Throughout the pandemic, the Halton community has done an incredible job flattening the curve by taking actions such as physical distancing, washing hands regularly and staying home when ill. These actions have produced the good results we are seeing today, such as lower daily cases, sustained hospital capacity and the ability to reopen parts of our economy and community.

This week, the Province announced that our good results have allowed us to keep moving forward. On Friday, July 24, we will enter Stage 3 (external link) of the province’s Reopening Plan with nearly all businesses and public spaces able to reopen. This also includes increasing the size of both outdoor and indoor social gatherings. This is great news, and like many of you, I am looking forward to seeing more friends and family and enjoying more activities in our community.

I’d like to thank all of our residents, local businesses, our public health team, and our frontline and essential workers. Everyone is doing their part and we should all be very proud of how we have come together during this time.

Protecting the progress we’ve made

As we move into this next stage and restrictions are eased, it is more important than ever that we keep following public health measures so we can reopen as safely as possible and keep moving forward. As of July 22, it is mandatory for individuals five years of age and up to wear a face covering or non-medical mask in certain indoor public places, under Regional By-Law 47-20 (PDF file). This is a temporary by-law in effect until November 30, unless extended by Regional Council. There are some individuals who are exempt from wearing mask and I want to remind residents that not all exemptions are visible, so please be kind and support each other.

Please remember that wearing a mask is an additional step we must take to protect each other, but it does not replace other important public health measures, including washing your hands regularly, staying home when you are sick and physically distancing with those outside your social circle.

Just like we have done throughout this pandemic, I know that our community will continue be supportive and protect one another.

Supports for business owners and operators

Every step of the way, our Small Business Centre has been providing resources, webinars and one-on-one consultations to help businesses navigate reopening and adjusting to the new normal. Our team of business consultants are also here to support business owners and operators as they prepare their establishments and policies for the new by-law. Please reach out to our knowledgeable and friendly team if you need any help implementing the mandatory mask by-law or have any questions.

Thank you again to our residents and businesses for your continued dedication, resiliency and staying in this together. To learn more about what is reopening, what remains closed and the mandatory mask by-law, visit our Reopening Halton Region webpage. As always, please continue to visit halton.ca/COVID19 for the latest information on cases in our community, public health direction and information on how to protect yourself and others.