Tell us How COVID-19 is Impacting Your Business
Businesses of Durham: we understand your urgent need for support. This is a 2 minute survey from Durham Region, the area municipalities, Chambers & Boards, BIAs, and BACD.

Please note this survey asks about the severity of impacts, expected business recovery time, financial impact, and other questions that may cause high stress. The survey is completely optional, and so, if you are under stress, please know that you can either wait to respond later, or not respond at all.

The reason we are asking these potentially stressful questions is because your continued feedback is critical to shaping how we respond to this crisis, how we provide you with help, and how we advocate on your behalf to other levels of government. So we greatly appreciate you taking the time to complete this second survey.
Ontario Closing At-Risk Workplaces to Protect Health and Safety
Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the Ontario government will be ordering at-risk workplaces to close-down, while encouraging businesses to explore opportunities to continue operations through work-from-home and innovative business models. At the same time, the government reminds businesses to put in place protocols for physical distancing and regular hand-washing in order to protect the health and safety of employees and the general public.

NOTE: Teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses.

FREE Webinar on March 25: How to Cope with the Impacts of COVID-19 on Your Business
The spread of COVID-19 poses important challenges to Canadian businesses. With the situation constantly evolving, you need to be prepared for any disruptions. Join BDC experts as they share short-term economic perspectives and advice on how to manage through the crisis.

Durham Region Declares State of Emergency
Today, John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer made the following statement:

“Today, based on information collected over the last few days and in consultation with the Chief Administrative Officer, Regional Emergency Control Group, Regional Medical Officer of Health and Durham Emergency Management, I am declaring a State of Emergency in the Region of Durham.

This is a critical time in our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. Cases are climbing across Durham Region. We must all do everything we can to keep our community safe and flatten the curve."

The Town of Ajax has made the decision to waive tax payment penalties for 60 days effective immediately for all residents and businesses.

To support residents and businesses during this difficult time, the City of Pickering is waiving penalties and interest for 60 days for all residents and businesses effective with the April property tax installment (April 28).

Elexicon Energy understands our customers have concerns over electricity costs during this very difficult time. We do not have the authority to revise time of use rates, however, we are working closely with the Ministry of Energy and industry associations to review options available to customers across the province.

As part of our commitment to put customers first, Elexicon Energy has suspended all electricity disconnections until further notice.

Customers concerned about paying their bill, are experiencing hardship or have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, are being asked to contact us to discuss extended bill payment options and financial assistance programs.

Help the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade #supportbusiness
Do you offer gift cards, online services, take-out or delivery options, or are you doing something special to take care of your employees and clients? Would you like to promote your efforts relating to COVID-19? Simply respond to this email with a brief description of your services, offerings, and ways the community can support you and your business in the coming days and weeks. Remember to attach your business logo or a photo of you at work!
Contact information for APBOT Staff:

Nicole Gibson, Executive Director: ngibson@apboardoftrade.com
Iris Nicolaison, Business Development Manager: inicolaison@apboardoftrade.com
Andra Thurton, Event Planner: athurton@apboardoftrade.com
Sam Paterson, Communications & Policy Specialist: spaterson@apboardoftrade.com
Meina Lutfi, Executive & Office Administrator: mlutfi@apboardoftrade.com

Thank you to our Premier Sponsors
Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade| Website