Premier Ford announced on June 8 that the area served by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health Unit, which includes the Town of Orangeville, is included in the Stage 2 re-openings that will be permitted starting Friday, June 12. Stage 2 allows for the re-opening of some recreation facilities including pools and splash pads.
What does this mean for Town of Orangeville recreation programs and facilities? Town staff are currently reviewing the guidelines as set out by the province and seeking further direction from Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
“We are taking all precautions and putting plans in place to make sure our facilities will be operated in a safe way. We are committed to taking all the necessary measures to protect residents and staff” states Raymond Osmond, General Manager of Community Services. “Up until now we have been working with various program scenarios, but now we need to develop protocols that take into consideration the specific restrictions for physical distancing, limits on the number of patrons, and rules for what amenities can and can’t be opened. We need to bring back the necessary staff who are currently on layoff and provide training on these new guidelines and procedures.”
Plans are underway for re-opening of pools for public lane swimming and splash pads as well as an Active Orangeville Youth Summer Series program. For indoor facilities, there will be physical modifications needed to ensure patrons can use them safely, and for our outdoor facilities, there will need to be rules established and signs installed to ensure compliance with the current restrictions. Plans are underway for re-opening facilities in a phased approach with dates to be announced soon. Please follow us on social media and the Town’s website www.orangeville.ca for more information.