Skip to content

Mayor says new city vaccination policy 'demonstrates leadership'

Policy 'reinforces that the health and safety of our staff and the Orillia community continues to be our No. 1 priority,' said the mayor in a video address to community
steve clarke sept 17 2021

Orillia Mayor Steve Clarke says the city is "committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for its employees and the residents we serve."

Stressing that vaccination is the "best defence" against COVID 19 and "the only way to get out of the pandemic," the mayor, in a video address to the community, is urging citizens to get vaccinated.

With that in mind, he says city council agreed to enact a COVID-19 prevention policy that requires all city councillors, city staff, committee members, student workers and city volunteers to be vaccinated by Nov. 15, 2021.

It's "another way the city is demonstrating leadership" and "reinforces that the health and safety of our staff and the Orillia community continues to be our No. 1 priority," said the mayor.

Those who have not been vaccinated or do not disclose their vaccination status by Nov. 15 will be required to complete "mandatory education on the benefits of the vaccine," noted Clarke.

Staff who do not get vaccinated and who continue to work will be required to be tested every other day.

The mayor said the city is also gearing up for Sept. 22, the day when the province requires proof of vaccination for various venues. A certificate, for example, will be required to attend programs at the Orillia Recreation Centre and Orillia Opera House. 

"There will be growing pains and delays in accessing the facilities," said the mayor, urging patience and asking people to be kind to city staff and those at businesses such as indoor restaurants, casinos and event spaces that will also require proof of vaccination beginning next Wednesday.

For more information, click on the link above to watch the mayor's video.


Comments

Verified reader

If you would like to apply to become a verified commenter, please fill out this form.