Port Colborne outlines Red-Control restrictions

Effective today, March 1, 2021, the City of Port Colborne along with Niagara region will move to the Red-Control category under the Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework.

“This is a step in the right direction,” said Mayor Bill Steele. “We wish to thank everyone for doing their part to keep Port Colborne safe. Please continue to follow Public Health guidelines as we move forward. Remember, we’re all in this together.”

Under the Red-Control Framework, the following community changes will be in effect March 1:

• 75 per cent capacity for supermarkets and other stores that primarily sell groceries, convenience stores and pharmacies
• 50 per cent capacity for all other retail, including discount and big box retailers, liquor stores, hardware stores and garden centres
• Restaurants are open, max four people per table, max 10 patrons indoors
  • A Section 22 has been issued by Niagara Region Public Health; diners will be asked to confirm that they are dining only with members of their immediate household or persons essential to maintaining physical and mental health
  • Sports and recreational fitness facilities are open, ensuring a three-metre distance is kept, and only 10 patrons total in a gym area
  • Personal care services are open, including hair salons and barbershops, however no service will be offered where masks need to be removed

As of March 1, the following City operations will change:

City Hall Municipal Offices

• City Hall will continue to serve residents by appointment. In-person appointments will be scheduled for essential and time sensitive services. Where possible, services will be provided through remote means.
• To access City services, please call our customer service representative team at 905-835-2900.

Vale Health & Wellness Centre

• The Vale Health & Wellness Centre will open incrementally with limited programs and services
• Rink 2 will open and welcome back skaters and will be available to permit holders only
  • Adhering to the Provincial Framework in Red - Control, the maximum number of participants is 10. One parent/guardian per participant under the age of 18 years old is permitted within the facility to supervise.
  • At this time, the YMCA will not be resuming in-person programs at any of the YMCA of Niagara Health and Fitness locations. For more information on virtual programs, click here.

The Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum

• Individuals can Book a Safe Service (B.A.S.S) by calling the Museum at 905-834-7604
• The Museum is booking 45-minute appointments of no more than four guests, with sanitization taking place in between each appointment.
• Services include guided tours, heritage research, gift shop browsing, artifact donations and membership renewals

The Port Colborne Public Library

• Curbside pickup only, available Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• No in-person services available. The book drop is available 24 hours a day.
• Take & Make Crafts, Print and Reference Services available through curbside pickup
• Wi-Fi is available 24/7

Public Works

• Essential City services, including but not limited to, road maintenance, snow removal and water and wastewater operations will continue

In addition to the Framework guidance, members of the public are reminded of the following:

• Restrict close contacts to your household members only and essential supports. Those who live alone may join with another household for support.
• All in-person activities should be limited outside of the home to essential activities only, this includes work, school, fitness and exercise, access to healthcare, and the purchase of food or drink, gasoline, and automobile maintenance.
• Wear a mask or face covering when around others from another household, out in public places, or outdoors when unable to stay physically distant
• Wash your hands often
• If you have any COVID-19 symptoms or are not feeling well, stay isolated at home and get tested for COVID-19

For more information, please visit www.portcolborne.ca.