Saugeen ShoresTourism changes for 2020 and Mayor’s Task Force

Changes to celebrations and temporary policy revision to give businesses more space

Council heard several updates to economic recovery-related projects during tonight’s Committee of Whole and Council meetings.

2020 Tourism update

Due to the current restrictions on large gatherings and requirements for physical distancing, the Canada Day fireworks and corresponding festivities on July 1, 2020 will be postponed.

The Town and the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce hope to work with local community groups to deliver some opportunities to celebrate the nation on July 1. Discussions are currently in the works.

The Chamber and Town have tentatively agreed to partner and combine the Canada Day and Labour Day firework funds into a postponed Canada Day celebration, in its traditional location of Southampton, on September 6, 2020, provided that restrictions on large gatherings have been lifted.

Supporting businesses with changes to sidewalk patio policy

As businesses adapt their practices during the pandemic, one of the challenges is maintaining physical distancing requirements. To address some of these challenges, Council has tentatively agreed to amend the Town’s Sidewalk Patio and Sidewalk Café Encroachment Policy and to waive all fees for businesses for the 2020 calendar year related to this policy.

If passed at the next Council meeting, businesses will have the opportunity to increase their restaurant or retail space through these outdoor areas on municipal property to ensure physical distancing.

“Our community’s businesses are finding new ways to work—and Council is committed to supporting them with solutions that help keep their staff and customers safe,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau.

Mayor’s Task Force on Economic Recovery

Council also approved the revised Terms of Reference for the Mayor’s Task Force on Economic Recovery, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Members of the Task Force will include a number of citizens from a broad range of businesses and organizations.

The Town’s Strategic Initiatives staff, along with others, will develop the Economic

Recovery Plan, ensuring regular communication with the Task Force and providing updates and recommendations to Council.

Finally, the public can also read a brief summary on the status of significant projects in CAO David Smith’s report, available on the Town’s website.

For accurate COVID-19 information and resources from Saugeen Shores, visit SaugeenShores.ca/COVID-19.