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The Town posts regular COVID-19 updates on this page. More information is available on our COVID-19 Response page.

Information updated as of Thursday, June 30, 2021 at 4:15 pm

With British Columbians achieving nearly 80% adult Dose 1 vaccine coverage and COVID-19 case counts continuing to decline, the Province is moving to Step 3 of its four-step restart plan on July 1, 2021. Moving to Step 3 will signal the end to the longest provincial state of emergency in B.C.’s history. The emergency will be lifted on June 30 at 11:59 pm

Step 3 includes:

• Mask & PHO Guidance
  • Masks are recommended in public indoor settings for all people 12 and older who are not yet fully vaccinated. The mask mandate order under the Emergency Program Act will be lifted July 1 and no proof of vaccination will be needed.
  • If you or anyone in your family feels sick stay home and get tested immediately
• Personal Gatherings
  • Return to normal for indoor and outdoor personal gatherings
• Organized Gatherings
  • Indoor organized gatherings 50 people or 50% capacity, whichever is greater
  • Outdoor organized gatherings 5,000 people or 50% capacity, whichever is greater
  • No capacity limits or restrictions on religious gatherings and worship services
  • Fairs, festivals and trade shows return to normal with a Communicable Disease Plan
• Travel
  • Canada-wide recreational travel
• Businesses
  • Restaurants, Bars & Pubs: no group limits for indoor and outdoor dining, events allowed; return to normal liquor service hours; no socializing between tables
  • Nightclubs: up to 10 people seated at tables, tables 2 m apart; no dancing, no socializing between tables
  • Casinos: reduced capacity; gaming stations can operate at approximately 50% capacity
  • Businesses will transition from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a Communicable Disease Plan. Some safety measures will remain, like physical barriers
• Offices and workplaces
  • Continue return to the workplace
  • Seminars and bigger meetings allowed
  • Workplaces will transition from a COVID-19 Safety Plan to a Communicable Disease Plan.
  • Additional safety precautions required in higher risk workplaces.
• Sports and exercise
  • All indoor fitness classes allowed, normal capacity
  • Gyms and recreation facilities, normal capacity
  • Outdoor spectators 5,000 people or 50% capacity, whichever is greater
  • Indoor spectators 50 people or 50% capacity, whichever is greater

Visit gov.bc.ca/restartBC to learn more about the Province's 4-step Restart Plan.

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June 15, 2021

BC's Restart - Step 2 - Starting June 15, 2021

Beginning on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, British Columbia will take the next step in safely bringing people back together, transitioning into Step 2 of BC’s Restart plan, including lifting restrictions on travel within B.C. The transition into Step 2 of the four-step restart plan aligns with key metrics for moving forward. More than 75% of adults are vaccinated with their first dose, exceeding the target Step 2 minimum threshold of 65%. The other metrics for moving through the stages – COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations – continue to steadily decline.

Step 2 includes:

• Ongoing PHO Guidance
  • Physical distancing and masks continue to be required in public indoor settings
  • If you or anyone in your family feels sick stay home and get tested immediately
• Personal Gatherings
  • Outdoor personal gatherings up to 50 people
  • Indoor personal gatherings up to 5 people or 1 other household
  • Playdates
• Organized Gatherings
  • Outdoor seated organized gatherings up to 50 people with a COVID-19 Safety Plan
  • Indoor seated personal gatherings up to 50 people with a COVID-19 Safety Plan
• Travel
  • Recreational travel within B.C. allowed
  • BC Transit and BC Ferries offers increased service as needed
    
• Businesses
  • Indoor and outdoor dining for groups up to 6 people (not restricted to your household or bubble)
  • Liquor served until midnight
  • Banquet halls can operate with limited capacity and a COVID-19 Safety Plan
    
• Offices and workplaces
  • Continue return to the workplace
  • Small, in-person meetings allowed
    
  • Employers must continue to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan and daily health check in place
• Sports and exercise
  • Indoor high and low intensity group exercise allowed with reduced capacity
  • Indoor and outdoor games and practices for both adults and youth group/team sports allowed
  • Outdoor spectators up to 50 allowed, no spectators at any indoor sport activities
    

Visit gov.bc.ca/restartBC to learn more about the Province's 4-step Restart Plan.

 

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May 25, 2021

BC's Restart - Step 1 - Starting May 25, 2021

With more than 60% of adults vaccinated with their first dose and COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations steadily declining, British Columbia is moving forward with the cautious first step of a four-step plan for a careful and safe restart. Step 1 includes:

• Ongoing PHO Guidance
  • Physical distancing and masks continue to be required in public indoor settings
  • If you or anyone in your family feels sick stay home and get tested immediately
• Personal Gatherings
  • Outdoor personal gatherings up to 10 people
  • Indoor personal gatherings up to 5 people or 1 other household
  • Examples of a personal gathering include having friends over to your house or meeting up with friends at a park.
• Organized Gatherings
  • Outdoor seated organized gatherings up to 50 people with a COVID-19 Safety Plan
  • Indoor seated organized gatherings up to 10 people with a COVID-19 Safety Plan
  • Examples of an organized gathering include wedding ceremonies or funerals
• Travel
  • Recreational travel within your travel region allowed
  • Non-essential travel between travel regions continues to be restricted
• Businesses
  
  • Indoor and outdoor dining for groups up to 6 people (not restricted to your household or bubble)
  • Liquor served until 10 pm
• Offices and workplaces
  • Start a gradual return to workplaces
  • Employers must continue to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan and daily health check in place
• Sports and exercise
  • Indoor low intensity group exercise allowed with limited capacity
  • Outdoor games and practices for both adults and youth group/team sports allowed
  • No spectators at any indoor or outdoor sport activities

Visit gov.bc.ca/restartBC to learn more about the Province's 4-step Restart Plan.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

First Dose:

• Everyone 12+ is eligible to register for a COVID-19 vaccine. Those who are registered are being contacted to book their appointment. Register at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca or call 1-833-838-2323.
  

Second Dose:

• If you have received notification that it is time for your second dose of COVID-19 vaccine, remember to book your appointment online using your confirmation code or by calling 1-833-838-2323. You must have a booked appointment to receive your second dose.
• Anyone who booked their first dose vaccination appointment before April 6, or who received their first dose at a community pharmacy, should register in the provincial system to receive a notification about their second dose appointment. This includes anyone who received their vaccine at a whole community clinic. Register at getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca or call 1-833-838-2323.
• If you are unsure if you are registered in the provincial system, please call 1-833-838-2323.
  
  

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April 23, 2021

Restrictions on travel between regions of the province

New travel restrictions are now in effect to help slow the spread of COVID-19. There are three new Travel Regions and until May 25, non-essential travel is not allowed between these regions. Fines can be given to people who leave their region for non-essential travel. The three Travel Regions are:

• Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley (Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health)
• Northern/Interior (Northern Health and Interior Health)
• Vancouver Island (Vancouver Island Health)
  

Everyone is being asked to stay local – do not travel unless it’s for essential reasons. Find more information, including details about the regions, enforcement, and reasons for essential travel, on the Province’s Travel and COVID-19 page.

Update from BC Ferries regarding Provincial Travel Restrictions Order

Starting immediately, in support of the provincial travel restrictions Order announced today by the Province, BC Ferries will deny travel to customers travelling for non-essential reasons on routes crossing regional zones as defined in the Order. Read more on BC Ferries' website.

Vaccine Registration Eligibility Update

As of April 23, 2021:

• Anyone born in or before 2003 (18 years+) can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can register for their vaccine appointment.

Visit gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated to register and for more information.

A provincial call centre (1-833-838-2323) is available for people who do not have a Personal Health Number or need additional support making an appointment.

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April 19, 2021

Provincial Restrictions Extended

On April 19, 2021, the Provincial Health Officer extended strengthened province-wide restrictions to May 25, 2021. This includes the current restrictions on restaurants, pubs, bars and indoor group fitness activities. The Expedited Workplace Closure order also remains in place.

The province also announced that new orders will be in put in place later this week under the Emergency Program Act, to restrict vacation and recreation travel outside of your health authority.

Review the province-wide restrictions and recommendations at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restrictions

Vaccine Registration Eligibility Update

As of April 19, 2021:

• Anyone born in or before 1981 (40 years+) can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can register for their vaccine appointment.

The Province & Island Health have released a new schedule for when upcoming age cohorts are eligible to register for their vaccine:

• Born 1986 or earlier (35+) - register Tuesday, April 20
• Born 1991 or earlier (30+) - register Wednesday, April 21
• Born 1996 or earlier (25+) - register Thursday, April 22
• Born 2003 or earlier (18+) - register Friday, April 23

Visit gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated to register and for more information.

A provincial call centre (1-833-838-2323) is available for people who do not have a Personal Health Number or need additional support making an appointment.

Pharmacy Vaccinations for People born 1981 and earlier (40+)

As of April 19, 2021, anyone born in 1981 and earlier (40+) can get the AstraZeneca COVISHIELD vaccine at eligible pharmacies all over BC.

The BC Pharmacy Assoication is updating a list of eligible pharmacies, with contact information and links to eligible pharmacies' websites and online registration systems where applicable.

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April 12, 2021

Vaccine Registration Eligibility Update

As of April 12, 2021:

• All seniors born in or before 1966 (55 years+) can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can register for their vaccine appointment.

Eligible individuals can use B.C.’s new online registration system. Visit gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated to register and for more information.

A provincial call centre (1-833-838-2323) is available for people who do not have a Personal Health Number or need additional support making an appointment.

Upcoming Age Cohort Eligibility Schedule

The Province & Island Health have released a new schedule for when upcoming age cohorts are eligible to register for their vaccine:

• Born 1971 or earlier (50+) - register Wednesday, April 14
• Born 1976 or earlier (45+) - register Friday, April 16
• Born 1981 or earlier (40+) - register Monday, April 19
  
  

Pharmacy Vaccinations for People Aged 55 to 65

People born between 1956 and 1966 can get the AstraZeneca COVISHIELD vaccine at eligible pharmacies all over BC.

• Find more information and a map of eligible pharmacies at: https://gov.bc.ca/pharmacy-vaccine
• Contact the pharmacy and book directly. Some pharmacies have online registration.
  
• The BC Pharmacy Assoication is updating a list of eligible pharmacies, with contact information and links to eligible pharmacies' websites and online registration systems where applicable.
  
  

Supporting Local Businesses

Local businesses have been working hard for over a year to adapt to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. We are thankful for our local business community and for all the measures they have already taken and continue to adopt to keep their staff and patrons safe. We would also like to thank our community for supporting local businesses during these challenging economic times.

Let’s keep supporting our amazing local businesses! Thanks to the Sidney BIA for the following helpful resources:

• Visit the SBIA’s Downtown Sidney Restaurant Guide for a listing of restaurants and cafés offering outdoor seating, take-out, and delivery options.
• Visit the SBIA’s online Sidney Marketplace to browse, shop, and discover more about some amazing businesses operating in Sidney.

 

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April 8, 2021

Vaccine Registration Eligibility Update

As of April 8, 2021:

• All seniors born in or before 1956 (65 years+) can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can register for their vaccine appointment.

If you are eligible to make a vaccination appointment, you can use B.C.’s new online registration system. Visit gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated to register and for more information.

A provincial call centre (1-833-838-2323) is available for people who do not have a Personal Health Number or need additional support making an appointment.

Province announces new relief grant for hospitality and fitness businesses

The B.C. Government's new Circuit Breaker Business Relief Grant will provide up to $10,000 in one-time funding for businesses impacted by the March 30th public health orders. The grant can be used to cover expenses like rent, utilities, or food loss. Learn more: https://gov.bc.ca/business-relief

New provincial health officer Expedited Workplace Closure order

Workplaces continue to be sustained areas of transmission, clusters and outbreaks. These have strained public health resources to manage, so a new provincial health officer Expedited Workplace Closure order is being put in place to allow WorkSafeBC inspectors to support the work of public health and to support businesses when a COVID-19 outbreak occurs at the worksite.

Starting Monday, April 12, when the public health investigation determines that transmission has occurred at the workplace, an order may be issued closing the workplace for 10 days or longer to stop the transmission. Read more in today's provincial COVID-19 statement.

 

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April 6, 2021

Vaccine Registration - Updated Eligibility Schedule & New Online Registration System

As of April 6, 2021:

• All seniors born in or before 1950 (71 years+) can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can register for their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can register for their vaccine appointment.

If you are eligible to make a vaccination appointment, you can use B.C.’s new online registration system starting April 6, 2021. Visit gov.bc.ca/getvaccinated to register and for more information.

A provincial call centre (1-833-838-2323) is available for people who do not have a Personal Health Number or need additional support making an appointment.

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible individual.

Visit the Province's Vaccine Plan page for the latest information regarding BC's Immunization Plan, including estimated eligibility dates for upcoming age groups.

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April 1, 2021

Update from Island Health

Island Health is urging people to avoid the high-risk activities that have pushed COVID-19 cases to an all-time high throughout our region - now is not the time to travel or gather indoors.

With the upcoming long weekend and important religious holidays that normally bring friends and family together, Island Health is calling on everyone to closely follow the Orders and guidelines put in place by the Provincial Health Officer. Read more >

Province-Wide Restrictions Amended

To address rising COVID-19 case counts, protect people and communities and help break the chain of COVID-19 transmission, the provincial health officer amended the provincial public health orders as March 30, 2021 at midnight. New and amended orders and guidelines are in effect through April 19, 2021, and include:

• For restaurants, bars and pubs, all food and liquor-serving premises must only provide take-out or delivery service. Dine-in service is prohibited, except for outdoor patios. People dining on patios should do so with their immediate household or core bubble.
• Indoor, adult group fitness activities of any kind are also paused. Gyms and fitness centres are restricted to individual or one-on-one activities only i.e. one-on-one personal training.
• The previously announced class variance for limited indoor worship services has been suspended. Outdoor worship services under the current variance may continue.
• Travel continues to be limited to essential travel, work or medical reasons only. For those who have travelled outside their health region, if you or anyone in your family develops any signs of illness, you must stay home from work, school or daycare, and arrange to get tested immediately.
• Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort is closed through to April 19, 2021, to address and prevent community spread related to non-essential travel.
• All workers are strongly encouraged to work from home, where possible.
• Public health guidance for schools has also been amended to support and encourage students down to Grade 4 to wear masks while at school.

Additional information can be found on the BC Government's Province-Wide restrictions page.

Vaccine Registration - Updated Eligibility Schedule

As of April 1, 2021:

• All seniors born in or before 1949 (72 years+) can call to book their vaccine appointment.
• Indigenous Peoples aged 18 + can call to book their vaccine appointment.
• Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) can call to book their vaccine appointment.

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible individual.

Visit the Province's Vaccine Plan page for the latest information regarding BC's Immunization Plan, including estimated eligibility dates for upcoming age groups.

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March 25, 2021

Social Visitors Allowed in Long-Term Care

Starting April 1, 2021, family and friends can visit their loved ones in long-term care and assisted living facilities more regularly. All social visits still need to be scheduled in advance. Read more >

BC Government Increases Fines for Gatherings and Events

Fines for those who promote or attend a non-compliant gathering or event are now $575, up from $230. Fines for those who organize or host a prohibited event remain $2,300. Read more >

Updated PHO Orders for Religious Gatherings

Updates to restrictions around faith-based gatherings can be found on the BC Government's Province-Wide restrictions page.

Vaccine Registration - Updated Eligibility Schedule

• As of March 25, 2021, all seniors born in or before 1945 (76 years+) and Indigenous people born in or before 1966 (55 years+) can call to book their vaccine appointment.
• March 26 at 12 pm: Seniors born in or before 1947 (74 years+) may call to book their vaccine appointment.
• March 29: Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (must have invitation letter) may call to book their vaccine appointment.

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible individual.

Visit the Province's Vaccine Plan page for the latest information regarding BC's Immunization Plan, including estimated eligibility dates for upcoming age groups.

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March 19, 2021

Vaccine Registration - Updated Eligibility Schedule

Call centres continue to process vaccination appointment bookings ahead of schedule. The Province and Island Health have released updated vaccine registration eligibility information. Please only call in when you are eligible, otherwise your appointment will not be booked. If you miss your initial age-based window, you can call anytime after you become eligible.

• Year of birth in or before 1941 (80+ seniors)
  Year of birth in or before 1966 for Indigenous people (55+ )
  Registration opens Saturday, March 20 at 12 pm
• Year of birth in or before 1943 (78+ seniors)
  Registration opens Monday, March 22 at 12 pm
• Year of birth in or before 1944 (77+ seniors)
  Registration opens Tuesday, March 23 at 12pm
• *Updated* Year of birth in or before 1945 (75+ seniors)
  Registration opens Thursday, March 25 at 12pm
• *Updated* Year of birth in or before 1946 (74+ seniors)
  Registration opens Friday, March 26 at 12pm

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible senior.

The province also shared additional information on the Province-wide COVID-19 Immunization Plan, including that starting in April, front-line priority workers can receive their first vaccine dose. Visit the Province's Vaccine Plan page for more information.

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March 15, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine Registration - Updated Eligibility Schedule

Call centres are processing vaccination appointment bookings ahead of schedule. The Province and Island Health have released updated vaccine registration eligibility information. Please only call in when you are eligible, otherwise your appointment will not be booked. If you miss your initial age-based window, you can call anytime after you become eligible.

• Year of birth in or before 1931 (90+ seniors)
  Year of birth in or before 1956 for Indigenous people
  Registration opened March 8
  Immunizations began March 15
• Year of birth in or before 1936 (85+ seniors)
  Registration opened March 11
  Immunizations begin March 22
• Year of birth in or before 1937 (84+ seniors)
  Registration will open March 15 at 12pm (New)
• Year of birth in or before 1938 (83+ seniors)
  Registration will open March 16 at 12pm (New)
• Year of birth in or before 1939 (82+ seniors)
  Registration will open March 17 at 12pm (New)
• Year of birth in or before 1940 (81+ seniors)
  Registration will open March 18 at 12pm (New)
• Year of birth in or before 1941 (80+ seniors)
  Registration will open March 19 at 12pm (New)

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible senior.

St. Patrick's Day liquor sales

The PHO announced that effective March 17 at 8 pm until March 18 at 9 am, the service and sale of alcohol is prohibited. This applies to any establishment that sells or serves alcohol, including restaurants, bars and pubs, and liquor stores and grocery stores. Unless a full meal service is provided, premises which are licensed to serve liquor must close between 9 pm on March 17 and 9 am on March 18.

Visit the BC Government's Province-Wide Restrictions page for more information.

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March 11, 2021

Provincial Health Officer amends Gathering & Events order

The PHO has amended the gathering and events order. Up to 10 people may now gather outdoors. All restrictions for indoor gatherings remain in place. For example:

• Up to 10 people may gather at a park or beach
• Up to 10 people may gather in the backyard of a residence
• No gatherings of any size are allowed indoors

Do not gather with several groups of new people – stick to the same people. Continue to use COVID-19 layers of protection and maintain physical distancing.

Visit the BC Government's Province-Wide Restrictions page for more about the amended order and other ongoing restrictions.

Seniors 85+ and Indigenous peoples 65+ can now call to book an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine

The BC Government and Island Health announced that call centres have been able to process vaccination appointment bookings for seniors aged 90+ days ahead of schedule, so starting today - March 11 - at 12:00 pm, seniors 85+ and Indigenous peoples aged 65+ can call and book an appointment.

Visit Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine page for more information about how to book an appointment for yourself or on behalf of an eligible senior.

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March 1, 2021 (Updated March 11)

Today, the provincial government announced Phase 2 of B.C.'s COVID-19 immunization plan.

Beginning on March 8th, seniors aged 80+ and indigenous people aged 65+ who don’t currently receive home support services or live in an independent living or a seniors’ supportive housing facility, will be able to call Island Health to book their vaccination appointment in their community.

Immunization appointments will begin on March 15. All health authorities in B.C. are registering individuals starting in the three age groupings below.

Registration eligibility for the COVID-19 Vaccine

• March 8, 2021: Seniors born in or before 1931 (90 years+) and Indigenous people born in or before 1956 (65 years+) may call to book their vaccine appointment. Immunizations will begin March 15.
  
• March 11, 2021 (Updated): Seniors born in or before 1936 (85 years+) may call to book their vaccine appointment. Immunizations will begin March 22.
  

How to Register

Only call in when you’re eligible. If you miss your initial age-based dates, you can call anytime after you become eligible.

You will need to provide your:

• Legal first and last name
• Date of birth
• Postal code
• Personal health number (aka: care card)
• Contact information (direct phone number or support person phone number)

The call centre agent will confirm your appointment date and time at the location nearest to you.

How to register for the COVID-19 Vaccine on behalf of an eligible individual

 

Here's what happens when you call on behalf of someone:

• The phone agent verifies who you are calling for and asks you to provide their age and personal information
• You work with the phone agent to select an appointment time slot at a clinic close to the home of the person you're calling for
• The phone agent confirms the appointment time and clinic location
• If you've provided contact information, you get a confirmation message sent by email or text

Exceptions to the call-in process for Phase 2

Our health authority, Island Health, will contact some people directly to book appointments. If you fall into the following groups, there is no need to call:

• community health workers
• long-term home support clients
• people living and working in independent living centres
• people living and working in seniors supportive housing
• hospital staff
• community general practitioners and medical specialists (and office staff)

For more information, please visit:

• Island Health's COVID-19 Vaccine Information page
• BC Government's COVID-19 Immunization Plan
  
  

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February 5, 2021

Government of B.C. extends province-wide restrictions

Today, the province announced that the current province-wide public health orders are being extended. Restrictions include:

• Non-essential travel advisory
• Socialize with your household only
• Restrictions to amateur sports
• High-risk group fitness suspended
• Masks mandatory in indoor public places
• No events or gatherings
  

B.C.'s Provincial Health Officer and the Minister of Health included these messages in their joint statement: “We want to protect the progress we have made since the start the year and not throw away our success. To do this, we need to buy ourselves some time – time to get our immunization program back up to speed as vaccine supply is restored and scaled up, and time to understand whether and how the variants of concern will affect transmission in our communities. This understanding will allow us to respond to any surge in the variants of concern quickly, and we need only look around us to see how severe the impact can be if infections with these variants take off. With this in mind, the current provincewide public health orders are being kept in place.

“Between now and the end of the month, we will be continually reconsidering the need for the restrictions based on incidence and prevalence of the virus, new information about transmission, especially understanding the impact of variants, and the progress of vaccine supply and our immunization program.

“Each holiday and occasion this month – Super Bowl, Lunar New Year, Family Day or Valentine’s Day – is an opportunity for us to either allow the virus to spread or to slow it down even more. The choice is ours to make. Staying small and staying local, with fewer new cases, outbreaks, severe illness and deaths are the signs that we are through the hard push that we are on right now. Let’s continue to push our curve down – today, tomorrow, this weekend and next, so we can get to the brighter, safer days ahead.”

• Read the full statement
• Review the extended province-wide restrictions
  
  

Province announces enhanced safety measures for K-12 schools

On February 4, 2021, the Government of B.C. announced enhanced safety measures for K-12 schools. New changes include:

• Masks must be worn in all indoor areas by middle/secondary students and all K-12 staff
• Gym classes will be held outside as much as possible
• Strict cleaning guidelines for shared instruments and equipment
• New K-12 Health Check app
• New regional rapid response teams for K-12 — one in each health authority and one for independent schools.

Read the provincial statement >
Review the updated guidelines >

COVID-19 ICBC customer rebates

ICBC customers will receive one-time rebates averaging $190 this spring – their part of $600 million that was saved due to a major decrease in crashes and costs as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. Read more >

Government of Canada announces one-year ban for cruise vessels

On Thursday, February 4, 2021, the Government of Canada announced two new Interim Orders, which prohibit pleasure craft in Canadian Arctic waters and cruise vessels in all Canadian waters until February 28, 2022. Read more >

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January 29, 2021

Federal Update - Further restrictions on international travel

Today, the Government of Canada announced new rules on international travel, including suspending all flights to and from Mexico and Caribbean countries until April 30, 2021. This will be in effect as of January 31, 2021. Read more >

Provincial Information & Updates

Today, B.C.'s Provincial Health Officer and the Minister of Health included these messages in their joint statement: "January has proven to be a difficult month for all of us. As our new cases of COVID-19 remain high, vaccine supply has been impacted and we all feel the fatigue of this pandemic. But we have to remember that this month has also brought more light. Each day, more of the people who are most vulnerable to severe illness are now protected. With that, we have seen a notable decline in the outbreaks in long-term care.

"We all need to hold off on our travel plans until we can be sure we won’t be bringing the virus with us or bringing it back to our families and communities. Our layers of protection are a combination of the provincial public health restrictions, our personal actions and precautions, and supporting each other to do the right thing – with no exception. This combined effort is what will push our curve down.

"This time is about each of us choosing to do all we can. This is what allows us to keep as much as is safe open and also slow the spread of COVID-19. Staying apart, small and local. That’s the path we need to stay on right now." Read more >

Visit the Province's dedicated webpages for information and updates on BC's current province-wide restrictions and COVID-19 immunization plan.

• BC's Province-Wide Restrictions
• BC's COVID-19 Immunization Plan
  
  
  

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January 5, 2021

Saanich Peninsula Hospital Outbreak Over

On December 31, 2020, Island Health declared the COVID-19 outbreak at the Sannich Peninsula Hospital over.  Read more >

Health Canada Authorizes Second COVID-19 Vaccine 

On December 23, 2020, Health Canada authorized the second COVID-19 vaccine in Canada, manufactured by Moderna. Read more >

Pre-departure COVID Testing to be Required for Air Travellers Coming to Canada

Starting 11:59 pm (EST) January 6, 2021, air travellers 5 years of age or older will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test result to the airline prior to boarding international flights bound for Canada. Read more >

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December 9, 2020

Health Canada Authorizes First COVID-19 Vaccine

Health Canada has authorized Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine. After a thorough and independent review of the evidence, Health Canada has determined that the vaccine meets its stringent safety, efficacy and quality requirements.

More information can be found in Health Canada’s media advisory: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2020/12/health-canada-authorizes-first-covid-19-vaccine.html

B.C.'s COVID-19 Immunization Strategy

Today, the provincial government released information about how the COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed in B.C. As part of B.C.'s COVID-19 immunization strategy, the first round of COVID-19 vaccinations begin the week of December 14, 2020.

Find information about vaccine safety, distribution plans, and the phased approach of vaccinations on the Province's COVID-19 Vaccines page.

Island Health Update Regarding Saanich Peninsula Hospital COVID-19 Outbreak

Island Health has provided an update today on the COVID-19 outbreak at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital. You can read the update at: https://www.islandhealth.ca/news/covid-19-outbreaks/saanich-peninsula-hospital-covid-19-outbreak-update

Restrictions in effect at Town of Sidney Sports Courts & Fields

As a result of the provincial health officer order suspending all indoor and outdoor adult sports until January 8, 2021, the following restrictions are in effect at Town of Sidney sports fields and courts:

• For those 22+, all group sports have been suspended. This includes soccer, basketball, baseball, football, rugby, street hockey, and more. Find more information on the B.C. Government’s Province-Wide Restrictions page.
  
• Organized sports for people under 22 years of age are permitted, but must meet and follow viaSport's Return to Sport Phase 2 guidance.
  

Additional information can be found on the Town’s Parks & Pathways page.

For more information on the restrictions, please visit the B.C. Government’s Province Wide Restrictions page.

Applications for BC Recovery Benefit Open December 18, 2020

British Columbians will be able to apply for the BC Recovery Benefit starting December 18, 2020. This one-time, tax-free payment of up to $1,000 for families & single parents, & up to $500 for individuals, will help support British Columbians who are dealing with the pressures of COVID-19. The amount you’re eligible for will be automatically calculated based on your income when you apply.

• $1,000 for families with incomes under $125,000. Families earning up to $175,000 will qualify for a reduced benefit amount. Single-parent families also qualify for these benefit amounts.
• $500 for single people earning less than $62,500. Single people earning up to $87,500 will qualify for a reduced benefit amount.

More information about the BC Recovery Benefit can be found at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/economic-recovery/recovery-benefit

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December 7, 2020

Provincial Restrictions Extended to January 8, 2020

The provincial health officer’s orders restricting all gatherings and events have been extended through to January 8, 2021, at midnight. This includes gatherings in people’s homes and in public venues. Public health orders and directions for all of BC include:

• Non-essential travel advisory
• Socialize with your household only (or your core bubble if you live alone)
• Adult team sports suspended
• High-risk group fitness suspended
• Masks mandatory in indoor public places
• No events or gatherings

The same requirements and exemptions from the published orders continue to apply, with one new change: drive-through and drive-in to drop off people and leave events, as well as drive-in and stay in your car events to a maximum of 50 cars are now allowed.

B.C.'s Provincial Health Officer and the Minister of Health have jointly stated: “We understand that, for many of us, this will mean celebrating the important December holidays in a different, smaller way than what we are used to. We can still be festive, but let’s ensure it is only with our immediate household. As hard as this may be, let’s remember that the sacrifices we make now will protect our loved ones and countless others throughout our province. Your efforts and sacrifices are making a difference. Staying small and staying local over the holidays is what we all need to do. It will help to ease the pressure going into the year ahead and will also help to protect our province until vaccines are widely available.”

For details on the restrictions, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support/restrictions

To view updated PHO orders, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Federal Update - COVID-19 Vaccine

The Federal Government announced today that following successful negotiations, Canada will receive up to 249,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in December 2020, contingent on Health Canada authorization of the vaccine.

Pfizer, the Public Health Agency of Canada with the Canadian Armed Forces, and the Provinces and Territories are working together to finalize preparations at the first point-of-use sites this week, including training on how to handle the product, which must be transported and stored at -70 degrees Celsius.

The province will announce more details about the distribution of the vaccine in B.C. during a full briefing later this week.

For more details, visit the Federal Government's announcement at: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-services-procurement/news/2020/12/canada-to-receive-early-delivery-of-pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine.html

 

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December 2, 2020

COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital

Island Health has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at Saanich Peninsula Hospital (SPH) after evidence of transmission in acute care areas.

Please note:

• The emergency department at SPH remains open - please do not avoid emergency care
• Outpatient services at SPH are open
• Visitors will be limited during this outbreak

Upon declaring the outbreak, Island Health immediately implemented precautions, including enhanced cleaning and contact tracing to protect the health of all staff, medical staff and patients.

Read more on Island Health's website at: https://www.islandhealth.ca/news/news-releases/covid-19-outbreak-saanich-peninsula-hospital

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November 27, 2020

Ministerial Order on Use of Masks in Indoor Public Spaces

The Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General has aligned the Province’s measures under the Emergency Program Act (EPA) with the provincial health officer’s (PHO) guidance that masks must be worn in indoor public places.

This ministerial order on masks ensures a co-ordinated response to COVID-19. Masks are now required to be worn by all British Columbians, 12 years and older, in many indoor public settings. These include:

• malls, shopping centres, coffee shops, and retail and grocery stores;
• liquor and drug stores;
• airports, city halls, libraries, community and recreation centres;
• restaurants, pubs and bars;
• places of public worship;
• on public transportation, in a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle;
• common areas of office buildings, court houses, hospitals and hotels;
• common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity; and
• common areas of post-secondary institutions and non-profit organizations.

Working with public health officials, Emergency Management BC anticipates issuing further orders to enforce requirements for masks in common areas of apartment buildings, condos and workplaces. This first order covers the high-traffic public settings where people who do not know each other often interact.

Enforcement
To report non-emergency contraventions of this mask order, people are asked to contact their local government’s bylaw office. Local bylaw officers can help follow-up on concerns, provide education, and engage police departments and WorkSafe BC as necessary. If they are unable to reach a local bylaw office, they can contact their local police department’s non-emergency line. Police may be called if someone has become threatening or abusive in response to a request to put on a mask.

• To report non-emergency contraventions of the mask order during Town business hours (Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, excluding statutory holidays):
  Call Town of Sidney Bylaw: 250-656-4502
• To report non-emergency contraventions of the mask order after Town business hours:
  Call the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP Non-Emergency Phone Line: 250-656-3931
• To report an emergency contravention of the mask order (if someone becomes threatening or abusive):
  Call 9-1-1.

Review the Province’s full statement on mask enforcement measures at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0061-001960

Review the Ministerial Order on the Use of Face Coverings in Indoor Public Spaces at: https://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/mo/mo/m0425_2020

COVID-19 Friendly Activities

Even though we may be staying small right now, that doesn’t stop us from staying connected and staying active. We’re compiling ideas of COVID-19-friendly activities in our community. Some examples include:

• Send cheerful drawings or messages of kindness and support to residents in local senior care homes. Letters and art can be sent to:
  • Sidney Care Home
    9888 Fifth Street
    Sidney, BC V8L 2X3
  • Amica Beechwood Village
    2315 Mills Road
    Sidney, BC V8L 5W6
• Go for an evening walk down Beacon Avenue to see the festive decorations and lights along the street and in storefronts. More information about Sidney's Christmas by the Sea can be found on the Sidney BIA's website.
  
• Do a puzzle on a rainy day. We've created a series of online puzzles featuring some special sights of Sidney - check them out on the Town's Puzzling by the Sea page.
  
• Take a virtual tour of a local artist's studio. ArtSea VIRTUAL Artist Tours is a collection of more than 30 virtual artist videos. You can see recent artwork, watch artist demonstrations, and learn about the artistic process.
  
• And many, many more! Visit our Community Activities page for more ideas.
  
  

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November 19, 2020 (Updated November 27)

PHO order on province-wide restrictions

By order and direction of the PHO, all individuals, places of work and businesses in B.C. must significantly reduce social interactions and travel.

The following orders are in effect from November 19, 2020 at midnight to December 7, 2020 at midnight:

• Mandatory mask mandate for workers & customers in indoor public & retail spaces, and in workplace common areas
• No events or social gatherings with anyone outside your household or core bubble (if you live alone)
• Travel advisory in BC - essential travel only
• Spin classes, hot yoga, and high intensity interval training are suspended.
• No spectators – and no travel outside your community – for sports games
  

See the BC Government's Province-Wide Restrictions page for more details.

Social gatherings and events

No social gatherings of any size with anyone other than your household or core bubble. For example, do not invite friends or extended family to your household; do not gather outdoors; do not gather in your backyard; do not have playdates for children.

All events and community-based gatherings as defined in the PHO order – Gatherings and Events are suspended. For example: galas, musical or theatre performances, seasonal activities, silent auctions.

Core bubble
For most people, their core bubble is their immediate household. For others, their core bubble may contain a partner, relative, friend or co-parent who lives in a different household. This should be a maximum of two people outside of those living in your immediate household.

An immediate household is a group of people who live in the same dwelling. For example, if you have a rental suite in your home, the suite is a separate household. If you live in an apartment or house with roommates, you are all members of the same household.

People who live alone
People who live alone cannot host gatherings. They can continue to see the same one or two people of their core bubble at each other’s homes.

University students
Welcoming your child home from university is okay. This is not a social gathering.

Restrictions by Sector
Additional information about restrictions by sector for the following can be found on the BC Government's Province-Wide Restrictions page.

• Funerals, weddings, and baptisms
• Formal meetings
• Rental and home sale viewings
• Religious gatherings and worship services
• Workplaces

Allowed activities
These activities are not considered a social gathering:

• Going for a walk. You must make sure a walk does not turn into a group of people meeting outside
• Parents carpooling kids to and from school
• Grandparents providing child care
  
  

Restaurants and Bars

The order does not impact restaurants and bars. Restaurants and bars can continue to operate as long as they have a COVID-19 Safety Plan and employee protocols in place. You should only visit a restaurant with people in your household or core bubble. Remember, a maximum of six people at a table. Reservations for private parties that include more than one household or core bubble must be cancelled.

WorkSafeBC will be conducting inspections to verify that COVID-19 Safety Plans remain effective. Restaurants that are noncompliant with plan requirements may face orders and fines, and possible referral to public health which may result in a closure order.

Athletic Activities

Indoor group physical activities
Businesses, recreation centres or other organizations that organize or operate high risk indoor group physical activities must suspend the following activities: spin classes; hot yoga; high intensity interval training (HIIT).

Venues that organize or operate other types of indoor group physical activities must suspend them temporarily while new guidance is being developed. These include: Gymnastics; Dance studios; Martial arts; Yoga; Pilates; Strength and conditioning; Cheerleading.

Gyms and recreation facilities
Gyms and recreation facilities that offer individual workouts and personal training sessions can remain open as long as they have a COVID-19 Safety Plan that is strictly followed.

Sports games, competitions and practices
Games, competitions and practices can continue with no spectators and no travel.

Spectators
No spectators are allowed at any sport activities under the order. The only people allowed to attend sport activities are those that provide care to a participant or player. For example, providing first aid.

Travel for athletic activities
Travel to, from and between regions for athletic activities like games, competitions, training and practice is restricted under this order.

Exemptions
High performance athletes are not included in the order.

Mask requirements

Masks are now required for everyone in all public indoor settings and workplaces. People who cannot wear a mask or who cannot put on or remove a mask on their own are exempt. Employers are expected to enforce the mandatory mask policy with both employees and customers. A customer can be refused entry or service if they do not wear a mask.

Masks in public indoor settings
Masks are required in all indoor public settings and all retail stores.

Masks at workplaces
Masks are required in all workplaces for shared work areas and areas where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Travel Advisory

At this time, all non-essential travel should be avoided. This includes travel into and out of B.C. and between regions of the province.

Coming from outside of B.C.
At this time, people travelling to B.C. from another province or territory within Canada should only come for essential reasons. If you do travel for essential reasons, you are expected to follow the same travel guidelines as everyone else in B.C.

Enforcement

During a public health emergency under the Public Health Act, the PHO can make orders as needed. You must follow the orders.

Under the Government’s Emergency Program Act, some orders can be enforced by police or other compliance and enforcement officials. People who don't follow these order could be fined.

Additional information can be found on the BC Government's Province Wide Restrictions page.

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October 27, 2020

New Provincial Health Order Limiting Gatherings in Private Homes

A new provincial health officer order has been put in place, as of October 26, 2020, limiting gatherings in private homes to no more than your immediate household, plus six others. This is a province-wide order that applies to all homes for all occasions.

The new order has been put in place due to a notable increase in new cases and transmission of COVID-19 as a direct result of social gatherings in private homes.

Read more in the October 26, 2020 statement: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0317-001895

Provincial Messaging Regarding Masks in Public Spaces

In their recent update, Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, and Stephen Brown, deputy minister of health, shared updated messaging regarding wearing masks in indoor public spaces: “In light of the increased risks with respiratory season, the expectation is that people will wear masks in all indoor public spaces. As part of this, businesses are asked to review their COVID-19 safety plans with this in mind. If you are in a high-traffic area or among many people outside of your household while at work, a mask will help to protect you and those around you.”

You can find the message regarding wearing masks in indoor public spaces in the October 26, 2020 statement: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0317-001895

Special Edition of Town Talk Newsletter

A special edition of our Town Talk Newsletter will be arriving in mailboxes over the next few days. This issue of Town Talk is intended to provide resources and support to our community as we continue to adapt to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here to read the online version of the newsletter.

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October 21, 2020

Island Health Information Regarding the Flu Vaccine

Our public health authority, Island Health, has emphasized that this year, getting a flu shot is particularly important, not only for influenza prevention, but also to stay healthy while COVID-19 continues to circulate in our communities. For more information regarding flu immunization, visit Island Health’s website.

Island Health has also shared information regarding booking appointments for flu shots at their public health flu clinics as well as other flu clinic options:

• Find a list of all of Island Health's public health flu clinics at: https://islandfluclinics.ca
• Find a list of Island Health's public health flu clinics in Sidney at: https://www.islandfluclinics.ca/?q=locations_city&tid_1=61
• Find other options for getting immunized for the flu at: https://immunizebc.ca/clinics/flu
  
  

Sidney’s Halloween Spooktacular

The Sidney Business Improvement Area Society announced the launch of Sidney's sixth annual Halloween Spooktacular, running from October 23 to October 31, 2020. This year's event features spooky displays throughout Sidney, special interactive features, exhibits, a community pumpkin patch, contests, and more! Visit www.exploresidney.ca/halloween for all the details!

Additionally, the BC Centre for Disease Control has shared guidance on how to celebrate Halloween and trick-or-treat safely this year. You can find the information on their website at: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween

Video Recording of Virtual Town Hall on Community Well-Being

On October 14, Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith hosted a virtual Town Hall on Community Well-Being. For those who weren’t able to participate, a video recording of the virtual event can be viewed on our Virtual Town Hall Series page.

Thank you to the informative guest speakers and to all who “attended!”

Federal Update

• Canada and the United States have agreed to extend the temporary restriction of all non-essential travel across the Canada-U.S. border until November 21, 2020.
  
  

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October 8, 2020

Thanksgiving Guidance

Our Provincial Health Officer and the province's Deputy Minister of Health have reminded us to keep our Thanksgiving celebrations large in thanks but small in size. While many of us would often travel to friends and family to spend time together, now is the time to stay closer to home and have a smaller gathering instead.

We can show our gratitude by doing a small kindness for a friend, neighbour or family member. Reaching out virtually or by phone, helping with a small task or a sending a care package tells people in your life and community that you care. We’re all in this together, and we have come this far by supporting each other while staying apart.

Provincial guidance states that if you are getting together with your ‘safe six’ for Thanksgiving, limit your time together prior to or following your meal, seat guests as far apart as possible and opt for individual servings instead of a buffet. And always remember if you are at all feeling ill, show you care by staying home and away from others.

You can find additional guidance for safe celebrations on the BC Centre for Disease Control's website at: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

Virtual Town Hall on Community Well Being

Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith will be hosting a virtual Town Hall on Community Well-Being on Wednesday, October 14 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put an emotional and mental strain on everyone. Community and personal well-being are more important than ever. The virtual town hall will provide information and offer an opportunity to ask about what’s going on in the community during the fall & winter, staying healthy during cold & flu season, community policing, and more.

The virtual Town Hall will be hosted on the video meeting platform “Zoom.” You can find the meeting details on our Virtual Town Hall Series page.

Halloween Guidance

The BC Centre for Disease Control has shared guidance on how to trick-or-treat safely this Halloween. You can find the information on their website at: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween

The Sidney BIA will be announcing details regarding Sidney's sixth annual Halloween Spooktacular - stay tuned for more information coming soon!

Island Health COVID-19 Testing Update

If you need a COVID-19 test, you can now call Island Health's COVID-19 Testing Call Centre and leave a callback number rather than waiting on-hold. The Testing Call Centre can be reached at 1-844-901-8442 (seven days a week, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm).

For more information about symptoms and testing, visit Island Health's website at: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/symptoms-testing-and-isolation

Meet Your Street

Neighbourhood connections are a vital foundation for resilient communities, and they are especially important now as the COVID-19 pandemic is keeping us close to home and increasing feelings of social isolation in many members of our community.

The Town of Sidney has launched a new program called “Meet Your Street” that aims to enhance neighbourly connections and build neighbourhood resilience. Meet Your Street is a resident-led effort to help neighbours get to know each other, largely through neighbourhood activities.

If you are interested in getting to know your neighbours better and starting your own neighbourhood group, contact Donna Barner at dbarner@sidney.ca or 250-656-2121 and ask for your free Resource Guide to start bringing your neighbourhood together! More information can be found at www.sidney.ca/meetyourstreet

Federal Update - Government of Canada Announces New Recovery Benefits

The Government of Canada has announced three new temporary Recovery Benefits to support Canadians who are unable to work for reasons related to COVID-19:

• A Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) of $500 per week for up to 26 weeks, to workers who are self-employed or are not eligible for EI and who still require income support. This Benefit would support Canadians who have not returned to work due to COVID-19 or whose income has dropped by at least 50%. These workers must be available and looking for work, and must accept work where it is reasonable to do so;
• A Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) of $500 per week for up to two weeks, for workers who are sick or must self-isolate for reasons related to COVID-19. This Benefit supports our commitment to ensure all Canadian workers have access to paid sick leave; and,
• A Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) of $500 per week for up to 26 weeks per household, for eligible Canadians unable to work because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or family member because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19 or because the child or family member is sick and/or required to quarantine.

For information about these benefits including eligibility requirements, how to apply, and eligibility period dates, visit the Canada Revenue Agency website at: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency.html

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September 9, 2020

Town of Sidney COVID-19 Response Survey

The Town of Sidney is looking for feedback from members of the community on our emergency response efforts to the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (March - July 2020).

Please take this short survey to share your impressions of the Town’s response and ways in which we can improve. Your answers will help inform and prepare the Town for future emergency responses.

Click here to take the survey.

PHO order on bars, nightclubs and banquet halls amended

The provincial health officer’s order on bars, nightclubs and banquet halls has been amended. Effective September 8, 2020, all nightclubs and stand-alone banquet halls are ordered closed until further notice.

Liquor sales in all bars, pubs and restaurants must cease at 10 p.m. and they must close at 11 p.m., unless providing a full meal service, in which case they may stay open, but may not serve liquor until 11 a.m. the following day.

Music or other background sounds, such as from televisions in bars, lounges, pubs and restaurants, must be no louder than the volume of normal conversation.

Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0049-001688

Saanich School District Q&A

The Saanich School District has compiled a Q&A grouped into four themes - return to school, health & safety, learning cohorts & physical distancing, and student learning. Visit their website to learn more.

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August 26, 2020

Possible Exposures to COVID-19 in Sidney

Island Health has shared two possible exposures to COVID-19 in our community.

Island Health provides updates on the locations and times of known possible exposures to COVID-19 to the public in our region when they have been unable to reach or identify all individuals potentially exposed via contact tracing. A close contact exposure means face-to-face contact for an extended period of time while a person is infectious.

If you have been in one of these locations at times of possible exposure, it does not mean you will develop COVID-19. The possible exposures listed are believed to be low risk but, out of an abundance of caution, Island Health asks that anyone who may have visited any of the locations listed on the specified dates and times to monitor themselves for symptoms.

• Mary's Bleue Moon Cafe

  9535 Canora Road, Sidney, B.C.
  August 21, 2020: Between 4:00 pm and 9:15 pm
  August 22, 2020: Between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm OR between 5 pm and 10 pm

• 10 Acres Cafe & Market at the Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa (NOT The Pier restaurant)

  9805 Seaport Place, Sidney, B.C.
  August 20, 2020: Between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm
  August 21, 2020: Between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm

There is no known risk to anyone who attended any listed locations outside of the specified dates and times. If people remain healthy and do not develop symptoms, there is no need to self-isolate and people can continue with their usual daily activities.

If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, please seek testing and self-isolate – for more information, please see the Frequently Asked Questions on Island Health's Information for the General Public page.

For additional information on public COVID-19 exposures in our region, visit Island Health's Data, Outbreaks and Exposures page.

 

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August 21, 2020

Province introduces new measures to enforce COVID-19 public safety

Police and other provincial enforcement officers are being given the ability to issue $2,000 violation tickets for owners or organizers contravening the provincial health officer’s (PHO) order on gatherings and events. This includes hosting a private party or public event in excess of 50 people, failing to provide appropriate hand sanitation and washroom facilities, failing to provide sufficient space in the venue for physical distancing, failing to obtain a list of names and contacts at large event or having more than five guests gathered in a vacation accommodation.

When required, police and other provincial enforcement officers will also be able to actively enforce the order and ticket a series of other infractions, including:

• $200 violation tickets for individuals who actively encourage others to attend gatherings or events that do not comply with established requirements, or refuse to leave or disperse when directed to do so by enforcement officers;
• $200 violation tickets for individuals who refuse to comply with requests to follow the PHO order or safe operating procedures of a restaurant, bar or other licensed establishment, or respond with abusive behaviour towards employees.

For more information: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0046-001568

BC Transit – Mandatory Face Covering Policy Coming into Effect August 24, 2020

BC Transit, in alignment with Translink and other transportation agencies, will be proceeding with mandatory use of face coverings on buses in BC Transit communities across the Province as of August 24.

Exemptions for BC Transit’s mandatory face covering policy include:

• Anyone with an underlying medical condition or disability which inhibits the ability to wear a mask or face covering;
• Persons unable to place or remove a mask or face covering without assistance;
• Children under 5 years of age;
• Employees working behind a physical barrier or within areas designated for employees and not for public access; and
• Police, employees, or first responders in an emergency situation.

More information can be found at: https://bctransit.com/covid19

BC Ferries - Mandatory Face Coverings Beginning August 24, 2020

Beginning August 24, BC Ferries will require customers to wear non-medical masks or face coverings at terminals and while on board ferries. All walk-on and vehicle passengers will be required to wear face coverings at all times when at a BC Ferries terminal or on a BC Ferries ship, with the exception being if a customer is inside a vehicle or consuming food or drinks while maintaining physical distance. Also exempt are customers with an underlying medical condition or disability that inhibits the ability to wear a face covering, those who are unable to place or remove a face covering without assistance, and children under two years of age.

For more information, visit BC Ferries' website.

B.C.'s Back to School Plan

The Province has shared additional details regarding B.C.'s Back to School Plan. B.C.’s plan for return to in-class learning in September includes new health and safety measures, increased funding for protective equipment like masks and new learning groups to help keep everyone safe. For additional information, visit:

• B.C.’s Back to School Plan
• Ministry of Education’s K-12 Education Restart Plan
• WorkSafeBC - Education (K-12) Protocols for Returning to Operation

The Superintendent of Saanich Schools has shared an update with information about the upcoming school year in School District 63 at: https://www.sd63.bc.ca/

Provincial Updates

• The provincial state of emergency has been extended through the end of the day on September 1, 2020. Read more.
• The BC Government has extended the temporary $300 COVID-19 crisis supplement for people on income and disability assistance for cheques issued September to December. Read more.
  
  

Federal Updates

• Canada and the United States have agreed to extend the temporary restriction of all non-essential travel across the Canada-U.S. border until September 21, 2020. Read more.
• The Government of Canada has announced changes to the Employment Insurance (EI) program and new income support benefits. They also announced that in preparation for this transition and to ensure support continues for Canadians whose employment has been impacted by the pandemic, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will be extended by an additional four weeks to a maximum of 28 weeks. Read more.

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July 29, 2020

Update Regarding Schools – Province Announces Plan to safely bring K-12 students back to class full time

The Province has announced enhanced safety measures and additional resources that will enable most students in grades K-12 to return to school on September 8, 2020, with full-time in-class learning as the province moves to Stage 2 of B.C.’s Education Restart Plan.

On the advice of the provincial health officer, students will be organized into learning groups, a consistent group of staff and students. This will reduce the number of people each student or staff member will come into contact with, reducing the risk of transmission and ensuring quicker contact tracing by health authorities.

All boards of education and independent school authorities will continue to be required to implement a suite of health and safety measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, following the recently updated guidelines from the BC Centre for Disease Control.

Families will hear from their school district or independent school throughout the summer with updated health and safety guidelines for elementary, middle and secondary schools, as well as learning groups, schedules, enrolment and registration information with the final details being submitted to the ministry and posted online by the districts on Aug. 26, 2020.

Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0040-001415

PHO Order on Mass Gatherings – Amendment Regarding Vacation Accommodations

The provincial health officer’s order on mass gatherings has been amended to limit the number of people in vacation accommodations, including for house, cabin, yurt and boat rentals, as well as hotel rooms.

The number of people is limited to the capacity of the space, plus up to a maximum of five visitors. For example, if the capacity of the accommodation is four people, the maximum number of visitors allowed is five, for a total of no more than nine people. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure the order is adhered to by all guests and to ensure contact tracing information is collected for everyone – guests and visitors alike.

• View the statement: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0040-001394
• View the order: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-order-gatherings-events.pdf
  
  

Local Businesses - Reducing the Risk

Local businesses have been working hard to adapt to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. We would like to thank our local business community for all the measures they have already taken and continue to adopt to keep their staff and patrons safe. We would also like to thank our community for supporting local business during this challenging economic time and for following physical distancing guidance & any new safety procedures that businesses have in place.

If you have concerns about a business's current operational standards, you can do the following:

• Contact WorkSafeBC or visit their website at www.worksafebc.com to confirm current guidelines for specific industries and orders related to COVID-19
• Contact the Town of Sidney at 250-656-4502 or bylawenforcement@sidney.ca to request that a Bylaw Officer visit the business to provide information.
• Contact Island Health to make them aware of your concerns.
• Contact the business's manager to inform them of your concerns.
• If you feel unsafe, choose not to visit the business.
  
  

Federal Update – Government legislation to support Canadian workers, businesses, persons with disabilities, and legal rights

• Bill C-20 extends and expands the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
• Bill C-20 will also allow for the sharing of information to facilitate the delivery of a one-time payment for persons with disabilities. The Government is moving forward with a non-taxable and non-reportable payment of up to $600 to approximately 1.7 million eligible individuals who: Are holders of a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate (eligible persons not yet in possession of such a certificate will be able to apply for one up to 60 days after today’s Royal Assent to be considered for the one-time payment); Currently receive Canada Pension Plan disability benefits or Quebec Pension Plan disability benefits; or are in receipt of disability supports provided by Veterans Affairs Canada.
• Read the statement at: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/07/government-legislation-to-support-canadian-workers-businesses-persons-with-disabilities-and-legal-rights-receives-royal-assent.html
  
  

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July 24, 2020

Residents Survey - Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who completed the Town’s Residents Survey. We truly appreciate the wonderful response from the community.

The survey results have been received by Sidney Council and are being reviewed by Town staff and the COVID-19 Recovery Task Force Committee. The responses will be used in the formation of ideas and recommendations on recovery actions to assist with community recovery from the pandemic.

Click here to view a staff report summarizing the survey responses.

COVID-19 Recovery Task Force Committee Update

The Town’s new COVID-19 Recovery Task Force Committee has held two meetings, and a third meeting is scheduled for July 28, 2020. They are working on identifying recovery actions and programs to support and assist the community through the pandemic. Its membership consist of representatives from various community organizations that represent a broad spectrum of sectors. The committee reports to Council through the Town’s Recovery Director and focuses on economic and cultural recovery and resiliency, community resiliency, and preparation for the possibility of future COVID-19 waves.

Visit the COVID-19 Recovery Task Force Committee page for additional information, including meeting agendas and videos.

COVID-19 Sidney Visitor Information

With the province in Phase 3 of the BC Restart Plan, travel within British Columbia is now permitted. The Town has worked with the COVID-19 Recovery Task Force Committee as well as the operators of the Sidney Visitor Information Centre & the Patricia Bay Information Centre to develop messaging for smart, safe, and respectful visits to our community. You can find this information on our COVID-19 Visitor Information page.

Modified and Online Community Events

In response to current provincial health orders prohibiting large gatherings, some Sidney events have moved to online platforms or have been modified for this year. Visit our Featured Events page to see how local event organizers have adapted some favourite community events.

Update from BC Transit

BC Transit wants to ensure that they get you where you need to be, as safely and efficiently as possible. Following the guidance of the Provincial Health Office and WorkSafeBC, and drawing on the best practices of the transit industry worldwide, they are continuing with many of the measures put in place to respond to COVID-19, and are implementing some additional practices and procedures, such as enhanced cleaning and sanitization, capacity management, and encouraging the use of face coverings when physical distancing is not possible, to align with BC’s Restart Plan. You can review their practices and procedures on their website at: https://www.bctransit.com/covid19

Provincial messaging regarding the COVID-19 response in B.C.

Here in British Columbia, our COVID-19 transmission curve is trending upward. Many of the new cases are a result of community transmission from an increase in social interactions this summer. This trend is a concern, but we can turn this trend around.

There are a few things we can all do to push that curve back down. We can stop transmission by seeing fewer people, only spending time with people we know, keeping a safe distance from others and using a mask when that is difficult. If you are hosting a small gathering, remember ‘fewer faces and bigger spaces.’ Keep your gatherings small, know everyone who is coming, and stay outside as much as possible. We also need to support contact tracing efforts by paying attention to where we go and who we see, and always, without exception, staying home if we are feeling at all unwell.

We all have a role to play in keeping our curve flat. Let’s continue to work together and do all we can to keep ourselves and each other safe. Let’s protect our communities, our Elders and our loved ones by standing united against COVID-19.

You can read the latest update from Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer on the Government of B.C.’s news page: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0040-001387

Regional COVID-19 Data

• The BC Centre for Disease Control is maintaining a COVID-19 dashboard, which presents the latest case counts and information on recoveries, deaths, hospitalizations, testing and more. Visit their website to access this informative tool: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data
• Island Health is providing additional COVID-19 data on a weekly basis. You can access this weekly data by visiting Island Health's COVID-19 Information page and clicking on the link to “Health Service Delivery Areas (HSDA)”. Sidney is located in Island Health's "South Vancouver Island" area.
  
  

Provincial Updates

• Provincial State of Emergency Extended
  The provincial state of emergency has been extended through the end of the day on August 4, 2020.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0038-001339
  
  
• PHO Order Amendment - Food & Liquor Service Establishments
  Recognizing the risks within bars and nightclubs and the recent links to exposure in these locations, the provincial health officer’s order is being amended. All patrons must now be seated at a designated seat. There is no liquor self-service or dancing, and measures need to be in place to reduce lineups and gathering outside. Changes in the requirements of events have also been made to further reduce the potential for transmission.
  Click here to view the order.
  
  
• New PHO order coming soon to limit the number of people who can stay at and visit short-term rental accommodations and boat rentals
  In the coming days, a new provincial health officer order will be in place to limit the number of people who can stay at and visit short-term rental accommodations and boat rentals. Whether at home or renting, keeping our groups small will keep all of us safe. Similar to the case in restaurants, the number of people will be determined by the size of the space to ensure safe social interactions for everyone.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0040-001387
  
  

Federal Update

• The non-essential travel restrictions between Canada and the United States have been extended to August 21, 2020.
  https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html
  

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June 24, 2020

Town of Sidney Moves into COVID-19 Recovery Phase

The Town of Sidney has begun to transition its COVID-19 response from an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to a focused recovery structure, which includes a Recovery Director and a COVID-19 Recovery Task Force.

The Task Force will consider and develop programs and actions to support and assist the community during the COVID-19 recovery. Its members consist of representatives from various community organizations that represent a broad spectrum of sectors. They will report to Council through the Town’s Recovery Director and focus on economic and cultural recovery and resiliency, community resiliency, and prepare for the possibility of future COVID-19 waves.

The transition away from the EOC structure in no way implies that the Town’s emergency management response to this event is over. We will continue to monitor developments, and participate in regional and provincial briefings over the coming weeks and months.

Click here to read the full news release.

British Columbia Enters Phase 3 of the 4-Phase BC Restart Plan

British Columbians are taking the next step in BC’s Restart Plan with a gradual transition to Phase 3, including the safe and respectful return of travel and tourism within the province.

British Columbians who wish to travel within B.C. this summer are advised to plan ahead and be respectful while visiting communities, especially smaller and rural towns. The provincial health officer has laid out travel guidelines for everyone travelling to and within B.C.:

• Pre-trip planning and research on available resources at arriving destination;
• Respecting any local travel advisories to isolated and remote communities;
• No travelling for anyone who is sick, and if symptoms develop while travelling – self isolate immediately and contact 811 for guidance and testing;
• Practising safe physical distancing of two metres at all times;
• Spending time in small groups and open spaces; and
• Practising good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and cleaning.

Most of the businesses listed in Phase 3 of B.C.’s Restart Plan now have the guidance they need to safely begin to open. WorkSafeBC, public health officials and industry representatives have developed guidelines for hotels and resorts, parks, the film industry and select entertainment, like movie theatres, and businesses in these sectors have already begun to open with COVID-19 safety plans in place.

The gradual easing of restrictions means more activities can get underway, but it does not change the need to maintain a safe social distance from others and to keep our groups small. The Provincial Health Officer's order for no more than 50 people at any gathering stands and will be in place until we can stop COVID-19 in our province with an effective treatment or vaccine.

For more information:

• View the full statement
• Visit the Phase 3 – BC’s Restart Plan page
  
  

Residents Survey Reminder

Thank you to everyone who has taken the Town’s Residents Survey! We greatly appreciate the responses.

The Town would like to hear from residents on what your experience has been so far during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your answers will help guide efforts as we plan our recovery from the pandemic. This survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete and will be open until Friday, July 3.

Access the survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P9CP9KP

Local Facilities Reopening

• Sidney Museum
  As of June 24, Sidney Museum has reopened. Entry is by pre-booked timed admission only with modified days of operation and limited capacity as of June 24. For more information, visit: https://sidneymuseum.ca/visitor-booking/
• Visit our COVID-19 – Local Facilities information page for additional closure/reopening updates.
  
  

Provincial Updates

• Provincial State of Emergency Extended
  The provincial state of emergency has been extended through the end of the day on July 7, 2020.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PREM0033-001159
  
  
• PHO Order Amendment - Food & Liquor Service Establishments
  The order for restaurants and pubs has been amended to provide greater clarity around the size of barriers. Additionally, if there is an event on the premises, the names and phone numbers or emails of patrons at the event must be collected in case there is a need for public health officials to conduct contract tracing.
  Click here to view the order.
  
  
• Pandemic supports to continue through the summer
  The Province is extending interim measures, including a new round of funding and supports for children with special needs and youth aging out of care, to help children, youth and families through the ongoing pandemic.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020CFD0051-001125
  
  
• New provincial act will help formalize, unwind emergency orders
  Government has introduced the COVID-19 Related Measures Act, legislation that will allow for the provisions created for citizens and businesses in response to the pandemic to be formalized and unwound as appropriate after the provincial state of emergency ends.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020AG0043-001126
  
  
• Extension of Temporary Rental Supplement
  The Government of British Columbia is extending the temporary rental supplement (TRS) until the end of August 2020 to continue to support renters and landlords. It will also maintain the moratorium on rent increases and evictions for non-payment of rent, while enabling other notices to end tenancy to resume.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020MAH0069-001100
  
  

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June 18, 2020

Residents Survey Now Open

The Town would like to hear from residents on what your experience has been so far during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your answers will help guide efforts as we plan our recovery from the pandemic. This survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete.

The survey will be open until Friday, July 3. Please click here to access the survey and share your experiences with us.

Local Facilities Reopening

• Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea
  The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is now open on Saturdays & Sundays, from 10 am to 4:30 pm (last entry - 4PM), as well as on Statutory Holidays. For more information, visit: https://www.salishseacentre.org/admission-hours
• Sidney North Saanich Library Now Open for Take Out Service
  Sidney North Saanich Library is open for Take Out Service! To use this service, visit their online catalogue and place holds. Staff will collect your items, you will be contacted to arrange a time, and your items will be placed at the pick-up site. For more information, visit: https://virl.bc.ca/takeout/
  
  

Sidney/Anacortes Ferry Service Suspension Extended

Washington State Ferries (WSF) has extended their suspension of the Sidney/Anacortes route until further notice. Click here to read Washington State Ferries’ full release.

The Town of Sidney will continue to monitor provincial and federal transportation directives, including restrictions on non-essential travel across the border and passenger ship regulations, and will coordinate with Washington State Ferries on the Sidney/Anacortes Ferry route.

Island Health Service Delivery Area Data

Island Health is providing COVID-19 related Health Service Delivery Areas (HSDA) data on a weekly basis. Sidney is located in Island Health's "South Vancouver Island" area. You can access this weekly data on Island Health's website.

Provincial Updates

• PHO Order Amendment - Food & Liquor Service Establishments
  The Provincial Health Officer’s order for food and liquor service establishments was amended to allow for the inclusion of patios when creating a safety plan and calculating the maximum number of patrons to meet physical distancing requirements. The order also includes details on partitions and the maximum number of patrons at each table, requirements for self-service stations and distance requirements for areas where patrons may congregate.
• Province announces more support for Vancouver Island Arts & Culture during COVID-19
  
  

Federal Updates

• The non-essential travel restrictions between Canada and the United States have been extended to July 21, 2020.
• The Federal Government has extended the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) by eight weeks.

 

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June 10, 2020

Update on public access to municipal buildings

• Town of Sidney Driver Services has reopened to the public with new physical distancing measures in place.
• Sidney Town Hall has reopened for property tax payments only. Access is limited to comply with physical distancing requirements established by the Provincial Health Officer. Visit our Property Tax Payment Options page for other payment options.
• All other municipal business at the Town Hall will continue to be conducted by phone, email, online through our website, and by appointment.
• Public access to the Community Safety Building and the Parks & Public Works Yard remains restricted.

Department contact information is available on our Contact Us page. You can access the Town's online services on our Online Services page. Additionally, visit our Municipal Services Updates page to see what changes our municipal departments have implemented to adapt to this situation.

Update on outdoor space opportunities for restaurants and cafés

On June 8, 2020, Council adopted an amendment to Sidney’s Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw which allows restaurants, cafés, and pubs to use a maximum of 50% of their privately owned parking spaces for outdoor seating for patrons, while still ensuring that the number of designated accessible parking spaces is maintained. Businesses looking for more information on the Off-Street Parking and Loading Bylaw amendments can email developmentservices@sidney.ca.

Council also adopted an amendment to the Sidewalk Café Regulations and Licensing Bylaw which allows business owners to apply to the Town for a permit to place outdoor café seating for patrons in public on-street parking spaces in addition to the previously permitted outdoor café seating on public sidewalks. The amendment also increased the minimum width of sidewalk space to be kept clear for passing pedestrians from 2 metres to 3 metres in order to allow for safe physical distancing between all users of our downtown public spaces. Businesses looking for more information on sidewalk and roadside cafés can email engineeringadministration@sidney.ca.

Playgrounds update

Municipal playgrounds have reopened! Visit our Parks & Pathways Updates page for additional information, including guidelines for safe use.

Please note: while the Rathdown Park swings have reopened, the Rathdown Park play structure will remain closed until Fall 2020 for playground equipment upgrades. Additionally, the Iroquois Water Spray Park, the outdoor exercise equipment at the Community Wellness Park, and the Town's outdoor water fountains remain closed until further notice while the Town continues to develop safe reopening plans for these amenities.

Provincial State of Emergency Extended

The provincial state of emergency has been extended through the end of the day on June 23, 2020.
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0032-001035

Federal Update - Changes to travel restrictions for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents

Foreign nationals who are immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and who do not have COVID-19 or exhibit any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or who do not have reason to believe they have COVID-19, will be exempt from the prohibition on entry to Canada if entering to be with an immediate family member for a period of at least 15 days. Foreign nationals who are admitted into Canada pursuant to this exemption must quarantine for 14 days.
https://www.canada.ca/en/border-services-agency/news/2020/06/changes-to-travel-restrictions-for-immediate-family-members-of-canadian-citizens-and-permanent-residents.html

 

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June 5, 2020

Playgrounds Reopening

Starting June 8, 2020, the Town of Sidney will begin to reopen municipal playgrounds. This is the next step in the Town’s phased approach to safely reopen recreational facilities that have been closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Playgrounds at Tulista Park and Iroquois Park will both reopen as of Monday, June 8, 2020. Other municipal playgrounds will be reopened in the days following, as required maintenance and inspections are performed. Visit our Parks & Pathways Updates page for more information.

Town Hall Reopening for Property Tax Payments Only

Effective Monday, June 8, 2020, Sidney Town Hall is reopening for property tax payments only. Access will be limited to comply with physical distancing requirements established by the Provincial Health Officer. All other municipal business will continue to be conducted by phone, email, online through our website, and by appointment. Click here for more information regarding paying your taxes and applying for the Home Owner Grant.

Federal Updates

• Canadian seniors to receive special payment in early July
  Seniors eligible for the OAS pension will receive a payment of $300, and those also eligible for the GIS will receive an additional $200, for a total of $500. Allowance recipients will also receive $500. This $2.5 billion in financial support will help Canadian seniors cover increased costs caused by COVID-19, and give them greater financial security in this time of crisis.
  Read more at: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/06/04/canadian-seniors-receive-special-payment-early-july
  
  
• Prime Minister announces supports for Canadians with disabilities to address challenges from COVID-19
  This support includes a special one-time, tax-free payment to individuals who are certificate holders of the Disability Tax Credit as of June 1, 2020, as follows: $600 for Canadians with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate; $300 for Canadians with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and who are eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension; $100 for Canadians with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate and who are eligible for the OAS pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
  Read more at: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/06/05/prime-minister-announces-supports-canadians-disabilities-address
  
  

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June 2, 2020

Town of Sidney Business Survey

For the past two weeks, staff in the Town of Sidney's Emergency Operations Centre have been surveying Sidney businesses to assess how COVID-19 has impacted the local economy. The results of the survey will be used to inform recovery plans currently being developed in the EOC. We appreciate the many business owners and managers who have completed the survey. If you own or operate a Sidney business and were not contacted and you are willing to complete the short survey, please email information@sidney.ca with your name, your business’s name, and your phone number, and someone will call you back. The survey closes Friday, June 5, at 4 pm.

Property Tax Payment Options

2020 Property Tax Notices have been mailed and should be arriving in mailboxes this week. Sidney Town Hall is currently closed to the public but is expected to reopen in early June with new safety measures in place. Access will be limited to comply with physical distancing requirements established by the Provincial Health Officer. Staff are available to assist you by phone or email.

We've made the 2020 tax season longer than usual, to ensure everyone has time to adjust to all the temporary measures. While the due date is published as July 2, 2020 as usual, you have until July 31, 2020 to pay your residential property taxes and claim your Home Owner Grant without penalty. The deadline for commercial properties is September 30, 2020. Click here for more information regarding paying your taxes and applying for the Home Owner Grant.

Provincial Updates

• B.C. strengthens federal commercial rent program
  B.C. businesses eligible for rent support from the federal government will be protected from evictions as the B.C. government issues a new order under the Emergency Program Act (EPA). Eligible businesses whose landlords choose not to apply for the federal CECRA program will be protected from evictions due to unpaid rent payments through to the end of June 2020, as determined by the federal program timelines.
  Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020FIN0034-000988
  
  
• Provincial Health Officer Orders
  The Provincial Health Officer has issued the following orders:
  - A new Provincial Health Officer order has been put in place restricting the operation of overnight camps for children and youth
  - The provincial health officer order for vending markets, such as farmer’s markets, has been amended
  
  
• Supporting the music industry during COVID-19
  To help people in B.C.’s music industry continue to create and operate during the pandemic, the B.C. government is investing $7.5 million through Creative BC for Amplify BC. Visit Creative BC’s Amplify BC page to subscribe to Creative BC's Music Industry Newsletter for announcements regarding program launches, eligibility criteria and application deadlines.
  Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020TAC0025-000980
  
  

Federal Update - Updated measures for cruise ships and passenger vessels in Canadian waters

On May 29, 2020, the federal government announced updated measures pertaining to cruise ships and passenger vessels in Canadian waters:

• Cruise ships with overnight accommodations allowed to carry more than 100 persons are prohibited from operating in Canadian waters until October 31, 2020.
• As of July 1, 2020, all other passenger vessels must follow provincial, territorial, local and regional health authority requirements for timelines and processes to resume operations.

Click here to read the complete statement.

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May 28, 2020

Supply Chain Rest Stop reverting back to Downtown Employee and Public Parking Lot

As of Friday, May 29, 2020, the western section of the Town’s parking lot that was temporarily repurposed as a supply chain rest stop will be reverting back to parking for downtown employees and the public.

As other regional services that support our local supply chain have begun to reopen, the demand for the Town’s temporary Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop has decreased. At the same time, with local businesses reopening, parking demand for downtown employees and the public is increasing. After consultation with the BC Trucking Association, the Town has decided to close the temporary rest stop. Read more on our Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop page.

Pedestrian and Business Use of Public Space in the Downtown Core

The Town of Sidney is moving forward with options for increasing public space for pedestrians and businesses in the downtown commercial area. Town staff are monitoring pedestrian levels, lineups for commercial businesses and demand for outdoor seating for food vending businesses. Pinch points will be addressed by repurposing on-street parking spaces as protected pedestrian spaces or outdoor seating areas. Staff will ensure that accessibility is maintained. If closing streets to traffic or repurposing entire block faces of on-street parking spaces is warranted, staff will report back to Council and initiate public engagement. Click here to read more.

Additional COVID-19 Resources

The Town continues to add to our Resources for Individuals and Families, Resources for Businesses, Municipal Services Updates pages. You can review these pages for additional information and resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Updates include compiled lists of regional gardening resources, regional food security resources, mental health resources, and more.

Saanich School District Update

As of June 1, 2020, Saanich Schools will be implementing a part-time return to instruction in all of their schools. The Saanich School District has been working with their Health & Safety committees to ensure that all of their sites have protocols in place for the return to school. Read more on their website at: www.sd63.bc.ca.

Provincial State of Emergency Extended

The provincial state of emergency has been extended through the end of the day on June 9, 2020.
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0028-000959

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May 25, 2020

May 25, 2020 Council Meeting Live Stream

This evening's Council meeting, which includes a COVID-19 update from the EOC Director, will be live streamed starting at 6:00 pm.

• Link to live stream
• Link to agenda package

A video recording of the meeting will be available on the Council Meeting page in the coming days.

Provincial Updates

• Provincial Health Officer Order: Mass Gathering Events
  The provincial health officer order restricting mass gatherings to no more than 50 individuals remains in place. Further, the order has been amended to also include no more than 50 vehicles for outdoor drive-in events.
  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/reports-publications/covid-19-pho-class-order-mass-gatherings.pdf

• Provincial Survey – Your Story, Our Future
  B.C. has launched a population health survey to gather valuable information about how COVID-19 has impacted the health and well-being of people in our province. The survey is open until May 31, 2020.
  http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-survey
  
  

Federal Updates

• Hotline to provide small businesses in need with financial planning advice amid COVID-19
  The Government of Canada will support the launch of a four-week hotline service called the Business Resilience Service. This service will help entrepreneurs and small business owners in need of financial planning advice, particularly those who may not have access to an accountant. The service will also be open to not-for-profit organizations and charities. As of today, small business owners with pressing financial needs can call 1-866-989-1080 (toll-free) seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET (5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT).
  https://www.canada.ca/en/innovation-science-economic-development/news/2020/05/minister-ng-announces-hotline-to-provide-small-businesses-in-need-with-financial-planning-advice-amid-covid-19.html

• Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance now open for applications
  https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/05/25/canada-emergency-commercial-rent-assistance-now-open-applications
  
  

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May 20, 2020

Sport Courts & Skate Park Reopening

Starting May 21, 2020, the Town of Sidney will reopen municipal tennis courts, the Iroquois Park multi-sport court, the sand volleyball court, and the skate park. This step is a part of the Town’s phased approach to safely reopen recreational facilities that have been closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please note that all municipal playgrounds will remain closed until further notice.

The Town is asking everyone to use the sport courts and skate park safely. Guidelines for these facilities include:

• Stay home if you are sick;
• Keep at least two metres away from people from other households;
• Wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly and frequently;
• Do not share equipment, water bottles, or snacks; and
• Remain courteous and limit use if others are waiting to use the facility.

We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by our community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and are requesting everyone’s ongoing cooperation in continuing to follow the Provincial Health Officer’s directions and guidance as this public health emergency evolves.

Updates regarding parks and outdoor recreation facilities can be found on our Parks & Pathways Updates Page.

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May 19, 2020

Provincial Health Orders

• Personal Service Establishments
  Effective today - May 19, 2020 - the Provincial Health Officer has cancelled the order closing all personal service establishments. Click here to view the order.

• Food Service Establishments and Liquor Services
  Effective today - May 19, 2020 - the Provincial Health Officer has repealed and replaced the order regarding Food Service Establishments and Liquor Services.
  *New PHO order issued on May 22, 2020 that amends the previous Food Service Establishments and Liquor Services Order. Click here to view the order.

All Provincial Health Orders can be viewed on the Provincial Health Officer's web page.

Federal Updates

• Canada/US Border
  Canada and the United States have agreed to extend the restrictions at the Canada/US border. Non-essential travel between Canada and the US will continue to be prohibited for the next 30 days, until June 21, 2020.

• Expansion to the eligibility criteria for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)
  The Prime Minister announced an expansion to the eligibility criteria for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) to include many owner-operated small businesses. The program will now be available to a greater number of businesses that are sole proprietors receiving income directly from their businesses, businesses that rely on contractors, and family-owned corporations that pay employees through dividends rather than payroll.
  Read more at: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/05/19/prime-minister-announces-expansion-support-workers-and-small
  
  

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May 15, 2020

Long Weekend Update

As we start the May long weekend, the BC Government is reminding people to avoid all non-essential travel in the province to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and instead stay local if you do decide to enjoy the outdoors.

Though some restrictions are expected to ease next week, it remains vital for everyone to maintain physical distancing and take other important measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. This includes staying home if you have any symptoms of illness, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, and not touching your face.

The Provincial Government has shared some tips to help you enjoy the long weekend while following the public safety guidelines set by the provincial health officer (PHO), including:

• Have fun close to home
• Continue to refrain from visiting vacation properties
• Continue to avoid non-essential boating
• BC Ferries service is reduced on many routes – please only use BC Ferries for essential travel this weekend
• Enjoy the outdoors safely

Read the Province’s full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0026-000870

Most of BC’s Provincial Parks are now open for day-use only. Visit BC Parks’ website to view the latest updates. The Province is urging people to only visit parks and recreation sites close to their home and avoid travelling to small communities.

The Town of Sidney is developing a phased approach to safely reopen recreational facilities that have been closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Town will not be reopening any facilities before the Victoria Day long weekend, but we are looking at opening some recreational facilities after additional guidelines are released next week. For now, please continue to enjoy municipal parks and pathways while following the guidance on signs in parks and adhering to these guidelines:

• Stay home if you are sick
• Enjoy parks & pathways on your own or with members of your own household only
• Keep two metres away from people you encounter
• Please respect the natural environment
• Please be patient with others

You can review our Parks & Pathways Updates page for more information about Sidney park and trail usage during COVID-19. If a park looks busy, please consider visiting a different park or returning at a different time.

Sidney Town Hall and Driver Services will be closed on Monday, May 18 for Victoria Day. There will be no changes to the Garbage/Kitchen Organics and Yard/Garden Waste collection. Monday pick-ups will occur as scheduled.

For any urgent water or sewer matters, please call the Town's 24-hour phone line at 250-656-1184.

We hope everyone enjoys a happy and safe Victoria Day weekend.

Business Updates

• Island Health to Lift Gym Closure Order effective May 19, 2020
  Island Health’s Medical Health Officer will lift an order closing all gyms, fitness centres, yoga studios or similar personal training facilities, effective May 19, 2020.

• Provincial Health Officer Order - Workplace COVID-19 Safety Plans
  The Provincial Health Officer has ordered all employers to:
  1) Post a copy of your COVID-19 Safety Plan on your website, if you have one, and at your workplace so that it is readily available for review by workers, other persons who may attend at the workplace to provide services and members of the public;
  2) Provide a copy of your COVID-19 Safety Plan to a health officer or a WorkSafeBC officer, on request.

• WorkSafeBC issues guidelines to support safe reopening of businesses
  WorkSafeBC has posted industry-specific guidelines that will help businesses and organizations develop their plans to reopen safely in the coming days and weeks.
  
  

BC Schools Update

• K-12 students to have optional in-class instruction on June 1
  Parents will have the choice of bringing their children back to class on a part-time basis this school year as part of BC’s Restart Plan, with the goal of returning to full-time classes in September 2020, provided it is safe to do so. School districts will determine scheduling for classes and transportation arrangements. For kindergarten to Grade 5, this means most students will go to school half time (such as alternating days), while grades 6 to 12 will go to school about one day a week. Children of essential service workers and students needing additional supports will have the option to attend school full time. Families that decide not to send their children to class may continue learning from home.
  
  

Federal Updates

• Government of Canada Extends the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
  The Government of Canada will extend the CEWS by an additional 12 weeks to August 29, 2020.

• Applications for the Canada Emergency Student Benefit Now Open
  If you’re a student or recent graduate who can’t find a job this summer, you can now apply for the Canada Emergency Student Benefit.

 

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May 13, 2020

Restarting BC Businesses

The Government of British Columbia and WorkSafeBC have shared some additional guidance for BC's businesses that have stayed open or are planning to reopen. More details can be found at: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/about-us/covid-19-updates/covid-19-returning-safe-operation.

All businesses and organizations, whether you stayed open or are planning to re-open in Phase 2 or Phase 3, should begin planning with input from your workers for how to operate in a safe way. Check out: https://t.co/ET1F6caQz9 #COVIDBC pic.twitter.com/u082QhmQ3f

 

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) May 13, 2020

 

 

Sidney businesses looking for additional assistance and suggestions geared towards their particular operations can contact the Town's Emergency Operations Centre at information@sidney.ca or 250-655-6900 to schedule an on-site visit with our Business Liaison Officers.

Municipal Recreational Facilities Update

The Town of Sidney is developing a phased approach to safely reopen recreational facilities that have been closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Town will not be reopening any facilities before the Victoria Day long weekend, but we are looking at opening some recreational facilities after additional guidelines are released next week. We will share additional information in the coming days.

Parking Enforcement in Downtown Sidney

Over the past weeks, during this unprecedented and challenging time, parking enforcement in the downtown core has been limited to warnings. However, due to increasing activity in downtown Sidney, please be advised that parking enforcement ticketing will resume in the downtown core starting Friday, May 15.

Provincial Updates

• Provincial State of Emergency Extended
  The current provincial state of emergency is being extended through the end of the day on May 26, 2020.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0029-000872
• Buy BC e-Commerce Funding
  New Buy BC e-commerce funding is available to help the province’s farmers and food and beverage processors overcome some lost sales during the COVID-19 pandemic by moving their products online.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020AGRI0017-000857
  

Federal Updates

• Prime Minister announces additional support for Canadian seniors
  The Prime Minister announced a series of additional measures to help Canadian seniors and provide them with greater financial security in this time of crisis.
  https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/05/12/prime-minister-announces-additional-support-canadian-seniors
• Western Economic Diversification Canada launches Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to support local economy
  Businesses across Western Canada unable to access existing relief measures can now apply for funding under new initiative.
  https://www.canada.ca/en/western-economic-diversification/news/2020/05/covid-19-western-economic-diversification-canada-launches-regional-relief-and-recovery-fund-to-support-local-economy.html
• Prime Minister announces additional support for businesses of all sizes
  The Government of Canada will:
  - Establish a Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF) to provide bridge financing to Canada’s largest employers, whose needs during the pandemic are not being met through conventional financing, in order to keep their operations going.
  - Expand the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to mid-sized companies with larger financing needs.
  - Continue to provide financing to businesses through Farm Credit Canada, the BDC, and EDC, including through the Canada Account.
  https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/05/11/prime-minister-announces-additional-support-businesses-help-save

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May 6, 2020

BC's Restart Plan

British Columbians will move forward with safely restarting their province beginning in mid-May, according to a plan announced by Premier John Horgan. Under B.C.’s Restart Plan, government will work closely with public health officials, businesses and labour organizations to lift restrictions in phases, gradually allowing for more social and economic activity, while closely monitoring health information to minimize the risk to the public. B.C. is currently in Phase 1 of the restart plan. Phase 2, which will begin in mid-May, includes:

• small social gatherings;
• a resumption of elective surgeries and regulated health services like physiotherapy, dentistry, chiropractors and in-person counselling; provincial parks open for day use;
• opening more non-essential businesses in keeping with safe operations plans;
• recalling the provincial legislature for regular sittings.

WorkSafeBC is developing industry-specific guidance to help employers bring workers and customers back safely. Any business restarting operations must ensure it is in compliance with the provincial health officer’s orders and in accordance with occupational health and safety guidance provided by WorkSafeBC.

Read more about WorkSafeBC’s support at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BG_Support_for_Workplaces_Resuming_Operation.pdf

The target date for the start of Phase 3, which will include opening up of additional businesses and services, is between June and September 2020, if transmission rates remain low or in decline.

Phase 4 will only be achieved when the threat of COVID-19 has been significantly diminished through widespread vaccination, broad successful treatments, evidence of community immunity, or the equivalent.

Most provincial parks will reopen, starting May 14, for day-use only. On June 1, many remaining facilities, including campgrounds, will reopen. A small number of parks that attract large crowds, or where reopening would pose a health risk to nearby communities, will remain closed.

Read more about provincial parks reopening at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BG_Parks_and_Sites_and_In-Class_Learning.pdf

A strong emphasis on personal hygiene for all British Columbians, including hand washing, physical distancing and staying at home if you are sick, will be crucial for the success of every phase of the plan.

While B.C. already has sufficient testing and tracking capacity, by continuing to increase these, government will be able to identify any flare ups in COVID-19 case numbers and address them. This approach will support public safety and confidence.

Read the Province's full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PREM0026-000826

Read BC's Restart Plan at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support/bc-restart-plan

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre will be closely reviewing BC's Restart Plan and will provide more information and guidance in the coming days about the easing of restrictions identified in Phase 2 of the plan.

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May 1, 2020

Safely Restarting BC's Economy

Next week, the Government of British Columbia will be announcing a phased-in approach to lift restrictions & protect the progress that the province has made in fighting COVID-19.

The Town’s EOC has created a Business Liaison Program to support our local business community and to assist businesses that have closed and are looking at how to reopen safely. Our Business Liaison Officers will be able to visit local businesses and offer tailored support and suggestions based on guidance from the Provincial Health Officer and the provincial government.

More information can be found on our Resources for Businesses Page, and we will be able to share additional information when the province has announced their plan next week.

Puzzling by the Sea

Looking for something to do this weekend? We've created a series of online puzzles featuring some special sights of Sidney. We will continue to add to the collection so be sure to check our Puzzling by the Sea page whenever you’re in the mood to puzzle!

Provincial Updates

• Online applications open for B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers
  British Columbians whose ability to work has been affected because of the COVID-19 pandemic and are receiving the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) can now apply for the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers (BCEBW) online. The BCEBW is a one-time, tax-free payment of $1,000 for eligible British Columbians.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020FIN0027-000794

• Provincial State of Emergency Extended
  The provincial state of emergency is being extended for the third time, to support the extraordinary measures taken by the Province under the Emergency Program Act to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has officially extended the state of emergency through the end of the day on May 12, 2020.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0022-000783

• More support for family caregivers during COVID-19
  As part of British Columbia’s emergency COVID-19 response plan, the Province is doubling this year’s funding for Family Caregivers of British Columbia to $1 million, helping support both caregivers and seniors. Family Caregivers of B.C. is a not-for-profit organization that supports people who are caring for elderly loved ones, family or friends. This funding will allow Family Caregivers of B.C. to enhance services during the COVID-19 pandemic, so caregivers get the increased support they need to help seniors remain at home, such as expanded toll-free support line hours, emotional supports and health-care navigation.
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0141-000763

• Provincial Statement on safe spaces for people leaving violence
  The Province has secured nearly 300 additional spaces in communities throughout B.C. for people leaving violent or unstable situations, with more spaces to come. These are in addition to more than 100 transition houses and safe homes that the Province funds on an ongoing basis. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, please contact VictimLinkBC at 1 800 563-0808 or by email: VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020FIN0025-000774
  
  

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April 30, 2020

Tulista Boat Launch Update

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is pleased to announce that we have reached an agreement with the Sidney Anglers Association to develop a method of operations to allow the Tulista Boat Launch to remain open to all boaters under a set of new safety guidelines.

During these extraordinary times, the Town of Sidney’s topmost priority is the health and safety of the entire community. The Town’s EOC has been monitoring safety advice regarding boating as well as monitoring the increasing usage of the boat launch for recreational purposes as we enter into the summer season. The Town did not have the staffing capacity to continue to patrol the boat launch to ensure physical distancing was being practiced at this municipal facility during peak hours.

The Sidney Anglers Association will provide safety ambassadors at peak times to ensure that everyone is able to use the boat launch safely during this unprecedented and extended public health emergency. We are happy to have the support from the Sidney Anglers Association by working together to keep this municipal facility open for safe use. Collaborating with the Sidney Anglers Association reduces the additional onus on Town of Sidney staff to monitor physical distancing on the docks, at the ramp and surrounding parking lots. With this arrangement in place, Town staff can continue to focus efforts on other ongoing COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives.

Although the province has announced that they will be looking at ways to ease restrictions in the coming weeks, public health authorities are still advising everyone to practice social and physical distancing for now. Additionally, the Canadian Coast Guard made a recent appeal to boaters to avoid non-essential boating at this time. The Canadian Coast Guard has advised boaters who do need to go out on the water to wear a lifejacket, stay near to the shore as much as possible, share your trip plan with someone, have extra fuel, make sure your boat is in good condition, only sail with people living under the same roof and practice physical distancing while on the water.

The Town of Sidney and the EOC appreciates the ongoing efforts of Sidney residents, organizations, and local businesses to keep our community healthy and safe.

For information regarding purchasing boat launch permits while public access to Sidney Town Hall is restricted, please refer to the Finance section on our Municipal Services Updates page.

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April 24, 2020

Town of Sidney Summer 2020 Events

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has been monitoring messaging from senior levels of government and public health authorities regarding events and large gatherings. Recent statements from the Provincial Health Officer indicate that public health guidance regarding events will not be significantly modified for the summer season.

Therefore, it is with considerable regret that the Town of Sidney’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) advised Sidney event organizers today to cancel or postpone events, both indoor and outdoor, that involve public gatherings scheduled for the summer of 2020. Consequently, the Town of Sidney has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Sidney Street Market season. While the Town of Sidney shares in the disappointment of the market’s cancellation, the Town is looking forward to next year’s market season.

The Provincial Health Officer has encouraged event organizers to come up with creative ideas for modified events. The Town of Sidney EOC has invited event organizers to reach out to the EOC if they have ideas for a significantly modified event that respects limits on public gatherings and ensures that social and physical distancing guidelines can be met.

Read more at: http://www.sidney.ca/Newsroom/Summer_2020_Events_in_Sidney_s2_p1046.htm

Reminder - Keep it Clean Toiletries Collection – Saturday, April 25, 10 am – 2 pm

The Neighbourhood Response Team is collecting new, unopened shampoo, toothbrushes and other personal hygiene products on Saturday, April 25 from 10 am to 2 pm in three locations around Greater Victoria, including in Sidney at the Tulista Park South Parking Lot (9565 Fifth Street).

Read more about the event, including their physical distancing procedures, on the United Way of Greater Victoria's website at: https://uwgv.ca/news/keepitclean/

New Federal-Provincial Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program (CECRA)

The Canadian Prime Minister announced today that the federal government has reached an agreement in principle with all provinces and territories to implement the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses. This program will lower rent by 75 per cent for small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19.

Read the provincial statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020FIN0024-000754

Read the federal statement at: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/04/24/prime-minister-announces-partnerships-provinces-and-territories

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April 22, 2020

Town of Sidney COVID-19 Response Maps

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre’s IT Section has developed a variety of COVID-19 related interactive maps that illustrate general information, business updates, EOC initiatives, and more. You can access all of the maps on the COVID-19 Interactive Maps page.

The IT section has also created a COVID-19 Response Map Journal that highlights local information updates and response initiatives. You can scroll through the journal entries and their adjacent web maps to learn more about initiatives, updates, service changes, and important information. You can click on items within the individual web maps to get pop-up information on particular areas of interest.

Keep it Clean Collection Event

The Neighbourhood Response Team is collecting new, unopened shampoo, toothbrushes and other personal hygiene products on Saturday, April 25 from 10 am to 2 pm in three locations around Greater Victoria, including in Sidney at the Tulista Park South Parking Lot (9565 Fifth Street).

Read more about the event, including their physical distancing procedures, on the United Way of Greater Victoria's website at: https://uwgv.ca/news/keepitclean/

Provincial Updates

• New Order from the Provincial Health Officer regarding Kearl Lake Project
  Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer, has issued a new order surrounding an outbreak in Kearl Lake, Alberta: “Anyone who was at the site at Kearl Lake project near Fort McMurray, Alberta from March to present is ordered by the provincial health officer to immediately self-isolate for 14 days and contact your local public health authority or call 811.”
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0020-000729
• New COVID-19 Testing Criteria
  Testing is now being used to quickly identify and address any new community clusters and outbreaks that may emerge. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms can now be assessed and tested through a physician, nurse practitioner or a local community collection centre. To learn where, when and how people with symptoms can be tested, visit: http://www.phsa.ca/staff-resources/covid-19-resources-for-staff/staff-covid-19-testing
  
  

Federal Updates

• Canada and US Border
  Canada and the United States agreed to extend by 30 days the non-essential travel restrictions that are currently in place.
  https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices/221
• Support for Vulnerable Canadians
  The Federal Government announced an investment of $350 million to support vulnerable Canadians through charities and non-profit organizations that deliver essential services to those in need.
  https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/04/21/prime-minister-announces-further-support-help-canadians-need
• Support for Canadian Students and Recent Graduates
  The Federal Government a series of measures as part of its COVID-19 Emergency Response Plan that will help Canadian students and recent graduates affected by the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/04/support-for-students-and-recent-graduates-impacted-by-covid-19.html

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April 17, 2020

Provincial Update

Today, the Province confirmed that the resiliency and 100% commitment of everyone in British Columbia is having a positive impact - we are bending the curve.

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.'s provincial health officer, have jointly stated, “What happens next is directly tied to your continued efforts. We still have new cases, new outbreaks and tragically, new deaths. We cannot afford a resurgence that will undo all of the effort and sacrifices we have made so far. We all want opportunities for more social connection, but we’re not there yet. To safely ease restrictions, we must be thoughtful and careful in our approach. As we look ahead, we need to find the right balance. That is even more challenging because of the nature of the COVID-19 virus. Our new normal in the months ahead will be a modification of what we are doing now. The physical distancing measures, staying home if you are ill and following good hand hygiene will continue. And, it is vital that we continue to show care and compassion for those around us.”

Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0133-000713

Special Council Meeting Information

There will be a special Sidney Council meeting held on Monday, April 20, 2020 at 6:00 pm, at which Council will be considering Property Tax Relief Measures. The meeting will be live-streamed beginning at 6:00 pm – you can find the live-stream link on our Council meeting page.

BCCDC COVID-19 Dashboard

The BC Centre for Disease Control has created a COVID-19 dashboard, which presents the latest case counts and information on recoveries, deaths, hospitalizations, testing and more. Visit their website to access this informative tool: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

Showcase BC

People will now be able to enjoy more music at home, as the Province and Creative BC support musicians impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with new grants for livestreaming. The B.C. government partnered with Creative BC to launch Showcase BC. This new online hub brings a variety of live performances, entertainment and content to British Columbians, so they can stay connected while staying home. To help B.C. musicians take part in Showcase BC, Creative BC has also opened a new Showcase BC music funding stream.

Access online concerts and find out more about Showcase BC at: https://showcasebc.ca/

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April 15, 2020

Garbage & Kitchen Organics Collection

The Town of Sidney appreciates Emterra’s continuing essential work as the Town’s garbage and kitchen organics collection contractor.

Sidney residents and businesses can help keep Emterra staff safe by:

• Ensuring all used tissues, napkins, paper towels, masks, gloves, and wipes are disposed of in a sealed garbage bag in your garbage bin.
• Keeping at least 2 metres away from Emterra collection staff.
  
  

Provincial Update – B.C. Government Extends State of Emergency

The B.C. government has formally extended the provincial state of emergency, allowing the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General to continue to use extraordinary powers under the Emergency Program Act to support the Province’s COVID-19 pandemic response.

The state of emergency is extended through the end of the day on April 28, 2020, allowing government to continue to take the necessary steps to keep British Columbians safe.

Read the Province’s full statement: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EMBC0020-000697

Provincial Update - Virtual Mental Health Supports During COVID-19

B.C. seniors, adults, youth and frontline health care workers experiencing anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic can get help through virtual services.

To support British Columbians of all ages during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Province is expanding existing mental health programs and launching new services.

Find the Province's list of programs and services on their website at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/mental-health-substance-use/virtual-supports-covid-19

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April 14, 2020

April 14, 2020 Council Meeting Live Stream

This evening's Council meeting will be live streamed at 6:00 pm. Click here to view the live stream.

A video recording of the meeting will be available on the Council Meeting page in the coming days.

The Town’s Emergency Operations Centre’s Director and Deputy Director will provide a verbal update on the Town’s COVID-19 response efforts during the meeting.

Sidney/Anacortes Ferry Service Suspension Extended

Washington State Ferries (WSF) has extended their suspension for the Sidney/Anacortes route until at least Saturday, June 20, 2020. They had previously announced that the start of the Anacortes/Sidney ferry schedule would be suspended until at least April 28, 2020.

The Town of Sidney will continue to monitor provincial and federal transportation directives and coordinate with Washington State Ferries on the Sidney/Anacortes Ferry route.

You can read Washington State Ferries full release here: https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/news/2020/04/10/state-ferries-extends-winter-sailing-schedules-through-june-20-due-lower-demand

Update from School District 63

School District 63 has posted a COVID-19 Q&A video with their superintendent on their website: https://www.sd63.bc.ca/news/superintendents-covid-19-qa

You can find additional information on SD63's COVID-19 response and planning on their website at: www.sd63.bc.ca. If you have any questions that are not answered on their website, you can email School District 63 at: inquiries@saanichschools.ca.

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April 9, 2020

Long Weekend Message from the Town of Sidney

The Town of Sidney is asking everyone to stay safe, stay the course, and stay close to home this long weekend. We all need to keep working together to flatten the COVID-19 curve, including following the Provincial Health Officer’s guidance in maintaining social and physical distancing measures and refraining from travelling.

This is not the time to travel to secondary homes or vacation properties in other communities. Access to resources and health care may be more challenging in smaller communities if someone should become ill or if there’s a community outbreak. By staying home, we can take pressure off the already strained resources in these smaller areas.

The Province has reminded us all to postpone in-person gatherings and to gather virtually instead. Find new ways to connect and celebrate the holidays with your family and friends, while staying safe and apart.

When going outside for exercise and fresh air, please consider staying in your own neighbourhood as much as possible. Town of Sidney playgrounds, sport courts, and the skate park remain closed. CRD regional parks and Sidney municipal parks remain open, but park users are advised to:

• Stay home if you are sick
• Enjoy parks & pathways on your own or with members of your own household only
• Keep two metres apart from people you encounter
• Please respect the natural environment
• Please be courteous of others

You can review our Parks & Pathways Updates page for more information about Sidney park and trail usage during COVID-19. If a park looks busy, please consider visiting a different park or returning at a different time.

Other Long Weekend Updates

• Capital Regional District
• Government of British Columbia
  
  

Tulista Boat Launch Information

With extra days off and nice weather on the horizon, we are anticipating that the Tulista Boat Launch will be busy this weekend. Boat launch users must maintain physical distancing of 2m/6ft from others. Boat launch pass and parking regulations will be enforced – visit our Tulista Boat Launch page for more information. We are asking all boat launch users to practice patience and cooperation. If boat launch rules and etiquette are not followed, the Town will have to look at temporarily closing the site.

Enforcement Presence Around Town

Town of Sidney Bylaw Enforcement Officers will be monitoring activity around Town throughout the long weekend. If you have any concerns that you’d like to share with the Town about physical distancing issues in local businesses or gatherings of more than 50 people, please email information@sidney.ca or leave a voicemail at 250-655-6900.

Town Hall/Driver Services Closed for Long Weekend

Sidney Town Hall and Driver Services will be closed from Friday, April 9 to Monday, April 13 for the long weekend. There will be no changes to the Garbage/Kitchen Organics and Yard/Garden Waste collection. Friday & Monday pick-ups will occur as scheduled.

For any urgent water or sewer matters, please call the Town's 24-hour phone line at 250-656-1184.

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April 8, 2020

New Interactive Map for Sidney Business Community Service Updates

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre's IT Section created an interactive and searchable web map illustrating the local business service updates that the Sidney Business Improvement Area has been gathering and updating. Access the map at: http://arcg.is/19jiW

If you own a local business and would like to provide an update, please contact the Sidney BIA by email at morgan@sidneybia.ca or by phone at 250-893-0093.

Provincial Updates

Closure of BC Parks
BC Parks is immediately closing all provincial parks in response to the widespread call for increased action to address COVID-19. The closure responds to both the federal and provincial directives that people should stay close to home to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk. This temporary measure means people should not be going to provincial parks until further notice.

Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020ENV0019-000645

New Measures for Returning British Columbians
The Province introduced new measures to make sure British Columbians returning home from international destinations have the support they need to self-isolate and keep their communities safe from COVID-19.

The measures, which include a new legal requirement to provide a self-isolation plan, support the Provincial Health Officer’s travel orders and reinforce the federal emergency order under the Quarantine Act requiring people entering Canada to self-isolate for 14 days.

Read the full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PREM0019-000657

Other Provincial News:

• Families throughout B.C. to benefit from enhanced digital library services:
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0019-000652
  (A reminder - Sidney residents can register for a Vancouver Island Regional Library card online at https://virl.bc.ca/get-help/get-a-card to access our local library's eLibrary services)
• New Emergency Relief Support Fund and added service flexibility for parents of children with special needs:
  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020CFD0043-000650

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April 7, 2020

World Health Day

As today is World Health Day, we wanted to take this opportunity to thank healthcare workers for their tireless efforts on the COVID-19 front line and their everyday efforts to keep us all healthy. Making noise at 7:00 pm has been a wonderful way to come together as a community to express our appreciation for healthcare workers. We'll be making extra noise at 7:00 pm tonight!

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April 6, 2020

Spring Cleaning

As the weather gets warmer and everyone is spending more time at home, it is natural to get into the spring cleaning spirit. We are asking residents to keep the following in mind:

• Suspended Services and Reduced Public Access at Hartland Depot - the Capital Regional District has stated that due to the need for social distancing household hazardous waste (including oil and paint) and renovation waste are not being accepted at the Hartland Public Drop-off Depot at this time and public access to the site has been reduced. High traffic volumes are causing congestion and delays. Please store non-putrescible waste (material that doesn’t rot or attract animals) until after the COVID-19 health emergency.
  For more information, visit: https://www.crd.bc.ca/service/waste-recycling/hartland-landfill-facility/hours-rates
• Due to COVID-19 risks, a number of charities that accept donations of clothing and household goods have changed donation drop off procedures or have temporarily suspended services. Please call ahead before dropping off any donations.
  
  

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April 4, 2020

Reminder - Sidney Virtual Town Hall Forum on COVID-19
April 5, 2020, 2 pm - 3 pm

Don't forget to join Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith and Emergency Operations Centre Director, Randy Humble, for a virtual Town Hall forum on COVID-19 on Sunday, April 5, 2020 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm. The event will be hosted on the video meeting platform Zoom, which is free to download. The discussion will provide updates to the community on the Town of Sidney’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a Q&A session. The link to the Zoom meeting is: https://zoom.us/j/382543792

Radio Sidney will also be live streaming the event. Although you won't be able to submit a question through the Radio Sidney live stream, you will be able to listen to the discussion. Tune into Radio Sidney at: http://radiosidney.ca

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April 3, 2020

“We must be united and 100% committed”

The BC Government has reiterated that now is the time for all British Columbians to do all we can to protect our province. Please stay home as much as possible. Connect with friends and family by phone, video chats, and email. If you are out in public, please keep 2 metres from people you encounter. As Dr. Bonnie Henry has stated, “We must be united and 100% committed.”

BC Ferries Service Update

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect all of us, including BC Ferries. Traffic across all of our routes is down approximately 80% because of COVID-19, and BC Ferries is adjusting service levels across multiple routes. These measures are being taken to protect the health and safety of communities and their crew, ensure the resiliency of their service, and match service levels to current demand. The changes are designed to ensure BC Ferries has sufficient capacity to allow the flow of essential goods, services, supplies and workers to their destinations. Service reductions will go into effect on Saturday, April 4, for a period of 60 days on major routes and until further notice on other routes.

Read BC Ferries full statement here: https://www.bcferries.com/current_conditions/travel-advisory.html

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April 2, 2020

Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce - Local Businesses Map

The Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has created a mapped list of businesses currently operating on the Peninsula. They will be updating the map daily.

If you are aware of any businesses that have been missed, please email info@peninsulachamber.ca to have them added.

A link to this map has been added to our Service Updates from Local Businesses Page.

 

Provincial Update - New Emergency Supports for Province’s Most Vulnerable

The Government of British Columbia announced a series of temporary supports and supplements in order to ensure B.C.’s most vulnerable – including people on income or disability assistance and low-income seniors – do not encounter additional barriers during the COVID-19 crisis.

You can read the Province’s statement here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020SDPR0012-000620

 

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April 1, 2020

Waterfront Walkway Update

The section of the waterfront walkway that runs through the Sidney/Anacortes ferry terminal unfortunately doesn't allow pedestrians travelling in opposite directions enough room to pass safely. Until further notice, this section of pathway will be open only to northbound (towards Sidney) pedestrians.

Southbound pedestrians (towards Victoria) are asked to divert along the Ocean Avenue sidewalk and can rejoin the waterfront walkway at the southern end of Tulista Park.

We ask everyone to please practice patience and understanding while pedestrians get accustomed to this pathway change. This information is also available on our Parks & Pathways Updates Page.

Shower Facility Opening in Iroquois Park

As of April 2, 2020, the Town of Sidney will be operating a shower facility with access to toiletries and towels in Iroquois Park. The facility will be open Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. We have undertaken this initiative to ensure all members of our community can maintain vital personal hygiene practices during this public health emergency. Along with the shower facility, the Town’s three public washrooms (Fourth Street, Tulista Park, and Iroquois Park) remain open for use. These facilities are cleaned and sanitized multiple times daily.

The Town of Sidney would like to extend a big thank you to two local businesses that have shown great generosity during these challenging times. Tyneham Luxury Products donated the toiletries that will be available at the shower facility, including soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, and the Best Western Plus Emerald Isle Hotel in Sidney donated the towels that will be available. We are greatly appreciative of the support shown for this important initiative by these local businesses.

The shower facility’s hours of operations coincide with the operational hours of the adjacent Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. The Food Bank runs a food hamper program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and they are currently open for extra food pick-ups on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank is in urgent need of donations, and demand for its services is growing in these uncertain times. For anyone who is able, donations can be made online at www.splfoodbank.com/donate or by phone 250-655-0679.

BC Hydro Update – COVID-19 Relief Fund

BC Hydro today announced it is introducing a COVID-19 Relief Fund that will provide bill credits to its residential and small business customers hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under this new program, residential customers that have lost their job or are unable to work will be able to apply to receive a one-time bill credit of three times their average monthly bill amount. Small business customers that have had to close their business as a result of measures implemented to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also be able to apply to have their electricity costs waived for up to three months.

Eligible residential customers will be able to apply for the COVID-19 Relief Fund by the end of next week and small business customers will be able to apply starting April 14. Customers have until June 30, 2020 to apply for relief.

Read BC Hydro's full statement here: https://www.bchydro.com/news/press_centre/news_releases/2020/covid-19-relief-fund.html

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March 31, 2020

Bylaw Enforcement of Public Health Measures

On March 26, the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General used the extraordinary powers of the Emergency Program Act to enable municipal bylaw officers to enforce the Provincial Health Officer’s orders. Town of Sidney Bylaw Officers now have the authority to ensure that local businesses are adhering to provincially mandated closures. As well, our Bylaw Officers will also work to ensure that people are practicing proper social distancing in public spaces.

Our Bylaw Officers are working closely with local businesses and the public to educate on how best to protect the health of staff, patrons, and our community at large. This will be undertaken through regular visits to Sidney businesses, the waterfront area and parks. Their focus will be providing guidance based on recommendations and orders from senior levels of government and the provincial and regional health authorities.

We would like to thank our local business community for all the measures they have already taken and continue to adopt to keep their staff and patrons safe. We would also like to thank park and trail users who are adapting to social distancing requirements and are keeping 2 metres away from others they encounter when in shared public spaces.

If you have any questions or concerns related to enforcement of public health measures, you can contact the Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre at information@sidney.ca or 250-655-6900 (phone line monitored Monday - Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, voicemails returned as soon as possible).

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March 30, 2020

Sidney Virtual Town Hall Forum on COVID-19 - April 5, 2020, 2 pm - 3 pm

Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith and Emergency Operations Centre Director, Randy Humble, will host a virtual Town Hall forum on COVID-19 on Sunday, April 5, 2020 from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm. The event will be hosted on the video meeting platform Zoom which is free to download. The discussion will provide updates to the community on the Town of Sidney’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic followed by a Q&A session. To participate using Zoom on April 5, go to: https://zoom.us/j/382543792

Radio Sidney will also be live streaming the event. Although you won't be able to submit a question through the Radio Sidney live stream, you will be able to listen to the discussion. Tune into Radio Sidney at: http://radiosidney.ca

Updated Service Information from Local Businesses

• The Sidney Business Improvement Area continues to maintain their list of service updates from Sidney businesses – check their page regularly for new updates:

  https://sidneybia.ca/sidney-business-operations-updates/

• The Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is also tracking service updates from Saanich Peninsula businesses. Check out their Sidney Business Updates page, North Saanich Business Updates page, and Central Saanich Business Updates page.
  
  

Island Health Update – Paid Parking Temporarily Suspended

In an effort to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, Island Health is temporarily suspending pay parking for the public, staff and medical staff, at all health authority owned and operated sites, effective April 1, 2020 until further notice. Island Health operated sites in the Saanich Peninsula region include the Saanich Peninsula Hospital and the Peninsula Health Unit.

Read their statement at: https://www.islandhealth.ca/news/news-releases/island-health-temporarily-suspends-pay-parking

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March 28, 2020

Website Update

We have reorganized many of the updates we've shared regarding the Town's COVID-19 response efforts and operations updates into easier-to-navigate pages accessible from our new COVID-19 Response Page. Look through the pages to learn more about the Town's Emergency Operations Centre, municipal services updates, ways to help, and more. Additional sections will be added in the coming days - be sure to check back regularly.

We will continue to post our daily updates to this newsroom page.

Virtual Discussion and Q&A Reminder

Don't forget to join Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith and Councillor Peter Wainwright for a virtual discussion and Q&A on Sunday, March 29 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The event will be hosted on the video meeting platform called Zoom which is free to download. To access the event, go to: https://zoom.us/j/382543792. For more information, refer to the March 27, 2020 update below.

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March 27, 2020

Virtual Discussion and Q&A with Mayor McNeil-Smith & Councillor Wainwright

Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith and Councillor Peter Wainwright will be hosting a virtual discussion and Q&A on Sunday, March 29 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The event will be hosted on the video meeting platform called Zoom which is free to download. The discussion will provide updates to the community on the Town of Sidney’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic followed by a Q&A session.

Zoom allows up to 100 people to participate in the discussion. To access the event go to: https://zoom.us/j/382543792

If you are unable to gain access, Radio Sidney will be live streaming the event. Although you won’t be able to submit a question, you will be able to listen to the discussion. Tune into Radio Sidney at: http://radiosidney.ca/

Social Distancing in Parks and on Paths

As we start another weekend, we’d like to remind everyone that Town playgrounds, sport courts, and the skate park are closed. Parks & trails remain open, but please remember to practice social distancing and keep 2 metres away from those you encounter.

We’ve added additional signage asking those using the Town’s Lochside Pedestrian Path to use the upper path to walk southbound (towards Victoria) and to use the lower path to go northbound (towards Sidney). This will help pedestrians keep a safe distance from others using the pathways.

Mental Health Reminder

It’s normal to be worried about COVID-19 and what the future may hold. Stress, anxiety, and sadness are common responses to the disruption and isolation that many of us are experiencing. The Government of British Columbia has put together a list of tips and resources regarding mental health management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This weekend, consider taking some time to focus on ways to manage any stress and anxiety we may be feeling. Some of the key things we can all do include:

• Reach out to friends and family
  Social distancing is critical to help control the spread of the virus. But at the same time it can also create even greater feelings of isolation, loneliness and sometimes depression. Therefore use safe ways to connect, including picking up the phone and calling friends and family, connect with friends on-line and offer support to those who need it.
• Have calm conversations – especially when talking to children
• Practice self-care
  All things that you can do to manage your stress, whether it’s going for walk in your neighbourhood, exercising, meditating or practicing deep breathing, will better prepare you to take care of yourself and others.
• Seek help when needed
  You know your body and its signs of stress. If you are having trouble managing your mental health, call your healthcare provider or a support phone line and encourage those you love to do the same.

Refer to the Province's complete list for more information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health-safety/covid19_stressmanagement_5_accessible.pdf

Provincial Update – Support for the Arts Sector

On March 27, 2020 the Government of British Columbia announced support for the people and organizations in the arts sector. COVID-19 and the need for physical distancing has had a significant impact on everyone, including those in the arts sector. Arts organizations responded to the orders, direction and recommendations from the provincial health officer, and showed leadership by cancelling events, performances and festivals to protect people’s health. The Province understands that this has had a significant impact on artists, their families and arts organizations.

Building on their COVID-19 Action Plan, the Province has developed a $3-million Arts and Culture Resilience Supplement to be administered by the BC Arts Council. Operating and eligible project clients will receive a supplement of up to $15,000 in early April to help them pay their bills. Starting in April 2020, the BC Arts Council will provide operating clients a 50% advance on 2020-21 funding to help with their cash flow. The Province is also extending application deadlines, relaxing reporting requirements and allowing organizations to use funding to cover immediate needs like rent and utilities.

Read the Province’s full statement here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020TAC0015-000577

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March 26, 2020

Seniors Helpline: Call 2-1-1

• Through the United Way, you can call 2-1-1 or visit www.bc211.ca if you are a senior in need, or would like to volunteer with a senior in your community to check in on them or to help pick-up groceries/prescriptions. The helpline will take calls 7 days/week to help keep seniors safe in their homes.
• Beacon Community Services is also working to provide information and assistance to seniors and other vulnerable local residents by phone at 250-656-5537. If you know of any vulnerable members of our community looking for information or assistance, please pass this contact information along. If you are looking to volunteer during this time, please consider contacting Beacon Community Services regarding volunteering opportunities.
  
  

Provincial Update – Ministerial Orders Under the Emergency Program Act

Using the powers under the Emergency Program Act, the Provincial Minister of Public Safety issued a series of ministerial orders to ensure a coordinated response to COVID-19 across all levels of government for the duration of the provincial emergency. These include:

• Supply chain: Establishing a new Provincial Supply Chain Coordination Unit to co-ordinate goods and services distribution; taking a more active role in co-ordinating essential goods and services movement by land, air, marine and rail; and suspending any bylaws that restrict goods delivery at any time of day.
• Protecting consumers: Banning the secondary resale of food, medical supplies, personal protective equipment, cleaning and other essential supplies; and restricting quantities of items purchased at point of sale.
• Enforcement: Enabling municipal bylaw officers to support enforcement of the provincial health officer’s orders for business closures and gatherings, in line with offences under the Public Health Act.
• Travel: Ensuring all passenger and car-ferry services provide minimum service levels and priority access for residents, and essential goods and workers.
• Protecting B.C.’s most vulnerable: Making it easier to support critical services for vulnerable people, like food banks and shelters.
• Coordination: Suspending local states of emergency specific to the COVID-19 pandemic, except for the City of Vancouver; giving municipal councils the ability to hold more flexible meetings to expedite decisions; and coordinating potential use of local publicly owned facilities, like community centres, for self-isolation, testing, medical care, warehousing and distribution.

You can read the Province’s full statement at: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0020-000568

Federal Update – Emergency Order Under the Quarantine Act

On March 25, 2020, the Government of Canada’s Minister of Health announced an Emergency Order under the Quarantine Act that requires any person entering Canada by air, sea or land to self-isolate for 14 days whether or not they have symptoms of COVID-19.

This federal Emergency Order reinforces an existing British Columbia Provincial Health Order in place since March 17, 2020 which orders every person in British Columbia who has travelled outside Canada and returned on or after March 12 to self-isolate for 14 days.

The new federal emergency order was implemented by the Canada Border Services Agency at points of entry by midnight on March 25. The Government of Canada will use its authority under the Quarantine Act to ensure compliance with the order. Failure to comply with this Order is an offense under the Quarantine Act. Maximum penalties include a fine of up to $750,000 and/or imprisonment for six months.

All individuals permitted to enter Canada are subject to this Order, with the exception of certain persons who cross the border regularly to ensure the continued flow of goods and services, and those who provide essential services. Individuals exempt from the Order will still need to practice social distancing and self-monitoring and contact their local public health authority if they feel sick.

You can read the full statement at: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2020/03/new-order-makes-self-isolation-mandatory-for-individuals-entering-canada.html

BC Construction Safety Alliance Response to COVID-19

The BC Construction Safety Alliance has posted information regarding COVID-19 for the construction industry on their website. Information includes a resources & signage, info & useful links, FAQs, and mental health resources.

You can visit their website to access this information: https://www.bccsa.ca/

 

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March 25, 2020

Western Section of Downtown Employee Parking Lot Temporarily Repurposed as Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop

As of March 26, 2020, the western section of the Downtown Employee/Public Parking Lot will be temporarily closed to allow for the set-up of a Town of Sidney Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop. Parking lot users are asked to please park in the eastern section of the parking lot. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate the public’s patience and support during this time.

As a result of the COVID-19 situation, several local public restrooms and rest stops have closed. The Town of Sidney Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop will allow those who are delivering essential goods to our region during this time to find a space to rest and access restrooms and local food options.

The Critical Supply Chain Rest Stop will have a soft open on Thursday, March 26, 2020 and should be fully operational on Friday, March 27, 2020.

Utility Bill Payments

The Town of Sidney will not be applying penalties to any utility billings that remain unpaid at this time.

The next utility bill is scheduled to be mailed out in mid-April. At this time, we plan on issuing these bills, but will be doing so with a long due date (some date in the summer, to be determined). Depending on circumstances at that time, we may choose not to apply penalties for late payment at that time. We hope to issue the next bill as a way to assist with our cash flow; the more funds we have coming in, the better it will be for our 2020 operations. We will be inviting those customers who can pay at this time to please do so; for other customers, leniency will be applied to the extent possible.

We are also looking at ways to extend the property tax due date. We will share more information regarding property taxes over the next several weeks.

ICBC Autoplan Insurance Transactions Available

While public access to the Town of Sidney Driver Services' Building is restricted, there are some ICBC transactions that Driver Services' staff are now able to conduct over the phone. These transactions are:

• Renewals
• Policy changes
• Cancellations
• Storage policies
• Temporary operating permits

Call Town of Sidney Driver Services at 250-656-0614 to access these services.

BC Ferries Update

In line with directions provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada and other leading health authorities, BC Ferries is advising customers to avoid non-essential travel at this time.

BC Ferries crews have been – and continue to – take extra measures to clean and disinfect all touch points. To support social distancing and reduce the risk of spreading infectious disease including COVID-19, all catering and retail services are closed until further notice.

BC Ferries are strongly advising passengers to stay in their vehicles, regardless of their car deck, during the crossing. If you must come up to the passenger decks, please maintain social distancing on board, and stay at least two metres away from employees.

Read their full statement here: https://www.bcferries.com/current_conditions/travel-advisory.html

Provincial Update – Support for Renters & Landlords

To support people and prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Province is introducing a new temporary rental supplement, halting evictions and freezing rents, among other actions.

The new rental supplement will help households by offering up to $500 a month towards their rent, building on federal and provincial financial supports already announced for British Columbians facing financial hardship.

Read their full statement here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020MAH0048-000561

Federal Update – Canada Emergency Response Benefit

To support workers and help businesses keep their employees, the Government of Canada has proposed legislation to establish the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). This taxable benefit would provide $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CERB would be a simpler and more accessible combination of the previously announced Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit.

The CERB would cover Canadians who have lost their job, are sick, quarantined, or taking care of someone who is sick with COVID-19, as well as working parents who must stay home without pay to care for children who are sick or at home because of school and daycare closures. The CERB would apply to wage earners, as well as contract workers and self-employed individuals who would not otherwise be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI).

Read their full statement here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/introduces-canada-emergency-response-benefit-to-help-workers-and-businesses.html

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March 24, 2020

Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre Update

The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre’s Director & Deputy Director provided a verbal COVID-19 update to Council at the March 23, 2020 Council meeting. This update includes a description of the Emergency Operations Centre and its functions, as well as the key areas upon which the EOC has been focused.

• Read the March 23, 2020 EOC Update Transcript
• Watch the update - March 23, 2020 Council Meeting video
  
  

Mental Health Supports

It is normal to be worried about COVID-19. Stress, anxiety, and sadness are common responses to the disruption and isolation many of us are experiencing. The Government of British Columbia has put together a list of tips and resources to help us all manage COVID-19-related stress, anxiety and depression: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health-safety/covid19_stressmanagement_5_accessible.pdf

Ways the Public Can Help

• Practice social distancing – If you are sick, stay home. If you are able to stay home, please stay home. If you are out in public, keep a distance of 2 meters (6’) from other people.
• Do not flush wipes or paper towels. Even if they say they are flushable, wipes and paper towels do not break down like toilet paper, and they form blockages in the pumps that keep our sewer system running.
• The Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank is in urgent need of donations. If you are able, please consider donating online at www.splfoodbank.com/donate or by phone 250-655-0679.
• Beacon Community Services is working to provide information and assistance to seniors and other vulnerable local residents by phone at 250-656-5537. If you know of any vulnerable members of our community looking for information or assistance, please pass this contact information along. If you are looking to volunteer during this time, please consider contacting Beacon Community Services regarding volunteering opportunities.
• Donate blood - visit www.blood.ca for more information.
  
  

Local Business Updates

The Sidney BIA is maintaining a list of updates from local businesses, including hour changes, closure notices, and delivery/online services: https://sidneybia.ca/sidney-business-operations-updates/

Local Facility Closures List

• Town of Sidney Municipal Buildings (public access restricted)
• Town of Sidney municipal playgrounds, sport courts, and skate park (closed)
• Sidney/North Saanich RCMP (public access restricted)
• ArtSea Gallery
• Greenglade Community Centre
• Mary Winspear Centre
• Panorama Recreation Centre
• SHOAL Centre
• Sidney/North Saanich Library (as of March 16, 2020 at 8 pm)
• Sidney Museum
• Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea
• Sidney Visitor Centre
• Pat Bay Visitor Centre

The following local care/retirement homes and medical facilities have limited access to the public:

• Sidney Care
• Sidney All Care Residence
• Norgarden
• The Peninsula at Norgarden
• Amica Beechwood Village
• Rest Haven Lodge
• Shoreline Medical (offering telehealth visits only)
  
  

COVID-19 Contact Information

COVID-19 Medical Information:

• For people who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or who require assistance with other health issues, call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.
• The BC Ministry of Health and BC Centre for Disease Control have developed a Self-Assessment tool, which can help you determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19. Click here to access the Self-Assessment Tool.

COVID-19 Non-Medical Information:

• Provincial COVID-19 information:
  - Call: 1-888-COVID-19 (1-888-268-4319) – available 7 days a week, 7:30 am to 8 pm
  - Text: 604-630-0300
• Public Health Agency of Canada's COVID-19 information:
  - Call: 1-833-784-4397
  - Email: phac.info.aspc@canada.ca

For additional information and updates, we recommend visiting the following websites for credible information:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Vancouver Island Health Authority
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Government of Canada's Travel Health & Safety Website
• World Health Organization
  
  

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March 23, 2020

March 23, 2020 Council Meeting Live-Stream

The March 23, 2020 Council Meeting will be live-streamed at 6 pm. The Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre’s Director & Deputy Director will be providing a verbal COVID-19 update at the start of the meeting.

COVID-19 Informational Poster

An informational poster regarding the Community Response to COVID-19 was posted on the main entrances of multi-residential stratas in Sidney today.

You can view and print this poster here if you would like a copy.

Supports for Businesses & Workers

On March 23, 2020, the Province announced the B.C. COVID-19 Action Plan, to build on the federal government’s COVID-19 economic plan and boost supports for British Columbians.

For information about Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html

For information about B.C.’s COVID-19 Action Plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/bc-takes-steps-to-support-people-businesses-during-covid-19-pandemic

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March 21, 2020

Update from the Province

British Columbia's Provincial Health Officer recently issued 2 new orders:

• On Saturday, March 21, 2020, BC’s Provincial Health Officer ordered personal service establishments (such as barbershops, salons, nail estheticians, health spas, massage parlours, tattoo shops and others) to close until further notice. Click here to read the full statement.
• On Friday, March 20, 2020, BC’s Provincial Health Officer ordered that all restaurants can only offer take-out and/or delivery services, in order to ensure proper social distancing. Click here to read the full statement.

You can access a list of other BC Provincial Health Orders regarding COVID-19 on the Provincial Health Officer's page. These include:

• Businesses with liquor primary licences, such as bars, pubs and night clubs, must close until further notice
• Any person who has travelled outside Canada and returned on or after March 12 must self-isolate for 14 days.
• Public gatherings of more than 50 people – indoors or outdoors – must be cancelled
  
  

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March 20, 2020

 

 

Playgrounds, Sport Courts, and Skate Park Closure

As of March 20, 2020, the Town of Sidney is closing municipal playgrounds, basketball, tennis, and beach volleyball courts, and the skate park until further notice. The Town is taking this action to protect public health and to help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

Municipal parks remain open – we encourage residents to continue to enjoy our local parks and natural areas while also maintaining appropriate social distance from others (2 meters/6 feet).

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March 19, 2020

 

 

Business Updates

A number of local businesses are offering additional services to help our community during this time. In addition to online shopping and delivery options, some local grocery stores and pharmacies are offering special store hours for seniors, people with disabilities, and those most vulnerable to shop for their groceries. Visit www.sidneybia.ca/sidney-business-operations-updates/ for more information.

Canada-U.S. Travel

Canada and the United States have agreed to temporarily restrict non-essential travel across the Canada-U.S. border. Travellers will no longer be permitted to cross the border for recreation and tourism.

Government of Canada travel advisories can be found at: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

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March 18, 2020

 

 

Sidney/North Saanich RCMP Restricts Front Counter Services

As of March 18, 2020, the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP front counter services are restricted. For non-emergency service including deliveries during this period, please phone the detachment at: 250-656-3931. The Sidney/North Saanich RCMP apologizes for this inconvenience and appreciates your support as we work together in keeping our community safe.

A reminder: public access to all Town of Sidney municipal buildings is restricted until further notice. This includes the Town Hall, Driver Services, the Community Safety Building, and the Public Works & Parks Yard. We have taken this measure to ensure the health of our staff and the public as we all work together to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Click here to read more about this measure.

Schools

As of March 17, 2020, British Columbia has suspended Kindergarten to Grade 12 classes. Teachers and schools will be developing plans for continuing instruction, outside of the classroom. More information will be shared when it becomes available. Read more about it here: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/childcare-schools

Grocery Stores

Emergency Management staff met with the three major grocery stores in Sidney and reviewed social distancing best practices. Emergency Management staff strongly recommended the following measures be considered:

• Create visible barriers to encourage physical distancing, such as using tape to mark the floor at check outs for appropriate spacing when in line (2m/6ft)
• Display signage around stores with messaging pertaining to washing hands, cough and sneeze into arms, do not touch face while shopping, maintain 2m/6ft distance between patrons, accessibility to sanitizer, etc.
• Increase sanitizer accessibility for staff and patrons. Reconsider locations to increase visibility and if possible increase quantity
• Increase cleaning of stores and their facilities
• Increase cleaning of carts, baskets, wicket dividers

We would like to share our appreciation to Sidney’s business community for all the measures they have taken to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

We would like to remind the public that following social and physical distancing measures is a critical step to reduce the spread of COVID-19. We thank everyone for their cooperation and patience during this time.

Support for Businesses & Workers

On March 18, 2020, the Prime Minister announced more support for workers and businesses through Canada’s COVID19 Economic Response Plan. Learn more at: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html

The Sidney BIA is compiling information and resources for businesses on their website: https://sidneybia.ca/COVID-19/

The Sidney BIA is also maintaining a list of updates from local businesses, including hour changes, closure notices, and delivery/online services: https://sidneybia.ca/sidney-business-operations-updates/

Provincial Update

British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer has declared a public health emergency. This declaration allows the provincial health officer to facilitate an even faster response to the rapidly changing situation and enact further measures to protect British Columbians. The provincial health officer has issued the following orders:

• Effective immediately, businesses with liquor primary licences, such as bars, pubs and night clubs, must close, as they are unable to adequately meet the requirements of social distancing. Restaurants and cafes that cannot maintain social distancing of one to two meters between patrons will need to move to take-out and delivery models.
• Public gatherings of more than 50 people – indoors or outdoors – must be cancelled.

You can read their full statement here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0089-000505

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March 17, 2020

 

 

EOC Level 2

As of March 17, 2020, the Town of Sidney Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is operating at a Level 2. Upgrading to a Level 2 allows for additional advance planning, so that in the event mitigation strategies are not successful, response plans to anticipated events can be immediately implemented.

The Town’s Level 2 EOC includes a Recovery Planning Section Chief position. This position allows the EOC to work closely with the Sidney Business Improvement Area (SBIA) and the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce to actively participate in the business recovery planning process.

Business Information

The Sidney BIA has prepared a page for local businesses to access resources, including checklists, guides, and business continuity plan templates specifically geared towards the COVID-19 situation. Click here to access the Sidney BIA's COVID-19 Resources for Businesses page.

In light of the current situation, many Sidney businesses have been modifying their hours of operations, enacting indefinite closure notices, limiting public access, and developing delivery/online services. For a list of updates from local businesses, visit the Sidney BIA's Business Updates Page.

Additionally, the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is dedicating their Facebook page to sharing updates and information from local Saanich Peninsula businesses. Click here to access the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page.

Don't flush Sanitary Wipes or Paper Towels

Please do not flush wipes or paper towels. Even if they say they are flushable, wipes and paper towels do not break down like toilet paper, and they can form blockages to the pumps that keep our sewer system running.

Social Distancing

The Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia, and our regional, provincial, and federal public health agencies are all reinforcing the message of Social Distancing. If you are able to stay home, please stay home. This relates to physical distancing as well – if you are out in public, maintain a distance from others of approximately 2 meters.

A reminder: all public gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited in British Columbia.

Washington State Ferries Service Suspended

Washington State Ferries has announced that they are suspending the start of the Anacortes/Sidney schedule until at least April 28, 2020. The Town will continue regular discussions with Washington State Ferries regarding the Sidney/Anacortes route, and we will communicate any future updates.

 

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March 16, 2020

 

 

Effective Monday, March 16, 2020 at 11:00 am, public access to all Town of Sidney municipal buildings will be restricted until further notice.

This includes the Town Hall, Driver Services, the Community Safety Building, and Public Works & Parks Yard. We have taken this measure to ensure the health of our staff and the public as we all work together to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

We are continuing municipal operations to the fullest extent possible during this time and prioritizing essential services. Our standard departmental services will be carried out by phone, email, and through our website. You can find Department contact information on our Contact Us page and access our online services on our Online Services page. Response times to inquiries may take longer than usual - we appreciate your patience during this time.

Please note: we will be live-streaming all future Council & Committee of the Whole meetings, including the March 16, 2020 Committee of the Whole & Special Council meetings, beginning at 6:00 pm. The link to the live-stream will be posted on our Council Agendas & Minutes page.

During this time, bill payments can be:

• Paid online at MySidney;
• Dropped in the letterbox at the Town Hall;
• Paid at your financial institution

March 16, 2020 Update from the Government of British Columbia

Click here to access the full statement.

Highlights:

• Visits to long-term care facilities are restricted to essential visits only
• A new dedicated phone service has been created for non-medical information about COVID-19
  - For non-medical information, call: 1-888-COVID-19 (1-888-268-4319)
  - For medical information (for people who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or who require assistance with other health issues), call: 8-1-1
• All public gatherings of more than 50 people are now prohibited in British Columbia. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings and other similar events
  
  

March 16, 2020 Update from the Government of Canada

Click here to access the full statement.

Highlights:

• All Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside the country until further notice
• Canadian travellers urged to return to Canada via commercial means while they remain available
• All travellers to Canada are to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry, with exceptions for workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people
• To protect Canadians and to ease burdens on our health care system and frontline workers, as of March 18, 2020 at 12:01 am, the Government of Canada will, for air travel specifically, bar foreign nationals from all countries (except the United States) from entering Canada. Screening measures at airports will also be strengthened.

 

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March 13, 2020

 

 

The Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia are recommending against all non-essential travel outside of Canada, including to the United States. Effective March 12, 2020, the Government of British Columbia is asking anyone who chooses to travel outside of Canada to stay away from work or school for 14 days upon their return.

Additionally, the BC Government is directing event organizers to cancel any gathering larger than 50 people (updated to reflect the new order issued by the BC Government on March 16, 2020). This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings or other similar events.

Earlier today, the Government of Canada announced that the start of the cruise ship season has been deferred from April 2, 2020 to July 1, 2020 at the earliest. This deferral applies to cruise ships capable of carrying more than 500 passengers and crew members. It does not apply to smaller vessels or ferries at this time.

The Town continues to monitor recommendations from Transport Canada and regional, provincial, and federal public health agencies regarding ferry travel. We are in discussions with Washington State Ferries regarding the Sidney/Anacortes route, and we will provide an update as soon as we have confirmed details.

Effective March 13, 2020 at 4:30 pm and until further notice, SHOAL Community Centre in Sidney, will be closed to the public. Beacon Community Services announced the closure as a precautionary measure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Town’s Emergency Operations Centre and Town staff continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak through daily updates from the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA), Emergency Management BC, and senior levels of government.

For additional information and updates, we recommend visiting the following websites for credible information:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Government of Canada's Travel Health & Safety Website
• World Health Organization
• Vancouver Island Health Authority
  

 

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March 12, 2020

 

 

The Town of Sidney has been closely monitoring and pre-planning for the COVID-19 situation since the initial outbreak. As we move forward in responding to the current COVID-19 situation, our key message is "Preparation, Not Panic."

The Town is taking the following measures to reduce the risk to our staff and the public:

• Adopted increased cleaning protocols at our facilities, including regularly sanitizing workstations, counters and phones
• Directed Town staff to stay home if they are sick
• Posted signage at the Town Hall to remind staff and members of the public to wash their hands frequently - this is still our best defense against contracting and passing along the virus
• Discontinued handshaking
• Adopted "social distancing" - maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet/2 meters) from others when possible
• Postponed non-essential Committee meetings
• Live-streaming of Council and Committee of the Whole meetings will begin as soon as possible - we will encourage the public to watch meetings via the live stream
• Sidney's Emergency Program Coordinator will provide a regular update report to Council

Additionally, the Town of Sidney activated a Level 1 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) on March 12, 2020. The EOC will:

• Continue to closely monitor the situation
• Provide public notifications
• Work closely with other relevant agencies (VIHA, nursing homes, Washington State Ferries, etc.)
• Provide guidance to staff
• Promote Business Continuity Planning within the business community
  - If you are interested in additional information about Business Continuity Planning, including a Business Continuity Planning template, please visit our Business Continuity Planning page.

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March  4, 2020

A novel coronavirus is causing an infectious disease called COVID-19 that has spread to many countries around the world. The Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia, and the BC Centre for Disease Control are working with many partners to monitor, prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 public health situation.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. A newly discovered coronavirus causes a respiratory disease called COVID-19.

What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses including the flu and common cold. Symptoms include coughing, fever, sore throat, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

How is the Virus Spread?

Coronavirus may be contracted through liquid droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus enters the body through the eyes, nose or throat if you are in close contact with an infected individual. It can also be spread by touch if a person has used their hands to cover their mouth or nose when they cough. This is why it is important to cough or sneeze into your arm and wash your hands regularly.

How do we Lower the Risk of Spreading the Virus?

The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends following regular cold and flu season practices to prevent the spreading of the virus. This includes:

• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water
• When sneezing or coughing, use your arm to cover your nose and mouth
• Stay home if you are ill
• Avoid others who are ill
• Avoid touching your face
  
  

Be Prepared

Being prepared for the possibility that schools, events, businesses and organizations may face potential disruptions if the coronavirus spreads will result in less of a disturbance if they occur. Employees and students should be encouraged to remain home if they feel unwell. Having alternative arrangements for child care or options for working from home in place will ensure, as a community, we lower our risk of potentially spreading the coronavirus.

Travel

Travelers should keep apprised of affected countries. If you have recently traveled and feel ill, contact your primary care provider, local public health office, or call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing and have recently returned from travelling in an affected area or have been exposed to the someone who has COVID-19, avoid contact with others. Contact a health care provider as soon as possible. If you are going to visit a health care provider, call them ahead of time so they can arrange for you to be assessed safely.

If you are unsure about what to do or have concerns or questions, contact HealthLinkBC by calling 8-1-1 at any time, or contact your health care provider. Additionally, the Public Health Agency of Canada has set up a COVID-19 telephone information line at: 1-833-784-4397.

Discrimination

Participating in unjust discrimination is not a method of defense against the coronavirus. The Town of Sidney and its residents pride themselves on the community we share, and estranging members of our community will only create challenges in assisting one another to stay as healthy as possible.

More information & Latest Updates

• For more information and the latest provincial updates, please visit the BC Ministry of Health's website and the BC Centre for Disease Control's website.
• For more information and the latest federal updates, please visit the Government of Canada's website.
• To speak to someone:
  - For Coronavirus/COVID-19 information, call the Public Health Agency of Canada's novel coronavirus information line at 1-833-784-4397.
  - For health information, call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.