What's Open and Closed
Current state of operations in King Township
King has been monitoring and evaluating safe, contained and fiscally responsible measures in determining the re-opening plans of some indoor facilities, through to the end of 2020.
Based on continued efforts to contain transmission risks and adhere to public health guidelines, as well as uncertainties with the anticipated risk of a second wave this fall, for the safety of the public and staff, King is focusing on gradually reopening a limited number of indoor facilities this fall.
“We need to be mindful that the virus is very much still active,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “Right now, I feel that the cautious approach is the best approach. All the hard work that helped flatten the curve can be undone if we don’t remain disciplined in our actions. This means we need to continue wearing masks and practicing physical distancing and good hygiene.”
At this time, King Township is focusing its efforts on further expanding service levels through a limited reopening some of its indoor recreational amenities this fall, in a phased, cautious approach.
Although the Municipal Centre will continue to be closed to the public to the end of 2020, staff will be introducing future “in-person, by appointment only” services (i.e. commissioning, marriage licensing services, garbage bag tag and bin purchases). Details of these services will be announced in early September.
Indoor recreational facilities will be evaluated for potential phased re-opening later this year, subject to continued containment of COVID-19 and only those that can practically provide for future indoor recreational programs in a safe and realistic service model. Subject to this evaluation, the Township’s intent is to pilot the reopening of one facility in October (subject to user demands, viability of programs).
Subject to facility audits, operational plans that meet all Health and Safety guidelines, as well as financial impact and feasibility of operating responsibly, further announcements will follow. Staff is working closely with the recreational facility user groups to assess their needs, as they too are evaluating if/how they can effectively offer fall/winter programs to their participants. Additional arena capacity may be considered subject to demand and based on these discussions.
Any indoor facility used by the public will be subject to York Region’s requirements of mandatory face coverings/face masks. Caution and prioritization of safety is at the forefront of decisions being made.
King continues to expand virtual services, introducing innovative ways to continue to service our residents and businesses conveniently and safely. Introducing safe indoor public services and safe indoor recreational programs will be considered and phased, as we continue to adjust with the evolving pandemic.
Read the full news release.
For the most up-to-date information on how COVID-19 is impacting King Township’s programs and services, please visit covid19.king.ca.
