COVID-19 Municipal Impacts: June 4
The Town of Penetanguishene continues to monitor news and updates concerning COVID-19 to ensure we work to keep our community members safe. The following update provided on June 4, 2021 is in addition to the updates provided in previous weeks, found here.
Office Reopening: In line with the end of the provincial Stay-at-Home Order, The Town of Penetanguishene reopened Town Hall, the Public Works Administration Building and the Penetanguishene Fire Hall to the public Thursday, June 3, 2021. All locations will continue to have a full closure from 12:00 PM-1:00 PM to allow for proper cleaning protocols and a full staff lunch break. Residents are encouraged to use online options for service where applicable.
Planning and Development Department: It is required that the public make an appointment for any Planning and Development Department services, including applying for building permits or to speak with staff in the planning or by-law offices. If an appointment is not made, there is no guarantee that a staff member will be in the building and/or available to assist you. Appointments for Planning and Development Services can be made by calling: (705) 549-2673. Those with appointments are to access the Townhall Building and Planning Department through the Shanahan Road doors (back door).
Residents are encouraged to use the CloudPermit building permit site, which has the ability to; submit applications online, update drawings, receive notifications for your project progress and book inspections.
Recreation and Parks Update: A full list of other previously open amenities is available here.
- Splash Pad: The Splash pad is open as of June 4, 2021. Hours of operation are 10:00AM – 7:00PM, daily. Please ensure you follow proper COVID-19 protocols and signage posted at the site.
- Beaches: Beach use is permitted effective as of May 22, however the SMDHU 2021 public beach monitoring season will not start until the week of June 21, 2021. Public bathing beaches have not been tested to verify that bacteria levels are safe for swimming and must be used at your own risk.
Tax & Utility Billing Penalties: During the Stay-at-Home Order, penalties for the April 30 Property Tax due date, 1st quarter Utility Bill due date of May 13 and monthly Utility Bill due dates of April 30 and May 27 were waived. Penalties on all tax and utility arrears will be reinstated effective Thursday, June 10, 2021.
Open Air Burning Permits: The requirement for Open Air Burning Permits has been reinstated. Residents may purchase their permits at the Municipal Office or by calling Townhall at 705-549-7453. Residents must strictly adhere to the guidelines of the Open Air Burning By-law. Please remember that failure to follow these guidelines and restrictions may result in your permit being revoked and possible fines.
Dog Tags: The requirement for Dog Licenses has been reinstated. Residents may purchase theirdog tag(s), by completing an Application for a Dog Tag. The application, along with any other documents and fee payment, can be submitted in person at the Townhall, for your convenience.
Community Reach Service: Community Reach offers Rides to people who do not have access to transportation or need accessible transportation. Anybody needing accessible transportation to get to their COVID-19 Vaccine appointment at either the Midland or Penetanguishene site is eligible to call: 705-528-6999. For more information visit their website.
The Town of Penetanguishene's Municipal Emergency Team will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation. For more information on the state of COVID-19 in our area, please contact the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 or visit their website at simcoemuskokahealth.org.
For inquiries, please contact:
Sarah Marshall
Communications and Technology Coordinator
Town of Penetanguishene