. Read the news release here. 

March 31, 2020 - All outdoor recreational amenities in Ontario now CLOSED. The Ontario government has ordered the closure of all communal or shared, public or private, outdoor recreational amenities across Ontario in order to help stem the transmission of COVID-19. The order was issued under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act Monday evening and is effective immediately. Read the provincial newsrelease here. 

 Library Programs

Additional Information - Organization Links

• Grey Bruce Public Health Unit: https://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/
• Public Health Agency of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health.html
• Ontario Ministry of Health: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/
• World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/
• Ontario 211 - https://www.211oncovid19.ca/
• Ontario Emergency Information - Emergency information | Ontario.ca
• Ontario Covid-19 Information - COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario
• Covid-19 Vaccine Appointments - How to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment (ontario.ca)

How to Protect Yourself

Everyone should practice good basic hygiene as a preventative measure to protect against the novel coronavirus and other viruses in this cold and flu season.

• wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• sneeze and cough into your sleeve
• avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• avoid contact with people who are sick
• clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• stay home as much as possible
• Wear a mask when out for essentials

Status of Cases in Ontario

https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus#section-0

Status of Cases in Grey-Bruce

https://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/

 How to access help during COVID-19

211 Ontario can help you find support during COVID-19

211 Ontario is your primary source of information on government and community-based social services.

Things are changing quickly during this unusual time, but our team is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information to Ontarians about responses to the novel coronavirus.

Programs and services to help you through this pandemic

• Do you feel overwhelmed or anxious about COVID-19? Do you want information on mental health services to manage those feelings?

• Are you experiencing financial pressure because of self-isolation measures?

• Do you have questions about applying for Employment Insurance?

• Do you need help getting groceries or running errands while you are at home sick or self-isolating?

Live Chat is available Monday to Friday from 7am to 9pm here.

Try the Search Help Tool on our website at 211ontario.ca.

And Community Navigators are ready to take your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in 150 languages. Just dial 2-1-1.