COVID-19 information

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COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) 

Messages from the Mayor

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - July 1, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - June 26, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - June 19, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - June 12, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - June 8, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - June 1, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - May 26, 2020 

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - May 17, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - May 8, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - May 1, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - April 23, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - April 17, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - April 14, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - April 9, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - April 6, 2020

COVID-19 Message from Mayor Milne - March 25, 2020

COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 update - July 20, 2020

COVID-19 update - July 7, 2020

COVID-19 update - June 29, 2020

COVID-19 update - June 11, 2020

COVID-19 update - June 1, 2020

COVID-19 update - May 26, 2020

COVID-19 update - May 20, 2020

COVID-19 update - May 11, 2020

COVID-19 update - May 4, 2020 
 How to have a safe and happy Halloween

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit provides the following guidance:

  • Stay home if feeling ill or if you have mild symptoms.
  • Only go out with members of your direct household.
  • Only trick or treat outside.
  • Both trick or treaters and people handing out candy should wear a face covering.
  • A costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering and should not be worn over a face covering as it may make it difficult to breathe.
  • Consider building your face covering into your, or your child’s, costume.
  • Do not congregate or linger at doorsteps. Line up two metres (6 feet) apart if waiting.
  • Avoid high-touch surfaces and objects.
  • Whether collecting or handing out treats, wash your hands often and thoroughly or use hand sanitizer.
  • Do not leave treats in a bucket or bowl for children to grab.
  • Consider using tongs, or other similar tools to hand out treats.
 Stop the spread

  • Always

  • wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer 

  • sneeze and cough into your sleeve 

  • avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth 

  • avoid contact with people who are sick 

  • stay home if you are sick 

  • Practice physical distancing to reduce exposure to other people — this means staying at least 2 metres (6 feet) away from anyone outside your household or social circle.

  • Wear a face covering in all indoor public spaces such as businesses, organizations, or riding on public transit. Also wear a face covering when physical distancing is not possible. Make sure it fits. Learn how to wear it properly  and follow the do’s and don’ts. 

  • Self-isolate if you think you have symptoms of COVID-19, have a chronic medical condition, or are over 65.

Social circles

The size of social circles of 10 people is staying the same and is not increasing as part of Stage 3. Your social circle are the people you can hug and touch, or those who can become part of your daily and weekly routines without physical distancing. All members of your social circle should continue to practice physical distancing with others (outside of your social circle), wash hands frequently, wear a face covering when physical distancing outside of your social circle is not possible, and self-isolate if they become ill.

For more information on why social circles are important and how to create a safe social circle, visit the Ministry of Health’s Create a social circle during COVID-19 webpage.
Provincial restrictions on gatherings

Provincial restrictions on gatherings

On September 19th the Government of Ontario announced the new limit on the number of people allowed to attend unmonitored private social gatherings* across the province:

  • 10 people at an indoor event or gathering (previous limit of 50);
  • 25 people at an outdoor event or gathering (previous limit of 100)

Indoor and outdoor events and gatherings cannot be merged together. Gatherings of 35 (25 outdoors and 10 indoors) are not permitted.

*Unmonitored and private social gatherings include functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, BBQs or wedding receptions held in private residences, backyards, parks and other recreational areas.

The new limits do not apply to events or gatherings in staffed businesses and facilities because they must already follow specific public health and safety guidelines to minimize risk and limit the spread of COVID-19. These include places such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events. Existing rules, including public health and workplace safety measures for these businesses and facilities, continue to be in effect. People at their place of work, including performers and crews, do not count towards gathering limits.

People gathering indoors for religious services, rites or ceremonies, and wedding ceremonies or funeral services, can continue to fill up to 30 per cent of the capacity of the particular room, as introduced in Stage 2.

COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for Indoor and Outdoor Events and Gatherings - Revised September 29, 2020
Class order for self-isolation - effective Oct. 6, 2020

A class order under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act has been issued by Simcoe Muskoka’s Medical Officer of Health (MOH) to enforce COVID-19 self-isolation requirements. The order takes effect October 6, 2020 and remains in effect until the MOH declares it is no longer needed.

The order applies to any person living or present in the County of Simcoe and District of Muskoka who:

  • is identified as a person diagnosed with COVID-19;
  • has the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, has been tested for COVID-19 and is awaiting the results of their test;
  • otherwise has reasonable grounds to believe they have one or more symptoms of COVID-19; or
  • is a close contact of a person identified as a person diagnosed with COVID-19.

If you think you have any symptoms of COVID-19, use the provincial COVID self-assessment tool, and if indicated by the tool, get tested and self-isolate at home for 10 days (the period of time you are contagious) or until your test result is negative for COVID-19.

If you have been identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19, which means being within two metres (6 feet) of that infected person for at least 15 minutes without adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), you must self-isolate for 14 days even though you don’t have symptoms. This is because the COVID-19 incubation period (the period between exposure to an infection and the appearance of the first symptoms) can be up to 14 days. Adequate PPE is using both medical grade surgical/procedural mask and protective eyewear. Cloth face coverings are not adequate PPE.

Individuals who fail to comply with the order may be liable for a fine of up to $5,000 for every day or part of each day on which the offence occurs or continues.

For more information see Fact Sheet for Class Order for Self-Isolation.
 New Tec Connects Program

The Town of New Tecumseth continues to be here for our residents, and we are adapting to the changing times and needs of our community as a direct result of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

As such, we launched our New Tec Connects Program to support the evolving needs of our residents and our community as we work through this difficult time.  The New Tec Connects Program included virtual fitness and activities, partnerships for grocery delivery and food drives.  

As we continue to work together through this challenging time, we will continue to do all that we can through our organization as well as out New Tec Connects Program to help our residents through this unprecedented time. 

Stay connected on social media for the latest updates

Follow us on Facebook: Town of New Tecumseth on Facebook 

Follow us on Twitter: @NewTecumseth on Twitter 

Subscribe to us on YouTube: Town of New Tecumseth on YouTube 

 Town news releases

News release: August 7, 2020 - Reopening plan for Town administration offices

News release: July 20, 2020 - Town responds to Province's stage 3 reopening plan

News release: June 11, 2020 - Town responds to Province's stage 2 reopening plan

News release: May 15, 2020 - Changes to Town impacted services due to COVID-19

News release: April 30, 2020 - Town makes changes to impacted services due to COVID-19

News release: April 6, 2020 - Town launches New Tec Connects Program

News release: March 24, 2020 - COVID-19 impacts on Town services - update March 24

News release: March 17, 2020 - Town to close public access to Admin Centre & JOC 

News release: March 15, 2020 - COVID-19 Impacts on Town of New Tecumseth services

News release: March 14, 2020 - Town closing recreation and culture facilities and libraries due to COVID-19 effective March 16, 2020

News release: March 13, 2020 - Town makes changes to programs and camps as COVID-19 precaution

 Impact on Town services

The Town of New Tecumseth continues to follow the guidance and directives from the Province and local health officials. Everyone is encouraged to be responsible and continue to follow public health advice, including physical distancing of at least 2.0 metres (6 feet), frequent hand washing, wearing a face covering and staying home when ill. 

  • The Tottenham Community and Fitness Centre is open for bookings and drop in use of the gymnasium floor and the walking track will reopen. The fitness centre/the gym at the Tottenham Community & Fitness Centre will reopen however drop-in use will not be permitted and members will need to book a time slot to use the equipment either online or by phone. When performing physical exertion, masks may be removed as required. 

  • Due to the restrictive size of the fitness centre at the New Tecumseth Recreation Centre and the challenges associated with being able to ensure safe physical distancing of users, the gym at the NTRC will remain closed for the time being. However, all New Tecumseth fitness memberships can be used at the Tottenham Community & Fitness Centre. 

  • The Town Administration Centre is open to the public, however, some services require an appointment.  (Examples of services that would require an appointment include discussing a project, application or permit with our building or planning departments, marriage license pick-up and freedom of information pick up of documents). Where possible, residents are encouraged to continue to use online options whenever possible to promote safety and efficiency.  

  • The Joint Operations Centre remains closed to the public walk-ins at this time. 

Masks or face coverings are required upon entry to all Town buildings/facilities and recreation centres and while moving throughout buildings. Users of all our indoor and outdoor spaces must continue to follow all the public health guidelines for COVID-19 including maintaining physical distancing of at least 2 metres, washing and/or sanitizing hands frequently, wearing a mask or face covering and staying home when ill. Signage to remind users are placed throughout our buildings. We have reserved Monday through Friday between 11am to 12pm to invite seniors, those with autoimmune compromised health and those with special requirements to attend the Administration Centre for in-person services, if necessary. Public entrance to the Administration Centre is available via the building’s south side (facing Wellington St. E.) and exiting will be through the north side doors. To ensure physical distancing requirements are maintained, a queuing area will be on the main floor, and, if necessary, on the sidewalk along the south side of the building. For general inquiries, please contact customer service at 705-435-3900 or 905-729-0057 or email info@newtecumseth.ca Please visit us online at www.newtecumseth.ca for more information.  


Fire permits: Requests for all Open-Air Burn permits are being accepted. These requests as well as all those for Outdoor Wood Burning Appliance Permits are being processed and coordinated via email at fire@newtecumseth.ca.  For more information, please contact the Fire Administration Office at 705-435-3900 ext.1425.  

Public Works: During these challenging times, we continue to provide our most critical services in order to maintain safe roads, provide clean drinking water and maintain sanitary services. We are taking the necessary precautions, safety measures, and following Public Health guidelines to keep our staff, contractors and the community safe. We are Public Works, we are Here For You https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrPPEJ5YOxc

Pedestrian crossings - The Town is doing its part to flatten the curve of COVID-19. Adjustments have been made to high-use pedestrian crossing intersections in New Tecumseth. Vehicles may notice a slightly longer wait at these intersections as a result. These specific pedestrian crossing signals work without the need to push the activation buttons. Signage installed reminding people not to touch the buttons at: 

  • Victoria at Church
  • Victoria at Centre
  • Victoria at King
  • Young at King
  • Young at 8th
  • Young at Industrial Parkway
  • Main at Patterson
  • Queen at Mill
 It is not feasible to remove the push buttons or cover them up because they are needed for people with visual impairments who rely on the audible pedestrian system which is activated through the push buttons.   In keeping with public health guidelines, residents should avoid using their hands to touch shared surfaces in the public like pedestrian push buttons, and also other common items such as handrails and benches.  Always wash your hands as soon as you return home or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.  

Parks, Recreation & Culture FAQs about impact on Town services

Fitness Memberships

What happens to my fitness membership and/or walking track membership?

Please contact our Parks, Recreation and Culture team to discuss via email at recreation@newtecumseth.ca 

Facility Rentals

Email inquiries to rentals@newtecumseth.ca. 

How to safely enjoy outdoor public spaces

It is important to get outside and enjoy public spaces, however there is a risk of people congregating close together and spreading COVID-19. The following are recommendations to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 when visiting outdoor public spaces (i.e. municipal or public parks, community gardens, hiking paths and trails, dog parks, playgrounds, skate parks, outdoor pools, splash pads, beaches, piers and campgrounds):

  • Use the outdoor public spaces within your own community, when possible. 
  • If you are feeling ill or displaying symptoms (i.e. fever, cough, difficulty breathing, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, runny nose) or if you have come into contact with someone who has shown symptoms or has tested positive, you are not to visit the outdoor public space. 
  • Read all posted signs including screening signs at all entrances and ensure everyone self-screens before entering the outdoor public space. 
  • Maintain a physical distance of at least 2 metres (6 feet) from others at all times and especially while in places where people tend to congregate, such as parking lots, trailheads and scenic overlooks.
  • Avoid close contact with people outside your household, such as shaking hands, hugging, high-fives, or games involving shared items.
  • Wash or sanitize your hands as you arrive. 
  • Do not share equipment such as balls, bicycles and helmets, etc. outside of one’s household members. 
  • If physical distancing is difficult to maintain in the outdoor space, consider wearing a face covering.

 How to handle and exchange second-hand goods

Shopping for second-hand products is a good way to save money, recycle and reuse during COVID-19. Shopping may occur either online or in person (such as garage/yard sales). If you participate in handling or purchasing second-hand products here are some actions you can take to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Garage/Yard Sales

Garage/yard sales are now allowed in New Tecumseth, however there is a limit on the number of people allowed at public gatherings and events, which applies to garage/yard sales. 

If you are organizing a yard sale at your home have hand sanitizer available, and do not attend/host yard/garage sales if you have COVID-19, are unwell, or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. 

Managing or buying second-hand items during COVD-19: 

The main way that COVID-19 is transmitted is directly from person-to-person, rather than through objects. Therefore, the following recommendations are to help prevent person-to-person spread.

  • Avoid all close contact with people outside of your household and practice physical distancing (e.g. stay 2 metres (6 feet) away from others at all times). 
  • Wear a non-medical mask or face covering when physical distancing is not possible. Make sure it fits. Learn how to wear it properly and follow the do’s and don’ts.
  • Avoid meeting in person if possible (e.g. leave items out for porch pick-up ) 
  • Use digital/electronic or contactless payment services rather than cash. 
  • Refrain from trying on any clothing while shopping, and limit touching items where possible.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Goods and Surfaces

It is also possible that COVID-19 can be transmitted through objects, as the COVID -19 virus may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days depending on different conditions, such as: temperature, type of surface and humidity of the environment.

  • After purchasing an item, thoroughly clean and disinfect it. Avoid buying items that are difficult to clean. 
  • When possible, clean and disinfect all surfaces of the merchandise; Launder items where possible and dry on the hottest setting possible. 
  • If items cannot be cleaned and disinfected (e.g. books, paper, fabric) they should be stored for a period of time in a dedicated area or room for at least 72 hours before use. 
  • Wash your hands after handling items. 
Mandatory - wearing a face covering in all indoor public spaces

Public Face Covering Policy

SMDHU mandatory face coverings for businesses letter 

As per the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's direction, as of Monday, July 13, 2020, when you enter into a public indoor spaces (e.g. grocery store, community centre, shopping mall, hair salon, library, place of worship, etc.), or use a public transit service in Simcoe Muskoka, which includes the Town of New Tecumseth, you will be required to wear a face covering.

A face covering means a medical or non-medical mask or other face covering such as a bandana or scarf that covers the mouth and nose.

Children under the age of 2 or those under 5 who cannot be persuaded, are not required to wear a face covering, as well as individuals whose health or ability, or cultural or religious reasons would prevent them from doing so. No proof of exemption is required.

These additional public health measures remain in effect in all settings:

  • Maintain physical distancing of two metres from others

  • Stay home if ill and get tested for COVID-19

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer 

What you need to know about wearing a face covering in indoor public spaces- FAQ 

Make sure your mask fits. Learn how to wear it properly and follow the do’s and don’ts.

Evidence-based Information on Face Coverings
 Enforcement of COVID-19 Provincial Orders Q&A

Municipal Law Ambassador Program: 

The Town’s Municipal Law Enforcement team has developed an ambassador program to help remind residents and visitors of the importance to follow the Health Officials guidance and comply with the restrictions in place to combat the spread of COVID-19. 

As part of the  ambassador program,  Municipal Law has been working with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit to educate other Town staff on the current COVID-19 restrictions. Town staff will  be out and about in our community to continue to educate residents about the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) including ensuring no gatherings of more than five people and the need to stay out of closed outdoor recreational amenities. 

We appreciate the community’s help in following these important rules to help flatten the curve and keep us all safe during this pandemic.

If you see non-compliance with the EMCPA, please call the OPP non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. For less serious incidents, report online by visiting opp.ca/reporting. 

What is the Town’s By-law Enforcement and Nottawasaga OPP doing to enforce the Province’s COVID-19 Orders.

The Town’s By-law Enforcement Officers are assisting the Nottawasaga OPP to enforcethe Province’s COVID-19 Orders by doing proactive patrols and partnering with the OPP to educate residents and working with the Nottawasaga OPP where Police intervention may be warranted.  

What are the fines the public will be facing for violating the Provincial Orders? 

Charges may be laid for violations of the Province’s Orders in two ways. People not abiding by the Provincial Orders may receive a ticket with a set fine between $750 to $1000 dollars per charge. Alternatively, Officers may lay a charge by way of a summons in which case the fine and penalties are potentially more severe, ranging from up to $100,000 for individuals, $500,000 for Directors or Officers of a corporation and up to $10,000,000 for a corporation.  In addition, offenders may be subject to up to one year imprisonment. 

Can we still walk through the Town’s parks, pathways and trails? 

Residents may walk through Town parks, pathways and trails unless there is signage at or in the park identifying the park or specific parts of the park as being closed, provided that residents: 

  • maintain a distance of at least 2.0 metres from other people (other than people who reside together).

Provincial restrictions on gatherings

On September 19th the Government of Ontario announced the new limit on the number of people allowed to attend unmonitored private social gatherings* across the province:

  • 10 people at an indoor event or gathering (previous limit of 50);
  • 25 people at an outdoor event or gathering (previous limit of 100)

Indoor and outdoor events and gatherings cannot be merged together. Gatherings of 35 (25 outdoors and 10 indoors) are not permitted.

*Unmonitored and private social gatherings include functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, BBQs or wedding receptions held in private residences, backyards, parks and other recreational areas.

The new limits do not apply to events or gatherings in staffed businesses and facilities because they must already follow specific public health and safety guidelines to minimize risk and limit the spread of COVID-19. These include places such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events. Existing rules, including public health and workplace safety measures for these businesses and facilities, continue to be in effect. People at their place of work, including performers and crews, do not count towards gathering limits.

People gathering indoors for religious services, rites or ceremonies, and wedding ceremonies or funeral services, can continue to fill up to 30 per cent of the capacity of the particular room, as introduced in Stage 2.

COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for Indoor and Outdoor Events and Gatherings - Revised September 29, 2020

Can I hold a garage/yard sale?

Garage/yard sales are now allowed in New Tecumseth, however there is a limit on the number of people allowed at public gatherings and events, which applies to garage/yard sales. 

If you are organizing a yard sale at your home have hand sanitizer available, and do not attend/host yard/garage sales if you have COVID-19, are unwell, or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. For more details, please visit the "how to handle and exchange second-hand goods" section. 

Can businesses be charged for violating the Province’s Orders? 

Yes, businesses and business owners can be charged for violating COVID-19 Orders issued by the Province. For example, businesses violating the Provincial Orders requiring closure of non-essential businesses or price gouging on essential goods may be charged and subject to fines of up to $10,000,000, and Officers and Directors of these businesses may be liable for fines of up to $500,000 personally. 

Who do I call to report a possible violation of the Provincial COVID-19 Orders, the Federal Quarantine Act and Price Gouging?

If you wish to file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact Public Health Agency of Canada. For emergencies, please call 9-1-1. For all other police matters, including non-compliance to the Provincial COVID-19 Orders, please call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.  In addition, with respect to complaints regarding unconscionable pricing or price gouging, residents may contact the Consumer Protection Ontario Call Centre at 1-800-889-9768 (which operates between 8:30am and 5:00pm), or file complaints online at: https://www.ontario.ca/page/consumer-protection-ontario   
Financial Supports and Resources for Businesses

The Town’s Economic Development Office is gathering important information and resources to assist local businesses and their employees in responding to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

Visit the Support for Businesses page and use the "Subscribe" feature to receive automatic email notifications about the most up to date resources for your business and employees.
Financial Supports for Individuals and Families

The Government of Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan includes a wide range of measures to support for Canadian individuals and families who are facing financial hardship as a result of the pandemic.

The Province of Ontario's Action Plan will provide support for people and businesses through tax credits and deferrals to improve their cash flow, protecting jobs and household budgets, while providing the resources necessary to protect their health.

The Town’s Economic Development Office is gathering important information and resources to assist the local workforce and employers in response to the economic impacts of COVID-19.
Building Inspections
    • At this time building inspections will be completed by our Building Inspectors.
    • Most standard construction inspections can be carried out, including
      • Exterior inspections of all buildings, and
      • Interior inspections of unoccupied buildings that are under construction
    • Interior inspections of occupied dwellings will be conducted with extra provisions for the safety of both staff and occupants.

    PROCEDURE:

    • Upon arrival to the property, the inspector shall advise the representative of these procedures and obtain their verbal agreement to comply.
    • The building must be vacant at time of inspection except that one representative of the permit holder/owner may accompany the inspector while maintaining acceptable social distancing.
    • The inspector will evaluate the inspection environment to determine the suitability to maintain a safe workplace and shall mitigate any assessed risk by use of personal protective equipment.
    • Social distancing requiring 6 ft separation shall be practiced at all times by the inspector and the representative.
    • Where 6 ft social distancing is not possible, or as determined by the inspector, both the inspector and the representative shall wear well-fitting, non-surgical masks that completely covers from the nose to the chin.
Building Permit Applications
  • The Building Branch will be only accepting building permit applications through digital means.  Drawings shall be submitted digitally and be in a pdf format.  The drawings shall be scaled and legible.  Pictures of drawings will not be accepted.  Building staff will circulate digital applications to the required internal departments (Planning, Engineering, Fire, Finance) for their approvals and/or comments.
    • Email communication will be the preferred method of communication.
 Building Permit payment & Compliance Letters

Until further notice, payment for building permit fees, development charges and compliance letters will be Visa & Mastercard (max $750) this can be taken over the phone or cheque (payable to the Town of New Tecumseth) and deposited to the Town Hall drop box. No in person payments. 

Payment Process:

  1. Complete the cheque and include the building application number on the front of the cheque
  2. Arrange to have the cheque dropped off in the drop box at Town Hall or alternatively mail the cheque.
  3. Building Branch will follow up on the payment and issuing a receipt.
  4. Building permit or compliance letter will be issued.
  5. Permit card will be scanned and emailed to the applicant.  Drawings will be delivered to site upon first inspection
Drinking water 

Drinking water continues to be safe for consumption & meets all provincial requirements. Safety precautions & measures are in place to protect staff and public to ensure Water services continue. There may be some disruption to non-essential services. Critical servicing will be maintained.
Wastewater

Safety precautions and measures are in place to protect staff and public to ensure Wastewater services continue. There may be some disruption to non-essential services. Critical servicing will be maintained.

Please do not to flush or dispose of cleaning wipes/cloths through sanitary services (toilets, etc.) The Town will not be responding to sanitary blockages as a result of the disposal of such cleaning products. Should cleaning products be found to be the cause of a sanitary blockage, property owners will be responsible for all cost.
Property Tax, Water & Wastewater and Accounts Receivable

The Town is looking for ways to help provide financial relief due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.  As a result, the following changes are being implemented to property tax and water/wastewater due dates:

  • The 2020 Residential and Farmland final tax bills were issued the first week in July.

    • 2nd installment will be due October 30th, 2020

  • The 2020 Commercial, Industrial and Multi-Residential and Mixed Assessment final tax bills  issued by September.

    • 1st installment due September 30th, 2020

    • 2nd installment will be due November 30th , 2020

This is not a reduction in property taxes or water and wastewater fees. By extending the due dates, the Town is hoping to give residents who are in need of financial relief additional time to make payments. If you are still able to make payment on or before the original due date, we encourage you to do so. 

We will continue to monitor the impacts of COVID-19 and provide further updates as available.

Will I get a revised property tax/utility bill reflecting the new due dates?

  • No. Staff will not be re-issuing bills that have already been sent; however, the amounts on the bills will not be due until the revised due dates. 

  • Note that Utility bills being issued in April or later will reflect the revised due dates; please pay according to the due date on these bills.

I am on a Pre-Authorized Payment Plan - how will I be affected? ?

  • The Town will continue to withdraw monthly pre-authorized payments for property taxes as normal.

  • Water and wastewater pre-authorized payments will be withdrawn on the REVISED due dates.

  • If you wish to withdraw from the pre-authorized payment plan program, please indicate this in writing by completing the Property Tax/Utility Bill Pre-Authorized Payment Plan Cancellation Form found here and emailing the completed form to finance@newtecumseth.ca. 

  • In the future, if you wish to re-enroll in the pre-authorized payment plan program, your property tax or utility account must be paid in full and you will need to complete the Property Tax/Utility Bill Pre-Authorized Payment Plan Form found here.

 Payment methods include:

  • Payments can be made at your bank or through online/telephone banking

  • Third party credit card providers, such as Plastiq

  • Registration in the Town's pre-authorized payment plan

  • By cheque, mailed or placed in the drop boxes at:

  • Town Administrative office located at 10 Wellington Street East in Alliston.

  • Tottenham Recreational Centre located at 139 Queen Street North 

  • Joint Operations Centre located at 6558 8th Line in Beeton

To Access billing information:
 By-law Enforcement 

Bylaw officers will still enforce regular parking infractions like parking within 3m of a fire hydrant, etc. This includes the 5-hour parking restrictions - response will be on a complaint basis.
Who do I contact to report violations to the Province's Emergency Management & Civil Protection Act?

Everyone is encouraged to voluntarily comply with the restrictions introduced by the federal and provincial governments to combat the spread of COVID-19.

For all non-emergency police matters, including non-compliance to the Province’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) please call your local police or the OPP non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. For less serious incidents, report online by visiting opp.ca/reporting. If you wish to file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact Public Health Agency of Canada. Our Municipal Law Enforcement officers will continue to be out in our community reminding you of the importance of complying with these restrictions. 
 About COVID-19

COVID-19 is a respiratory virus with pneumonia-like symptoms. There are confirmed cases in Canada, including Ontario. The Town of New Tecumseth is working closely with the Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit, the County of Simcoe and other community partners to monitor the global situation to be as prepared as possible and respond accordingly. 
Case summary information 
For case summary information, please visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit's COVID-19 information/statistics. 
 What you need to know

While the risk of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) is currently low for our area and there are no confirmed cases here, it is good to be prepared for the potential arrival of widespread community transmission of the virus. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has information on their website about preparing for a pandemic.

For the most up-to-date local information, visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website. 
How can I get in touch with the Town?

Citizens can continue to do business with the Town on our website at www.newtecumseth.ca, or by phone at 705-435-3900 or 905-729-0057 (Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm) or by email at info@newtecumseth.ca.

For recreation related questions, please call our Parks, Recreation and Culture team at 705-435-4030 ext. 1500 or 905-936-4203 ext. 1621 or by email recreation@newtecumseth.ca

For detailed information about your Property Tax and Water/Wastewater accounts, access our Virtual Town Hall service portal 24/7. 

For Property Tax and Water/Wastewater payment methods and additional information, please see the FAQ’s on our website:

Property Taxes:  https://www.newtecumseth.ca/en/living-in-our-community/property-taxes-and-payments-faqs.aspx

Water and Wastewater:  https://www.newtecumseth.ca/en/living-in-our-community/paying-your-bill.aspx

Other inquiries can be addressed by contacting the Finance department by phone or email:

Property Taxes

-        Phone: (705) 435-3900 extension 1255 or extension 1251

-        Email: propertytaxes@newtecumseth.ca

Water and Wastewater

-        Phone: (705) 435-3900 extension 1324 or extension 1252

-        Email: utilities@newtecumseth.ca

For any other general finance-related inquiries, please email the Finance Department at finance@newtecumseth.ca
Stevenson Memorial Hospital 

For the latest news from Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH), please visit their website at:

www.stevensonhospital.ca

Please follow SMH on social media (Facebook & Instagram @stevensonhospital, Twitter @stevensonhosp) or Jody Levac, President & CEO’s on Twitter (@j_levac) for the latest updates as this is an evolving situation.

SMH asks the public to use the Ministry of Health’s self-assessment tool to help determine if they need to come to the Assessment Centre.

Assessment Centre moves to same day booking:

Stevenson Memorial Hospital’s (SMH) COVID-19 Assessment Centre implemented an appointment-based system. The Centre has also changed its hours of operation to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and continues to operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The Centre will now be taking same-day appointments only moving forward. The registration phone line will open on each operating day at 7 a.m.

Appointments can be booked by calling SMH’s new Assessment Centre registration line at (249) 501-0383.
To ensure testing resources are available for those who need them the most, the province recently updated testing criteria to prioritize those at the greatest risk, while shifting away from untargeted, asymptomatic testing. People should only seek testing at an assessment centre if:

  • they have COVID-19 symptoms;
  • have been exposed to a confirmed case of the virus, as notified by public health  unit or the COVID Alert app;
  • live or work in a setting that has a COVID-19 outbreak; an asymptomatic traveller or are in a high risk group.  

To determine whether you meet criteria for a COVID-19 test please visit www.ontario.ca/covidtest. 

For more information about the COVID-19 Assessment Centre at SMH, please visit www.stevensonhospital.ca 

 
County of Simcoe

You may visit the Simcoe County website at www.simcoe.ca and view their public notices page to see a list of any services they provide that have been affected by COVID-19. 
Where to find support 

We understand that this is a difficult time for many as the world around us is changing due to COVID-19. Whether you are looking for support or know someone who is, below is a list of services available.

Offering support by telephone (2-1-1), email or live chat from their website: https://211ontario.ca/  Please call or email if you are unable to access needed supplies or services.

  • 211 Ontario can help you find grocery stores and pharmacies that are open and offering delivery service, as well as programs and services in your community that may be helpful to you during these trying times.
  • 211 exists to connect people to urgent needs and essential services.
  • 211 is multilingual and operates 24/7.

Mental health support

It is normal that situations like COVID-19 can affect your mental health and it’s completely OK to ask for help. Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. If you need support, access the following services. 

Children and youth 

 Adults   
 Additional information sources
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit 

Public Health Agency of Canada

Risk level for Canadians, Current situation, Travel advisories

Ontario Ministry of Health
Ontario news, Status of cases in Ontario – updated at 10:30 a.m. daily

World Health Organization
Technical documents, Questions and answers