Effective Saturday, April 3, 2021, the City of Port Colborne, along with the rest of Ontario, will move into a provincewide shutdown in response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases. This emergency brake will stay in effect for 28 days, while the province closely monitors the impacts of these measures.
“With vaccinations rolling out in Niagara, there is light at the end of the tunnel,” said Mayor Bill Steele. “But until we can get everyone vaccinated, it’s important to follow provincial legislation and public health’s guidance. With numbers increasing and the provincial government officially declaring the beginning of a third wave of the pandemic, this emergency brake will help keep us safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
The following will take effect Saturday, April 3, 2021:
- 50 per cent capacity for supermarkets and other stores that primarily sell groceries, convenience stores and pharmacies
- 25 per cent capacity for all other retail, including discount and big box retailers, liquor stores, hardware stores and garden centres
- Restaurants closed for on-site dining including outdoor patios, takeout only
- Hair salons, barber shops, and tattoo parlors closed
- Personal fitness centres closed
- Religious services open with capacity limits
- Construction to remain open
- For more information, please visit the Government of Ontario website.
The City of Port Colborne is committed to ensuring the health and safety of residents and staff, while continuing to provide customer service to the community. City services will experience the following changes:
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
- Closed to the public
- YMCA programs and services will also be closed to the public
Public Works
- Essential City services, including but not limited to, road maintenance, and water and wastewater operations will continue
The Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum
- Closed to the public. Individuals interested in booking a service for once the lockdown is over, may call the Museum at 905-834-7604 and provide their name and number.
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 Carts, Print and Reference services available through curbside pickup
- Digital library 24/7 with e-books, digital audiobooks, magazines, courses, and programming
“On behalf of City Council and staff, thank you for doing your part in keeping our community safe,” said Mayor Bill Steele. “We know this is frustrating and challenging, but by following the provincial guidelines, you are making a difference.”
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 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 face covering when around others from another household, out in public places, or outdoors when unable to stay physically distant
- Wash hands often
- If you have any COVID-19 symptoms or are not feeling well, stay isolated at home and get tested for COVID-19