Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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Last Updated - April 16, 2021 - 5:30pm (Provincial extension & additional restrictions - details will be added as they become available, see Provincial websites for the most up to date information)
Previous update: 8:45am (Crown Land Camping, remote learning and emergency child care)

The West Parry Sound Area Municipalities are working together to ensure proper communication is made with our community members and that community partners are engaged. We are working collaboratively to actively monitor the situation as it evolves and to ensure business continuity while following direction from the Public Health Agency, the Ministry of Health and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.

The safety and health of our community members is of utmost importance to us throughout the duration of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. We are encouraging members of our community to take precautions by learning about the disease and what you can do to help protect yourself and to prevent the disease from spreading.

Please remember that 9-1-1 is for emergency calls only. For other police matters, including those related to COVID-19, call 1-888-310-1122 or report online.

Vaccine Information

Vaccination Clinics:

Booking for COVID-19 vaccine appointments for individuals born in or before 1941 has started. For the most up to date information and details on how to book an appointment visit: www.myhealthunit.ca/COVID-19Vaccine

Vaccination clinics in the Parry Sound area will take place starting in March 2021 at the Bobby Orr Community Centre, Humphrey Arena, Britt Legion, Argyle Arena and Whitestone Community Centre. These clinics are by appointment only.

Visit the Health unit website for dates and sign up information: www.myhealthunit.ca/COVID-19Vaccine

For information about the COVID-19 Vaccine roll-out locally:
- North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Website - Vaccines

For information about the COVID-19 Vaccine, including frequently asked questions regarding vaccines:
- Parry Sound Family Health Team information page
- North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit Website - Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

For information on the Province of Ontario's vaccine distribution implementation plan:
- Provincial vaccine distribution website

Additional information will be added as it becomes available.

Current Control Area, Shut Downs and Orders

April 16, 2021 - The Ontario Government has extended the Provincial State of Emergency and Stay-at-Home order for 2 additional weeks and have imposed additional restrictions.

April 7, 2021 - Effective Thursday April 8, 2021, at 12:01am, The Ontario government is imposing a Provincial State of Emergency and Stay-at-Home order.

For details on the State of Emergency and Stay-at-Home Order, see the press release.

April 1, 2021 - Effective Saturday April 3, 2021, at 12:01am, The Ontario government is imposing a provincewide emergency brake shutdown.

For details on the emergency break shutdown, see the press release and provincial webpage.

Remote Learning & Emergency Child Care

On April 19, 2021 Schools across Ontario will return to Remote Learning

The Province has also announced Emergency Child Care for Critical Frontline Workers
Care will be offered in Parry Sound at the following sites:

YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka - Parry Sound Public School

Contact: Valene 705-746-0511 ext. 2

Home Child Care Program (PSDSSAB) – District Wide

Contact: Cindy 746-9522 ext. 4361

For specific plans regarding remote learning visit the school board websites:

Conseil scolaire public du Nord Est de l'Ontario

Near North District School Board

Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board

A head of the fall re-opening the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has released a guide for parents and guardians to assist in preparing their children for a safer return to school.myhealthunit.ca/COVID-19SchoolsGuide

Mandatory Face Coverings

The Province of Ontario has mandated the use of face coverings Province wide, please refer to their website for information.

Effective Friday July 24, 2020 face coverings were required in the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, including the Town of Parry Sound when in an enclosed public space. www.myhealthunit.ca/facecoverings

By-law #2020 - 7057 requiring mandatory face coverings in the Town of Parry Sound was repealed with the implementation of the Health Unit mandate.

Non-Medical Face Covering Resources

Information on the proper use of Non-Medical Face Coverings are available from:

Remember, wearing a non-medical mask or face covering alone will not prevent the spread of COVID-19. You must also wash your hands often, practise physical distancing and stay home if you are sick.

Municipal Services

Facility Closures / Restricted Public Access

In light of the current COVID-19 global pandemic, the Town of Parry Sound has implementing the following precautionary measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by implementing closures to public access for the protection of our staff, residents and our community by limiting exposure to others.

Municipal Office - 52 Seguin Street - Closed to public access

Until further notice the Town of Parry Sound Municipal Office will have no public access. Municipal services will continue to be provided.

Payment Options
Payment options for property taxes and water accounts are available through online banking, at financial institutions or cheques can be deposited into the relocated drop box, located at the main entrance adjacent to the parking lot.

How to reach Municipal Office staff
The public can interact with staff through telephone and emails. Should an in-person meeting be required with a staff member, meetings will be by appointment only and screening will be required. Please call the office at (705) 746-2101 to speak to staff.

Please see the 'Building and Planning Services' tab for information about making applications and inspections during the closure.

Provincial Offences Office - 52 Seguin Street - Closed to public access

Until further notice the Provincial Offences Office will have no public access.

Payment Options
Payment of Provincial Offences fines can be made by phone (705) 746-2553, by mail or online at www.paytickets.ca.
Cheques can be deposited in the relocated drop box, located at the main entrance adjacent to the parking lot.

How to reach POA staff
The public can interact with staff through telephone by calling (705) 746-2553.

Please note: Provincial Offences will not be enforcing late payments and no drivers’ licences shall be suspended until January 22, 2021.

Provincial Offences Act court is closed from Monday, March 16, 2020 through to and including Friday, January 22, 2021.

COVID-19: Notice to Counsel/Paralegals and the Public - May 19, 2020

COVID-19: Notice to Counsel/Paralegals and the Public Re: Provincial Offences Act Matters in the Ontario Court of Justice (May 19, 2020)

*This Notice supersedes previously announced notices.

1. Introduction

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Province of Ontario extended the Declaration of Emergency until June 2, 2020. In light of the uncertainty about the duration of the state of emergency in Ontario, the Ontario Court of Justice will continue to operate on a reduced schedule.

Until further notice, no Provincial Offences Act proceedings will be conducted until (updated) January 22, 2021, except for remote judicial pre-trials as described below in s. 4.3.

The Court is working closely with its justice partners, including the Ministry of the Attorney General and representatives of Provincial Offences courts, to determine if technology can be used to increase participants’ ability to access courthouse services using remote means, such as by the electronic filing of court material, remote scheduling processes, and remote hearings. The Court is also working with justice partners to plan for the eventual resumption of in-person attendances in a way that protects the health and safety of all participants.

Given the continued recommendations by public health authorities for everyone to stay home as much as possible and to maintain a safe distance from others, people are strongly discouraged from attending any courthouse.

Do not come into a courthouse if you have been advised by public health officials, your doctor, or the Ontario Ministry of Health website to self-isolate.

Please continue to check the Ontario Court of Justice website for updates to this Notice.

2. Application

This Notice applies to all Provincial Offences Act matters before the Ontario Court of Justice.

3. Limitation Periods Under the Provincial Offences Act

All limitation periods under the Provincial Offences Act have been suspended by an order under s. 7.1.2(2) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. This order is available here: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/200073

4. Scheduling Directives

4.1 Suspension of All Proceedings

Except as otherwise noted in this practice direction, all Provincial Offences Act (POA) proceedings scheduled from Monday, March 16, 2020 through to and including Friday, July 3, 2020 will be adjourned and rescheduled to a later date. If you have a proceeding scheduled during this time, do not attend court. This applies to all Provincial Offences courts in Ontario.

Judicial pre-trials may proceed during this time by audio or video conference. If this applies to your case, you will be notified with the date and time and the audio or video conferencing details. Judicial pre-trials are addressed below in section 4.3.

A notice of the new court date will be sent to both parties by mail to the address on file with the court. For more information, please contact your local Provincial Offences court.

Contact information for all Provincial Offences courts is available here: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/Court_Addresses/poa/

4.2 Suspension of All Appeals

All Provincial Offences Act appeals to a judge of the Ontario Court of Justice scheduled from Monday, March 16, 2020 through to and including Friday, July 3, 2020 will be adjourned.

All POA appeals scheduled between Monday March 16 and Friday May 29 will be adjourned to a date approximately 10 weeks from the original date. To find out what date your matter is being adjourned to, see the list of adjournment dates. These dates are subject to change. Please check back on this website before your next court date to confirm the date.

The Court will publish an update shortly regarding POA appeals that are currently scheduled to occur on or after June 1, 2020.

If you need to update your address with the court, please contact the courthouse where the appeal is scheduled to be heard. A listing of all court addresses is available here: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/Court_Addresses/

4.3 Judicial Pre-Trials

Judicial pre-trials will be held by audio or video conference. Cases subject to judicial pre-trials will be determined by local protocol. Parties will be notified of the date and time of the judicial pre-trial and the information for attending the audio or video conference.

4.4 Young Persons

Provincial Offences Act matters where the defendant is a young person (individual under 16 years of age) are scheduled to appear and be heard in a provincially-administered Ontario Court of Justice. As a result, these matters will be adjourned consistent with adjournments in criminal court.

These matters scheduled between Monday March 16 and Friday May 29 will be rescheduled to a date approximately 10 weeks from the original date. To find out what date your matter is being adjourned to, see the list of adjournment dates. These dates are subject to change. Please check back on this website before your next court date to confirm the date.

The Court will publish an update shortly regarding court appearances that are currently scheduled to occur on or after June 1, 2020.

If you need to update your address with the court, please contact the courthouse where the matter is scheduled to be heard. A listing of all provincially-administered court addresses is available here: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/Court_Addresses/

5. Electronic Signatures

5.1 Electronic Signatures

The Ontario Court of Justice will accept electronically signed documents where a signature is required. An electronic signature consists of electronic information that identifies the signatory and the date and place of signing. For example, you may type your name as your signature.

All provincial offences trials are being rescheduled. If you are a defendant, a notice of your new court date will be sent to you by mail to the address on file with the court.

Fire Hall - 4 Church Street- Closed to public access

Until further notice the Fire Hall will have no public access. Municipal services and fire protection will continue to be provided.

How to reach Fire Hall & Bylaw staff

The public can interact with staff through telephone and emails. Should an in-person meeting be required with a staff member, meetings will be by appointment only and screening will be required.
Fire hall staff can be reached at (705) 746-2262. Bylaw staff can be reached at (705) 746-2413.

Parks - Outdoor Recreational Amenities

Waubuno Beach & Centennial Beach

On April 16, 2021 the Province of Ontario announced an extension of the State of Emergency & Stay at Home Order extending restrictions including the closure of outdoor amenities including basketball courts and playgrounds effective April 17th at 12:01am. For complete restrictions see the Provincial webpages.

For information on what amenities are open and what remains closed please see the beaches page.

Anyone using there outdoor recreational amenities are required to continue physical distancing from anyone who is not in their household or permitted social circle.

Public Boat Launches - Mill Lake, Waubuno Beach, Champaign Street, Salt Dock Road

The four public boat launches remain closed for the winter season.

Champaign Street boat launch, public and commercial launches
Waubuno Beach boat launch
Mill Lake boat launch
Salt Dock boat launch

If you need to go out on the water remember you must continue to physically distance.
1. Maintain a safe distance while loading or fueling the boat.
2. Disinfect or wash your hands regularly and after touching surfaces such as a fuel pump.
3. Pack what you need and be prepared for emergencies on the water.

Do your part to avoid injury and prevent the need for emergency service response.
If there is a need to go out on the water, take extra precautions including:

1. Be weather aware, check before you leave and watch for changes while on the water.
2. Check operation of navigation lights.
3. Tell someone where you are going and when you intend to return.
4. Carry a VHF Radio, GPS, and Marine Charts.
5. Life jackets should be worn, the water is cold.
6. Monitor fuel consumption and remaining range - Use the “Three-Thirds Rule” (one-third outbound,
one-third inbound, one-third reserve).
7. Monitor VHF radio Channel 16 for emergency traffic - Be prepared to lend assistance if you are the nearest vessel.
8. Know the waters you are navigating - Refer to local charts and stay within marked channels.

Bobby Orr Community Centre - Temporary Closure

Due to the Provincial State of Emergency and Stay-at-Home Orders the Bobby Orr Community Centre is closed to public access until further notice.

*The facility is acting as a vaccination clinic and is open to those with appointments on dates when clinics are operating.*

For information regarding the re-opening and COVID-19 precautions in place please see:

Bobby Orr Community Centre
Ice Surface
Hall and meeting rooms

Contact: April McNamara - (705) 746-2701 x 1 or by email

Charles W. Stockey Centre, Bobby Orr Hall of Fame & Information Centre - Temporary Closure

Due to the Provincial State of Emergency and Stay-at-Home Orders the Charles W. Stockey Centre, Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and Information Centre will be closed to public access until further notice.

Visit www.stockeycentre.com/reopening for further information and protocols in place.

Programming has returned to the Stockey Centre, visit their website for details.

Parry Sound Public Library - 29 Mary Street

Please visit the Library website for details of available services including curbside pick-up.

www.parrysoundlibrary.com

The Museum on Tower Hill - 17 George Street

Please visit the Museum website for information regarding closure/re-opening.

www.museumontowerhill.com

Other Municipal Buildings - Closed to public access

The remaining municipal buildings remain closed to public access, as per regular protocols.

Facilities Open to the Public

The following municipal facilities remain open to the public. If you have travelled outside Canada in the last 14 days, are feeling unwell, or anyone you have close contact with is feeling unwell, please refrain from visiting municipal facilities.

Waste Transfer Station - Macfarlane Street

The transfer station remains open to the public.

Please follow all directions given by the attendant. Please anticipate longer wait times and wait at the gate until directed to proceed and be patient. Only 1 vehicle will be permitted to dispose of waste at a time. Please continue to practice physical distancing while at the Transfer Station.

Curbside Waste Collection

Curbside Waste Collection continues as normal. Pick-up dates and bag limits remain the same. It is suggested to reduce the amount of air-borne garbage that you ensure bags are tied securely. Please ensure recycling bins are not overflowing to limit air borne recyclables to protect the health & safety of the collector.

Public Washrooms - Reduced hours

The public washrooms at the corner of Seguin Street and Gibson Street remain open, however to ensure cleanliness of the facility the hours of operation have been reduced to 9am - 4pm daily.

Hillcrest Cemetery & Sylvan Acres Cemetery

Spring interments are now being arranged. Interment of cremated remains may be scheduled beginning the first week of May. Please contact the cemetery administrator to make arrangements for a date and time.

The Town of Parry Sound is required to follow the directive from the Bereavement Authority of Ontario dated April 3, 2021

A synopsis of the directive is below, please follow the link above for the complete directive.

Funerals and interments taking place within a cemetery with a funeral home in attendance will be subject to the following:

One (1) funeral home staff member per 10 guests
maximum 50 persons outdoors
all attendees to be screened and logged by the funeral home
all attendees to wear masks and practice physical distancing

Cremation interments taking place without funeral home involvement (family only) will be subject to the following:

maximum 20 persons
all attendees to wear masks and practice physical distancing
the family member making the arrangement with the cemetery for the interment will be responsible for ensuring they have contact information for all attendees

Cemetery staff will NOT interact with persons at the grave site and within the cemetery. All inquiries to be directed to the cemetery administrator at the office.

Fitness Trail & Rugged Trail

The Fitness Trail and Rugged Trails are open. Individuals utilizing the trail, except for members of the same household or gatherings as permitted by the Province are asked to maintain the safe physical distance of at least two metres (6 feet) apart and to travel through and not congregate on the trail.

Parks - Outdoor Recreational Amenities

*On April 16, 2021 the Province of Ontario announced an extension of the State of Emergency & Stay at Home Order extending restrictions including the closure of outdoor amenities including basketball courts and playgrounds effective April 17th at 12:01am. This section will be updated as information comes available.
For complete restrictions see the Provincial webpages.*

Individuals using these amenities, except for member of the same household or gatherings as permitted by the Province, are required to maintain physical distance of at least two metres or six feet.

What park amenities remain closed?

Tower Hill Observation Look-out (cannot ensure physical distancing)

Can we play sports in parks?

Families are permitted to play sports in the parks. Members of different households are not permitted to play team sports or other sports or games where people may come within two metres of each other during the Provincially declared State of Emergency and Stay-at-home order.

Following the State of Emergency & Stay-at-Home order permission will once again be required for any organized or planned sport, event or recreation program to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions in place for organized use, please contact the Manager of Parks and Recreation for an application and to reserve space in a Town Park.

Individuals using parks continue to be required to physically distance unless they are member of the same household.

Can we host gatherings or events in parks?

Please contact the Manager of Parks and Recreation for an application and to reserve space in a Town Park. There are requirements, terms and conditions in place that are to be met prior to park usage. Individuals using parks continue to be required to physically distance unless they are member of the same household.

How do we stay safe while using outdoor recreational amenities?
Everyone using these outdoor recreational amenities is required to physically distance from anyone who is not in their household. This means staying 2 meters or 6 feet away from other people. If you arrive at a park, for example that is crowded, you should wait until there is enough space to physically distance or return at another time.

Users of the Town of Parry Sound’s parks system are reminded that these areas are available for use at your own risk and are not regularly sanitized. An inherent risk of exposure to communicable diseases including COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present.

Individuals should use hand sanitizer to clean your hands while out, wash your hands as soon as you get home and stay home if ill.

Meeting and Event Cancellations

Provincial Offences Act Court

Provincial Offences Act court is closed from Monday, March 16, 2020 through to and including Friday, January 22, 2021.

Recreation and Culture Centre Public Meetings

Recreation and Culture Centre public meetings resumed on Wednesday May 13, 2020. Meetings are posted on the Council Calendar and available for streaming on our Youtube Channel.

Council Meetings

Council Meetings are being held electronically via Zoom Videoconferencing for the safety of our community, Council and staff.

Agenda's and minutes are available through the Council Calendar. Meetings are available for viewing through live streaming or through our Youtube channel following the meeting.

For further information about participation in electronic meetings contact the Clerk, Rebecca Johnson.

Messages from Mayor Jamie McGarvey

December 17, 2020 - A Holiday message from Mayor Jamie McGarvey

Penalty and Interest Relief – Municipal Taxes, Water and Sewer Billing

In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Town of Parry Sound implemented temporary relief for penalty and interest for taxes and water and sewer billing.
This program was offered in 2020 and is no longer available.

Payment options for property taxes and water accounts during the temporary closure to the public are available through online banking, at financial institutions or cheques can be deposited into the relocated drop box, located at the main entrance adjacent to the parking lot.

Building & Planning Services

Building Services

Application Submission:

During this time, we ask that all submissions be submitted by email, or hard copies by mail or by dropping an envelope in the drop box at 52 Seguin Street. If the application has large paper plans which won’t fit in a normal mail slot, please email to arrange a drop off appointment.
Fees are required to be paid by cheque (no cash payments).

Code Related Inquiries:

Building code and fee related inquires can be made by email or phone 705-746-2101 ext 221.

Inspection requests:

Permit holders can request an inspection by email or phone 705-746-2101 ext 225.
A questionnaire will be required ahead of booking inspections.

An inspector may refuse to make an inspection, for their own health and safety, if persons on the job site are not practicing social distancing (physical distance between people must not be less than 2 metres ) or a person on the job site appears to be ill (coughing, etc.).

If you have any building related questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at:

Phone: 705-746-2101
Mark - Ext 221
Jessie- Ext 225

Planning Services

Pre-Consultations

Pre-consultations will be done by phone and/or email. Please contact Taylor - (705) 746-2101 ext 223

Application Submission:

During this time, we ask that all submissions be submitted electronically by email, hard copy by mail or by dropping them in the drop box at 52 Seguin Street. If the application has large paper plans, please email ahead to arrange for a drop off time.
Application fees are required to be by cheque (no cash payments).

Applications are still being reviewed and what work possible is being completed.

Zoning Inquires:

During this time, we ask at all inquiries be restricted to email or phone 705-746-2101 ext 223.

Committee Meetings:

Committee of Adjustment meetings have resumed and are being held by zoom.

Site Inspections:

Staff will conduct site inspections in a safe manner while respecting social distancing.

If you have any planning related questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at:

Phone: 705-746-2101
Taylor - Ext 223
Jessie - Ext 225

Fire Restrictions During COVID-19

Please check with your municipality for burning restrictions.

Visit the fire department web page for the current Town of Parry Sound Fire Danger Rating.

Some fire danger ratings permit recreational fires, however burning must be in compliance with the open air burning bylaw or have a valid incinerator or outdoor fireplace permit.

Residential Fireworks are permitted on the May long weekend, and July 1st long weekend only.

For information about what is allowed and permits in the Town of Parry Sound visit:
https://www.parrysound.ca/…/fire-depar…/open-air-burning.asp

Community Supports

Donations

Harvest Share and the Salvation Army Food Banks

The need for assistance from the local food banks is currently higher than normal. If you are able to donate, food and financial donations are needed.

Harvest Share - 93 James Street, Parry Sound - (705) 774-9111
Food donations can be made at the side door. Financial donations, please reach out to Harvest Share directly as no walk-ins are currently being accepted.

Salvation Army Food Bank - 61 Gibson Street, Parry Sound - (705) 746-5391

Donation bins are also available at some local grocery stores.

Rotary Club

The Parry Sound Rotary Club is running a grocery delivery and pick-up service in partnership with Sobeys. This program aims to support vulnerable citizens, those in self-isolation or people otherwise unable to complete their own shopping due to COVID-19. Many community members accessing this program are able to pay for their groceries and the delivery fee. However for those in need of assistance due to COVID-19, the Rotary Club is looking for food and financial donations to support their grocery requests.

Food donations can also be made at Sobeys or donations can be made through the clubs website: https://portal.clubrunner.ca/217

For information on how to access the grocery program see the 'Shopping & Food Delivery Services' drop down below.

Salvation Army Thrift Store

The Salvation Army Thrift Store is accepting donations on a limited basis - check their facebook page for updates on how and when donations are being accepted.

Shopping & Food Delivery Services and Food Assistance Programs

Shop Local - Retail Stores

Keep in mind, many local businesses rely on shoppers and are heavily impacted by the closures. Many have switched to offer pick-ups or deliveries, contact your local merchants before shopping non-local online retailers.
Many stores have reduced their retail hours, and some are offering seniors only hours. Visit their websites for up to date information.

Grocery/Supply Deliveries

The Rotary Club and Sobeys are working together to ensure that residents in the Parry Sound area can get groceries and supplies.

This service is intended for seniors, those with health issues and people who are self-isolating / quarantined and unable to shop.

Visit www.parrysound.ca/help or call (705) 996-0716 to request assistance.

Watch a video about the program on our YouTube Channel.

If you would like to assist with shopping and deliveries, the www.parrysound.ca/help website also has a place for you to sign up to volunteer or to donate.

Restaurants/Takeout
Many local restaurants are offering takeout and delivery options - contact the restaurants directly to order.

Food Banks
Harvest Share and the Salvation Army Food Banks remain open.

At Home Family Activities and Resources

The Town of Parry Sound Recreation Staff have also complied a list of at home activities, check it out.

The Georgian Bay Biosphere staff have created a running list of activity ideas and online resources designed for kids and families to complete at home. These are fun, engaging, and educational for everyone.

Check it out at www.gbbr.ca/at-home-family-activities-resources/

Business Supports

If you are a business owner with questions about operating contact the Stop the Spread - Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.

We are closely monitoring announcements of the response measures at all levels of governments to help businesses survive these difficult times. Although all the details are not yet available, here is what we do know:

Federal – Canada’s Covid-19 Economic Response Plan

The Federal Government has announced programs for individuals, businesses and industries through Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan web page

Supports for Businesses

Avoiding layoffs and rehiring employees
- Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
- Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy
- Extending the Work-Sharing program
- Temporary changes to Canada Summer Jobs program

Deferred payments - Taxes and Tariffs

- More time to pay income taxes
- Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments until June
- Waving tariffs on certain medical goods

Financial Support, Loans and Access to Credit
- Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) interest-free loans
- Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
- Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)
- Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA)
- Mid-Market Financing Program
- Mid-Market Guarantee and Financing Program
- Businesses in the territories
- Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF)
- Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) for early-stage businesses
- Additional support by sector

Targeted Support
- Young entrepreneurs
- Women entrepreneurs

Supporting financial stability

- Ontario-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program
- Relief for federally regulated pension plan sponsors
- Launching an Insured Mortgage Purchase Program
- Bank of Canada's actions
- Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions actions

Support for self-employed individuals
- Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
- Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments until June
- More time to pay income taxes

Indigenous business
- Relief measures for indigenous business
- Supporting Business through the pandemic and into recovery
- Supporting the Indigenous tourism industry

Other
- Industry specific resources to prevent COVID-19 in the workplace
- Get a personalized list of support

- NOHFC - Main Street Relief Grant for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- NOHFC - Northern Ontario Recovery Program - Opening October 1, 2020 - Closing November 30, 2020

Support for Industry Sectors

Support for sectors:
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Aquaculture and fisheries
- Culture, heritage and sport
- Air transportation
- Tourism
- Energy
- Academic and research
- Infrastructure

Ontario Made - Supporting Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters

Industries may also qualify for these programs:

- 75% Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
- Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy
- Extending the Work-Sharing program
- Establishing a Business Credit Availability Program
- Canada Emergency Business Account

- Launching an Insured Mortgage Purchase Program

Provincial – COVID-19: Support for Businesses

The Provincial Government has announced programs for businesses through the COVID-19 Support for Businesses web page.

Financial relief

- New Ontario Small Business Support Grant - Applications now Open

- Municipal property and education tax rebates and energy costs

- NOHFC - Main Street Relief Grant for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

- NOHFC - Northern Ontario Recovery Program - Opening October 1, 2020 - Closing November 30, 2020

- Ontario-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program
- Interest and penalty relief
- Education property tax deferrals
- WSIB payment deferrals
- Affordable electricity bills
- Rent Assistance for small businesses
- Pausing commercial evictions

Tax Relief

- Employer Health Tax relief
- Regional Opportunities Investment Tax Credit

How your business can help defeat COVID-19
- Ontario Together Initiative

Guidance for employers

- Your responsibilities
- Emergency leave and other employment standards protections
- Sector-specific guidance and posters

Other helpful resources

- Ontario Made - Supporting Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters

- Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses: COVID-19 Small Business Help Centre
- Ontario Chamber of Commerce: Pandemic Preparedness Toolkit for COVID-19
- Canadian Chamber of Commerce: COVID-19 Business Resilience
- Canadian Chamber of Commerce: Pandemic Preparedness Guide for Business
- Retail Council of Canada: Road to Recovery Playbook
- Regional Tourism Organization RTO12 – Explorers Edge
- Framework for re-opening our Province

- Ontario Made Program

Municipal Support – Town of Parry Sound

Penalty and Interest Relief

In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Town of Parry Sound implemented temporary relief for penalty and interest for taxes and water and sewer billing.
This program was offered in 2020 and is no longer available.

Other Programs and Supports Available

1. Stop the Spread - Business Information Line 1-888-444-3659

2. The EI program has been restructured. Any employee requiring sick days or isolation can apply for EI Illness. The wait week is waived under this program and medical documentation is not required. Required benefits can also be obtained for employees that have been laid off. Records of Employment are required but not to start the application. For more information on Employment Insurance (EI) call 1 833 381 2725 or apply on the Government of Canada website.

3. Ontario Ministry of Transportation and Ministry of Health, in cooperation with the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services and ServiceOntario, is extending the validity period of driving products, services and health cards. These changes reduce the need for in-person visits to ServiceOntario, International Registration Plan offices and DriveTest centres during the COVID-19 outbreak, helping to promote social distancing and contain the spread of the virus. These new regulations include extensions for driver licences, licence plate validation, Ontario Photo Cards, and Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration certificates, among others. Expiring and expired health cards will continue to provide access to health services.

4. Parry Sound Muskoka Community Network (PMCN - www.pmcn.ca) is starting to roll out the Business Technology Improvement Fund which aims to encourage businesses to become early adopters of digital technology. Businesses who are interested in the 50% funding up to $25,000 to adopt technology and add ecommerce are encouraged to visit the PMCN website and leave their email addresses to receive details in the coming days.

5. Parry Sound Area Community Business & Development Centre (CB&DC – www.cbdc.parrysound.on.ca) has implemented the following measures, effective March 20:
All outstanding loans will be suspending payments until September 23, 2020
All loan interest during the same period is to be suspended in full
For more information call (705) 746 4455 or e-mail: info@cbdc.parrysound.on.ca

6. If you already have the approved government grant or interest-free loan, the situation may impact your project. We recommend you reach out to your funding organization contacts to discuss contingency plan or project timeline extension. There is an understanding of the situation among all levels of government and you will not be penalized for what is out of your control.

7. Webinar: COVID-19 How to get through the crisis with an online strategy, a pre-recorded webinar by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).

8. Boating Ontario has released a guide to Social Distancing for marine industry personnel.

9. The Province of Ontario has released industry specific resources to protect workers, customers and the general public and are a vital resource for businesses planning their re-openings.

10. RTO12 - Explorers Edge holds regular webinars focused on tourism support during COVID-19 in Parry Sound and Muskoka.

11. Community Business & Development Centre Emergency Assistance Loan.

12. West Parry Sound Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supplier list.

13. Digital Main Street ShopHERE powered by Google - Get Online for Free

14. Canadian Manufactures & Exporters Launch "Ontario Made" Program

15. Rotary Club of Parry Sound has purchased masks for distribution to local businesses.

For businesses re-opening and in need of protective equipment, we have developed a list of local suppliers. The list will be amended as additional suppliers are identified. The Province has also developed a list of PPE suppliers which is available at www.ontario.ca/ppe.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates on financial solutions and additional measures to help our local businesses owners through this.

For More Information Contact:

Vladimir Shehovtsov
Economic Development Officer
Town of Parry Sound
Tel.: 705-746-2101 Ext. 231
E-mail: vshehovtsov@townofparrysound.ca

Your Health

The safety and health of our community members is of utmost importance to us throughout the duration of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. We are encouraging members of our community to take precautions by learning about the disease and what you can do to help protect yourself and to prevent the disease from spreading.

Visit the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit website for information about the disease including, how to protect yourself, symptoms and treatment and updates as they become available.

For up to date information regarding the virus in Ontario visit the Ontario Ministry of Health website. For up to date information regarding the virus in Canada visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website.

No internet access? An information package has been developed by the West Parry Sound Health Centre, this easy to print information package will provide information about COVID-19 in our community for those without internet access. If you know of someone without access to our website, please print a package for them or direct them to contact their municipality by phone.

Self-Isolations / Social Distancing - What does it mean? What you can do to protect our community

Visit the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit website for information on how to practice Physical (social) Distancing and Self Isolation.

Self Isolation is required for individuals returning from international travel or who meet certain criteria, such as having symptoms or having had close contact with an individual with COVID-19. Self-isolation is staying home to protect those around you – your family, friends, colleagues - from possibly getting COVID-19. Call the Health Unit at 1-800-563-2808 to be assessed.

Physical (Social) Distancing measures are being put in place throughout Canada to help prevent and slow the spread of COVID-19 from person-to-person. This is important so a large number of people do not get sick at the same time. We all share in the responsibility to keep one another healthy. Social distancing involves taking steps to limit the number of people you come into close contact with. This will help to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community. The earlier these social actions start the better protected we will all be. Social distancing does not mean you must stay in your home. You can still go outside to take a walk, go to the park, or walk your dog. If you need groceries, go to the store. It is simply recommend that while outside you make sure to avoid crowds and maintain a distance of 2 meters (6 feet) from those around you.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, wash your hands often, cough and sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue, and stay home if you are feeling sick.

Interactive Self Assessment Tool for COVID-19

With the increasing severity of the COVID-19 outbreak, Ontario has now launched an enhanced and interactive self-assessment tool. This new easy-to-use tool takes the public through a series of questions to inform those who are concerned they may have contracted COVID-19.

Anyone who may have been exposed to COVID-19, have symptoms or may have travelled outside of Canada should self-isolate and use the interactive self-assessment tool or contact the Health Unit at 1-800-563-2808.

Connect with a Doctor Virtually

Ontario Health (OTN) and partners have launched a virtual care clinic at www.seethedoctor.ca. The website supports the people of Ontario who do not have a family doctor or who cannot access their family doctor during the pandemic.

This free, 24/7, secure online service is for non-urgent, non COVID-19 primary care issues. Once patients register with their OHIP card and code ‘health’, they wait briefly to connect with the next available on-call physician by secure video or audio.

Please keep in mind, this is not to replace usual care by your family doctor, our local Parry Sound Family Health Team medical offices remain open and have made alternations such as offering phone appointments to continue servicing patients in our community.

Mental Health Support

Times like these are very challenging, please know you are not facing this alone. If you are in need of mental health support there are many resources available to you.

24/7 Anonymous online support - www.bigwhitewall.ca
Local Support - Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) - (705) 746-4264 / www.mps.cmha.ca
After hours crisis line 1-888-893-8333
B’Saanibamaadsiwin – Aboriginal Mental Health, Parry Sound – (705) 746-2512
National Suicide Prevention Support line – 1-833-456-4566 / www.crisisservicescanada.ca / Text to 45645
ConnexOntario - www.ConnexOntario.ca or 1-866-531-2600
Talk 4 Healing - www.talk4healing.com or 1-855-554-HEAL (4325)
Self-help Program – www.bouncebackontario.ca
Peer support group - www.huddle.care/covid
Mens peer support group - www.tethr.men
Chat Counselling Service - www.hopeforwellness.ca or 1-855-242-3310
Chat Counselling Service - Wellness Together Canada - https://ca.portal.gs/
Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - https://bit.ly/MindBeaconCOVID
Safe Space - www.vibrant.org/safespace
Caring for kids during a pandemic - www.covidwithkids.org or bethere.org

Resources for Kids

jack.org
Kids Help Phone - www.KidsHelpPhone.ca / 1-800-668-6868 / Text 686868
LGBT Youth Line - www.youthline.ca or text 1-647-694-4275 (Sun-Fri 4pm-9:30pm)
Mental Health Crisis Line for Children and Youth - 1-844-287-9072

Below are some support documents related to mental health during COVID-19:

Additional Information - Posters / Information Sheets / Press Releases

Please see the following links for relevant information as it becomes available.

Town of Parry Sound Media Releases and information

March 18 2020 - Media Release - Additional Facility Closures - Town Office, POA Office & Fire Hall

March 16 2020 - Media Release - Facilities open and closures - Stockey, BOCC & Hall of Fame
March 13 2020 - Enhanced Status Yellow - Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

A press conference regarding Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Parry Sound Area was held on March 13, 2020 and is available for viewing on our Youtube Channel.

Posters, information and press releases from our Health Unit, Provincial and Federal Agencies

April 16, 2021 - The Province of Ontario prohibits recreational camping on public land
January 16, 2021 - Province Extends Reopening Ontario Act Orders
January 15, 2021 - Applications now open for Ontario Small Business Support Grant
January 12, 2021 - Ontario Declares second state of emergency and stay-at-home order
December 21, 2020 - Province announces Provincewide Shutdown commencing December 26, 2020.
December 21, 2020 - Provincial Shutdown Guideline
November 17, 2020 - Main Street Relief Grant for Personal Protective Equipment now available
October 29, 2020 - Ontario Made - Supporting Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters
October 2, 2020 - Province of Ontario introduced a pause on social circles & additional restrictions.
September 28, 2020 - Ontario Launches Recovery Program for Northern Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
June 8, 2020 - Ontario permits more businesses and services to reopen in the coming days
May 14 2020 - Ontario Announces Additional Workplaces that Can Reopen
May 6 2020 - Ontario Further Eases Restrictions on Retail Stores and Essential Construction During COVID-19
April 8 2020 - Changes to Canada Summer Jobs program to help businesses and young Canadians affected by COVID-19
April 7 2020 - Health Unit News Release - Ministry of Health Launches Online Portal for Individuals to Check COVID-19 Test Results
April 7 2020 - Health Unit PSA - Physical Distancing Still in Affect Over Easter
April 6 2020 - Health Unit News Release - Stay Home Except for Essential Reasons
April 3 2020 - Ontario Extends Business Closures to stop the spread of COVID-19
April 2 2020 - Fire Ban Across Province of Ontario
April 1 - 20202 - New $50 million Ontario Together Fund to support the development of essential equipment and supplies.

As additional information becomes available, communications will be made with regards to the West Parry Sound Area (Township of Carling, Municipality of McDougall, Township of McKellar, Seguin Township, Township of The Archipelago, Municipality of Whitestone and the Town of Parry Sound) though the Town of Parry Sound website and social media accounts.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

COVID-19: Notice to Counsel/Paralegals and the Public Re: Provincial Offences Act Matters in the Ontario Court of Justice (May 19, 2020)

1. Introduction

2. Application

3. Limitation Periods Under the Provincial Offences Act

4. Scheduling Directives

4.1 Suspension of All Proceedings

4.2 Suspension of All Appeals

4.3 Judicial Pre-Trials

4.4 Young Persons

5. Electronic Signatures

5.1 Electronic Signatures

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