The city says it is preparing for further restrictions and closures if Guelph gets moved to level Red (control) soon.
Guelph and the rest of the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health coverage area is currently at level Orange (restrict).
“We’re not there yet, but we’re not far from it. With local cases still increasing, we’re preparing for what may come next,” says Colleen Clack-Bush, deputy CAO who oversees the city’s public services.
“Sports and recreation facilities pose the biggest challenge; we want to encourage people to stay active and healthy, and limit interaction among people who don’t live together. We’re working to support teams, coaches, parents and participants as our situation continues to change.”
Arenas, pools and indoor rinks would close in level red and Guelph measures would go beyond provincial requirements.
According to provincial regulations, up to 10 people would be permitted to use sports and recreation facilities. The city reviewed the framework, consulted Public Health and neighbouring municipalities before deciding it would:
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close, pools and rinks and gyms
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pause team sports, practices and training in city facilities
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pause all drop-in or registered fitness classes or programs
In addition to health and safety concerns, the city determined operating pools and rinks for 10 people at a time is not practical or affordable, says the news release.
“It’s disappointing, but we believe it’s the right thing to do,” added Clack-Bush. “COVID-19 cases are still increasing despite restrictions in place throughout the province. We have to do something more to flatten the curve.”
Service counters at recreation centres would remain open.
Starting Dec. 2, people can register for programs scheduled to start on Jan. 16. If classes are cancelled due to low enrolment or COVID-19 restrictions, the city will issue refunds.
Recreation centres would continue selling Guelph Transit bus passes, city gift cards, large waste item tickets and processing waste cart exchanges.
Outdoor rinks, parks, trails and washrooms would remain open.
City hall and Provincial Offences Court would see no service changes.
Guelph Farmers’ Market would remain open at level red and limit indoor shopping to 75 people.
Guelph libraries would remain open at level red. The Scottsdale branch would reduce hours, close on Sunday, and limit service to curbside pickup only. All other branches will be open to the public.
Guelph Museums would remain open at level red with a maximum of 10 visitors allowed indoors. Museum visits must be scheduled in advance.
Guelph Transit would see no service changes. Guelph Transit conventional service will continue on a 30-minute schedule.
