Municipal facilities to remain closed until June 15

The municipality’s recreation facilities including the Crystal Palace, arenas, museums, and town halls will remain closed to the public until Monday, June 15 to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Municipal facilities are often used to host large events and gatherings beginning in late spring and early summer. The municipality hopes private sector venue operators and event organizers will follow its lead.

“Given the current situation with COVID-19 and the information provided by public health experts, the municipality anticipates a gradual recovery will take place over several months,” said Mayor Steve Ferguson.

“With group gatherings likely out of the question even beyond the current provincial declaration of emergency that’s in place until May 12, we felt it prudent to give event organizers ample notice so that they can make arrangements and avoid incurring any additional costs,” Mayor Ferguson said.

The municipality first closed all facilities March 15. In early May, it will decide whether the closures will extend beyond June 15.

“We recognize the importance of events to the community and the local economy, but our primary concern right now is protecting the health and safety of residents,” said Ferguson. “We look forward to encouraging and supporting events and gatherings at an appropriate time and featuring them as an important part of the County’s recovery from COVID-19.”