[Huron County, Ontario]- In response to the COVID-19 outbreak and in accordance with the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, Warden Jim Ginn declared a State of Emergency for the County of Huron at approximately 4:00 PM today, March 24, 2020. The County recognizes that local municipality, the Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh, has also declared a state of emergency at this time.
“This decision was not made lightly,” says Warden Jim Ginn. “We are taking the current COVID-19 situation very seriously and implementing every reasonable precautionary measure we can to support residents and staff. This action will enable the County to do our part in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and take further steps to ease the burden on our health care sector.”
A State of Emergency was declared for the following reasons:
- To allow the County of Huron to act on measures that fall under its authority and are considered necessary to preserve the health, safety and welfare of residents;
- To raise public awareness regarding the gravity of the current COVID-19 pandemic situation;
- To protect volunteers that may be called to assist;
- To preserve the rights of the County for future compensation should it become available; and
- To ensure the organization can quickly respond to other unforeseen events, should they arise.
Ginn adds: “As the situation develops, residents can expect that our services and operations will continue to adjust according to the latest recommendations of health authorities. The County urges all residents to follow public health direction – we must continue to work together to reduce the spread of this virus.”
The County of Huron thanks the efforts of healthcare workers, local communities, and all levels of government that are on the front line working to contain this outbreak. The County also thanks its citizens for the hard work and individual sacrifices they are making during this unprecedented time.
As per the County’s COVID-19 response protocols, all County of Huron offices remain closed to public access. Core service delivery continues. Please contact the County via phone, email or online. Visit www.huroncounty.ca for contact information.
Huron County urges asks all residents practice social distancing and proper hygiene protocols outlined by the Provincial Medical Officer of Health.
Stay informed on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in Huron County by visiting the Huron-Perth Public Health website.
-30-
Our spokesperson is: Jim Ginn, Warden. 519.524.8394 x 3224. warden@huroncounty.ca