February brought us a deep freeze and lots of snow for winter roads operations to contend with. A few weekends ago the Township had to declare a state of emergency related to a significant weather event. The decision to declare was made after crews had been dealing with unexpected winds, blowing snow, drifting and whiteout conditions. This unexpected storm event caused crews to approach their maximum hours of service available as permitted by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). As Mayor, under the advice of senior staff, a state of emergency was declared to allow crews to continue to keep our roads safe for the public and emergency vehicles. The safety of the community and our operators are a priority. A state of emergency allows the township to deploy outside and alternative community resources if available, along with extending operation work hours of municipal staff to continue essential road maintenance services during conditions that were extreme. Thank you to all our neighbouring community partners who stepped up to give us support. A heartfelt thank you and appreciation to our Scugog Public Work Operators.
I am cautiously happy to report that the province of Ontario began lifting restrictions February 17th and again on March 1st as COVID-19 numbers have been continually improving. This includes lifting capacity limits in all remaining indoor public settings and lifting proof of vaccination requirements for all settings. In keeping with the intent of the Provincial requirements, the Township will no longer require proof of vaccination to enter recreation facilities. Please note that masking requirements and hand hygiene will remain in place at this time.
Patrons are required to self-screen before entering Scugog facilities. Please do not attend our facility if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
We acknowledge the terrible events happening in Ukraine. Scugog Council stands with the Government of Canada and communities around the world in condemning the attacks and violence that the Russian government has taken upon Ukraine. This unprovoked attack affecting the people of Ukraine saddens my heart and raises grave concerns regarding the future. I speak for myself and on behalf of my fellow members of Council in condemning the actions and pray for the people and country of Ukraine. What we can do as individuals to show our support for the people of Ukraine is to make a donation, if you can, to the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal through the Canadian Red Cross. The Government of Canada will match all eligible donations—not exceeding $100,000—made by individual Canadians between February 24th, and March 18th, 2022. Our community stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and our thoughts and prayers are with them.
We are looking forward to continuing our reopening plan, welcoming back residents and visitors to in person events this spring and summer.