Summer is in full swing, and we are very pleased to be entering Step 3 of the province’s reopening plan. Effective August 3rd, some municipal administration services will be available in person by appointment only. Services will also continue to be offered by phone or virtually, and the document dropbox remains available. To connect with staff, please use the staff directory at scugog.ca/contact or call 905-985-7346 for assistance. If you have an appointment, please ensure your COVID-19 screening form has been completed to show staff.
COVID-19 vaccinations are well underway through Durham Region Public Health. Here in Scugog, I am happy to say there are no active cases of COVID-19 and 75.6 percent of residents have received at least one vaccination dose, with 63.6 percent fully vaccinated. Thank you to all those supporting the vaccination efforts.
Many clinics in Durham Region are providing walk-in vaccination appointments. The clinic at the Scugog Community Recreation Centre will be providing additional youth appointments in July and August. Residents who need assistance to book an appointment can call 1-888-444-5113 or visit: durham.ca/vaccineappointment.
Council is now in summer session, and it is a time to reflect on our hard work. Although the Township has experienced delays and deferrals related to COVID-19, solid progress has been made in many areas of the Strategic Plan. In total, 93 percent of the major projects or initiatives have been completed, are ongoing or are underway. With Council’s strong commitment to addressing the roads and infrastructure needs, the Township is positioned to address over 80 percent of the identified major projects/initiatives by 2022 in this area.
The success and advancement of the strategic plan is a direct result of the commitment and endorsement from Council as well as the hard work and dedication of all Township staff.
A major strategic priority is the health of Lake Scugog. Improvements to the waters in Port Perry Bay continue. The first round of weed harvesting was completed this week, and the second round has been scheduled for August. The Lake Scugog Enhancement Project continues to move forward, and permit approvals are expected shortly, including the dredging of the lake. The project will proceed as soon as funding is available.
The Township, Scugog Lake Stewards and Kawartha Conservation have been successful in obtaining smaller grants for the project, and the public fundraising is underway. However, a major grant is still needed before the project can proceed. We received our permit from Parks Canada for the pier repairs, and the work is scheduled to begin on July 26th.
Our waterfront and trails are an important attraction for Scugog. The Township Rotary Environmental Park, along the waterfront trails north of the Boat Launch, is being revitalized. The site has been prepped for a pollinator and butterfly garden which will include native plant species best suited for the habitat. Meandering paths are planned through the garden and will better connect the west and east waterfront trails. For information on the project, please email recreation@scugog.ca.
The Township adheres to all environmental guidelines outlined by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and the Ministry of Natural Resources when we clear weeds, trim trees or harvest weeds in the lake. We consult with local biologists and environmental experts. We are fortunate to have trained arborists on staff, and we have a dedicated Environmental Advisory Committee as well as partnerships with community groups like the Lake Stewards. Our natural environment is precious and managed correctly, so it can be enjoyed safely by all.
I love seeing families visiting and enjoying all Scugog has to offer. Be sure to stop by the Waterfront Farmers Market on the weekends. I hope everyone stays safe and has a wonderful summer.