On Friday, July 24 at 12:01am, Haldimand County will be moving into Stage 3 of the Province’s re-opening plan. County staff are finalizing plans to re-open more facilities and amenities with physical distancing protocols and safety measures.

In Stage 3, gatherings of up to 100 people outdoors and 50 people indoors will be permitted. Playground equipment may be used, and team sports may also resume on a limited basis in accordance with Stage 3 public health requirements.

The following updates pertain to Haldimand entering Stage 3:

Arenas & walking tracks
Staff are currently working to:
– Re-open the Almas Pad (HCCC) for socially-distanced ice bookings by late August;
– Re-open the Clark Pad (HCCC), Cayuga Memorial Arena, Dunnville Memorial Arena and
Hagersville Arena for ice bookings by the end of September.
– Re-open the walking tracks at the Cayuga & Dunnville Memorial Arenas by the end of September

Playground equipment
All playground equipment will re-open for public use on Friday, July 24. Users should note that playground equipment will not be regularly sanitized and physical distancing rules remain in effect.

Pavilion rentals
Though pavilions are now open for use, bookings for private/organized functions at pavilions will not be taken for the remainder of summer. Pavilions will not be sanitized and physical distancing rules remain in effect.

Baseball diamonds
County-operated ball diamonds will not be accepting bookings for tournaments or games until further notice. Individuals who are interested in playing baseball – and meet all criteria listed in Stage 3 guidelines – will be connected with organizations who operate diamonds on behalf of the County.

Community halls
As of July 24, community halls may begin renting facilities (if they choose) for events that comply with Stage 3 requirements. As halls are operated via a license agreement with the County, staff will assist hall boards in navigating new public health regulations, protocols and procedures.

“Haldimand County continues to take a gradual, phased approach to re-opening facilities that align with provincial guidelines and keep the safety of staff and the community top-of-mind,” said Mayor Ken Hewitt. “As more facilities re-open and gathering restrictions loosen, I ask that everyone remain patient and continue being vigilant in their efforts to combat the virus,” Hewitt noted. Hewitt noted that community efforts to date have largely influenced Haldimand’s progression into Stage 3.

Members of the public are encouraged to follow the County on Facebook/Twitter and check HaldimandCounty.ca/COVID-19 regularly for the most up-to-date information on municipal services, facilities and related COVID-19 details. Other helpful information – including frequently asked questions and key contacts – is also available on this page.

For more information on Stage 3 requirements and what’s allowed to re-open, visit the Province of Ontario’s website.