Georgina cancels summer camps, swimming lessons, ROC Challenge Course

Georgina working toward new camp experience with COVID-19 protocols

Yorkregion.com
June 1, 2020
Amanda Persico

Georgina has cancelled summer camps and programs, and the ROC Challenge Course remains closed until further notice. - Torstar file photo

Looking forward to the summer where kids will be in camp and home-schooling efforts can go out the window?

Not so fast.

Georgina is joining the ranks of Newmarket and East Gwillimbury by cancelling all summer programs, camps and swimming lessons.

The safety of children and staff were at the forefront of the decision.

The ROC Challenge Course and Georgina Leisure Pool will also be closed for the summer season and remain closed until further notice.

Those registered for a town-offered summer camp can expect to see a refund in the coming weeks.

The town’s recreation staff are looking to create a new COVID-19 protocol compliant camp series focusing on outdoor activities amid strict health and safety measures developed in conjunction with public health and the province.

It’s expected the new camp experience will start mid-July, pending the lifting of current provincial restrictions.

Last month, the town laid off 48 part-time employees and was also in the process of delaying the hiring of 150 summer and seasonal staff as a cost savings measure.

Other cost saving measures include reducing customer service hours and introducing a four-day work week for non-essential town staff.

New customer service hours are Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For after-hours emergencies about animal control, roads, water or wastewater, residents are encouraged to call 905-476-4301.

News about the town’s new summer camp program, how it will work, how much it will cost and how to register is expected in the coming weeks.