The County is preparing for the Province of Ontario to move to Step 1 of the roadmap to reopening.
The province has indicated that it will move to Step 1 when 60 per cent of Ontario adults receive one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and other public health indicators are met. Based on current trends, the province will move to Step 1 the week of June 14. The province-wide Stay-at-Home order will lift on June 3; however, the province is keeping in place all public health and workplace measures until the move to Step 1.
The municipality will reopen Shire Hall (332 Picton Main Street) and the Picton fire station (8 McDonald Drive) for in-person service the week of June 14 or earlier if the province moves up the Step 1 reopening date. Hours of service will be limited to 9 am to 3 pm. Active screening for COVID-19 symptoms will occur at Shire Hall and access will be limited to ensure physical distancing protocols can be followed by both visitors and staff. A mask or face-covering will still be required when entering a municipal building.
When Shire Hall reopens residents will be able to pay taxes, acquire a seasonal boat launch parking permit, and pick-up their Wellington Rotary Beach pass, among other services. (Residents can currently obtain a beach pass or boat launch parking permit by contacting their local PEC Library branch in advance and arranging for curbside pickup).
To avoid long lineups and meet payment deadlines, the County recommends residents go online to access services whenever possible. The first tax bill installment is due June 15. The County encourages ratepayers to learn more about alternative ways to pay their taxes.
County of Prince Edward Public Library branches will continue to serve the community through curbside pick-up only. The province will allow libraries to reopen for indoor service in Step 2. Patrons can access the computers at library branches for emergency purposes such as booking a COVID-19 vaccine appointment. Town halls and indoor recreation facilities such as the walking track at the Wellington and District Community Centre will remain closed during Step 1.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to familiarize themselves with what is allowed to reopen during each step of the roadmap to reopening. During Step 1, the province will permit outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people and outdoor dining of up to four people per table. Short-term accommodation rentals and campsites will be allowed to welcome guests. Non-essential retail will be able to reopen at 15 per cent capacity.
