NEWS RELEASE
TOWNSHIP OF SEVERN
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Township of Severn continues to actively monitor and adapt to the COVID-19 situation to maintain a balanced response. To ensure the health and well-being of the community, the Township has implemented several protective measures to combat the spread of the virus, enable essential services, and help residents.
“COVID-19 is a serious health threat and we all need to come together to adhere to the direction from public health officials,” says Mayor Mike Burkett. “I urge residents to think of their family, friends and neighbours during this time, and to do their part to help slow the spread of the virus. With patience and cooperation, we can all make a proactive effort to help flatten the pandemic curve. On behalf of Council, I’d like to recognize and thank health-care and frontline workers for their service in this unprecedented time.”
At a special meeting held electronically on March 24, Council voted unanimously to grant financial relief to residents and businesses for three months. Township of Severn is waiving late fees and interest for all property taxes, water, and wastewater until June 30.
Residents and businesses who are already signed up for pre-authorized payments can request to suspend their payments. The township is also offering payment plans to allow gradual repayment of tax and utility bills after the no-interest period.
All facilities, including the Administration Office, remain closed to the public. To help ensure the health and safety of staff, township employees are working from home where possible.
Residents can still contact the Township at 705-325-2315 and [email protected]. All essential municipal services—including fire, operations, water and wastewater—continue to operate.
To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, all municipal playgrounds in Severn are closed. Since the virus can remain active on many surfaces, staff cannot effectively clean and disinfect the multiple play structures in the community.
This measure also supports public health’s recommendation to social distance. The township urges residents to enjoy nature and get fresh air responsibly, leaving at least two metres of physical space between you and others.
All community members must work together and follow the recommendations set forth by public health officials to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This means making changes in your everyday routines in order to minimize close contact with others, including:
- Staying home if you’re sick
- Avoiding non-essential gatherings
- Limiting contact with people at higher risk (e.g. older adults and people in poor health)
- Keeping a distance of at least two metres from others
The Township of Severn’s Emergency Control Group meets regularly to assess new information and consult with public health officials, other levels of government, and community partners.
Visit their website at townshipofsevern.com/COVID19 for updates and more information.
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