Date of Release: May 22, 2020

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR MAYOR:

“Although the Province of Ontario is slowly and carefully easing some restrictions put in place due to COVID-19, we must all remain diligent in continuing social distancing and making our greatest efforts to mitigate the spread of this disease in our community. 

It is encouraging to know that some retail stores have been allowed to reopen and I have noticed several of them communicating protocols to keep their staff and customers safe. I strongly urge you to shop locally to support our take-out restaurants and retailers, whether it be through curbside pick-up, in person, or delivery. You will notice increased signage in the Village reminding everyone of the importance of following the Emergency Orders in relation to maintaining a distance of six (6) feet and not gathering in groups of more than five (5) people.    

Recently, the Province eased restrictions with respect to some recreational facilities and, although the Village has opened some recreational facilities, it is important for everyone to be aware of the restrictions surrounding the use of these facilities.  Please visit the Village’s website at www.merrickville-wolford.ca and click on the COVID-19 banner for information regarding recreational facilities, Village services, assistance for businesses and other helpful information during this time.

Most importantly, please continue stay safe and healthy!”                                   

                                                                                  -Mayor J. Douglas Struthers

Fire Department

• All individuals who wish to have a fire are required to have a burn permit and to renew their permit each calendar year. Individuals are required to follow the rules of the permit, including calling 613-706-2330 before having a fire. Anyone who does not comply with the rules may be fined.

Community Economic Development & Assistance for Businesses

• The Regional Relief & Recovery Fund (RRRF) is now open for applications from rural small businesses.  The program is designed to help businesses and sole proprietors that could not otherwise access federal COVID-19 relief programs.  Through RRRF, businesses can apply for no interest business loans for their "mainstreet" businesses such as retail shops, restaurants, tourism operators, corner stores and others.  The program is being delivered by FedDev and Valley Heartland in our area.  For more information on the RRRF or any other government relief measures and resources for businesses, please contact our Economic Development Officer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 613-269-4791, ext. 242. 
• For an updated list of small business resources, government funding programs, public health measures, workplace health & safety guidelines by sector, PPE Suppliers and more, please visit the Counties’ economic development COVID-19 website:  https://invest.leedsgrenville.com/en/contacts-news-events/covid-19.aspx#
• Council has approved commercial water and wastewater users to be billed at the residential rate until further notice in an effort to provide financial relief to local businesses.

Waste Collection, Landfill and Brush Amnesty Days

• Brush Amnesty Days allow for one half-ton truck or 4x8 utility trailer per property free of charge. The remaining 2020 Brush Amnesty Days are on May 23^rd, June 6^th and 13^th and September 12^th and 19^th.
• All solid waste must be securely tied in plastic bags and not placed in an additional garbage container when put out for collection.  No loose materials will be collected at this time. All recycling materials must be sorted by the resident as per the recycling schedule.  Garbage and recycling will not be picked up if these rules are not followed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Village and Recreational Facilities

• Municipal facilities, including the Village Office, community centres and public restrooms remain closed.
• The Province has recently allowed for the opening of outdoor sports fields and facilities, however, no team sports are allowed at this time and social distancing rules and maximum gathering restrictions of not more than 5 people remain in effect. For more information on rules surrounding recreational facilities, please visit the following link: https://www.merrickville-wolford.ca/covid-19-information#village-office-and-facilities.
• The Village has opened the tennis courts in Eastons Corners.
• Play structures and the beach area remain closed.
• The 2020 Sizzling Summer Camp has been cancelled.