Local transmission COVID-19 case prompts York Region to declare state of emergency

Services essential to residents will continue, York Region chairman says

Newmarkettoday.ca
March 24, 2020

Statement from York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson:

Since we first learned of COVID-19, York Regional Council and the Regional Municipality of York have been working with all levels of government to monitor this rapidly evolving situation, contain the spread and protect the health and well-being of all residents and visitors within our communities.

During these times of uncertainty and rapid change our top priority has always been, and will remain, the health and safety of those who call York Region home. We are in unprecedented territory, but rest assured your government continues to take decisive and meaningful action to protect citizens, businesses and our Regional staff.

Today, I am formally declaring a state of emergency in the Regional Municipality of York.

This decision follows the Region’s confirmation of the first positive case of COVID-19 acquired through local transmission, defined as individuals who did not have close contact with a travel-related case or any known case of COVID-19.

In declaring a state of emergency, York Regional Council fully supports the provincial government’s measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This also includes temporary disruption to some York Region programs and services and the public closure of all York Region administrative facilities until further notice.

York Region provides vital services to 1.2 million residents. To help mitigate the spread and ensure residents continue to receive critical public services, all non-essential Regional employees who can work remotely will do so. Services essential to residents will continue.

We are in changing and challenging times, but together we can flatten the curve and keep our communities safe. When we all come together we are stronger.

To the residents and businesses of York Region, thank you for your continued commitment to the health and safety of each other and our communities.

Residents are reminded York.ca/covid19 remains the most up-to-date source of information on the Region’s COVID-19 response.