City Programs In The Time Of COVID
By John Swartz
As people start back to work there are going to be some changes because of physical distancing requirements. It’s new and it could be stressful. For many it’s already been stressful not doing anything, and not having the regular paycheque. The future may look like a map drawn on the back of a crumpled napkin.
To relieve one pressure the City of Orillia has a summer day camp program called Camp Orillia which is designed for children ages 5 to 12. It begins July 6. There are 9 weeks to choose from at the following facilities:
- Brian Orser Arena
- Barnfield Point Recreation Centre
- Opera House
- Regan House
- Leacock Museum
- Rotary Place, 3 groups
- Orillia Recreation Centre, 3 groups starting Aug. 10.
Because physical distancing is still required, programs are designed to include physical distancing, small camp sizes, daily health assessments, alternative locations, extensive cleaning measures and modified programming. Each cohort is limited to 8 children.
Those who previously registered for summer camp activities are having those cancelled and refunded because those programs are not being offered and Camp Orillia is replacing them. You need to re-register.
Registration opens June 10 and the fee is $199 per week.. Non-residents can register after June 29 and the fee is $248.75 if there is space left.
Registration can be done online, or you can call 705-329-7250 to register or for more information.
Other Changes
Under the emergency declaration in effect, the City has ordered all events cancelled or postponed to Aug. 31.
Property tax penalties and interest are being waived until July 31 for residents and businesses, though those who can pay can do so at anytime.
Water and sewer charge penalties and interest are waived until September 30. All water shutoffs for non-payment are suspended until September 30.
Any pre-authorized payments running into trouble will have NSF charges waived until July 31.
The second intake of applications for the Downtown Tomorrow Community Improvement Plan deadline is now June 30.
The City will continue the one free, un-tagged, bag of garbage per week until July 5.
Parking and Orillia Transit fares are suspended until July 5. Anyone who already paid for monthly transit passes for April, May or June can transfer those payments forward.
Garage sales are prohibited until July 5.
The waste diversion facility is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
(Photo By Swartz – SUNonline/Orillia; Main Image Supplied)