The following is a news release regarding the City of Richmond Hill declaring a State of Local Emergency.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

News Release

For Immediate Release

March 20, 2020

City of Richmond Hill declares State of Local Emergency

RICHMOND HILL – To support the Province of Ontario’s efforts to break the chain of transmission of COVID-19, the City of Richmond Hill has declared a State of Local Emergency.

This provides the City more flexibility to take local action to maintain essential services and address this emergency situation.

“Declaring a state of emergency is not about raising alarm or adding to existing fear. It’s about making sure the City is taking every step we can to be in the best position to support the community through this challenging time,” said Mayor Dave Barrow.

The health and safety of our residents, visitors and staff remains our top priority. The City of Richmond Hill continues to work closely with our regional, provincial and federal partners. We are following their lead on the precautions necessary to ensure containment and the safety and support of our residents.

The City has fully activated its Emergency Operations Centre. Municipal facilities are closed to the public and programs have been cancelled. City staff have been directed to work from home wherever possible. The City has business continuity plans in place to ensure essential City services continue to be delivered, including Fire and Emergency Services, roads maintenance, providing clean drinking water and waste collection. The Access Richmond Hill Contact Centre is available to respond to general inquiries by email at [email protected] or by phone at 905-771-8800 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Residents can also submit an inquiry using our online portal at RichmondHill.ca/Access.

The City also recognizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global and local economy and has developed resources to help our local businesses navigate the challenges during and after the pandemic.

“To our residents, the City is here for you,” said Barrow. “Make no mistake – Covid-19 is a serious issue. Everyone needs to do their part, to take care of themselves and think about others. Together, we will get through this.”

For more information on the actions the City of Richmond Hill is taking to address COVID-19, please visit RichmondHill.ca/COVID19.

Contact: Kathleen Graver, Manager, Communication Services, [email protected], 905-771-2418