Statement: Mayor Bevilacqua provides update on Vaughan’s response to COVID-19
The following statement was issued by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua in response to the ongoing situation surrounding COVID-19 and subsequent actions affecting citizens:
“The health and safety of Vaughan residents remains our top priority. Globally, the situation regarding COVID-19 continues to evolve rapidly. The City of Vaughan is closely monitoring the situation, and we continue working with our government partners and stakeholders to ensure people remain safe.
"As a result, we are implementing a number of precautionary measures. Effective Saturday, March 14, all community centres and library branches will close at 5 p.m., reopening Monday, April 6, 2020 at their regularly scheduled times. This includes all community centre permits/rentals, recreational and library programming, swimming pools, arenas and fitness facilities as well as the City Playhouse Theatre.
“All upcoming March Break camps and daycare programming will be cancelled in an effort to ensure the safety of the public. Refunds will be issued automatically to all registered participants and permit holders without penalty during this timeframe. All memberships will be extended for the duration of the closure.
“The Joint Operations Centre is closed to the public effective Monday, March 16 until further notice. The following counter services will be impacted: green bin and blue bin exchange and purchase; tree removal permits; curb cutting applications; garbage tags; general inquiries; and the topping up of bulk water sales.
“All other City facilities – including City Hall – will remain open at this time.
“Council, committee and task force meetings will continue as scheduled. Residents who would like to provide comment on an item on an agenda are encouraged to provide their feedback in writing to the City Clerk.
“Upcoming City-led events are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please check the Events page at vaughan.ca for the latest updates about non-City led event cancellations.
“Waste collection and winter maintenance operations will continue as usual at this time.
“I want to reassure the people of Vaughan that by taking the proper precautions, we can all take measures to stop the spread of germs and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. 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 and stay home if you are feeling ill; increase cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces using regular household cleaners.
“Should you feel unwell and if you believe you have symptoms related to COVID-19, please contact York Region Public Health or make an appointment to see a doctor.
“As one of the safest communities in Canada, Vaughan is committed to being prepared to respond to all possible situations. I want to thank all Vaughan staff as well as our first responders for their swift, efficient and coordinated efforts to keep our community safe.”
For more information on the City’s response to COVID-19, please see the following public service announcement.
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