In March 2020, the Town of Bracebridge began implementing extraordinary measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures were intended to reduce the spread of COVID-19 among staff and the community and to ensure that municipal operations and essential services continued to be provided with limited disruption.
Throughout the pandemic, the Town has relied on the advice and guidance of public health officials to help guide its decision making regarding safe operation and delivery of services. With the recent easing of COVID-19 related public health measures, the Municipal Office and Fire Station 1 will fully reopen to the public on April 4, 2022.
“On behalf of Town staff, I want to thank the public for their patience and flexibility as many services were abruptly shifted to virtual platforms and as we navigated significant change over the last couple of years. Similarly, the Town recognizes and appreciates the commitment and adaptability of all our staff who, throughout the pandemic, continued to offer uninterrupted service to our community. The Town is committed to continuously monitoring the evolving pandemic environment and will make adjustments, as required. We will also not hesitate to reinstate safety measures should they be required or recommended by public health authorities,” said Chief Administrative Officer, Stephen Rettie.
The Bracebridge Sportsplex and Bracebridge Public Library continue to be fully reopened, with regular services offered at both locations. Other Town facilities (Woodchester, Oakley Village Square, etc.) may continue to have modified access and are subject to specific reopening plans that consider operational feasibility. Bracebridge Transit and Bracebridge Mobility continue to provide services to residents, with face coverings required in accordance with direction from the Government of Ontario and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU).
While the Town continues to encourage the public to access services virtually, and staff to leverage technology in service delivery, members of the public are welcome to attend Town facilities, including all service counters, during regular hours of operation.
Please do not attend Town facilities if you are ill. Practice good hand hygiene and coughing and sneezing etiquette. Staff and visitors may voluntarily wear a mask or face covering while indoors at Town facilities, should they wish to do so. And always be kind and considerate of others and their choices.
With respect to land and building development activity specifically:
- It is recommended that Building Permits continue to be submitted electronically through the online form on the Town’s website.
- Pre-Consultations on Planning Applications generally involve multiple parties and are best held electronically. To request a pre-consultation on a planning application, please contact the Planning Services Branch at planning@bracebridge.ca.
Public and staff safety have always remained a priority throughout the pandemic. Should there be future direction from the SMDHU or other public health authorities, the Town will adapt services as required.