COVID-19 Updates and Resources

Booking Special Events During COVID-19

The City is now accepting special event bookings with new procedures in place to ensure users take the required health and safety precautions. City facilities closed in March to help slow the spread of COVID-19 have been opening gradually in line with the City’s plan for resumption of services. The City follows the guidelines of the Provincial Health Officer, along with the BC Restart Plan which takes a coordinated approach to resumption of services.

Any individuals or groups wishing to host a special event during the COVID-19 pandemic, must also submit a COVID-19 Addendum to Special Event and Park Use application and ensure participants act in accordance with the requirements and guidelines set by the province.

At this time and indefinitely, public gatherings are limited to no more than 50 people. This includes indoor and outdoor events, conferences, meetings, concerts, religious gatherings, or other similar events. Please check the province’s website for current information; we encourage event hosts to read through the Provincial Health Order to learn more about mandatory requirements for gatherings.

To protect the community from spread of COVID-19, the province and BC Centre for Disease Control have specific requirements for events to proceed which includes:

• Proposed event must meet the current public health size limits for gatherings (limit is 50 attendees per day, including event staff).
• Activity must maintain social distancing requirements of 6 feet or two metres apart.
• Event proposal must outline strategies to support and reinforce public health guidelines.
• Proposal must include access control plans that support and reinforce public health guidelines.
• There must be a sanitation/food handling plan that is in line with current health guidelines.

The familiar restrictions continue to apply to groups when using City facilities:

• Frequent hand washing or sanitizing protocols
• Limited sharing of sanitized equipment
• Physical distancing measures of two metres
• Ensure no one with symptoms attends the activity
• Illness policies for staff and volunteers

The City is now accepting applications for bookings of special events; applications are available on the City’s website. For additional information, contact the City’s operations department at ops@parksville.ca or
250 248-5412.

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073

Return to Organized Sports

The City will reopen facilities to organized recreational sports groups on June 26 with new procedures in place to ensure users take the required health and safety precautions. City facilities which were closed in March to help slow the spread of COVID-19, reopened for casual play in May. The City is responding to guidance from the Provincial Health Authority that recreation, especially outdoors, poses low risk to the community when certain practices are implemented.

The City follows the guidelines of the Provincial Health Officer, along with the BC Restart Plan which takes a coordinated approach to the return of sport. As well, ViaSport provided return to sport guidelines to assist sports groups and organizations to produce their own plans for a safe return to sport and mitigate the risk of exposure to the virus. The City requires ViaSport approved return to play plans prior to organized events at City facilities.

User groups must also have measures in place to support public safety, such as focusing on drills and skill building, limiting touch points, ensuring physical distancing and operating in accordance with provincial health restrictions. As well, sports groups must remind their players, coaches, officials and spectators of the guidelines and provide copies of their plans to all participants.

The familiar restrictions continue to apply to groups when using City facilities:

• Frequent hand washing or sanitizing protocols
• Limited sharing of sanitized equipment
• Physical distancing measures of two metres
• Ensure no one with symptoms attends the activity
• Illness policies for staff and volunteers

The City is now accepting applications for permits and bookings of fields and courts for scheduled recreation activities after June 26. To book the sports fields or ball diamonds for organized leagues contact the Regional District of Nanaimo at 250 248-3252 or www.rdn.bc.ca

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca

250 954-3073

Emergency Management Oceanside Community Update – June 15

As our weather improves (we can hope) and with the easing of our isolation, we are able to get outside more and slowly expand our personal bubbles. We recognize many of our residents are concerned with returning to normal too quickly but if we continue to stay vigilant, limit our contact with others, maintain physical distance, practice good hand hygiene and stay home when sick, we will continue to weather this pandemic together.

We are encouraged by the recent information and statistics on COVID 19 rates from the province that show the community's efforts have dramatically reduced the spread of the virus in our region and on Vancouver Island. As we work through this next phase of the pandemic and a safe transition to Phase 3 in the provincial Restart Plan, the EOC will remain at Level 1 activation and continue to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic situation for our region.

Ongoing, the EMO enewsletter will be distributed monthly rather than weekly, on the second Tuesday of each month. When relevant COVID-19 related information becomes available, please know we will pass along to you in a timely manner. Thank you for signing up for this EMO newsletter which will now include such topics as emergency preparedness and fire smart info. We'd love to hear from you; ideas and input welcome to info@emergencyoceanside.ca

We recognize this summer will be very different for our residents. Perhaps this summer is an opportunity to be a tourist in our own region, creating new summer adventures right at home. Vacationing at home and supporting local businesses is a great way to stay safe, enjoy the beauty of our community and keep us on the road to recovery. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone for your efforts over the past three months to keep us all safe. The safety and wellbeing of Parksville-Qualicum Beach residents remains our top priority.

GENERAL UPDATES AND INFORMATION

• Supporting Oceanside Businesses - tool for all local businesses to detail services being offered.
• Open During COVID-19 - directory of businesses open during COVID-19.
• Supporting Local Restaurants - directory list of restaurants open for business.
• Chamber visitor centres in Parksville and Qualicum Beach are now open.
• Rebound Oceanside is a recovery plan created for businesses and not-for-profit organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach/School District 69 region to provide assistance through the pandemic and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shutdown. Supported by Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce.
• Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program provides Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast tourism businesses with meaningful, hands-on guidance and support to navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency.

UPDATES FROM TOWN OF QUALICUM BEACH

Reopening of facilities

We know how important fresh air and active play are for families and as we reopen many of our public outdoor amenities, we are carefully following available recommendations and guidance from the province and ask that you follow the signage posted at each public amenity. Below is a list of amenities to reopen:

• Playgrounds - June 12
• Community Hall for bookings that meet COVID criteria - July 2
• Civic Centre for bookings that meet COVID criteria - July 6
• BMX track for casual use only - June 12
• Sports fields for casual play only - June 12
• Basketball hoops reinstalled - June 15
• Complete list of open facilities HERE

Conditions of use

• This reopening of amenities is subject to change without notice, is dependent on health orders and guidelines, and on customer compliance with procedures.
• Avoid overcrowding, large groups and gatherings.
• Keep at least two metres (six feet) away from people from other households, even while playing.
• Limit use of playgrounds at busy times and limit use if others are waiting.
• Do not use facilities if feeling unwell, with no exceptions.
• The sports fields and BMX park are open for casual play only (not organized competition).
• Parents are responsible for supervising their children.
• Playgrounds are not sanitized.
• Wash or sanitize hands thoroughly and frequently before/after activities and touching shared surfaces.
• Avoid touching face and cover coughs and sneezes.

UPDATES FROM CITY OF PARKSVILLE

The City of Parksville's gradual, multi-step approach to reopening services is intended to maintain and protect public safety. Next steps outlined here:

June 26 - Reopening splash park in Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Special event permits: hosts must provide COVID Response and Mitigation plans

June 26 - Return to play will include bookings of special events and recreational sports.

July 2

• Full service offered by finance - e.g. bus passes, garbage tags and dog licences will be available and tickets and licence fees may be paid.
• Finance hours will remain 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other City business by appointment only.

July 2 - City will resume such activities as in-person public hearings, community engagement and Coffee with the Mayor.

At this time, playgrounds, off-leash dog park, skate park and sports courts are open for use and we expect the volleyball nets in the Parksville Community Park to be installed later this week. Residents and visitors using City facilities are expected to follow public health requirements at all times. In accordance with provincial guidelines, signage is posted at City Hall and in our parks and open spaces to remind the public of the rules in place.

STAY INFORMED

We will keep you informed of any changes to how the Town of Qualicum Beach and the City of Parksville operate as this pandemic evolves. City staff and elected officials are practicing physical distance and sanitizing protocols and many services continue to be available by phone, email and online, please refer to your municipality for contact information. Health-related information is available from:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Island Health
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Senior Support Program - 211
• Medical COVID-19 information - 811
• Non-medical COVID-19 information - 1 888 268-4319
• Government of Canada Coronavirus info line - 1 833 784-4397

For information, contact:

Rob Daman, Emergency Program Coordinator, Town of Qualicum Beach

rdaman@qualicumbeach.com

Aaron Dawson, Emergency Program Coordinator, City of Parksville

adawson@parksville.ca

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications, City of Parksville

dtardiff@parksville.ca

COVID-19 Update for Parksville Residents

The City continues to focus on the essential services our residents rely upon while exercising caution as we provide limited in-person services, working towards a full resumption of regular services in a gradual and cautious manner. We are encouraged by the recent information and statistics on COVID 19 rates from the province that show the community's efforts have dramatically reduced the spread of this virus in our region and on Vancouver Island. We are cautiously re-opening outdoor amenities and allowing recreational activities to resume in accordance with the provincial requirements. Following the advice of health officials has served us well and we continue to mitigate the risks associated with COVID 19.

REOPENING PLAN FOR CITY SERVICES AND AMENITIES

We recently announced a plan to gradually restore amenities and services closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan is a multi-step approach to reopening services in a manner to maintain and protect public safety. At this time, City playgrounds, the off-leash dog park and skate park are open for use and sports fields and sports courts are open for casual play only.

On June 26, the splash park in the Parksville Community Park will open and the City will be in a position to issue special event permits, including recreational sports bookings, provided the event hosts are able to show they have appropriate COVID response and mitigation plans.

Beginning July 2, full service will be offered by the City's finance department (e.g. bus passes, garbage tags, dog licences and tickets/licence fees may be paid). Finance hours will remain as Monday to Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm. All other City business is by appointment only. Also starting July 2, the City will resume such activities as in-person public hearings and community engagement, with sanitation and distance protocols in place. All other City business is by appointment and walk-in services are not available at this time. To book an appointment, call 250 248-6144 or refer to contact info on our website.

To accommodate physical distancing and attendance of Council and staff at in-person meetings in the Forum, seating is extremely limited. Unless there is a reason to attend in person, please continue to view meetings online. Comments may be emailed to council@parksville.ca.

Residents and visitors using City facilities are expected to follow public health requirements at all times. In accordance with provincial guidelines, signage is posted at City Hall and in our parks and open spaces to remind the public of rules in place. Information on reopening City services and amenities, as well as updates on access, are available on the City's website and social media channels.

Reminders to residents when visiting City Hall

Entrance to the building is from Jensen Avenue only. The number of people in the building at one time is limited and it may be necessary to queue on the Jensen Avenue sidewalk; please be patient and respectful as there will be delays during this transitional period. To ensure the safety of residents, physical distance markers will indicate flow, hand sanitizer and procedures will be provided upon entry to the building. Public washrooms remain closed. Please respect safety protocols - wash/sanitize hands thoroughly and often, cover your cough or sneeze, limit your time if others are waiting and stay home if sick.

UTILITIES, PROPERTY TAXES AND HOME OWNER GRANTS

We encourage the public to use "distancing" payment methods that do not require a visit to City Hall such as mail, online or telephone banking or the drop box inside the Jensen Avenue entrance to the Parksville Civic and Technology Centre. Questions about utility bills, property taxes and home owner grant applications should be directed to 250 248-6144 or finance@parksville.ca.

The finance department is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm to accept property tax and utility payments and to process homeowner grants only.

• Utility bills due June 30 - the due date for utility notices was extended.
• Property taxes due July 2 - 5% late payment penalties will be applied on October 1 to current year outstanding property taxes and unclaimed home owner grants on September 30 and on December 1 to outstanding amounts on November 30.
• Don't forget to claim your home owner grant - Home owner grants must be claimed each year you are eligible by claiming the grant on the City website, by mailing the completed application or in-person at City Hall. If deferring your taxes, you must also claim your home owner grant if eligible.

LOCAL RESOURCES

• Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program provides Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast tourism businesses with meaningful, hands-on guidance and support to navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency.
• Supporting Oceanside Businesses - tool for all local businesses to detail services being offered.
• Open During COVID-19 - directory of businesses open during COVID-19.
• Supporting Local Restaurants - directory list of restaurants open for business.
• Rebound Oceanside is a recovery plan created for businesses and not-for-profit organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach/School District 69 region to provide assistance through the pandemic and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shutdown. Supported by Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce.

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073

COVID-19 Parksville-Qualicum Beach Community Update

Both the City of Parksville and Town of Qualicum Beach have resumed limited front counter services at municipal halls in line with Phase 2 of the BC Restart Plan. While these functions have been in place virtually, in-person services are now being offered within limited hours of operation for those who cannot use virtual options. Physical distancing and enhanced sanitization protocols are now in place and the number of residents allowed in the building at one time is extremely limited. It may be necessary to form a line outside while waiting for service and lengthy delays may occur. During this transition period, we ask for your patience as we navigate this phase of reopening. Should you have questions, please contact City of Parksville at 250 248-6144 or the Town of Qualicum Beach at 250 752-6921.

We are very encouraged by the recent information and statistics on COVID 19 rates from the province that show the community’s efforts have dramatically reduced the spread of this virus in Oceanside and on Vancouver Island. We are cautiously re-opening outdoor amenities and allowing recreational activities to resume in accordance with the provincial requirements. Following the advice of health officials has served us well and we will continue mitigating the risks associated with COVID 19 as we see a return to some normal activities.

This summer will look very different in Oceanside; there are many fun and engaging things we can do in our beautiful hometowns. Vacationing at home and supporting local businesses is a great way to stay safe, enjoy the beauty of our community and put us on the road to recovery.

GENERAL UPDATES AND INFORMATION

• Supporting Oceanside Businesses - local businesses services.
• Open During COVID-19 - directory of businesses open during COVID-19.
• Supporting Local Restaurants - directory list of restaurants open for business.
• Rebound Oceanside recovery plan created for businesses and not-for-profits in the region to provide assistance through the pandemic and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shutdown. Supported by Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce.
• Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program provides Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast tourism businesses with meaningful, hands-on guidance and support to navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency.

UPDATES FROM TOWN OF QUALICUM BEACH

Town Hall is partially reopening today with limited services:

• Hours of operation - Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm.
• The main floor foyer will be open to the public for tax and utility payments and to process homeowner grants ONLY. Residents are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the other payment options available. Please refer to the "Noteworthy" included with both your tax notice and utility notice. Payments can also be dropped off in the mail slot located at the entrance nearest the fountain (660 Primrose Street) at any time.
• Business relating to administration, bylaw, building, planning and engineering is by appointment only. Please refer to the Town's website for staff contact information or call 250 752-6921 to book an appointment. Walk-in services will NOT be available at this time.
• Please be patient and respectful as there will be delays during this transitional period.

The Town asks residents to meet these guidelines:

• Do not enter Town Hall if experiencing any signs of illness, have travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days, or have been in close contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 within the last 14 days.
• Residents are encouraged to wear a non-surgical facemask.
• Hand sanitizer will be available at the entrance.
• Only one customer will be permitted to enter the building at a time and overflow will be outside in an uncovered area which is open to the weather.
• Foot traffic will be one-way only, with designated entrance, exit and directional lines. Please maintain a physical distance of 2 metres while queueing.
• Recommended payment options include cheque and Interac. If necessary, cash will be accepted; however no change can be provided. Any overpayment will remain on your account as a credit.
• Washrooms at Town Hall are closed and available public washrooms are located on Veteran’s Way and at the rear of the Leigh House.
• The underground parking garage is open, but access to the elevator and stairwell is closed. Access to the street/building will be from the front parking garage doors ONLY. It will be necessary to walk from the parking garage to the front of the building.

UPDATES FROM CITY OF PARKSVILLE

The City of Parksville recently announced a gradual, multi-step approach to reopening services in a manner that will maintain and protect public safety. A number of services such as in-person payments of utilities and taxes, the ability to process homeowner grant applications, reopening of neighbourhood playgrounds and sports courts were resorted. Next steps are outlined here:

June 12 - Reopening Lions Ventureland Playground and outdoor gym in the Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Reopening splash park in Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Special event permits: hosts must provide COVID Response and Mitigation plans

June 26 - Return to play will include bookings of special events and recreational sports.

July 2

• Full service offered by finance - e.g. bus passes, garbage tags and dog licences will be available and tickets and licence fees may be paid.
• Finance hours will remain 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other City business by appointment only.

July 2 - City will resume such activities as in-person public hearings, community engagement and Coffee with the Mayor.

Residents and visitors using City facilities are expected to follow public health requirements at all times. In accordance with provincial guidelines, signage will be posted at City Hall and in our parks and open spaces to remind the public of what rules are in place. Information on the timing of steps to reopen various services and amenities, as well as updates on further access, will be posted on the City's website and social media channels.

As outlined last week, residents should continue to access services electronically. All other City business is by appointment only and walk-in services are not available at this time. Call 250 248-6144 to book an appointment or refer to contact info on our website. Please contact VIU, School District #69 and the library by phone at this time.

STAY INFORMED

We will keep you informed of any changes to how the Town of Qualicum Beach and the City of Parksville operate as this pandemic evolves. City staff and elected officials are practicing physical distance and sanitizing protocols and many services continue to be available by phone, email and online, please refer to your municipality for contact information. Health-related information is available from:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Island Health
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Senior Support Program - 211
• Medical COVID-19 information - 811
• Non-medical COVID-19 information - 1 888 268-4319
• Government of Canada Coronavirus info line - 1 833 784-4397

For information, contact:

Rob Daman, Emergency Program Coordinator, Town of Qualicum Beach

rdaman@qualicumbeach.com

Aaron Dawson, Emergency Program Coordinator, City of Parksville

adawson@parksville.ca

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications, City of Parksville

dtardiff@parksville.ca

COVID-19 Update for Parksville Residents

The City continues to focus on the essential services our residents rely upon and we will continue to exercise an abundance of caution as we provide limited in-person services, working towards a full resumption of regular services in a gradual and cautious manner, following the direction of the Provincial Health Officer.

Reopening Plan for City Services and Amenities

The City recently announced plans to restore amenities and services closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan is a gradual multi-step approach to reopening services in a manner that will maintain and protect public safety. The City proactively closed playgrounds and other outdoor amenities due to concerns users were not physically distancing and as a precautionary measure to help limit the spread of COVID-19. The City’s reopening plan is outlined here:

June 1

• In-person payment of utilities and property taxes and to process homeowner grants
• Finance hours are 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other business by appointment only and walk-in services at the Parksville Civic and Technology Centre are not available.
• In-person Council meetings held in the Forum

June 1

• Sports courts open for casual play
• Off-leash dog park open
• Skate park in Parksville Community Park open

June 5 - Reopening playgrounds at neighbourhood parks (Foster Park and Shelly Creek Park)

June 12 - Reopening Lions Ventureland Playground and outdoor gym in the Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Reopening splash park in Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Special event permits: hosts must provide COVID Response and Mitigation plans

June 26 - Return to play will include bookings of special events and recreational sports.

July 2

• Full service offered by finance - e.g. bus passes, garbage tags and dog licences will be available and tickets and licence fees may be paid.
• Finance hours will remain 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other City business by appointment only.

July 2 - City will resume such activities as in-person public hearings, community engagement and Coffee with the Mayor.

City Neighbourhood Park Playgrounds to Reopen

The playgrounds in Foster Park and Shelly Creek Park open on June 5. The City proactively closed playgrounds and other outdoor amenities in mid-March due to concerns users were not physically distancing and as a precautionary measure to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

Users of City playgrounds will be expected to follow public health guidelines. Signage will be posted as reminders to maintain physical distancing and to follow provincial safety guidelines. Parents are responsible for supervising their children and the City expects playgrounds to be used safely and responsibly. Please note the playground equipment is not regularly cleaned or disinfected.

Reminders to residents - Guidelines for visiting City Hall

• The finance department is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm to accept property tax and utility payments and to process homeowner grants only.
• All other City business is by appointment only and walk-in services are not available at this time. To book an appointment, call 250 248-6144 or refer to contact info on our website. Please contact VIU, School District #69 and the library by phone at this time.
• Residents will need to be patient and respectful as there will be delays during this transitional period.
• Number of people in building at one time is limited and it may be necessary to queue on the Jensen Avenue sidewalk.
• Entrance is on Jensen Avenue only and the south door by the Cenotaph is the designated exit-only door.
• Washrooms remain closed to the public.
• To ensure safe transition, residents will need to take a number of steps. Physical distance markers will indicate flow, hand sanitizer and procedures will be provided upon entry to building.
• Please respect safety protocols - wash/sanitize hands thoroughly and often, cover your cough or sneeze, limit your time if others are waiting and stay home if sick.

Residents and visitors using City facilities are expected to follow public health requirements at all times. In accordance with provincial guidelines, signage will be posted at City Hall and in our parks and open spaces to remind the public of what rules are in place.

LOCAL RESOURCES

• Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program provides Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast tourism businesses with meaningful, hands-on guidance and support to navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency.
• Supporting Oceanside Businesses - tool for all local businesses to detail services being offered.
• Open During COVID-19 - directory of businesses open during COVID-19.
• Supporting Local Restaurants - directory list of restaurants open for business.
• Rebound Oceanside is a recovery plan created for businesses and not-for-profit organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach/School District 69 region to provide assistance through the pandemic and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shutdown. Supported by Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce.

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca, 250 954-3073

City Neighbourhood Park Playgrounds to Reopen

The City of Parksville will reopen the playgrounds in Foster Park and Shelly Creek Park on Friday, June 5. The City proactively closed playgrounds and other outdoor amenities in mid-March due to concerns users were not physically distancing and as a precautionary measure to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Reopening of playgrounds is part of the City's gradual plan to restore amenities and services closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Users of City playgrounds will be expected to follow public health guidelines. Signage will be posted as reminders to maintain physical distancing and to follow provincial safety guidelines. Parents are responsible for supervising their children and the City expects playgrounds to be used safely and responsibly. Please note the playground equipment is not regularly cleaned or disinfected.

• Keep at least two metres (six feet) away from people from other households, even while playing.
• Avoid overcrowding, large groups and gatherings.
• Children should wash or sanitize their hands thoroughly and frequently before/after play and touching shared surfaces.
• Avoid touching face and cover coughs and sneezes.
• Limit use of playgrounds at busy times and limit use if others are waiting.
• Regardless of age, you must not enter the playground if feeling unwell, with no exceptions.

Sports fields and the skate park in the Parksville Community Park are open for recreational use only by small groups and the City's sports courts in the Community Park and Springwood Park are open for casual play only. The Ventureland Playground, outdoor gym and splash park in the Parksville Community Park remain closed to the public at this time and are part of the City's gradual and phased approach to reopening of amenities.

The City's reopening plan which details timelines for reopening of City services and amenities is available on the website. As well, updates on further access will be posted to the City's website and social media channels.

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca

City Announces Reopening Plan

City Announces Reopening Plan The City of Parksville has announced plans to restore amenities and services closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan being announced to the public today is a gradual multi-step approach to reopening services in a manner that will maintain and protect public safety. The City proactively closed playgrounds and other outdoor amenities due to concerns users were not physically distancing and as a precautionary measure to help limit the spread of COVID-19. The City’s reopening plan is outlined here:

June 1

• In-person payment of utilities and property taxes and to process homeowner grants
• Finance hours are 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other business by appointment only and walk-in services at the Parksville Civic and Technology Centre are not available.
• In-person Council meetings held in the Forum

June 1

• Sports courts open for casual play
• Off-leash dog park open
• Skate park in Parksville Community Park open

June 5 - Reopening playgrounds at neighbourhood parks (Foster Park and Shelly Creek Park)

June 12 - Reopening Lions Ventureland Playground and outdoor gym in the Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Reopening splash park in Parksville Community Park

June 26 - Special event permits: hosts must provide COVID Response and Mitigation plans

June 26 - Return to play will include bookings of special events and recreational sports.

July 2

• Full service offered by finance – e.g. bus passes, garbage tags and dog licences will be available and tickets and licence fees may be paid.
• Finance hours will remain 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm
• All other City business by appointment only.

July 2 - City will resume such activities as in-person public hearings, community engagement and Coffee with the Mayor.

Residents and visitors using City facilities are expected to follow public health requirements at all times. In accordance with provincial guidelines, signage will be posted at City Hall and in our parks and open spaces to remind the public of what rules are in place. Information on the timing of steps to reopen various services and amenities, as well as updates on further access, will be posted on the City’s website and social media channels.

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca, 250 954-3073

Emergency Management Oceanside Community Update – June 1

Local businesses are developing reopening plans and are excited to welcome back shoppers in a safe and measured way. We encourage everyone to shop local whenever possible, lend your support to our local workforce friends and neighbours, many of whom have suffered losses in efforts to safeguard the health of the community. Remember to be patient and stay respectful as businesses navigate the inevitable hiccups associated with reopening. Special thanks to the Parksville and Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce for their behind the scenes work to facilitate the advancement of our local business interests.

GENERAL UPDATES AND INFORMATION

Harbour Air daily flights - in a limited capacity, Harbour Air has resumed daily flights along some of their main routes. The airline advised it has adopted strict safety protocols that exceed both Transport Canada and Health Canada's recommendations.

BC Ferries resumes Departure Bay / Horseshoe Bay sailings - starting June 3, scheduled ferry sailings between Departure Bay to Horseshoe Bay will resume with four round trips per day.

Vancouver Island Regional Library - some locations are now providing curbside service for books, DVDs and other materials with more locations to be added. Customers will also be able to return checked out items during the curbside hours of operation. For the time being, collections will be limited to titles available at each specific branch and will be quarantined for 72 hours between loans. https://virl.bc.ca/library-services-in-the-new-normal

Support Local!

• Supporting Oceanside Businesses - tool for all local businesses to detail services being offered.
• Open During COVID-19 - directory of businesses open during COVID-19.
• Supporting Local Restaurants - directory list of restaurants open for business.
• Chamber visitor centres in Parksville and Qualicum Beach are now open.
• Rebound Oceanside is a recovery plan created for businesses and not-for-profit organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach/School District 69 region to provide assistance through the pandemic and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shutdown. Supported by Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce.
• Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program provides Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast tourism businesses with meaningful, hands-on guidance and support to navigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency.

UPDATES FROM TOWN OF QUALICUM BEACH

The Town continues to monitor the province's COVID-19 reopening protocols and has opened some facilities with safety measures in place. Facilities which remain closed at this time are Town Hall, BMX park, playgrounds, beach shower facilities and the Community Hall. The Civic Centre will open June 30 for bookings which can meet the COVID criteria.

Open facilities

• Leigh House washrooms (downtown core) - 8 am to 5 pm
• Beach washrooms - 7 am to 7 pm
• Veterans Way washrooms - 7 am to 5 pm
• Town parkade - 7 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday (closed statutory holidays)
• Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course
• Tennis courts
• Skateboard park

UPDATES FROM CITY OF PARKSVILLE

The City is focusing on the essential services our residents rely upon and will continue to exercise an abundance of caution as we provide limited in-person services starting June 1. We will work towards a full resumption of regular services in a gradual and cautious manner, following the direction of the Provincial Health Officer.

The finance department is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm to accept property tax payments, utility payments and to process homeowner grants only. We will not issue garbage tags, bus passes or dog tags in June. Residents should continue to access services electronically and all other City business is by appointment only and walk-in services are not available at this time. Call 250 248-6144 to book an appointment or refer to contact info on our website. Please contact VIU, School District #69 and the library by phone at this time.

City Council meetings - will be open to the public starting with the next meeting on Monday, June 1 at 6 pm. Attendance will be limited and physical distancing restrictions will be in place for Council, staff and the public.

City facilities - in addition to the off-leash dog park and skate park, the tennis courts in Springwood Park and the sports courts and lacrosse box in the Parksville Community Park are open for casual use only. In accordance with provincial guidance, there is no organized team play, training camps or competitive tournaments permitted at this time. Residents should view the ViaSport BC website for information about the various sports sectors.

STAY INFORMED

We will keep you informed of any changes to how the Town of Qualicum Beach and the City of Parksville operate as this pandemic evolves. City staff and elected officials are practicing physical distance and sanitizing protocols and many services continue to be available by phone, email and online, please refer to your municipality for contact information. Health-related information is available from:

• BC Centre for Disease Control
• Island Health
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Senior Support Program - 211
• Medical COVID-19 information - 811
• Non-medical COVID-19 information - 1 888 268-4319
• Government of Canada Coronavirus info line - 1 833 784-4397

For information, contact:

Rob Daman, Emergency Program Coordinator, Town of Qualicum Beach

rdaman@qualicumbeach.com

Aaron Dawson, Emergency Program Coordinator, City of Parksville

adawson@parksville.ca

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications, City of Parksville

dtardiff@parksville.ca

Gradual Return of City Services

The City is focusing on the essential services our residents rely upon and will continue to exercise an abundance of caution as we provide limited in-person services starting June 1. We will work towards a full resumption of regular services in a gradual and cautious manner, following the direction of the Provincial Health Officer.

The finance department is open to the public Monday to Friday, 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 3 pm. Finance is open to accept property tax payments, utility payments and to process homeowner grants only. We will not issue garbage tags, bus passes or dog tags in June. Residents should continue to access services electronically.

All other City business is by appointment only and walk-in services are not available at this time. Call 250 248-6144 to book an appointment or refer to contact info on our website. Please contact VIU, School District #69 and the library by phone at this time.

The City will continue to monitor public demand for in-person services with a view to offering more services in July. Our thanks to Oceanside residents for following the rules to keep us safe and slow the spread of COVID-19. The City looks forward to resuming some in-person services, while ensuring the efforts of our community are not reversed.

Using Parksville Civic and Technology Centre building

• Residents will need to be patient and respectful as there will be delays during this transitional period. Number of people in building at one time is limited and it may be necessary to queue on the Jensen Avenue sidewalk.
• Jensen Avenue East is the designated entrance-only and the south door by the Cenotaph is the designated exit-only door.
• Washrooms remain closed to the public.
• To ensure safe transition, residents will need to take a number of steps. Physical distance markers will indicate flow, hand sanitizer is provided and procedures will be provided upon entry to building.
• Please respect safety protocols - wash/sanitize hands thoroughly and often, cover your cough or sneeze, limit your time if others are waiting and stay home if sick.

Council meetings - will once again be held in the Forum. To accommodate physical distancing and attendance of Council/staff, seating is extremely limited. The public is encouraged to avoid all in-person meetings and unless there is a reason to attend in person, continue to view meetings from the City's website, either livestreamed or archived https://www.parksville.ca/cms.asp?wpID=445. Comments may be emailed tocouncil@parksville.ca

Outdoor spaces, events and physical distancing - outdoor spaces are open for casual use; please respect posted guidelines. Groups should be small (two to six) and physical distance of two metres. No special events with more than 50 people in City facilities are being booked and playgrounds remain closed at this time. Sports courts are open for casual play and users should review the ViaSport BC website for sport specific info. The 50-person capacity limit is in effect at each court, defined outdoor area (e.g. skate park, gazebo) and individual municipal sites (e.g. City Hall).

CITY REMINDERS

Garage Sales

We have received questions about the possibility of holding garage sales now that the province is in phase 2. Although there are no specific restrictions against garage sales taking place, Island Health provided some guidance for those wishing to host a garage sale as it is considered an event and the mass gathering order would apply:

• No more than 50 people, including the host(s), can be in attendance at one time.
• Maintain physical distance of 2 metres (6 feet) at all times; even in any line-ups that may form.
• Limit the number of persons in the sale area so physical distancing can be maintained.
• Set-up the sale outside instead of inside the garage.
• Increase sanitation of high touch surfaces.
• Host should encourage people not to touch items unless they are ready to buy it; disinfect any items that are touched and not purchased.
• Increase hand hygiene; hand wash or hand sanitizer after transactions.
• Use of gloves is an option for those handling money; encourage money be left on table and step away, likewise if providing change.
• Do not host a garage sale if feeling sick or unwell and have a sign asking people to stay away if feeling sick.
• Ensure the event, including queuing off the premises, does not block pedestrians or prevent passers by from maintaining a 2 metre distance from attendees.

Let's Talk Parksville - we have provided a resource list as support for residents and businesses trying to navigate the overwhelming amount of info about COVID-19. letstalkparksville.ca/covid-19

Public engagement survey - The City is looking for input from residents to see if there is an interest in engaging with us on projects. Open until June 7, the survey links from our website and letstalkparksville.ca.

Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce

• REBOUND OCEANSIDE - a recovery plan was created for businesses and not-for-profit organizations in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach/School District 69 region to assist businesses through the crisis and minimize the negative impacts of an economic shut down. This program is supported by the Province of BC, WorkSafe BC and the Parksville & Qualicum Chambers of Commerce. https://www.workpqb.com/rebound-oceanside/business-recovery-plan.
• VISITOR CENTRES - the Chamber visitor centres will open for business on June 1. The gift shop features the works of local artisans and authors and have road and weather information and a great selection of brochures and publications.

For more information:

Deb Tardiff, Manager of Communications

dtardiff@parksville.ca; 250 954-3073