The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is continuing their COVID-19 enforcement across the community.
Municipal officials say on Tuesday, the province of Ontario extended the state of emergency until May 12, 2020.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent would like to remind everyone the importance of following the rules set in place by the province.
“The municipal tip line is working well,” stated Shelley Bechard, head of COVID – 19 dispatch, in a press release.
“We understand sometimes it is difficult to make the call to report a violation, but we appreciate the effort from everyone who is helping to keep our community safe.”
Municipal officials say when reporting a violation, they ask that callers be factual with the information they are providing and if possible have the address of where the violation is taking place.
This information helps the enforcement team with their investigation.
Because this is an ever-evolving situation, the tip line can be used for general questions regarding COVID-19 or for those individuals who would like clarification on the restrictions.
Currently the enforcement team has responded to over 600 concerns.
From those concerns, 169 warnings have been given and one charge has been laid.
“Based on these numbers the majority of citizens are listening,” stated Paul Lacina, Director of Building Development Services, in a press release.
“Although we continue to educate, we are past the point where it is acceptable for people to ignore the State of Emergency and the rules that go along with it. Fines will be laid to those in violation.”
Residents of Chatham-Kent concerned that a person or business is violating physical distancing orders can call municipal tip line at 519-360-1998 or Covid19enforcement@chatham-kent.ca.
