Niagara is moving to step three of the Ontario Government’s Framework to Re-open the Province on Friday, July 16, 2021. Step three allows a broader business community to re-open and engage with customers.

Step three of the re-opening strategy also permits indoor gatherings with a maximum of 25 people and outdoor gatherings with a maximum of 100 people. A two-metre distance must be maintained at all gatherings and events.

“Following health and safety guidelines to protect staff and the public is our priority,” said Mayor Frank Campion. In addition, he said “even though some facilities may continue to be closed to the public and services provided may be remotely accessed, we are still open for business and want to ensure that we follow provincial guidelines and move in the right direction”.

While most services offered through City Hall remain accessible remotely, the City will continue accepting appointments for in-person delivery of services. Those wishing to book an appointment will be able to do so online at www.welland.ca, or by calling 905.735.1700. With limits on the number of individuals allowed in the building, residents are asked to access services remotely if they are able. Water billing and tax payments will continue to be paid online, at your financial institution or through pre-authorized payments. Please visit www.welland.ca

All guests to City facilities must continue to wear a mask and be screened to ensure the safety of both our residents and staff as more spaces start to reopen.

“Safety is our top priority as we continue to serve the public during these unprecedented times. We are excited to reach Step 3 of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopening and look forward to serving our residents and delivering the services they require,” said Chief Administrative Officer Steve Zorbas. “We thank our residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation” he added.

As part of Step 3 recovery efforts, the following facilities will reopen to the public:

The Welland Community Wellness Complex (WCWC) is expanding their usage starting on July 19^th. The WCWC will be open to the public from Monday – Wednesday 9 AM – 7 PM and Thursday to Friday 9 AM – 4:30PM. Saturday and Sunday will remain closed at this time. The following modified city services will become available with Ontario’s step-three phase:

The WCWC Library and other municipal meeting or event spaces continue to remain closed to host summer day camps or in some instances shall remain closed due to the ability to enforce capacity limits.

The Welland Library, Main Branch located at 50 the Boardwalk will be increasing their capacity limits to 50 persons, Diamond Trail and Seaway Mall branches will allow for 20 persons effective July 16, 2021. Enhanced cleaning measures will remain in effect at all locations in accordance with public health recommendations. Programs will remain virtual until September.

These measures will continue to be in place until such time as new Provincial regulations are introduced. In addition, in early September, a review of these measures will be undertaken in order to continue to provide and improve our delivery of services while maintaining resident and staff safety.

For more information on the Ontario government’s stage-three phase, visit ontario.ca.

For more information on Welland Recovery Moving Beyond COVID-19, visit welland.ca.