by Jill Sturdy
North Grenville’s Municipal Council approved a new COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Policy for clients, guests and staff employees. In light of the Government of Ontario’s new vaccine mandates for businesses, public spaces and indoor recreational facilities, municipalities across the province are working to keep residents safe, while ensuring access to municipal services and spaces.
“North Grenville, as part of the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Public Health Unit, has knocked it out of the park with the highest vaccination rates in Ontario. I am so proud of members of this community for doing everything they can to protect themselves and each other, said Mayor Peckford. “While the risk of a fourth wave owing to the Delta variant is quite real, we expect that with a continued commitment to vaccines, and rigorous public health protocols, we can minimize further disruptions.”
Effective since September 22, the Province of Ontario requires patrons to provide proof of identification (showing name and date of birth), and of being fully vaccinated to access certain businesses and settings.
North Grenville residents and business owners will be able to enter the Municipal Centre to receive services at the front desk on the main floor without showing proof of vaccination, given the capacity to observe social distancing protocols and masking at all times.
In addition, proof of vaccination is not required at the North Grenville Public Library, and support will be offered to those seeking assistance with obtaining their vaccination documentation.
Proof of double vaccination will be required, however, from spectators or participants of any event held in one of Municipal arenas, community rooms, theatres, or other municipal facilities throughout North Grenville (i.e. Community halls in hamlets).
Exemptions to this policy include, youth under 18 who are actively participating in an organized sport (sports leagues, organized pick up sports) and coaches and officials, children under the age of 12, and those with a medical exemption (documented proof from physician required).
“Access to Municipal facilities will reflect the strong commitment in our community to keep COVID cases down, students in school, and businesses open,” highlighted Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman. “While COVID has clearly threatened the livelihood, health and wellbeing of so many in our community, by taking careful and deliberate steps this fall, we are very hopeful that we can continue the return to normal.”
More information on North Grenville’s Mandatory Vaccination Policy can be found on the website at: www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus.
Visit the Ontario government’s website for the province’s Proof of Vaccination Requirement at: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/proof-covid-19-vaccination.
