Municipality of Middlesex Centre COVID-19 Update, May 5, 2020

To help keep you informed of what is happening at Middlesex Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be sending out frequent updates on our website and Facebook and Twitter accounts, and through our e-newsletter. If you would rather not receive these emails please click the unsubscribe button below .

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Message from the Mayor The Premier’s announcement last week signaled that it’s time to start looking forward to making plans to safely get back to a more “normal” work and play schedule. Golf courses and marinas are now allowed to bring employees in to start preparations for the coming season, certain construction projects are getting underway and our lawns and gardens will soon be looking even better. Mayor's COVID-Cut Challenge in support of Ailsa Craig & Area Food Bank Speaking of looking better, the response to my “COVID-Cut Challenge” has been wonderful -- as of Tuesday, May 5, more than $3,500 has been pledged in support of the Ailsa Craig & Area Food Bank! In case you missed it, my challenge to Middlesex Centre is this: If as a community we raise $5,000 in donations for the Ailsa Craig and Area Food Bank by Mother's Day, I will let my husband cut my hair. And not just a little bit, but short, almost shaved, shearing! It seems very likely that I’m going to get that “COVID Cut”… but, let’s make sure. I’ve been telling folks who haven’t seen me recently I really NEED that haircut, so please consider making a donation, and help me while you are helping out the food bank too! To find out about where to drop-off donations of food or make an online donation, visit middlesexcentre.on.ca/foodbank-challenge. While you are there, be sure to enter your pledge so we can keep track of our whole community effort. If you wanted to be part of this “campaign” or have already given but not recorded your donation, please fill out the form by Friday, May 8! Thank you to all of you who have already taken part in the COVID-Cut Challenge! You have been truly generous and I want to thank everyone who has made a donation. The community spirit and your generous support of our friends and neighbours who need a hand at this difficult time is heartwarming and appreciated. Happy Mother’s Day! Aina Mayor Aina DeViet

Council Meetings go Virtual In response to COVID-19, Middlesex Centre Council held their second "electronic" meeting on April 29, 2020. The meeting was shared with the public via live-stream video. Among the items on the agenda were the monthly building report, budgetary updates and an initial report on the financial impacts of COVID-19 to the municipality. The reports from the meeting are available online, or you can watch the council meeting on YouTube. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca/council-meetings

COVID-19: Resources to keep your Workplace Safe With Ontario moving towards re-opening, the Province and the Middlesex-London Health Unit are developing sector-specific guidance documents for businesses and workplaces. You can find links to these resources on the municipal website. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca

Reminder - Middlesex Centre Parks Remain Closed It's not surprising that with the nice weather this past weekend, more people headed outside. Unfortunately we need to remind everyone that due to COVID-19, all Middlesex Centre parks are closed to the public until further notice. All playgrounds, skate parks, and sports fields and courts remain closed at this time. Closure signs are posted at the parks and, where possible, parking areas are closed. Even if a fence or barrier is not in place, the park is closed. OPP and municipal staff are monitoring the parks regularly. We thank everyone for their patience. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca/covid19

Spring "Spruce-Up" for Municipal Roads Middlesex Centre's Public Works and Engineering Department has been busy with some "spring chores" lately, including: Ditching and reseeding Fresh graded gravel roads Dust control applications on gravel roads Staff and contractors are taking special safety precautions in response to COVID-19. Roadside Weed Spraying Roadside weed spraying for both municipal and county roads will take place May 10 to June 30, 2020. Please see the website for more details. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca 

Fire Hydrant Flushing Underway The annual watermain flushing using fire hydrants is underway, a process that improves tap water quality. You may see temporarily discoloured water as hydrants in your community are flushed. If so, please run your cold-water tap until water clears. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca

Building Permits for Home Renovations If your summer plans include home renovations, check to see if you need a building permit. Even if you do the work yourself, permits may be required for finishing basements, decks, sheds, and more. It is quick and easy to apply online - see website. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca

COVID-19 FAQs: Updates on Lawn Care & Landscaping Companies As of May 4, 2020, the Province of Ontario is allowing certain businesses to open under strict safety guidelines. One new addition -- this list includes "lawn care and landscaping." See website for more on this and other Frequently Asked Questions. Read more middlesexcentre.on.ca

COVID-19: Share your Ideas, Questions & Comments Do you have ideas, questions or comments about how Middlesex Centre is responding to the COVID-19 emergency? Share your thoughts using our online feedback form or by contacting us by telephone or email.

Municipality of Middlesex Centre Phone: 519-666-0190 Email: customerservice@middlesexcentre.on.ca Website: www.middlesexcentre.on.ca ‌ ‌