We are in this together and we will continue to work towards overcoming this virus that has changed our daily lives for the time-being. Our efforts need to continue as we flatten the curve and stop the spread of COVID-19. Everyone is doing their part and as your Mayor I am very proud of our community. There has been such an incredible response of appreciation to all the essential workers. As well, people are making donations to Operation Scugog. Support continues for our local restaurants and businesses and I encourage you to visit their websites as many have opportunities of curb side, trunk or home delivery for all your needs. People are making and sewing masks in the community, I’ve seen friendly waves and cheerful hellos to neighbours out on a walk or in their yard and so much more. We are supporting each other, facing this new normal with integrity and grace, proving that despite the cancellations and closures, here in Scugog, Community isn’t cancelled. On April 3rd, 2020, the Township declared a state of emergency, and since that time the Emergency Control Group has been meeting regularly to review updates and information from the Province and Region which assist us as we make decisions affecting Scugog. Last week we extended the closures of public facilities, postponed programs and cancelled events until July 3rd, 2020. Our parks are still open for walk-through access only, while maintaining physical distances. These decisions are not made lightly, however, with the information we have and what we know about COVID-19, it is the right decision, even though it will mean cancelling some very popular events, including Canoe the Nonquon and our Canada Day Celebrations. We thank all our residents for their continued understanding and support, we are monitoring the situation and remain hopeful. I look forward to brighter days, when I can announce the reopening of our parks for gatherings and celebrations. Council and staff at the Township are working and we will be resuming our Council and Committee schedule with virtual meetings, starting on Monday, April 27th, 2020. These meetings will be live streamed on the Township of Scugog YouTube channel. Council representatives will be participating electronically. Meeting agendas are available on the Township website, at scugog.ca, on Friday before the Monday meeting. If you have any questions regarding a report or topic on the agenda you can email or call the department. We have our staff contact list on our website and of course you can always reach out to myself or Council representative. Township business continues to move ahead with plans to host virtual open houses for upcoming road construction projects. Affected residents will receive information on how they can participate, as well, details will be placed on the website. We are also looking at options to continue our Advisory Committee meetings through electronic means. As a reminder, there is a full fire ban in place across Scugog; this means no burning for any reason. This is to limit contact amongst firefighters and the public, as well, to save valuable resources to address emergency needs. Please be assured, the Fire Department will still be responding to all emergencies during this time. Your cooperation with the Fire Ban is appreciated. We’re all in this together. We have added some information with links on our dedicated webpage, scugog.ca/covid19, where you will find ideas to virtually connect with friends and family, along with resources to help you should you need them. There are also links to virtual library resources, tours, games, arts & crafts, cooking and more. Continue with all your good neighbour efforts and check on your friends and neighbours, particularly the elderly, vulnerable and those who cannot go out to help themselves, regarding food or medicine. While many things are closed or postponed our sense of community isn’t cancelled. Remember to be a part of the kind and caring community that Scugog is known for. Take good care of yourself and each other.
~Mayor Bobbie Drew