Dear North Grenville:
Like so many of you, I was shocked and saddened to hear about the devastating shootings in Nova Scotia earlier this week. The tragedy of so many innocent lives lost is difficult to understand. That’s why I made the request to lower the Municipal flags to half-mast. We want to join Canadians to honour and mourn those who were killed in this awful event.
On behalf of all of my Council colleagues, including Councillor Kristin Strackerjan who grew up in Nova Scotia, we would like to send our heartfelt condolences to all those in North Grenville with loved ones in the province who have been touched by this senseless act.
At a time when we are already dealing with added stress from the pandemic, additional crises, like this, further impact mental health. If you are struggling, please reach out. There are a number of resources listed below that are available in our community.
In terms of the COVID-19 situation, earlier this week, the Ontario government announced that all of our collective efforts are working. The curve is beginning to flatten, but it’s still important we remain diligent as a community. As Premier Doug Ford said yesterday, “We can’t let our guard down now.”
Every day in Ontario, there are several hundred more people with the virus, and there continue to be new cases in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Public Health District. In fact, our local Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Paula Stewart, announced that our region has one of the highest number of cases per capita. Please continue to stay home and only go out for essential trips. Keep within your neighbourhoods. If you have to go out, please follow emergency orders. Stay a 2-metre distance from others and do not gather in groups of five or more.
I know we have what it takes to get through this together. Each day, I continue to be inspired by our wonderful community. In the spirit of Volunteer Week, I was thrilled to see so many residents participate in Pitch-In Week – Social Distancing Edition. Thank you.
Councillors McManaman, O'Sullivan and Strackerjan (and her kids!) all helped out with Pitch-In Week.
We will also continue to Make some NOISE in support of all frontline workers every Monday night at 7:30 pm. Take a minute to watch this uplifting video of residents in Bishop's Mills who came out in force with their signs and rang bells and blew whistles to show their appreciation for essential employees in our community - all the while the church bell rang.
Let’s remain committed, North Grenville. Stay home, be safe and connect virtually.
What's New in North Grenville
Make Some Noise for Healthcare and All Frontline Workers Mondays at 7:30 pm: Join us on Monday at 7:30 p.m. to ring bells, clap your hands or bang pots and pans on your front porch to thank frontline healthcare workers, first responders, grocery store, daycare, retirement and nursing home staff and other essential employees who keep our community safe, each and every day! Join our Facebook event and help spread the word!
2020 PITCH-IN Week – Social Distancing Edition (April 19 - 26): Thank you to everyone who pitched-in and helped clean up their neighbourhoods! We look forward to when we can gather in our public parks again for a community Pitch-In event.
Provincial and Federal Government Updates
This week, the Province of Ontario announced that as a result of public health measures, physical distancing and people staying home, the spread of the COVID-19 virus is slowing down. The Chief Medical Officer of Health says emergency measures will remain in place to continue reducing the number of cases and deaths.
The Declaration of Emergency has been extended at least until May 12 to continue to protect the health and safety of the people of Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlight of Important Provincial Emergency Orders
Learn about the province’s Support for families: a one-time payment of $200 per child aged 0-12 years.
Visit: www.ontario.ca/coronavirus to subscribe to or view the latest information.
Government of Canada:
Mental Health and other Local Community Supports
If you are struggling with mental health, please know there are a number of local community supports available to help. Please reach out if you need to:
For the full list of local agencies please visit our website.
List of Local Business Owners Still Serving North Grenville
North Grenville businesses are feeling the love! Thank you for supporting them during this challenging time. Here’s the most up to date list of businesses who remain open to serve you. Many have launched online stores. Check them out and #LoveNG
Our Economic Development Team has put together a list of resources for local businesses – including provincial and federal government financial initiatives. Please visit our website for more details: www.investnorthgrenville.ca/covid19
Remember, the COVID-19 Emergency Orders are the Law
You can help the Municipality support the OPP and public health inspectors to ensure provincial orders are being followed. If you have a concern or complaint, let us know:
You can also contact the Grenville OPP Detachment (for non-emergency calls) at 613-258-3441.
Thank you Council
My Council colleagues and I continue to reach out to community partners, businesses, and residents to show support and give assistance where we can. I thank them for their dedication during this time.
Deputy Mayor Jim McManaman, Planning & Development Liaison
Councillor John Barclay, Public Works Liaison
Councillor Kristin Strackerjan, Emergency & Protective Services Liaison
Councillor Doreen O'Sullivan, Parks, Recreation, & Culture Liaison
