East Gwillimbury says property tax, water bills can be deferred to May 1

A longer deferral is being investigated

Yorkregion.com
March 30, 2020
Simon Martin

East Gwillimbury has stepped up with some help for concerned residents during the stressful times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Virginia Hackson said property tax and water bills due at the end of March and early April can be deferred until May 1. A longer deferral plan is being investigated.

In her update, Hackson said staying home and social distancing is of the utmost importance right now.

“We recognize it is a difficult time and not being able to do our normal day-to-day activities such as going to the playground, visiting with friends, and shopping as usual can be challenging, but remember that home is a good place to be right now,” she said. “It is what we do today, tomorrow and in the coming weeks that are critical to getting through this together.”

The town has provided updates to residents on frequently asked questions during this crisis.

1. Water and Tax Payments: For bills due at the end of March/early April, a short-term deferral plan has been put in place until May 1. Staff are working with York Region and other neighbouring municipalities to assess this evolving situation. Longer term deferral programs for bills due on April 30 or after are being investigated and will be shared in the coming days. If you have concerns regarding the ability to pay your bill, staff are available to discuss your account; please contact the town’s customer service department.

2. Waste Collection: Waste collection will continue to be collected as per the waste calendar. For the week of March 30 to April 3, residents may place out up to five bags of untagged garbage for collection. Staff will continue to assess this evolving situation and work with our municipal partners to provide updates as necessary. If you have concerns regarding collection, please contact customer service for assistance.

3. Bylaw Enforcement: The town is currently prioritizing essential services. Bylaw offences, such as overnight parking, are not being enforced unless there are significant traffic and/or community safety concerns. Please be respectful of one another and park in your driveway and garage where possible.

4. Trails: Self-isolation can be hard, and we know there is an interest and need to get outside and enjoy the weather. Our trails remain open for those who want to enjoy our beautiful outdoor spaces, but you are reminded to please practise social distancing and proper handwashing/sanitizing if heading out on the trails. The parking lot located at Yonge Street and Mount Albert Road is now open for access to the Nokiidaa Trail.

5. Parks: Consistent with Northern York Region municipalities playground equipment, skate parks and bike parks have been closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Feel free to continue to use park open spaces, sports fields and trails while maintaining social distancing (two metres).

Town updates will continue to be posted on the town’s website eastgwillimbury.ca. If you require assistance, the town’s customer service centre is available at 905-478-4282 or customerservice@eastgwillimbury.ca.