COURTNEY McCLURE, for The Standard
UXBRIDGE: Ontario’s province wide shutdown has been extended to February 6th, 2021. Uxbridge and Ontario residents should keep in mind that all ski resorts and services across the province have been closed Covid-19 mandates. According to Uxbridge Councillor, Gordon Highet, the closure of ski hills across the provinces has resulted in 9,000 job losses. These ski hills have lost approximately $84 million dollars in revenue. “Many Ontarians, including residents of Uxbridge, rely on these facilities for employment, and to maintain their physical and mental health.” explained Councillor Highet. The owners, staff members of our local ski resorts and businesses have implemented extra safety precautions and rules for guests to follow. Once up and running, guests will be required to keep two metres apart, and wear a mask while around others not from their family. The Municipality of Clarington has several ski hills in their area. They have passed a resolution which they have forwarded directly to Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, asking permission to reopen their ski hills as soon as possible. According to Councillor Highet, they are asking to be removed from inclusion in the province-wide shutdown, as they’ve implemented safety precautions for guests. Staff members working at the Township of Uxbridge have shown support for this resolution as of January 25th, 2021.