Bradford West Gwillimbury Mayor Rob Keffer has promised to provide a daily update, as long as the Emergency Control Group is meeting daily to review the latest COVID-19 concerns and responses.
On March 19, Mayor Keffer noted that the most frequent calls received by the municipality referred to property taxes.
“Council plans to offer some relief regarding property taxes,” the Mayor promised, noting, “This situation is moving at a very fast pace, and we are committed to responding in a manner that is both timely, and responsible.”
Now that the province has taken steps to permit municipal councils to meet via teleconference, BWG Council will be holding a meeting via teleconference next week, to approve relief measures for residents before the next property tax instalment is due.
The decision to provide relief reflects the growing number of business shut-downs and job layoffs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There is no question that the growing number of cases in Ontario is alarming,” said Keffer, urging residents to “take care of yourselves and of the vulnerable people in our community.”
He also urged residents to get outside, and enjoy the fresh air while practicing social distancing, hand-washing and hand-sanitizing, to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The Mayor also specifically highlighted a number of new provincial decisions, including a halt to any new eviction orders for tenants, and the extended validation of drivers’ licences, licence plates and health cards.
For more information on the Town’s response to COVID-19, click here.
The Town has also provided a grace period for payment of water and wastewater bills, and is offering free transit until the end of April.
