Municipality of Middlesex Centre
COVID-19 Update, March 31, 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 .
Aina DeViet Headshot
Message from the Mayor

Over these last few weeks I feel some of my days are almost exactly like the one before! In reality however, things are changing all the time. We’ve heard announcements from both the Provincial and Federal governments about programs and plans to help to help Canadians – those who own businesses large and small, those who work for them, those who need to make mortgage payments, and so on.

As a lower tier government many of the options other levels of government can consider are not open to us. However, Council recognizes that people may need help and have put in place financial relief measures for residents and businesses affect by COVID-19. Since things are quite ‘fluid’ we will continue to re-evaluate and take steps to support residents and businesses during this uncertain time.

I want to send out a big thanks to our local businesses and residents who’ve been working to improve our quality of life. I’ve been delighted to see the creativity businesses have exhibited and partnerships they have formed to ensure they can continue to provide needed services to our communities! It’s also great to see residents trying to make things easier and brighter for their neighbours in so many ways—waving hello from across the road, sharing ‘extra’ supplies, and donating to food banks and those who need help now.

It is important that we all do our part by continuing to practice physical distancing and avoiding gatherings of more than 5 people. I’d remind you that our municipal playgrounds and sports areas are closed as a result of the Provincial Emergency Declaration. There are signs in these areas, and in some cases we have put up barriers and fencing. We would ask that you and your family respect these closures to help your community remain safe and healthy.

Thanks again for all you are doing!
Aina

Mayor Aina DeViet, Middlesex Centre
Updates for Middlesex Centre Residents

Please visit our website for up-to-date information on municipal services. You'll find links to social services and funding supports for residents, farmers and local businesses. You'll also find reliable COVID-19 information sources.

Read more
middlesexcentre.on.ca
Financial Relief Measures

Middlesex Centre Council and staff understand that some residents and local businesses may be experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To help those most in need of support, at their March 30, 2020, emergency meeting Middlesex Centre Council agreed to:

  • Waive late payment charges on unpaid water/wastewater/stormwater bills due March 31, 2020 and April 30, 2020. Bills will still be issued and any outstanding balances will remain.

  • Waive non-sufficient funds charges through to June 30, 2020.

  • Not issue overdue account statements or transfer unpaid accounts to property taxes through to June 30, 2020.

  • Waive the $10 mail charge for dog tags through to May 31, 2020, as there is no in-office pick-up option at this time.

  • Authorize staff to enter into special payment arrangements for residents and businesses in need of financial support due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These are anticipated to be short-term measures for a six-month period.

Council noted that these initial measures will be reviewed as the response to the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. Changes to taxes, lifecycle costs on water and so forth will be considered in the future, if required.

Staff will continue to monitor the different support programs coming from all levels of government, and will recommend adjustments and/or additional financial relief measures as the situation warrants.

Actions for Residents & Businesses in Need of Financial Relief

  • If COVID-19 has impacted the earnings in your household or your business, you will not be penalized for late payment your water/wastewater/stormwater bills for March and April. There is no action required to access this relief measure.

  • For those residents and businesses on pre-authorized payment plans, it is important to note that you can cancel your automatic withdrawals. Please complete the form found under the billing & payment page on the municipal website. Note however that you may have interest and penalties applied on unpaid balances if you cancel your pre-authorized payments for taxes. Please contact the office if you have any questions.


Middlesex Centre staff are here to help you through this challenging time. Please be in touch if you have any questions or concerns.
Closed Courts Sign
Municipal Services - Summary

Although the municipal office is closed, staff are working to provide as many services as possible at this time.

  • Building Permits: Reviews & Inspections Available
  • Waste & Recycling: Collection Schedule as Normal
  • Parks: Open - Practice physical distancing and stay 6 feet apart!
  • Playgrounds & Sports Fields: Closed
  • Arenas, Rec Centres & Community Centres: Closed
  • Weddings & Licencing: Unavailable

Essential services like emergency response and water/wastewater treatment continue to operate.
Contact Us Button
Staying in Touch

Even though we are not in the office, municipal staff are available by telephone and email.

To reach us, visit the staff directory on our website.
COVID-19: Farm & Business Resources & Supports

We have pulled together links and resources for farms & businesses, including a link to Invest in Middlesex's detailed resource guide to help businesses navigate the many supports available to them and their employees.

Read more
middlesexcentre.on.ca
ML Health Unit: Your go-to for reliable health information

Visit the Middlesex-London Health Unit for reliable and up-to-date health information on COVID-19 for you, your family or your workplace.

Read more
www.healthunit.com
Icon from the Middlesex Centre Logo
Municipality of Middlesex Centre
Phone: 519-666-0190