COVID-19 COMMUNITY RELATED UPDATES
Here are a few of the notices that may directly affect our members.
KLCOA Makes Donations during COVID-19
For many years, the KLCOA has acknowledged the importance of supporting and investing in our Haliburton community. As a result of COVID-19 the local food banks are seeing a substantial increase in usage. We have been challenged by other lake associations in the County to help make a difference. As some of our programs, have to be put on hold due to COVID-19, we are rising to the challenge and donating $1000 to the Haliburton 4C Food Bank and another $1000 to Sirch Community Kitchen.
KENNISIS LAKE DUMP CLOSING – Dysart et al
Dysart et al’s Emergency Management Control Group met again today (March 20) and have declared a State of Emergency following the Declaration by the Province earlier in the week. Effective Monday, March 23rd, 2020, the West Bay and the Kennisis Lake landfill sites will be closed until further notice. The other three landfills will continue to operate as normal with the exception of Harcourt that will not be able to take construction materials due to lack of cash alternatives at that site. No cash will be taken in West Guilford or Haliburton, but credit and debit are available in those two locations. We would really like to encourage people not to bring loads other than regular garbage and recycling to reduce human contact. https://www.dysartetal.ca/14675/
TOTAL FIRE BAN IN ONTARIO – Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
The Ontario government is taking action to protect people and communities from the risk of preventable human-caused fires and to ensure that the province’s emergency response system remains strong during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Starting April 3, 2020, Ontario’s entire legislated fire region will be designated a Restricted Fire Zone. Residents who live in an area with a restricted fire zone cannot have an outdoor fire—this includes burning of grass, debris and campfires, even when using an outdoor fire grate, fireplace or fire pit. This restriction will remain in place until Ontario’s ability to respond to emergencies is no longer impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Local municipalities are working to update their websites with information for residents. Meanwhile, Ontarians can learn about the rules under a Restricted Fire Zone at ontario.ca/page/outdoor-fire-restrictions
FROM THE OPP – For any Ontarians contemplating a trip to the cottage or other dwellings for family gatherings over the Easter Long Weekend, the OPP is reminding people to practice physical distancing and stay home.
“The OPP acknowledges that this is a very difficult time for people. While our officers typically expect large volumes of traffic ahead of the Easter Long weekend, in light of the current situation, the OPP thanks in advance all Ontarians who do their part to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by staying home.”
— OPP Chief Superintendent Rohan Thompson, Provincial Commander, Highway Safety Division.
THE MUNICIPALITY OF DYSART ET AL – Property Tax Deadline Extended
The 2020 Interim tax installment dates have been extended to April 30, 2020 without penalty or interest.
For more details check out the Dysart webpage.
Fleming College is cancelling its summer school programs at the Haliburton School of Art + Design due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The cancellation applies to more than 300 week-long and weekend courses that occur May through September each year.
“The summer arts program has been an integral part of the Haliburton community every summer for more than 50 years,” vice president of academic experience Tom Phillips said. “Although this is a difficult decision that impacts thousands of students and many others in the arts community, it is the only option available to us as we hold the health and safety of the community as our highest priority.”
All students will be contacted by the College in the near future regarding the cancellation and refunds.
Short Term Cottage Rentals – Dysart et al
The Province has announced that short term rentals are not an essential service and therefore not permitted at this time. While our local rental agencies have communicated to the public that they are ceasing operations, private rentals may still exist. If you notice this activity taking place or witness the gathering of more than five people, please reach out to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If you wish to file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact Public Health Agency of Canada: www.canada.ca/en/public-health.
For more COVID-19 updates from Dysart et al check their website.