The Municipality of Brockton provide updates on the COVID-19 pandemic through this webpage.
COVID-19 Masking Restriction Update
In alignment with Provincial and public health guidelines, masking requirements will be removed for all Municipality of Brockton facilities for both visitors and staff, effective March 21, 2022.
On March 9th, the Province announced that on March 21st it will remove mandatory mask requirements for most settings. Exemptions include public transit, long-term care, retirement homes and other health-care settings, shelters, jails and congregate care and living settings; where masking requirements are set to be lifted on April 27th.
In a March 9th Media Release, Dr. Ian Arra, Grey-Bruce Medical Officer of Health, stated that “with provincial and local public health indicators continuing to improve and based on current vaccination rates, the timing is right to end the universal requirement for masking in indoor public places that are not considered high-risk.”
The Municipality of Brockton will maintain a respectful environment for any individual still choosing to wear a mask after March 21st should they feel more comfortable doing so. We will also continue to accommodate residents as requested during in-person meetings to ensure supportive customer service. We also ask that individuals continue to passively self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms, and please stay home and do not enter our facilities if they are sick.
For more information about COVID-19 or to book a vaccination, visit the Grey-Bruce Health Unit website.
COVID-19 Reports to Council
Please visit our COVID-19 Reports to Council tab to read staff reports that were presented to Council regarding the Municipality's response to COVID-19.
Municipality of Brockton Information Bulletins and Press Releases:
The Municipality also continues to issue Information Bulletins and Press Releases regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Read all the Information Bulletins and Press Releases in the tab below to learn more:
Business Recovery and Support
Visit our Business Recovery and Support page for more information on how Brockton Businesses are being supported throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Support our local businesses by shopping online, ordering by phone, and arrange pick-up or delivery from the convenience of your home. We are In It Together.
| About COVID-19 |
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COVID-19 is a coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people and others cause illness in animals. Human coronaviruses are common and are typically associated with mild illnesses, similar to the common cold. Symptoms of COVID 19: Symptoms of COVID 19 range from mild – like the flu and other common respiratory infections – to severe, and can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Complications from COVID-19 can include serious conditions, like pneumonia or kidney failure. There are no specific treatments for COVID-19, and there is no vaccine that protects against coronaviruses. Most people with common human coronavirus illnesses will recover on their own. Health authorities recommend drinking plenty of fluids, getting rest and sleeping as much as possible and trying a humidifier or a hot shower to help with a sore throat or cough. |
| COVID-19 Reports to Council |
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| Mayor Chris Peabody Video Updates on COVID-19 |
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Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with video update on December 21, 2021 regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and importance of remaining safe this holiday season. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with a 2021 video update on January 27, 2021 regarding the COVID-19 Provincial Stay at Home Order and Lockdown and Grey Bruce Health Unit's vaccination response. Remember to practice the 3 W's to help prevent the spread of COVID-19! Sparky the Fire Dog and Mayor Chris Peabody offer reminders on how to Watch Your Distance, Wear a Mask/Face Covering, and Wash Your Hands! Please do your part to keep our community safe! Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with an 15th video update on November 20, 2020 regarding the Provincial Government's COVID-19 Response Framework Levels. Effective, Monday, November 23, 2020 Grey Bruce will move into the Yellow "Protect" Level. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with an 14th video update on July 15, 2020 regarding the Medical Officer of Health's Face Coverings Order. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with an thirteenth video update on June 24, 2020. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with an twelfth video update on June 10, 2020.
Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with an eleventh video update on May 8, 2020 including the Brockton Child Care Centre Expansion, Brucelea Haven, COVID-19 Testing, Brockton Burn Ban, and the Order Prohibiting Garage Sales until the completion of the COVID-19 pandemic. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor Chris Peabody provides residents with a tenth video update on April 30, 2020 including Brucelea Haven, Residential Hospice Grey Bruce, Small Business Forum Zoom meeting, and the April 28, 2020 Brockton Council and Committee of Adjustment Meetings. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a ninth video update on April 20, 2020 thanking businesses for their strength, resilience, and innovative spirit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a eighth video update regarding the Municipality's response to the COVID-19 pandemic on April 14, 2020 including the participation in Brockton's Connecting Community Challenge, Provincial extension of emergency orders, social distancing etiquette reminder, Brucelea Haven, and information on who to call regarding COVID-19 matters. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a seventh video update regarding the Municipality's response to the COVID-19 pandemic on April 6, 2020 including the importance of physical distancing, the Bruce County Burn Ban, Ontario's List of Essential Services, Bruce Power Town Hall Meeting, Brockton Council Meeting, and an update on Brucelea Haven. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a sixth video update regarding the Municipality's response to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 31, 2020 including the importance of physical distancing, recycling collection, office closures, recreational facility closures, and services at Brucelea Haven. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a fifth video update regarding the Municipality's response to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 27, 2020 including the waiver of penalty and interest charges on tax bills, recycling collection, health care services, and a reminder to continue practicing physical distancing. Municipality of Brockton's Mayor, Chris Peabody provides residents with a fourth update regarding the Municipality's response to the COVID-19 virus including the suspension of recycling collection, continued access along recreational trails, and COVID-19 Community Information Sheet. Brockton Mayor Chris Peabody provided residents with an third update on the Municipality's response to COVID-19 on March 23, 2020, including the Declaration of a State of Emergency in response to COVID-19 as of March 23, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.
Brockton Mayor Chris Peabody provided residents with an additional update on the Municipality's response to COVID-19 on March 19, 2020. Brockton Mayor Chris Peabody provided residents with an update on the Municipality's response to COVID-19 on March 16, 2020. |
| Brockton Municipal Office Updates |
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The Brockton Municipal Office will remain open but appointments for service are strongly encouraged. Residents are encouraged to pay bills online, or use the Drop-Off Box, which is checked regularly by staff. Lottery and Marriage Licensing services and Commissioner of Oath services are available by appointment only. Please contact the Municipal Office at 519-881-2223 to book your appointment. Although the office is open, the following restrictions are in effect:
Residents can also continue to make payments online, by Pre-Authorized Payment, or contact staff via email or phone 519-881-2223 to limit visits to the Municipal Office. Licensing and Commissioner of OathsMarriage licences, lottery licences, and Commissioner of Oaths services require an appointment. Please contact the Municipal Office at 519-881-2223 to book an appointment. Council and Committee/Local Board MeetingsCouncil of the Municipality of Brockton will continue to meet electronically until further notice. Committees and/or Local Boards of Council will continue to meet electronically through Zoom Video Conferencing as required. If the majority of committee or board members are unable to participate in Zoom meetings, they are to contact Clerk, Fiona Hamilton at 519-881-2223 Ext. 124 or by email to arrange alternative solutions for those Committees or Local Boards. |
| Finance Department Updates (Tax Bill Information) |
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Tax due dates remain in effect. Residents can drop off payment by cheque or cash to the Municipal Office Drop-Off Box, or sign up for online payments through their banking institution. Visit Brockton.ca/Payments for further instructions on e-Billing services. Property owners are encouraged to consider signing up for one of our convenient pre-authorized payment plans. Payment of property taxes can be made in several different ways:
Visit our Payments page for more information. |
| Utility Department Updates (Utility Bill Information) |
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Utility bill due dates remain in effect. Residents can drop off payment by cheque or cash to the Municipal Office Drop-Off Box, or sign up for online payments through their banking institution. Visit our Payments page for further instructions on e-Billing services. |
| Operations Department Updates (Cemetery, Landfill, Garbage and Recycling, Bag Tag Information) |
CemeteryResidents are encouraged to call the Municipal Office at 519-881-2223 for all cemetery inquiries. Residents are asked to please refrain from using the Walkerton Cemetery as a gathering place apart from funerals. Residents must also obey Provincial Orders when attending ceremonies. Dogs or other pets are not allowed in the Walkerton Cemetery. The Municipality of Brockton encourages residents to maintain appropriate physical distancing when visiting the cemetery and respect services occurring in the cemetery at all times. We thank you for your cooperation. Landfill SitesThe Brant, Greenock, and Hanover/Walkerton Landfills remain open. All residents are encouraged to continue to use curbside pickup services. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic residents are reminded to wear a face covering and maintain physical distancing when attending the Landfills. A limit of 10 vehicles at a time remains in effect for the Brant and Greenock Landfills. Garbage and RecyclingHousehold garbage and recycling pickup will continue as scheduled unless otherwise advised. Cardboard recycling and styrofoam drop-off are available at the Walkerton Recycling Depot (MTO Yard). Bag TagsResidents are encouraged to continue using weekly curbside garbage collection. Residents are encouraged to purchase more than one tag when out getting necessities such as groceries and gas. Bag tags can be purchase for $2.00 each at grocery and convenience stores in Cargill, Walkerton, and Hanover. Visit our Household Waste page for the full list of retailers selling Bag Tags. |
| Building Department Updates |
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Residents wishing to obtain building permits can come into the Municipal Office, or continue to drop off documentation at the Municipal Office Drop-Off Box or contact the Building and Planning Manager/Chief Building Official or Building Inspector by email, or call 519-881-2223 Ext 127 or Ext. 130. |
| Brockton Child Care Centre Updates |
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The Brockton Child Care Centre remains open. The school-age programs are cancelled until further notice in compliance with Provincial direction. An Emergency Child Care Program will be established for children of eligible workers as identified by the Province of Ontario. Individuals wishing to participate in the Emergency Child Care Program must apply through the County of Bruce by emailing childcare@brucecounty.on.ca. |
| Brockton Parks and Recreation Updates |
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The Walkerton Community Centre, Cargill Community Centre, and Elmwood Community Centre are open to the public. As of March 1st, vaccination verification is no longer required to enter these facilities, and capacity restrictions have been lifted. Individuals entering the facilities are still required to wear a face covering until further notice. Staff encourage passive self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms. For questions about rentals or programming, please call the Walkerton Community Centre at 519-881-0625 x 200. Pre-registration is required for all fitness and social programs. To meet with recreation staff, appointments are encouraged in advance. The outdoor skating oval at Lobies Park is open to use daily, weather permitting, with users limited to ensure appropriate physical distancing in place. All other Parks, Trails, Open Spaces and Amenities remain open expect those seasonally closed, where individuals must maintain a physical distance of least two metres apart from others and maintain social gathering limits. COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate Guidelines and ProcedureThe Municipality of Brockton issued a COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate Guidelines and Procedure regarding our compliance with Provincial regulations for proof of vaccination at certain public settings and facilities including community centres and meeting/event facilities. This document outlines the procedure for verifying vaccine certificates for members of the public wishing to visit or participate in indoor programs at any of the following facilities owned by the Municipality Brockton: Walkerton Community Centre, Cargill Community Centre, Elmwood Community Centre, and Bradley School House. |
| Fire Department Updates |
Burn Permits:Both agricultural and recreational fires are permitted in compliance with follow Brockton’s Open Air Burn By-Law 2017-034. Residents who wish to have a recreational campfire are reminded that they must follow provincial orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act restricting social gatherings. These changing orders will restrict the number of people gathering at a fire. Please check current restrictions at Ontario.ca/Coronavirus or PublicHealthGreyBruce.on.ca. Fire departments remind residents of the following open-air burning safety precautions:
Residents are reminded that the Open Air Burn By-Law prohibits burn barrels and incinerators at all times. Please call the Municipal Office at 519-881-2223 to obtain an agricultural burn permit. Permits are not required for recreational campfires. |
| Bruce County Public Library Updates |
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The Cargill and Walkerton branches of the Bruce County Public Library remain open to the public with 50% capacity limits. Curbside pickup is also available in order to limit the number of patrons in the building. Room rentals at the Walkerton Library are postponed until further notice. The Walkerton and Cargill Library Branches are currently open with COVID-19 precautions are in place. For those who would prefer not to go inside the branches, curbside pickup service will continue to be offered. The libraries will be open with 25% capacity for indoor browsing and computer use. Patrons are asked to wear a face covering and must maintain proper social distancing while visiting the branches. Walkerton Library Branch Adjusted Hours During COVID-19 Pandemic:
Cargill Library Branch Adjusted Hours During COVID-19 Pandemic:
Visit library.brucecounty.on.ca to learn more. |
| Brockton Committees and/or Local Boards of Council |
Council and Committee MeetingsThe Council of the Municipality of Brockton continue to meet electronically. Committees and/or Local Boards of Council continue to meet electronically through Zoom Video Conferencing as required. If the majority of committee or board members are unable to participate in Zoom meetings, they are to contact Clerk, Fiona Hamilton at 519-881-2223 Ext. 124 or by email to arrange alternative solutions for those Committees or Local Boards. |
| Brockton Business Information |
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Residents are encouraged to continue to support local businesses and participate in alternate arrangements such as take-out services or curbside pickup where available to limit in-store capacity. The Municipality recognizes the resilience of our local business owners, and thanks everyone for continuing to be patient and persevere through this next phase of the pandemic. The Community Development Coordinator continues to communicate with business owners to assist them throughout the pandemic. Please email the Community Development Coordinator, or call 519-881-2223 Ext. 131 for assistance or inquiries. Visit our Business Recovery and Support page for more information on how Brockton Businesses will be supported throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking to purchase your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (including face coverings/masks) locally? We have you covered! Download our PPE Supplier List to support local while keeping our community safe. |
| Provincial Information |
Ontario Moving to Next Phase of Reopening on February 17On February 14, 2022 the Province of Ontario issued a News Release announcing that Ontario will enter the next phase of reopening on February 17, 2022 including:
Capacity limits in other indoor public settings, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, retail and shopping malls, will be maintained at, or increased to, the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance. Booster dose vaccinations will be expanded for youth ages 12-17 on February 18th, and additional measures will be introduced on March 1, 2022. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario Outlines Steps to Cautiously and Gradually Ease Public Health MeasuresOn January 20, 2022 the Province of Ontario issued a News Release releasing details of steps to cautiously and gradually ease public health measures, starting on January 31, 2022. Effective January 31, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. Ontario will begin the process of gradually easing restrictions, while maintaining protective measures, including:
Enhanced proof of vaccination, and other requirements would continue to apply in existing settings Additional public health measures will be lifted effective February 21, 2022 and March 14, 2022. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario Temporarily Moving to Modified Step Two of Roadmap to ReopenOn January 3, 2022 the Province of Ontario issued a News Release announcing that as of January 5, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. the Province will return to a modified version of Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen for least 21 days (January 16, 2022). As part of the province’s response to the Omicron variant, starting January 5, students will pivot to remote learning with free emergency child care planned for school-aged children of health care and other eligible frontline workers. The Modified Step Two measures include:
In addition, on January 5, 2022 the Chief Medical Officer of Health will reinstate Directive 2 for hospitals and regulated health professionals, instructing hospitals to pause all non-emergent and non-urgent surgeries and procedures in order to preserve critical care and human resource capacity. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario Further Strengthening Response to OmicronDecember 17, 2021 - In response to the rapidly-spreading and highly transmissible Omicron variant, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is applying additional public health and workplace safety measures, including capacity and social gathering limits. These measures will help curb transmission and continue to safeguard the Ontario’s hospitals and ICU capacity as the province continues to rapidly accelerate its booster dose rollout. To further strengthen its response to Omicron and reduce opportunities for close contact as the province gets as many vaccines into arms as possible, Ontario is introducing a 50 per cent capacity limit in the following indoor public settings:
Businesses or facilities will also need to post a sign stating the capacity limits that are permitted in the establishment. In addition, to mitigate COVID-19 transmission that can occur at informal social gatherings, the province is also reducing social gathering limits to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. These restrictions will come into effect on 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, December 19, 2021. Read the full Provincial Media Release for all details. Ontario Ready to Begin Vaccinating Children aged 5 to 11 When Supply ArrivesOn November 19, 2021 the Province of Ontario issued a statement regarding Health Canada’s approval of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11. Over the coming days, parents will hear additional details from their local public health units. Vaccines will be available through familiar channels such as select doctors' offices, hospitals, pharmacies and school-based clinics. Read the Provincial News Release for the full statement.
Stay tuned for updates from the Grey Bruce Health Unit. Dates and locations for local vaccination clinics will be posted once supply is available locally.
Province of Ontario Releases Plan to Safely Reopen Ontario and Manage COVID-19 for the Long-TermOn October 22, 2021 The Province of Ontario released their Plan to Safely Reopen Ontario and Manage COVID-19 for the Long-Term. The plan will be guided by the ongoing assessment of key public health and health care indicators and supported by local or regional tailored responses to COVID-19. The Province of Ontario issued a News Release regarding the Plan as well as an announcement that effective Monday, October 25, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. Ontario will lift capacity limits in the vast majority of settings where proof of vaccination is required, such as:
This means that the Municipality’s Walkerton, Cargill and Elmwood Community Centre facilities will no longer be subject to capacity restrictions. Proof of vaccination, masking and physical distancing are still required at this time. Please view the Municipality's Information Bulletin and the Province of Ontario's News Release for full details. Ontario to Require Proof of Vaccination in Select SettingsOn September 1, 2021 the Province of Ontario announced that it will require people to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of their vaccination status to access certain businesses and settings starting September 22, 2021. Requiring proof of vaccination in these settings reduces risk and is an important step to encourage every last eligible Ontarian to get their shot, which is critical to protecting the province’s hospital capacity, while also supporting businesses with the tools they need to keep customers safe, stay open and minimize disruptions. We need to remain supportive and united as a community to those business and organizations that are required to implement proof of vaccination in selected settings in our community. Read the Provincial News Release for more information. Ontario Moving to Step 3 of the Reopening Roadmap on July 16, 2021With key public health and health care indicators continuing to improve and the provincewide vaccination rate surpassing the targets outlined in the province’s Roadmap to Reopen, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health the Ontario government is moving the province into Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021. Step Three of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of additional indoor services with larger numbers of people and restrictions in place. Read the Provincial Media Release for more information. Ontario Moving to Step Two of Roadmap to Reopen on June 30On June 24, 2021 the Province of Ontario issued a News Release announcing that the Ontario government is moving the Province into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021. Step Two of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities and limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn, with other restrictions in place. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario to Move to Step One of Roadmap to Reopen on June 11On June 7, 2021 the Provincial Government acnnounced that based on the provincewide vaccination rate and continuing improvements in key public health and health system indicators, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, will move the province into Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021. Read the full Provincial Media Release for further details. Ontario Maintains COVID-19 Restrictions as Stay-at-Home Order is Set to ExpireAs was previously announced, Ontario’s Stay-at-Home order will expire on June 2, 2021. When it does, all other public health and workplace measures will remain in place provincewide until Ontario enters Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen, at which point some restrictions will ease with an initial focus on outdoor settings. Read the full Provincial Media Release for more information. Ontario Releases Three-Step Roadmap to Safely Reopen the ProvinceOn May 20, 2021 the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, released its Roadmap to Reopen, a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the provincewide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators. In response to recent improvements to these indicators, Ontario will allow more outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. Read the Provincial Media Release for full details. Ontario Stay-at-Home Order Extended to June 2, 2021On May 13, 2021 the Provincial Government announced that with the new, more contagious variants continuing to pose significant risks, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has extended the Stay-at-Home Order (O. Reg. 265/21) until at least June 2, 2021. All public health and workplace safety measures under the provincewide emergency brake will also remain in effect. Read the Provincial Media Release for all details. Ontario Provincial Police Media Release: Enforcement Under the Stay-at-Home OrderThe O.P.P. issued a Media Release regarding the enforcement protocols under the extended Stay-at-Home Order. Consistent with the new emergency orders, OPP officers will not arbitrarily stop an individual or a vehicle, or enter a dwelling for the singular purpose of checking compliance with the order. Read the full Media Release on the O.P.P.'s website for more information. Ontario Strengthens Enforcement of Stay-at-Home OrderOn April 16, 2021 the Province of Ontario announced that they are strengthening enforcement of the province's Stay-at-Home order while imposing new travel restrictions and further strengthening public health measures. These urgent actions are targeted at stopping the rapid growth in COVID-19 case rates and relieving mounting pressures on the province's health care system. Both the provincial declaration of emergency and the Stay-at-Home Order (O.Reg 265/21) have been extended for an additional two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The Stay-at-Home order currently in effect requires everyone to remain at home except for specified purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services (including getting vaccinated), for outdoor exercise, or for work that cannot be done remotely. Read the Provincial Media Release for full details on additional measures that have been put in place. Ontario Enacts Provincial Emergency and Stay-at-Home OrderEffective Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 12:01 a.m., the government is issuing a province-wide Stay-at-Home order requiring everyone to remain at home except for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing health care services (including getting vaccinated), for outdoor exercise , or for work that cannot be done remotely. As Ontario's health care capacity is threatened, the Stay-at-Home order, and other new and existing public health and workplace safety measures will work to preserve public health system capacity, safeguard vulnerable populations, allow for progress to be made with vaccinations and save lives. Read the Provincial Media Release for more details. Ontario Implements Provincewide Emergency BrakeOn April 1, 2021, the Province of Ontario announced that Ontario will enter into a Province-wide Emergency Brake Shutdown effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 3, 2021 for a period of at least four (4) weeks. The province-wide emergency brake puts in place key public health safety measures to help to stop the rapid transmission of COVID-19. Measures include:
Full details can be viewed on the Provincial Government's website: COVID-19 shutdown: enhanced public health and workplace safety measures Nine Public Health Regions Moving to New Levels in the COVID-19 Response FrameworkThe Grey Bruce Health Unit will enter Green Prevent Level of COVID-19 Response Framework on Monday, March 1, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario Returning 27 Public Health Regions to Strengthened COVID-19 Response FrameworkOn February 12, 2021 the Provincial Government announced that 27 Public Health Regions would be transitioned out of the shutdown and into a revised and strengthened COVID-19 Response Framework. Effective February 16, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. Grey Bruce Health Unit will be transitioned to the Yellow Protect level. Read the Provincial News Release for full details. Ontario Extending Stay-at-Home Order across Most of the Province to Save LivesOn February 8, 2021 the Provincial Government extended the Province-wide lockdown and Stay-at-Home order. When it is safe to do so, the province will gradually transition each region from the shutdown measures to a revised and strengthened COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open (the "Framework"). Please review the Provincial Government's Press Release for additional information. Province Issues Stay-at-Home Order and Introduces Enhanced Enforcement Measures to Reduce MobilityOn January 12, 2021, the Province of Ontario has declared a second Provincial Emergency to address the COVID-19 Crisis and save lives. The Provincial Government further issued a Stay-at-Home Order and is introducing Enhanced Enforcement Measures to reduce mobility. Please review the Provincial Government's Press Release for additional information. Ontario Announces Province-wide Shutdown to Stop Spread of COVID-19 and Save LivesOn December 21, 2020 the Provincial Government announced a Province wide lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. Read the full Media Release for additional information. The lockdown is in effect at 12:01 a.m. on December 26, 2020 for a period of 28 days. Ontario Implementing Additional Public Health and Testing Measures to Keep People SafeOn October 2, 2020 in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, local medical officers of health and public health experts, the Ontario government is tightening public health measures. At the same time, in response to the second wave of COVID-19 and in preparation for the cold winter months, the government is taking action to reduce testing turnaround times while prioritizing those who are at the greatest risk. The Government introduced New Measures for Testing, New Public Health Measures, and Further Restrictions Including:
Read the full News Release for all details, including the New Measures for Testing and New Public Health Measures. Provincial Government Changes Gathering Restrictions - September 19, 2020On September 19, 2020 the Provincial Government changed the Gathering Restrictions to:
Read the full News Release for more information. |
| Community Support Information |
Medical Officer of Health Order: Face Coverings in Indoor Public Places in Grey BruceOn July 14, 2020 the Grey Bruce Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Arra, issued an Order regarding face coverings in indoor public places in Grey Bruce. The Order will be in effect Friday, July 17, 2020 at 12:01 p.m. and remain in effect for a period of four (4) weeks. Please read the Order and Media Release from the Grey Bruce Health Unit for further information on face covering restrictions. Local PPE SuppliersLooking to purchase your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (including face coverings/masks) locally? We have you covered! Download our PPE Supplier List to support local while keeping our community safe. Grey Bruce Huron Strong AppAccess the Grey Bruce Huron Strong App (GBHS) to stay connected with our communities during this extraordinary period. The GBHS App offers the latest, trusted health information, resources for people and businesses in need, a way for citizens to offer help to others, and things to do while at home. Community Information SheetThe Municipality of Brockton has developed a COVID-19 Community Information Sheet providing residents with information on available services, health questions,information available to seniors or people with compromised immune systems, pharmacies, grocery stores, and restaurants offering home delivery or take-out services.
SPARK OntarioThe Government of Ontario is partnering with SPARK Ontario to help seniors and the most vulnerable stay connected and healthy as they self isolate during the COVID-19 outbreak. SPARK Ontario is the province's first bilingual volunteer hub designed to direct volunteers to where they are needed most. The needs of each community vary, but groups across the province are looking for volunteers to help deliver food or medicines, run errands or check-up on seniors and the most vulnerable by phone or email while they self-isolate. Volunteer organizations can visit www.sparkontario.ca to post volunteer opportunities available in their communities. Ontarians interested in volunteering are encouraged to check the website for opportunities to make a difference where they live Notice of Implemented Proactive Measures PosterThe following Notice of Implemented Proactive Measures has been posted at the Municipal Office. |
| How You Can Help |
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Individuals can assist in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the following ways:
It is important to avoid visiting long-term care centres and hospitals unless necessary to help protect those who are most vulnerable. Volunteer to Help Others:SPARK OntarioThe Government of Ontario is partnering with SPARK Ontario to help seniors and the most vulnerable stay connected and healthy as they self isolate during the COVID-19 outbreak. SPARK Ontario is the province's first bilingual volunteer hub designed to direct volunteers to where they are needed most. The needs of each community vary, but groups across the province are looking for volunteers to help deliver food or medicines, run errands or check-up on seniors and the most vulnerable by phone or email while they self-isolate. Volunteer organizations can visit www.sparkontario.ca to post volunteer opportunities available in their communities. Ontarians interested in volunteering are encouraged to check the website for opportunities to make a difference where they live. TheDoA new website, www.thedo.ca, has been launched for volunteers interested in assisting people during the COVID-19 crisis in Grey and Bruce counties. The service is run by the United Way of Grey Bruce. |
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COVID-19 Grey-Bruce Vaccination Hubs |
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There are three local Vaccination Hubs in Grey Bruce:
There are two ways to book an appointment depending on what group you are in:
To book call Provincial Vaccine Information line 1-888-999-6488. Check detailed Eligibility List before booking your appointment. Watch a video overview about booking with local system. Watch video overview about booking using a secure web email link to book with local system. To book by phone, call: 1-833-421-1999, hours are Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Grey Bruce Community Connections). Download the Grey Bruce Vaccine App This App will provide residents of Grey and Bruce with an interactive way to see clinic locations, and link directly to the provincial booking system to book your appointment via the online link, or via the telephone number provided. A multitude of video and image assets will enhance the app to provide a walkthrough experience so that people know what it will be like when they go to the mass clinics. All information about the COVID-19 Vaccine is also made available from the App. |
| COVID-19 Grey-Bruce Assessment Centres |
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On March 17, 2020 the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit issued a Media Release announcing COVID-19 Assessment Centres opening in Grey-Bruce. Three COVID-19 Assessment Centres will open in the Grey Bruce region this week to help identify and triage patients with symptoms of COVID-19. The Assessment Centres will help expand hospital capacity to assess and screen patients who have symptoms of COVID-19, and free up Emergency Department resources to continue to safely manage the normal volume of patients. Who should come to the Assessment Centre?The Assessment Centres are for individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 who are having difficulty managing at home. Please follow these guidelines to determine if you should come.
Assessment Centre Locations:
Appointments are not necessary. Patients will be pre-screened, and will be asked to wash their hands and put on a mask prior to entry. To reduce risk and traffic within the Centres, only those patients who require assistance will be permitted to bring a support person with them into the facilities. Following screening at the Assessment Centres, patients will be sent home to self-isolate and monitor symptoms, unless the patient is critically ill and requires hospitalization. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Most patients experience mild symptoms, and recover fully without treatment within two weeks. |
| Helpful Resources |
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The Municipality of Brockton will continue to obtain information and updates from the County of Bruce, The Grey Bruce Health Unit, the Province of Ontario and other health agencies and will provide new information to residents when available. The following links provide useful information about COVID-19:
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Contact Us