The Province of Ontario has determined that private gatherings need to be limited to help limit the community spread of COVID-19. These regulations are being implemented today (Saturday, September 19, 2020) and impact gatherings in private homes and yards. We know that the rate of increase has risen in the past week to levels not seen for several months, and it has resulted in these measures being enacted.

We are all in the drivers seat when it comes to the regulations and limitations that are imposed on Windsor and Essex County. The stronger our collective response, the more flexible guidelines I am confident our region will be permitted.

To ensure that our region is not further restricted, I would strongly urge all residents to take this news to heart and to follow these guidelines strictly.

I am concerned that if we do not follow these guidelines, and pandemic figures continue to rise, then the Province of Ontario will be forced to roll-back further.

The past 7 months have provided an incredible challenge for each of us. Businesses have faced significant challenges and households have struggled with the impacts of COVID-19. The border has been closed to most traffic and traditional social gatherings have been postponed, limited or cancelled.

At the same time, our City has benefit from significant local volunteerism and community spirit, which has made me incredibly proud. I’m confident that our community will recover and build back stronger than before.