COVID 19 Warwick Updates

Public access to the Township Office is restricted during the Provincial lockdown as per COVID-19 Response Framework Grey Zone effective 12:01 a.m. on December 26, 2020 for a period of 28 days.

The Township Office is working and is available by phone or e-mail to assist with all inquiries.  Inquiries can be made by phone between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 519-849-3926 or by e-mail to info@warwicktownship.ca.

Thank you for your understanding.

The Township continues to offer By-law Enforcement services. To limit public interaction, residents are now required to file their complaints via phone or e-mail.

To report an issue call 519-849-3926 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. of e-mail to info@warwicktownship.ca. 

Staff remains mobilized and remote work/access is live and functioning.

Our team continues to be healthy and ready to go.

We are able to provide inspection services on all types of construction at this time - provided you have your permit and approvals in place.

The government's responsible and measured approach to reopening will allow business owners and service provider's time to ensure workplaces are safe for staff, consumers and the general public.

Assuming trends in key public health indicators continue to improve, Ontario's first stage of reopening will begin on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. and will include:

• Lifting essential workplace limits on construction.

News Release Here:  Ontario Announces Additional Workplaces That Can Reopen

PROCEDURES

Applications and Permits

• All applications may be dropped off at the County of Lambton Administration Building in Wyoming. The building remains open Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30; however, no public access is permitted.
• There is an all-hours drop off slot - please utilize this option if you are able.
• If the package submittal is too large to place in the all hours drop off, please call 519-845-5420 between 8:30-4:30 (Monday-Friday) and someone will meet you at the front door for the "drop and go" scenario.
• Applications must be completed prior to your arrival.
• Permit Applications are available online.
• We will contact you directly by email or phone if there are any issues with the application.
• When the permits are ready, we will contact you directly regarding pick up and payment details.
• It will be a "pay and go" scenario.
• Cheque or Exact Cash Payment Only - Cheques preferred.

Residential

Our Department will:

• continue to receive and process applications.
• issue permits (but that does not imply construction can commence)
• be releasing permits but you will be required to sign a disclaimer for all permits issued after April 5, 2020 - prior to release.
• permits Issued Prior to April 5, 2020 inspecting all residential project components, up to and including occupancy/final.
• permits Issued On or AfterApril 5, 2020 inspecting site preparation, excavation, and servicing only for all residential development - effective May 4th, 2020.

Exception: building and plumbing inspections on all permits associated with below-grade multi-unit residential construction projects like apartments and condominiums existing above-grade projects to continue - effective May 11, 2020

The interior inspections of occupied dwellings will not be conducted, unless absolutely critical. With that being said, if an emergency matter arises such as septic failure, potable water threat, sanitary sewage disposal issue, structural failure, unsafe living conditions etc. we will assess each case as it comes forward.

Commercial, Industrial, Institutional

Our Department will:

• only be conducting site preparation, excavation, and servicing for institutional, commercial, industrial development; - effective May 4th, 2020
• no other inspections on commercial, industrial and institutional projects. (unless exempted or included - as specified)
• continue to receive and process applications.
• issue permits (but that does not imply construction can commence)
• be releasing permits but you will be required to sign a disclaimer for all permits issued after April 5, 2020 prior to release.

Agricultural and Related Sectors - (Farm to Fork)  The intent is for Grain Bins, Feed Staves, Bunkers, Grain Bins, Silos, Storage Sheds, Livestock Barns, Manure Pits and Food Supply Premises.

• These are deemed essential projects which provide additional capacity in the production, processing, manufacturing or distribution of food, beverages or agricultural products.
• We will process applications, issue permits and conduct inspections for the above permits at this time.
• We will be issuing those permits with the disclaimer, being required prior to release.
• These projects must be completed by October 4, 2020.
• This does not include residential houses on the farm or any residential accessory buildings (i.e. detached garages, pool sheds etc.) , unless the permit was issued prior to April 5, 2020.

 Inspections

• Inspections must be requested (519-845-5420) at least 24-48 hours in advance. 
• We cannot conduct, and you should not expect, same day inspections, due to the current and potential volume of inspection requests and application processing.
• Be patient, as always we do everything we can, and as quick as we are able.
• But be mindful of the physical distancing and other Health and Safety parameters which must be in place for your respect project sites.
• Ensure our inspection protocol (below) is followed for everyone's long term wellness.

Physical Distancing Reminder/Inspection Protocol

•  Physical Distancing of 2 metres minimum must be exercised at every job site our team attends - NO EXCEPTIONS.
• Inspectors may request individuals to vacate the area during their inspection - please comply.
• If an Inspector is of the opinion that physical distancing provisions cannot be achieved, the inspection will be refused and failed.
• The onsite permit package will be provided with a failed inspection report and you will be contacted by phone.
• You will be required to re-schedule the inspection and ensure the provisions are followed.
• A vacant construction where able - would be appreciated and is preferred.
• If physical distancing is maintained - all our work families stay healthy.
• If our teams remain healthy - you can continue to build and we can provide the inspection services.

 Inspectors

• If you must speak to an inspector call our main line (519-845-5420) and we will transfer you to them - if they are unavailable, left a message and they will call you back..
• Alternatively, if able, email the inspector directly or inspect@county-lambton.on.ca and we will ensure the email reaches the appropriate staff member.
• Don't be surprised if you receive a call or email early or later in the day - we will be allowing some work flex time to accommodate child care coverage as well.

  Property Standards and By-Law

• Each complaint will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and we will ensure municipalities are kept in the loop.

Final Notes

• We do not expect any major delays in any capacity -  but please be patient.
• Do not request any inspections which require entry into an occupied home.
• Please contact this office directly if any emergent situations arise.
• Virtual Meetings are also an option, if necessary.
• If an "in person" meeting is the only option, we can discuss same. Please call 519-845-5420

Questions can be directed to Corrine Nauta, Chief Building Official at 1-866-324-6912 or corrine.nauta@county.lambton.on.ca.

Council is now meeting electronically. Public notice of electronic meetings will be provided.

All electronic meetings will be livestreamed to the Township's YouTube channel at youtube.com/channel/.

Meeting information and schedules will be updated at the Council & Committee Calendar.

The Township of Warwick Fire and Rescue Department remains fully functional. We are taking precautionary measures to ensure that volunteer firefighters can attend emergencies.

Updates to our services include:

• Volunteer firefighters will still respond to incidents, however, you may see members wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and protective eyewear. This is for their protection. To decrease the risk of exposure to our firefighters, we are asking all residents to ensure their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly to reduce the number of false alarm calls.
• Volunteer firefighters has been advised on best practices related to social distancing.
• Public Education and Prevention activities have been temporarily suspended.
• At this time we would ask that all correspondence be done by phone or e-mail.

The new curbside household waste and collection service began on June 3, 2020. The new service will be on Wednesdays and will be weekly in Watford and Warwick Village and bi-weekly in the rural area of the municipality.

Unless the Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA) was advised otherwise by property owners, all residential properties were provided a medium waste wheelie bin and a large recycling wheelie bin.

Please contact Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA) directly at 1-800-265-9799 if you need to change the size of your bins or with any questions about the service change.

• Warwick Township Collection

NOTE: All property owners will continue to be able to access the waste and recycling drop off location at Twin Creeks Landfill, whether they participate in the automated collection program or not.

Twin Creeks Environmental Center will be open on Saturdays from 7:00 am to 11:00 am beginning May 30th.

Please be advised Twin Creeks Environmental Center will no longer be extending their hours of operation on Wednesdays.

Clothing and Donation Bins 

Please do not drop off anything at donation bins during this time. Materials during COVID-19 are not being accepted by any organizations and will end up in the landfill. Save your donations for now to ensure they will benefit the donor organization in the future.

In response to the province-wide shutdown announced by the Province of Ontario, Lambton County Library will be suspending all in-person appointments for computer use, wi-fi use and academic study from Saturday, December 26, 2020 until Saturday, January 23, 2021. All appointments that have already been booked between these dates will be cancelled.

All services, including curbside pickup, will be suspended at Brigden and Grand Bend Library effective Saturday, December 26, 2020. These locations will be closed until Saturday, January 11, 2021 as a result of school closure orders. Book return bins at these two locations will remain open, despite the closure.

Vehicle and pedestrian outdoor curbside pickup will remain available at 14 locations. Indoor access to all libraries is no longer permitted, in compliance with provincial legislation. To learn how to access curbside pickup, visit www.lclibrary.ca or call any Lambton County Library location.

Hours of operation at the Watford Library for curbside pickup are:

Monday 3pm-6pm

Tuesday 11am-2pm

Thursday 3pm-6pm

Saturday 11am-2pm

For more information about Lambton County Library's curbside pickup service or hours for the other libraries, visit lclibrary.ca

Expansion of Services - Lambton County Library

The following information was provided by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regarding lottery licence events affected by COVID-19.

Options for Charitable Lotteries during the COVID-19 pandemic

This message is to help municipalities that license charitable lottery schemes in Ontario understand their options in light of the societal impact of COVID-19. These are truly exceptional times that are affecting all aspects of our lives. We wish to offer as much guidance and support as we can to all those who rely on the AGCO’s services.

The AGCO has received a number of inquiries from charities asking about pausing their raffle draws and events. We wanted to share with municipalities the response the AGCO is providing to charities, so that you may use similar language with your licensees if you choose.

Terms and Conditions attached to current lottery licences

Due to uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the AGCO Registrar is providing as much flexibility as possible in the application of the Terms and Conditions attached to current lottery licences.  

For example:

1. For licences where the event has not yet started, licensees may choose to not begin sales until the pandemic concerns have passed.

2. For current raffle licensees that have started ticket sales, each situation will need to be considered on its own merits. You will need to consider whether it is appropriate under the circumstances to extend the sale of tickets, even though it would have the effect of reducing the odds of winning for anyone who has already purchased a ticket. You will also need to consider whether it is appropriate under these exceptional circumstances to postpone the raffle draw date altogether. Both options are available to you.

3. For Break Open Ticket licensees who have started ticket sales, you may consider extending the term of ticket sales.

4. For bingo licensees who are unable to conduct their events, you may consider extending the term of your event.

Although the Premier of Ontario announced a state of emergency for the province, he was also clear that this is not a lock-down of the province. Certain sectors regulated by the AGCO continue to operate and as long as they do, we will continue supporting them and conducting our regulatory activities to make sure they continue to operate with honesty, integrity and in the public interest.

We share everyone’s concerns about the toll the outbreak of this virus is taking on our communities and the charities, businesses, individuals and families that are affected by it. We appreciate the difficult times we are all facing and we’re here to support you as we all continue working through these challenges together.

The safety of all Ontarians is the OPP's top priority. There are currently no changes to our frontline operations.

Report less serious incidents online at opp.ca/reporting. For non-emergencies call 1-888-310-1122.

In case of emergency, call 911.

The OPP encourages businesses to voluntarily comply with all short-term restrictions. Education, awareness and compliance are preferred options, but officers will apply discretion whether to launch any enforcement actions such as:

• Offences relating to non-essential businesses that remain open in contravention of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. (EMCPA).
• Offences relating to gatherings of more than five people in contravention of the EMCPA.
• Quarantine Act violations at the request of a screening officer or quarantine officer.

Are parades allowed?

The Ontario government issued an emergency order under the EMCPA to prohibit organized public events and social gatherings of more than 5 people, effective March 28, 2020. This order replaces a previous emergency order which prohibited organized public events of over 50 people.

The order applies to:

• An organized public event of more than 5 people, including a parade;

• A social gathering of more than 5 people; or,

• A gathering of more than 5 people for the purposes of conducting religious services, rites or ceremonies.

The fines for violating these provisions are hefty, $750 + $130 victim surcharge = $880.

What are essential businesses?

Essential businesses include, but are not limited to:

• grocery stores and pharmacies
• telecommunications and IT infrastructure service providers
• businesses that support power generation, natural gas distribution and clean drinking water

Essential businesses are being asked to put into place any and all measures to safeguard the wellbeing of their employees on the frontlines. A list of essential businesses can be found on the Government of Ontario website.

The following establishments are required to remain closed until further notice:

• Bars and restaurants, except to the extent that such facilities provide takeout and food delivery
• Facilities providing indoor recreational programs
• Public libraries
• Private schools
• Licensed child care centres
• Movie cinemas and all theatres, including those offering live performances of music, dance and other art forms
• Concert venues
• Communal or shared, public or private outdoor recreational amenities

If you wish to file a report regarding a non-essential business remaining open, contact your police service of jurisdiction. If that is the OPP, call 1-888-310-1122 or your local OPP detachment.

If you wish to file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact Public Health Agency of Canada.

If I have to close my business, how do I keep it safe? 

Here's some tips for business owners impacted by the closures, in an effort to ensure your property is less attractive to thieves.

• Remove all valuables from storefront displays
• Remove all cash from tills and leave open with the cash tray out and visibly empty
• Ensure alarm systems are working and all contact lists are up to date
• Post on doors and windows that the premises are monitored by an alarm company and that no money is kept on the premises

Are there COVID-19 scammers out there?

It's important to give and to receive help during challenging times such as COVID-19. But can you trust just anyone?

Be mindful when accepting offers for help. Minimize risks by relying on family, friends and neighbours for support. Beware when accepting offers from unfamiliar people, who may see these challenging times as an opportunity to take advantage of those in need.

If you receive a call from a business or government agency asking you for money or personal information, hang up, do research and talk to those you trust. Cybercriminals are capitalizing on public concern surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak with increasing numbers of phishing attacks through email, text message and telephone - with the end goal of stealing information and delivering malware.

These phishing attacks include communications through call, text or email, camouflaged to appear as originating from legitimate organizations, OPP or OPP officials, asking recipients to share sensitive information such as usernames and passwords or to open malicious attachments or transfer funds.

A list of identified COVID-19/coronavirus-related scams is available from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

If you are the victim of a scam, it’s crucial to report it to both the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and your police service of jurisdiction. If that is the OPP, visit opp.ca/reporting.

Go to the Government of Canada website for information and resources on how to be prepared during the COVID-19 outbreak.

From physical distancing to buying only what you need, during times of crisis we all need to work together to flatten the curve and keep our communities safe.

Please know - we are here to assist as you deem appropriate, as always.

https://www.opp.ca/

https://www.opp.ca/news/#/viewnews/5e84cfd7673c2

As per the Premier of Ontario’s announcement today (Monday, December 21st), a Province wide shut down will occur moving Lambton County (Warwick Township) from Yellow Zone to Grey Zone (Lockdown) effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2020 for a period of 28 days in southern Ontario which includes Lambton County (Warwick Township). As per the COVID-19 Response Framework, November 22, 2020, Grey Zone – Lockdown includes the following restrictions that affect Parks and Recreation Operations:

• No indoor public events. (i.e. Gun Club, Yoga, Watford Optimist Club Sunday Night Arena Hall rental).
• 10 people maximum for outdoor events.
• Meeting and event space closed with the exemptions for child care and day camps (i.e. after school program).
• Sports and recreation facilities closed unless used by high performance athletes or day camps/child minding (i.e. after school program).
• Permitted to stay open in lockdown – playgrounds.

With this in mind, the Watford Community Arena and Hall, Centennial Hall and Warwick Community Centre will be closed during this period. All facility and ice rentals affected by the Lockdown will be cancelled with customers receiving full refunds.

Staff will be monitoring the situation and will communicate changes as they become available.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year’s!

Assumption of Risk

By visiting any parks and publicly accessible spaces you voluntarily assume all risk, including any risk of injury, loss, damage and possible exposure to a communicable disease such as COVID-19.

Rental Requests

We are accepting requests for future rentals but they will not be approved until our facilities have re-opened. You may request a booking through:

• Submitting an online request
• Calling 519-849-3926 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or
• E-mailing messelment@warwicktownship.ca

Watford Community Arena Reopening Plan - October 13, 2020

Centennial, Warwick and Watford Community Arena Hall Reopening Plan - October 15, 2020

Road operations including road and streetlight maintenance continues as normal. All maintenance requests or notifications must now be done via e-mail or by phone.

If you have an emergency related to roads, please contact the Public Works Emergency phone at 519-490-5684.

Tax bills were issued in late January. The first installment was due on February 28. The next installment will be due on April 30. 

Payments

Payments can be made by various methods. View information on available payment options.

Message from MPAC

MPAC has updated our website to reflect the Province's decision to delay the Assessment Update - https://www.mpac.ca/HowAssessmentWorks/2020AssessmentUpdate.  

We have also created a Partner Update page where we will post any changes to MPAC's processes and frequently asked questions - https://www.mpac.ca/COVID19UpdatesourPartners.

Consider following MPAC on our social media platforms for real-time updates and information -MPAC on LinkedIn, @MPAC_Ontario on Twitter, or MPAC on YouTube. 

At this time there will be no interruption to the water and wastewater billings. As a reminder, the following locations will be billed in the next few months as planned:

• Watford - on a monthly basis (included on your Bluewater Power bill)
• Warwick Village and rural area - billed as of March 31, due on April 30

Payments

Payments can be made by various methods. View information on available payment options.

Volunteers

The County has created a webpage to respond to local expressions of volunteer interest as it relates to COVID-19 in our community.

Through the linked "Volunteer" tab on the COVID-19 section of the County website, users can find registration links to the province's Health Workforce Matching Portal (for individuals with healthcare experience), Spark Ontario (for general volunteer options across the province), and to the County's volunteer management portal (should volunteers be required to assist with a municipal response in the future).

It should be noted that, at the time of writing, the County does not anticipate activating and deploying community volunteers to assist with its response to COVID-19.  Individuals can best assist their communities by staying home, practicing physical distancing and good hand hygiene, and taking other measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Water and Wastewater

Water and Wastewater services will general be provided in the normal fashion. Urgent matters including watermain breaks, sewage back-ups, etc. will continue to be handled on an as need basis and should be reported by phone or through our website.

If you have an emergency related to water or sewer, please call 1 (888) 522-0117.

In light of the recent “state of emergency” and “stay at home order” implemented by the government of Ontario, effective 12:01 am Jan. 14, 2021. I wanted to let you know that we will continue to remain open to the public for all your banking needs!

We continue to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols, as outlined by the health unit, and are encouraging clients to use our self-serve channels for ALL non-essential transactions, such as Deposits, Withdrawals, Bill Payments and transfers, as this will minimize the traffic in the lobby, in an effort to maintain safe social distancing.  If you’d like us to provide you a demo, please let us know.

Our office doors are closed to the public but we are still working normal business hours.

Please read this Important Update from Bluewater Power Regarding Electricity Rates

Dear Friend,

The COVID-19 virus has raised concerns for all of us in our community. At Bluewater Power, we prepare year-round for the unexpected to ensure that we can continue to deliver a reliable supply of electricity to you. We have put our pandemic plans into action and there is no higher priority for us than the health, safety and well-being of our customers, our employees and our community.

We have ONE overriding message: We are here to help YOU!

• Recognizing the uncertainty we all are facing, Bluewater Power will work with customers to provide flexible payment terms and we will not disconnect customers during this time of uncertainty. Customers seeking financial assistance programs can find information at www.bluewaterpower.com/app/uploads/2020/03/Anupdate-to-our-Community.pdf
• We have heard from some customers requesting reductions in pricing. Please know that the Ontario Energy Board sets rates and we do not have the authority to change pricing at Bluewater Power. We are however, working with the Ministry of Energy and our industry on a plan to help our customers with this issue. Please stay tuned!
• To report a power outage, hazard, electrical emergency (e.g. downed power lines) or damage to Bluewater Power’s equipment, call us at (519) 337-8201, option 1. You can also keep up to date on outages through our online outage map at https://outages.bluewaterpower.com/outages or by following our social media accounts (Twitter and Facebook @BluewaterPower).
• Now is a good time to take advantage of the self-serve options we offer. For convenient, secure, 24/7 access to your Bluewater Power account, simply create an online account at: https://myaccount.bluewaterpower.com/Account/Register
• Please remember that scammers do not take a break and they continue to target our customers! We would only ask for personal information to verify your identity and we would certainly NOT demand payment using gift cards.
• We are truly committed to being here for you! Our professional and compassionate Customer Service representatives can assist you with any inquiry you may have. While you may experience slower than usual response times as we work hard to handle a higher volume of calls, rest assured that we are committed to providing you with the best overall service we can! Contact us by phone at (519) 337-8201 or emailus@bluewaterpower.com.

If you need to reach me directly, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at jmcmichael-dennis@bluewaterpower.com.

Please stay well, keep the faith and know that we will get through this together!

Janice McMichael-Dennis President & CEO Bluewater Power Group of Companies

All parcels delivered through Canada Post are being rerouted to the Post Office in Strathroy, 62 Front Street. The Strathroy Post Office can be contacted at 519-246-1560.

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm

Saturday 9am-12pm

Tuesday to Thursday 11:30am-7pm

Friday 11:30am-9pm

Saturday 11:30am-8pm

Sunday 3pm-7pm

We are offering all services with the exception of public funerals and visitations. 

We will be offering fully live streamed services with the ability for immediate family to be in attendance at the funeral home.  

Our community members should know that as always when the need arises and they have a death in their family to call us. We will walk them through all steps and make them comfortable with whatever transpired as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Hours update for Watford location

Starting Monday June 15th hours will be:

Monday to Saturday 9am- 6pm 

Sundays 10am-5pm 

The Tel-Check program provides a daily phone call to elderly or people with disabilities living alone in our community.

More information can be found in the Tel-Check Brochure.

The amazing volunteers at the Watford Food Bank are not letting the Corona Virus stop them from helping out those in need in the Watford community.

The Food Bank continues to be open at the Watford United Church on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers will be putting together boxes and will have them ready for their clients when they come to the door. This will limit exposure for everyone involved and ensure that everyone is adhering to the recommended social distancing.

If anyone has any questions please contact Maryanne Cundick at 226-377-5158.

As of March 31 we are asking that any donations be dropped off Tuesday from 10:00am - 11:00 am at the Watford United Church.

A special thank you to Maryanne and all of her volunteers for your commitment to helping those in need.

Watford Foodland is working hard to restock their shelves so they can continue their fantastic service within our community throughout these difficult times.

Due to the issues surrounding the Corona Virus, beginning March 20th, Foodland will open their doors to seniors only from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. each day. Please respect these new protocols to allow senior time to shop with minimal exposure to the virus as our senior population is the most vulnerable.

Those who are unable to leave their homes during this crisis can call Watford Foodland at 519-876-3011 between 8 a.m. and noon each day to place their grocery orders.  Warwick Township Council members have agreed to help out by delivering needed supplies to Warwick Township residents between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. when needed.

Monday to Friday 8am-5pm

FOREST: 519-786-2763 or 519-786-6520

We will reopen on June 9th with temporary business hours:

Tuesday to Friday: 1pm to 8pm

Saturday and Sunday: 3pm to 8pm

Closed Monday

Take out only!
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
Thank you

We are open and very excited to see all of you! Safety and sanitization is at the top of our list. Please call ahead to make appointments, as we are not able to take walk-ins at this time. We are striving to ensure the safety of our clients by sanitizing everything before and after clients. The washrooms are also sanitized between uses. At the end of each day, the salon is sanitized from top to bottom. Due to covid regulations that we must comply with, there are a few services that we are unable to do, including not being able to blow dry your hair, finish styling, and facial services. Sorry about the inconvenience. Please have a mask with you and use the hand sanitizer provided for you at the door. Gloves are not necessary.
Please note that our Monday hours have changed to 9-5 and Saturdays are now by appointment only. Thank you for your co-operation and understanding.

To our valued customers,

We at Watford Home Hardware Building Center are so grateful for our community that has continued to support us throughout these unprecedented times.

On May 14, 2020 the Government of Ontario made an important announcement stating that it will lift restrictions on construction work and will loosen restrictions on most retail shops as part of its COVID-19 reopening plan.

What that means for us is that we are now open to the public.

We have taken all necessary precautions to protect our customers and staff by installing sanitize stations and sneeze shields as well as practicing social distancing. Gloves and masks are available upon request. We ask that you don’t touch unless you intend to purchase and our amazing staff is still readily available to service you curbside if you feel more comfortable with that service.

We will be open:

Monday to Friday 7am-6pm

Saturday 8am-5pm

Sunday 10am-4pm

At this time our preferred method of payment is debit or credit transactions or online e-transfer.

We all have to do our part in these extraordinary times, and the health of our staff and community is of the utmost importance.

Thank you.

Ontario Energy Board COVID-19 UPDATE - Time-of-use pricing

The Government of Ontario issued an Emergency Order under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. As a result, starting on March 24, 2020, residential and small business customers on time-of-use (TOU) pricing will pay 10.1 ¢/kWh no matter what time of day the electricity is consumed. This means that TOU customers will be paying the off-peak price throughout the day as long as the Emergency Order remains in place. The Government has indicated that it intends to keep the 10.1 ¢/kWh pricing in place for 45 days.

The 10.1 ¢/kWh pricing applies automatically – no customer action is required. Some customers may receive a bill before their utility or unit sub-meter provider is able to implement the price change, in which case they will receive a credit on the following bill.

For more information, read the Government’s news release at https://news.ontario.ca/opo/en/2020/03/ontario-providing-electricity-relief-to-families-small-businesses-and-farms-during-covid-19.html

Also visit https://.oeb.ca/newsroom/2020/oeb-covid-19-update, for the latest updates from the Ontario Energy Board on measures its taking in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Insurance” is on the list of essential services as published by the Ontario Government. Therefore Lambton Mutual remains available to serve and take care of our policyholders throughout this pandemic. As an essential service, Lambton Mutual Insurance is taking extra precautions to ensure that both our agents and our valued customers stay safe during the COVID-19 crisis.

While our building doors are closed to the public, you may contact us Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:30pm via:

Phone:  (519) 876-2304

Toll Free:  1-800-561-4136

Claims Fax:  (519) 876-3940

General Fax:  (519) 876-6626

E-mail:  info@lambtonmutual.com

We will gladly assist you.

Lambton Mutual, caring since 1875.

Libro in Watford is open Monday to Wednesday from 9am-5pm and Thursday and Friday from 9am-6pm.

We are taking special measures to protect staff and Owners. They include:

Social distancing: We ask everyone to maintain a distance of at least two metres from each other.

Self-isolating: If you are feeling sick, have been in contact with anyone sick, or have been out of the country (including the US) recently, you will not be permitted to enter our locations. We ask that you contact us by phone or email instead.

Effective May 12, McClung’s Flowers will be open Mon-Friday between 9-4pm for phone orders and curbside pick-up only. Closed on Saturdays. Call in orders for pick-up at 519-876-2916.

Postal services at this location remain unavailable at this time until further notice.

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm

Saturday 9am-1pm

Sunday Closed

In response to the recent announcement by World Health Organization about the global pandemic of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Community Health Centre has developed a plan to protect our clients and staff. Public health agencies and governments are recommending social distancing measures to help curb the spread of the virus.  The following precautions are being implemented across all sites of the CHC:

1. Effective Monday, March 16th, 2020 GROUP PROGRAMS WILL BE CANCELLED until further notice.  We will reassess in the coming weeks and keep the community updated. 
2. All appointments will be done over the phone until further notice. If it is deemed necessary for you to have an in-person visit, your practitioner will give you an appointment after your phone assessment.
3. Watford, Kettle Point, and Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation satellite sites will be closed.  If you have an existing appointment at one of these sites, you will be given a phone appointment or called to reschedule. 
4. Everyone entering a CHC location will be screened at the entrance.  Access will be limited to one entry.

Kathy Bresett

Executive Director

North Lambton Community Health Centre

From President Tony:

Following the prime minister's report on the evolution of the COVID19 emergency and his request that Canadians stay home, I have decided that it would be in the best interest of our community to suspend all operations and activities at Branch 172. This also comes from the advice of our community leaders because of the potential damage to our elderly members. Branch 172 will be closed until further notice.

The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) offers financial support for businesses in Lambton County that are unable to access federal and provincial relief funding programs, or are unable to obtain a loan/credit from traditional financial institutions.

Eligible businesses interested in a Regional Relief and Recovery Fund loan will be expected to provide the SLBDC with a completed application and supporting documents. Maximum assistance under the program will be $40,000 to be used for operational costs, staff related costs, and costs related to the return to operations for those businesses which have been closed.

Loans will be provided at 0% (zero) interest, with no scheduled principal payments until December 31, 2022. Principal repayments can be made at any time and 25% (not to exceed $10,000) of the loan can be forgiven provided the recipient has paid 75% of the original loan amount prior to December 31, 2022. If the recipient is unable to repay the loan by December 31, 2022, the loan will be converted to a three-year term loan with interest rates up to 5%, effective January 1, 2023. The full balance must be repaid by no later than December 31, 2025.

For additional details on the program please visit our website.

Seminars are being offered to assist businesses with several workforce topics related to
COVID-19. The seminars will take place weekly using an online webinar format. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

Employer Seminar Series to Address COVID-19 Workforce Solutions

To assist our local employers, the Sarnia-Lambton COVID-19 Business/Economic Task Force is running a follow-up Business Impact Survey. The survey is designed to better understand specific challenges businesses are facing, and how the community and government can best support local employers.

Sarnia-Lambton COVID-19 Business Impact Survey

Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10am-4pm

TH Industrial Supply

We are continually taking safety measures to protect our employees and our customers by social distancing and wearing PPE.  Our doors are now open, we are open for business.

We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm or by placing an order by phone (519-876-2128).

Tim Hortons

Tim Hortons Watford currently has reduced drive-thru hours from 5am -10pm Monday to Sunday. Our dining room is open daily from 5am-6pm.

Twin Creeks Landfill

Twin Creeks Environmental Center will be open on Saturdays from 7:00 am to 11:00 am beginning May 30th.

Please be advised Twin Creeks Environmental Center will no longer be extending their hours of operation on Wednesdays.

Thank you for your understanding.

Warwick Conservation Area

UPDATE - St. Clair Region Conservation Authority Non-Seasonal, Transient Camping Opening with Restrictions June 29^th

The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) is pleased to announce that non-seasonal, transient camping will be permitted with restrictions at the A.W. Campbell, Lorne C. Henderson and Warwick Conservation Areas beginning June 29^th.

Based on the status of the current pandemic, and recommendations by local, provincial and federal health authorities, transient site availability will be limited to ensure social distancing. In addition, no Group Camping will be permitted for the 2020 season. Individuals who had reserved a site that is no longer available have been or will be contacted by Authority staff to change their reservation or be issued a refund.

Several restrictions have been put in place to promote social distancing and reduce mass gatherings at the campgrounds. Swimming pools, canoe and kayak rentals and pavilion reservations have been cancelled for the duration of the 2020 season. Additional restrictions include the cancellation of upcoming camper events and the closure of play structures and basketball/volleyball courts. SCRCA staff will continually monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and will ease restrictions when it is deemed safe to do so based on the guidance from health officials.

Authority staff have also modified cleaning schedules to ensure enhanced sanitation of bathrooms and showers and other commonly touched surfaces. Campers are encouraged to use washroom facilities in their trailer to help decrease the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the SCRCA has encouraged visits to local conservation areas. Visitors are reminded that they must comply with social distancing practices and other recommendations outlined by local health authorities and the provincial and federal governments.

Reservations for non-seasonal, transient camping can be made online by visiting the SCRCA website or by calling the campgrounds directly.

A.W. Campbell Conservation Area – (519) 847-5357, campbell@scrca.on.ca

Lorne C. Henderson Conservation Area – (519) 882-2280, henderson@scrca.on.ca

Warwick Conservation Area – (519) 849-6770, warwick@scrca.on.ca

The trail systems at all SCRCA conservation areas continue to be open to the public, however, those visiting must comply with social distancing practices and should not travel or meet-up with people from outside of their main residence. Trail maintenance may be limited. Please be advised that the SCRCA is prepared to close conservation areas if deemed necessary.

The SCRCA thanks our camping community for their patience and understanding as we navigate through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

For up-to-date information regarding the SCRCA’s response to COVID-19, visit www.scrca.on.ca.

Due to COVID-19 we are continually taking safety measures to protect our employees and our customers by social distancing and wearing PPE. Our doors are now open and we are ready for your business.

We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm or by placing an order by phone (519-876-2420).

Service has always been available and the construction side of our business is ramping up as Agriculture construction has been added to the essential list.

Wilson Shell

Monday to Friday - 6:00am-9:00pm

Saturday - 8:00am-9:00pm

Sunday - 9:00am-7:00pm