Minto reacts to red control order

MINTO – The Town of Minto has closed a municipally-owned movie house and scaled back activities at public facilities in response to the province’s decision to move the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health unit into the red (control) category of COVID-19 pandemic response protocols.

The new restrictions, announced on Dec. 11 came  into effect on Dec. 14 and include the immediate closure of the Norgan Theatre for a least 28 days.

Minto recreational facilities will remain open for permitted uses under the red (control) restrictions officials state in a Dec. 11 press release. Facilities will close on Dec. 25, but may re-open as early as Jan. 8.

“We ask that the public continue to be patient with us as we navigate the restrictions that come with this new framework and do our best to keep the community safe,” the release states

The municipal office will remain closed to the public.

“As always, continuity of essential services such as fire, water, wastewater, and road maintenance will be ensured,” the town states.

The remainder of the municipal staff including building services, recreation, administration and economic development will continue to work from various alternate locations, to ensure that staff are distanced properly.

Residents are urged to call the municipal office and leave a voicemail. Staff will be checking voicemails remotely. Email communication is also encouraged. Staff emails are listed under the Contact Us section of the town website.

Provincial restrictions that came into effect on Monday include;

– maximum indoor capacity of 10 people in restaurants and bars;

– maximum capacity of 10 people inside gyms or exercise classes;

– maximum of 25 for outdoor exercise classes

– maximum of five people for indoor social gatherings, and 25 people for outdoor social gatherings;

– patrons of retail locations are now required to remain two metres from each other while standing in line.

Anyone seeking information on COVID-19 is urged to call Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 or visit www.wdgpublichealth.ca/coronavirus.

Community News Staff