COVID-19

August 6, 2020 - #ThankfulThursday

Visit the County of Brant's YouTube channel for more videos from our Mayor, David Bailey

On March 19, 2020 at 11:11 am, the County of Brant has declared a state of emergency. The media release can be found on the News webpage.

The County of Brant has declared an Emergency today in support of the Province of Ontario's and the Government of Canada’s efforts to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Declaring an emergency under s 7.0.1 (1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act provides the County of Brant with all options available to protect the health and safety of individuals and families living in the County.

What does Declaring a State of Emergency Mean?

• The declaration of emergency does not dramatically change the situation, we are already following our emergency management plan;
• It provides the municipality with certain legal protections, and also provides volunteers who may be involved in our response to this emergency with protection in the event we need to draw on volunteer resources in the coming days;
• It provides the municipality with flexibility to suspend normal practices to facilitate decision making for the organization to respond to the emergency as it unfolds, if necessary;
• It does not allow municipalities to “lock down” society or break laws or act outside of the normal municipal business;
• The County will continue to look for guidance from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Brant County Health Unit on the steps it needs to take to help keep our residents safe, and the declaration puts us in a strong position to respond to the guidance provided by these agencies.

The Brant County Health Unit (BCHU) is the lead local agency for public health and continues to actively monitor the situation in collaboration with provincial and national health agencies, local hospital and community agencies.

To stay up to date and learn more, there are a number of online resources available to you.  Travel advice and information about COVID-19 including how to prepare, prevent and recognize symptoms of the virus can be found on the following websites:

• Brant County Health Unit www.bchu.org
  • Recommendations to help prevent the spread of viruses:
    • Staying home when you are sick.
    • Washing your hands with soap and water often, for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
    • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
    • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
    • Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the garbage.
    • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces
    • Practice physical distancing
    • Wear a non-medical face mask if physical distancing may be difficult

  • Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

    • fever over 38 degrees Celsius
    • cough
    • difficulty breathing
  • if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms the Brant County Health Unit recommends the following:
    
    • Stay at home and avoid close contact with others.
    • Contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000

• • If symptoms require medical attention, residents are asked to:
    • call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000
    • call BCHU at 519-753-4937 or visit bchu.org
    • call their health-care provider
    • call 911, if you need immediate medical assistance
    • if you plan to go to the emergency department call ahead at 519-751-5818.
    • If you seek medical care, share your recent travel history with your healthcare provider.
    • Avoid using public transportation
  • Please visit the Brant County Health Unit website for more information.

• Ontario Ministry of Health www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
  
  • provides up-to-date provincial information

• Canada Public Health Agency www.canada.ca/COVID-19
  • provides Canadians with up-to-date information and resources

Additional resources

Posters and fact sheets are available online through Public Health Ontario including:

• How to self monitor
• How to self isolate
• Self-isolation: Guide for caregivers, household members and close contacts

The County of Brant will reopen aquatic facilities under new safety protocols and mandatory booking procedures.

“We are very excited to welcome residents back to the aquatic facilities with safety as our top priority”, said Stacey Ellins, Acting Director of Recreation and Community Development. “It has been a hot summer and using the splash pad and pool is a great way to cool off. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, we need to do things differently to ensure the health and well-being of the community. We have been working diligently behind the scenes to create a safe and fun summer aquatics experience.”

This year, residents will be required to reserve a visit at a local splash pad and register for pool activities prior to their visit.

Splash pads in Paris, St. George and Burford are open. Reservations will open each Thursday morning at 8:30 am for the following week (Monday to Sunday) and visits can be booked in 40 minute increments. Staff will be onsite to assist with splash pad reservations. Up to 10 people will be permitted to use the splash pad per reservation time. Visit www.brant.ca/aquatics for information on how to reserve your splash pad visit online and/or via the app. Instructional videos are available.

On Thursday, July 9, 2020, registration for the Paris Community pool will open for bookings starting on Monday, July 13 to Sunday, July 19. After the first registration date, registrations will open weekly on Tuesday mornings at 8:30 am for the following week. A number of water fitness classes, swim lessons and private rentals will be available for registration and booking. Capacity will be determined based on the individual pool activity. We hope you will attend and cool off with us!

To reserve a visit at a splash pad or register for an activity at the Paris Community Pool, visit www.brant.ca/aquatics. If you do not have access to the internet, or if using an app is an issue, please call 519.442.1818 x 3261 during weekday office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. All after-hour/weekend calls can be made to the pool at 519.442.7311 beginning July 13, 2020.

Your health and safety is important to us! Change room facilities are not available at this time. Designated washrooms will be available to the public but are not intended to be used as change rooms. All patrons are asked to come dressed in their swim attire for pool and splash pad activities. Hand sanitizer stations, designated waiting spaces and directional arrows for physical distancing measures have been put in place.

Residents are reminded that while park amenities are available, playgrounds will remain closed.

Please do your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the County of Brant. Practice physical distancing, do not gather in groups larger than ten people, wash your hands often and wear a mask when physical distancing may be difficult. We all have a role in play to keep our community safe.

For more information on County of Brant aquatic programs, please contact Stephanie DeLaronde-Husband, Recreation Supervisor at 519.44-BRANT and stephanie.delaronde@brant.ca.

We got you covered!  Building permit applications can be electronically submitted through e-mail to building@brant.ca.

The application will need to include a pdf drawing or scanned image/ photos from your smart phone along with the completed permit application in order to be processed.  Please note that the building department will contact applicants with the procedure to pay fees prior to issuance of permits.

If you cannot electronically submit your application please use the drop box located outside the front door at 66 Grand River St. N., Paris.  We will no longer be accepting hand delivered packages or documents at this time due to COVID-19 and the need for social distancing. 

Building permit information can be found online at www.brant.ca/Building.

If you have questions in regards to your applications or any general questions, they can be directed to our Building staff at 519.442.6324.

The County of Brant will continue to adjust our operations according to the recommendation of Health Authorities. Any further changes or updates will be provided through the County of Brant’s website www.brant.ca/news and social media accounts @BrantCommunity.

The County of Brant would like to thank-you for your patience and understanding during this time and we recognize that these decisions and changes are disruptive and may have impact on those we serve. The safety and well-being of residents, staff and community at large is our top priority.

We're here for you!  Visit brant.ca/BrantWorksTogether to see how Brant can help our local businesses and industry partners.

Our Mayor, David Bailey addresses our local businesses and industry partners:

Cemetery burial services continue to be offered.

Please contact at us at 519.442.3822 for assistance arranging cemetery services.

Effective March 14, 2020 at 8:30 pm, the County of Brant has closed the following:

• All Community Centres
• Arenas
• The Paris Museum and Historical Society

Reimbursements for cancelled facility rentals will be generated as quickly as possible. Please be patient with staff.

Facilities are currently closed until further notice.

The County of Brant has launched a webpage called Brant Cares (www.brant.ca/BrantCares) which offers a variety of community resources and services available to people during this challenging time.

“This is what our community is all about,” said Mayor David Bailey. “In our community, we take care of each other. The people who offer a variety of services and supports are innovative, nimble and are responding to a variety of community needs.”

The Brant Cares webpage offers the community a ‘one-stop-spot’ to find a variety of community resources, businesses and services. This webpage highlights a number of businesses and community services that have changed their regular practice to meet the needs of the community during the COVID-19 health emergency.

To view Brant Cares, visit www.brant.ca/BrantCares

The County of Brant will proceed with only essential Council meetings.  For a list of upcoming meetings and the agenda, please visit www.brant.ca/CouncilCalendar.

In light of the need to practice physical distancing, Council meetings will be virtually and not in the Council Chambers. Please do not attend Council Chambers as this building remains closed. 

However, please tune into the County's YouTube channel to listen to Council meetings.

We appreciate your ongoing patience in this matter.  Any questions regarding the Council schedule may be directed to the Clerk at 519.44-BRANT.

The following Customer Service Offices are now open, Monday-Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm:

• Burford (26 Park Ave., Burford) 
• Paris downtown (66 Grand River St. N, Paris)

All other customer service offices are closed to the public until further notice.

Community Services Office at 15 Curtis Ave. N., Paris is also closed. As a result, the Ontario Works Paris Satellite office and the Ontario Disability Support Program satellite office will also be closed. Please contact your case worker directly for more information.

Cemetery

The cemetery staff will continue to meet clients at cemeteries or the office by appointment to facilitate; lot sales, service arrangements, marker and spring monument installations. Genealogical requests will not be accepted at this time. Cemetery burial services will continue to be offered. Please contact at us at 519.442.3822 for assistance arranging cemetery services.

Clerk 

If you require a meeting with the clerk, please contact 519.44-BRANT. 

If you have questions, please call 519.44-BRANT or email info@brant.ca

Emergency Services contacts - Brant OPP, Fire and Paramedics

Brant OPP
Phone: 1-888-310-1122 (non-emergency)
Phone: 911 (emergency only)
Also visit www.brant.ca/opp

County of Brant Fire Administration
Toll Free: 1-866-847-5416
Phone: 519-442-4500
www.brant.ca/fire

 The following County-led events have been cancelled for 2020:

• Music in the Park was scheduled to occur on Thursdays at 6:30 pm, beginning June and ending August 27, 2020 at Lions Park in Paris.

• Tour de Farm, booked for July 4, 2020, has been cancelled.  We look forward to seeing you next year! For more information, visit the News.

• Brant Celebrates was set to debut on Monday, September 7, 2020 as a new week-long event which included daily events honouring arts and culture in the County of Brant.

• Brant Colours, a 4-day juried plein air paint out with a show and sale, was scheduled to begin on Wednesday, September 9, 2020.

• Salute to Brant Business, a well-attended annual event created to thank and acknowledge local businesses for being positive corporate citizens was scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2020.

More information can be found at on the News sections of the website.

On July 14, 2020, County of Brant Council passed a bylaw which will require people to wear a face covering when accessing enclosed public spaces.  The Face Covering By-law comes into effect on July 20, 2020.

The Face Covering By-law will support business owners who operate in enclosed public spaces to require face covering use from their staff and patrons and gives them authority to not permit people into enclosed public places without a face covering. It will also require people to use face covering when using Brant eRide, the County’s micro public transit system.  

Enclosed public spaces includes stores, restaurants, services such as counselling, funeral home and transportation/repair, lobby areas of commercial buildings, hotels and motels (excluding the rented rooms), laundromats, fitness centres, real estate open houses, museums, places of worship, municipal buildings, schools, hospitals and more.

A “face covering” can include a medical mask or non-medical mask or other face covering, including a bandana, scarf or other fabric that covers the nose, mouth and chin to create a barrier to limit the transmission of respiratory droplets.  Even if you have no symptoms a face covering can help contain your own respiratory droplets when you talk, cough, or sneeze.

There are exceptions noted within the Face Covering bylaw.  For example, small children and those with a medical condition are exempt.  For more information please visit the Face Coverings webpage at www.brant.ca/facecoverings

Do you have a face covering question, comment or concern?

Contact the County of Brant at covid-19@brant.ca or call 519.44-BRANT (519.442.7268) or 1.855.44-BRANT from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.  The Bylaw team is happy to assist you.⁠
⁠
www.brant.ca/FaceCovering

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of fire incidents has increased across Ontario including the County of Brant.  Fire Chief Geoff Hayman wants to remind everyone how important it is to keep fire safety top of mind. Test your smoke and CO alarms and practice your home fire escape plan. Safety tips include:

• Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.
• Keep a close eye on anyone drinking alcohol and attempting to cook or smoke.
• Encourage smokers to smoke outside the home and outside the garage. Thoroughly extinguish all smoking materials in water or sand.
• Always blow out candles before leaving the room.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Extension cords should be used only as a temporary connection. Avoid running electrical cords under rugs, which can damage the cords and cause a fire.
• Ensure items that can burn are at least one metre away from space heaters.
• Do not attempt to sterilize or decontaminate face masks for re-use by heating them in a microwave oven. Various fabric or metal components can overheat or create sparks and cause a fire if heated in a microwave.

Funeral Update:

Outdoor funeral services and visitations including graveside services are limited to a maximum of 100 attendees. Funeral Directors must have sufficient numbers of staff present to ensure physical distancing is maintained. Cemeteries are permitted to restrict attendance numbers to less than the maximum. (Funeral professionals should confirm these restrictions in advance of the service.)

Visiting a grave?

We want to assure residents they can visit County of Brant cemeteries, but please be mindful of COVID-19 protocols and practice physical distancing when necessary.  Visitors to the cemetery should be patient and expect short waiting times as other families may be in the vicinity of their loved one’s grave.

Family and friends are welcome to place flowers (real or artificial) at the graveside. In order to keep the cemeteries clean and neat in appearance, staff will dispose of withered flowers and artificial flowers when in poor condition.

For more information about the planting of flowerbeds and dwarf shrubs, please refer to the Cemetery By-law 119-13 at www.brant.ca/CemeteryBylaw

All library branches will reopen to the public with modified hours starting Tuesday, August 18.

Physical distancing and safety measures will be in place when we reopen. To prevent the spread of COVID-19 some services will not be available at this time. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this transition!

Safety procedures 

Here's what you can expect when you visit the library:

• Visitors will be required to wear a face mask in accordance with the County of Brant Face Covering by-law.
• Each branch may limit the number of patrons inside the building at any one time to maintain appropriate social distancing. 
• Patrons are asked to sanitize their hands before entering the building (sanitizer is provided at all entry points and throughout the branches). 
• Patrons are asked to follow directional signage to maintain social distancing. 
• High touch surfaces will be cleaned more frequently.
• Patrons who want to browse our DVDs will be provided with disposable gloves while using this collection.
• Self-checkout units have been updated to reduce touch interactions during checkout.
• Parents are asked to keep their children close to prevent accidentally breaking social distancing rules.
• Patrons who are ill or who have reason to believe they have come in contact with COVID-19 will not be permitted in the library per recommendations set out by government and health officials.

Modified services

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the following in-branch services will be modified or unavailable:

• Public internet computer use will be limited to a maximum of 45 minutes per patron, per day.
  • The number of public computers has been reduced to accommodate social distancing. 
  • Computers are still available on a first come, first-served basis. Please plan your visit accordingly as you may have to wait longer than usual for a computer.
• All returns should be placed in exterior drop boxes with exceptions for oversized items or electronics.
  • Items will continue to be quarantined for at least 72 hours before being checked in.
  • Items marked with "DO NOT PLACE IN DROP BOX" may be returned inside the branch during open hours.
• Study areas, lounge seating, meeting rooms, and play areas are not available.
• Public washrooms and water fountains are not available. 
• 3D printing is not available.
• Children's Early Literacy stations and Imagination Stations are not available.
• Payment for printing or photocopying requires exact change. 
• Staff will only be able to provide limited assistance to patrons using our public computers, collections, and other services.
• Our online services will continue to be available from the comfort of your home!
• Online programming for children, teens, and adults will continue.
• Information requests and readers' advisory interviews will be handled through our Book-a-Talk telephone service.

New branch hours

Burford Branch

Beginning August 18, patrons may call the Burford Branch during its open hours: 519-449-5371

Sunday - Closed

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Wednesday - 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Thursday - 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Friday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Saturday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Glen Morris Branch

Beginning August 18, patrons may call the Glen Morris Branch during its open hours: 519-740-2122 

Sunday - Closed

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Wednesday - 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Thursday - 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Friday - Closed

Saturday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Paris Branch

Patrons may continue to call the Paris Branch from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm between Monday to Friday.

Beginning August 18, patrons may call for evening assistance on Wednesdays and Thursdays during our open hours: 519-442-2433

Sunday - Closed

Monday - 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Tuesday - 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Wednesday - 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Thursday- 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Friday - 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Saturday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Scotland-Oakland Branch

Beginning August 18, patrons may call the Scotland-Oakland Branch during its open hours: 519-446-0181 

Sunday - Closed

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Wednesday - Closed

Thursday - 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Friday - 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Saturday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

St. George Branch

Beginning August 18, patrons may call the St. George Branch during its open hours: 519-448-1300

Sunday - Closed

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Wednesday - 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Thursday - 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Friday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Saturday - 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Curbside pickup

Library branches will continue to offer curbside pickup for patrons who prefer not to come inside. As of August 18, curbside pickup will be available during our open hours. Follow the instructions on our outdoor signage at each branch for curbside pickup.

Returning your items

1. When is it due? 

Our usual borrowing periods now apply. Log in and check your account if you're not sure when your items are due. 

2. How can I return things?

Materials should be returned through exterior book drops. Book drops are open at all 5 library branches.

Do you have an item marked "DO NOT PLACE IN BOOK DROP" (such as puzzles, board games, or electronics)? You may return these items inside the branch during open hours.

3. Why do I still see checkouts on my account after I returned them?

We're following strict quarantine procedures, which means we do not touch returned material for a minimum of 72 hours. You may see returned items on your account until we can check them in. It is nothing to worry about - as always there are no fines or fees being charged at this time.

Marriage License Applications

Since the issuance of marriage licenses requires an in-person meeting and due to limited supplies, marriage licenses are currently being issued for County of Brant residents who plan to get married within the next 2-3 weeks.  Please contact the Clerks office to schedule an appointment 519.44BRANT (519.442.7268).

Commissioner of Oaths

The Clerks Department can certify the validity of information and/or documents. We provide Commissioner of Oaths service for documents like affidavits, vehicle transfers and foreign pension forms. To arrange to have documents signed by a Commissioner of Oaths, please contact the Clerks Division at 519.44BRANT (519.442.7268).

To stay up to date, subscribe to the County's news at www.brant.ca/Subscribe Also, follow Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @BrantCommunity.

July 16, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant moves forward with Stage Three Re-Opening of Playgrounds

July 15, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant implements mandatory use of face coverings for enclosed public spaces

July 8, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Reopens Aquatic Facilities

June 30, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Allows Outdoor Sports Fields Rental Bookings

June 25, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Celebrates Canada Day

June 25, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant has Cancelled Additional Summer and Fall Events

June 19, 2020 - Media Release: Local residents strongly urged to avoid hosting/attending yard sales to help stop spread of COVID-19

June 19, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant is Reopening Aquatic Facilities

June 17, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Launches Temporary Patio Allowance Program

June 16, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant is the Host Community for the Virtual Canada Day Event – Canada Day House Party

June 11, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Moves Forward with Stage Two of Re-Opening Amenities

June 9, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Opens a Temporary Cooling Centre

June 5, 2020 - Media Release: Love Local Brant

May 29, 2020 - Media Release: Celebrate June!

May 28, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Cancels Summer Camp for 2020

May 26, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Continues to Re-Open Park Amenities, Skate Parks, Sports Fields, Basketball and Multi-purpose Courts and River Access Points

May 21, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Re-Opens Outdoor Park Benches, Tennis Courts, the Simply Grand Dog Park and the Dwayne Bereziuk Memorial Disc Golf Course.

May 20, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant has Cancelled Tour de Farm for 2020

May 19, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant has Cancelled Music in the Park for June 2020

May 15, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Begins Re-Opening Some Recreational Amenities as Directed by the Province of Ontario

May 14, 2020 - Media Release: Flowers are Coming to the County of Brant

May 13, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Partners with Equal Ground Community Gardens

May 9, 2020 - Update: Reminders to the Public re: Yard Sales, Gatherings and Donation Bins

May 5, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Fire Chief Urges Residents to Keep Fire Safety Top of Mind

April 30, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Businesses Step Up to Fight COVID-19

April 29, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Creates a Recreation Lending Program and Online Activities

April 27, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Launches A Business Map Connecting Residents to Local Services

April 24, 2020 - Media Release: Fishing in the County of Brant

April 23, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Resumes Spring Maintenance Activities in Public Spaces

April 23, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Modified the Open Air Burning Ban

April 21, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Thanks the Community for Generous Donations

April 17, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Celebrates Earth Week

April 14, 2020 - Media Release: Emergency Child Care to be provided for local Essential Services Frontline Workers

April 14, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Extending Facility Closures

April 9, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant Opens a Dedicated COVID-19 Response Line

April 6, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Welcomes Migrant Farm Workers

April 3, 2020 - Media Release: Emergency Operations Centre Advisory Committee supports access restrictions implemented by Six Nations of the Grand River to protect public health and safety

April 1, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Launches Brant Cares

March 31, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Closes All Outdoor Recreational Amenities

March 31, 2020 - Update: Water, Wastewater payments - late fees waived

March 30, 2020 - Update: The Brant County Health Units confirms the 11th case of COVID-19 in the community.

March 27, 2020 - Update: Closure of Mt. Pleasant and South Dumfries Skate Parks and Simply Grand Dog Park

March 26, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant has Launched a COVID-19 Economic Response Webpage

March 26, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant issues an Open-Air Burning Ban

March 25, 2020 - Update: Brant Community Healthcare System Update on COVID-19 assessment centre

March 24, 2020 - Media Release: Non-Essential Businesses Are Required to Close

March 23, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant – Please Do Your Part to Keep the Community Well (A message to those who have returned home from travelling)

March 23, 2020 - Media Release: Unified Emergency Operations Centre Advisory Group forms to respond to Covid-19 pandemic in Brantford, Brant and Six Nations of the Grand River

March 23, 2020 - Update: Brant County Health Unit confirms second and third cases of COVID-19 in Brant

March 20, 2020 - Update: Cemetery Services Updates (Saturday burial services suspended)

March 20, 2020 - Update: Wastewater Update - Please do not flush wipes down the toilet

March 20, 2020 - Update: Waste Collection Update - Please help us keep crews safe and healthy

March 20, 2020 - Update: Tax Payment Update - late fees waived

March 19, 2020 - Update: The County of Brant Closes all Customer Service Offices

March 19, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Declares a State of Emergency

March 19, 2020 - Update: What Does Declaring a State of Emergency Mean?

March 18, 2020 - Update: Cemetery Offices are by Appointment Only

March 18, 2020 - Update: The Water Meter Installation Program is Suspended

March 18, 2020 - Update: Playgrounds are Closed to Promote Social Distancing

March 18, 2020 - Update: Building Permit On-Line Options

March 17, 2020 - Media Release: County of Brant – Stay Home and Practice Social Distancing

March 15, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Temporarily Suspends In-Person Payments at Customer Service Offices

March 14, 2020 - Update: The County of Brant Libraries Close

March 14, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Closes Community Centres, Arenas, the Paris Museum and St. George Lawn Bowling Club

March 13, 2020 - Update: Healthy Kids Brantford/Brant Passport Program is Cancelled

March 13, 2020 - Media Release: The County of Brant Cancels Programs for the Community Well-being

Visit www.brant.ca/Open for a complete listing of what's open and what's closed.

The following County of Brant recreational amenities are currently CLOSED:

• Indoor recreational facilities

The County of Brant reminds the public to practice physical distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community and to wear a non-medical face mask when physical distancing may be difficult.

Re-opening Recreational Amenities:

• As of May 21, 2020 - Park benches, picnic tables and shelters are open. 

• As of May 21, 2020 - The Simply Grand Dog Park located at 8 Green Lane in Paris is OPEN but with certain provisions in place. Please read the following Public Notice for rules and COVID-related guidelines: Public Notice: Simple Grand Dog Park

• As of May 21, 2020 - Tennis courts in the County of Brant are open for play. Please read the following Public Notices for Reopening:

• • Tennis Public Notice - Paris & South Dumfries (St. George)
  • Tennis Public Notice - Mt. Pleasant & Burford

• As of June 12, 2020, pickleball play will resume at the Paris District High School tennis courts on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 11 am.
• As of June 12, 2020, outdoor team sports may resume for training purposes only (no scrimmages or games)
• As of May 30, 2020, river access open for public use - please see River Access section below.
• As of May 27, 2020, outdoor picnic shelters are open
• As of May 27, 2020, all skate parks are open
• As of May 27, 2020, all sports fields are open for casual use only (no organized or team sports at this time).
• As of May 27, 2020, all basketball / multi-purpose courts are open (no organized or team sports at this time).
• As of May 23, 2020, The Dwayne Bereziuk Memorial Disc Golf Course located at 8 Green Lane in Paris is OPEN for play but with certain provisions in place. Please read the following Public Notice for rules and COVID-related guidelines: Public Notice: Disc Golf
• As of June 30, 2020, the County of Brant will be accepting sports field rental bookings.  For full details, visit the News.
• As of July 17, 2020, 25 County of Brant playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment and sensory trail equipment are open. For guidelines, please visit www.brant.ca/open.

Update Effective May 13, 2020:

UPDATE Effective June 1, 2020:  Please note, the Burford and Paris Customer Services Offices are open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. For online payment options, visit the Online Services webpage.

Due to office closures, online payments are now accepted for:
Bulk water, account receivable invoices, dog tags, building and planning applications.

Suspending late payment fees for accounts receivable and property taxes:
In an effort to help alleviate the financial pressures being placed on residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, the County of Brant will not be charging any late payment fees on accounts receivable or property taxes until September 30, 2020.

Those who take part in the pre-authorized payment program for taxes, please contact the County’s tax department if you would like to opt out of the payment plan, please contact tax@brant.ca or phone 519.449.2451.

Municipal taxes can be paid by:

• Online/telephone banking through your financial institution OR
• In the drop boxes at the addresses listed below:
  • Oakland: 3 King St. N., Oakland
  • Onondaga: 42 Brantford St., Brantford
  • St. George: 7 Gaukel Dr., St. George
  • Burford Administration: 26 Park Ave., Burford
  • Paris Customer Service: 66 Grand River St. N., Paris

*Please note, the Burford and Paris Customer Services Offices are open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Please also consider:

• Pre Authorized enrollment for Property Taxes. Visit www.brant.ca/TaxPaymentForm
• Mail: P.O. Box 249, Burford, ON N0E 1A0
• Property Tax Statements/Tax Certificates can be requested online: https://webforms.brant.ca/Finance/Tax-Certificates

For alternate payment arrangements, tax amounts for income tax purposes or more information please contact tax@brant.ca.

Hydro and Water:
Payments for Energy Plus water and hydro bills can be made by contacting Energy Plus at 519.442.2215, toll free:1.877.871.2215 or www.energyplus.ca

Dog Licenses (due date extended to May 31, 2020):
Dog License renewal payment options include:

• Over the phone: Credit cards payments can be made. Please call 519.449.2451
• By internet banking: Add “County of Brant Dog Tag” as a payee and insert account # this can be found on your renewal form (example LCDG0000000XX). If you need your account number, please contact the County of Brant at 519.449.2451 (or email doglicense@brant.ca)
• By mail: send your form with a cheque payable to the "County of Brant” to the “County of Brant – 26 Park Ave, P.O. Box 160, Burford ON N0E 1A0”
• Drop-boxes: Deposit your renewal form and payment at a County of Brant drop box. Addresses listed in section below.
• In the drop boxes at the addresses listed below:
  • Oakland: 3 King St. N., Oakland
  • Onondaga: 42 Brantford St., Brantford
  • St. George: 7 Gaukel Dr., St. George
  • Burford Administration: 26 Park Ave., Burford
  • Paris Customer Service: 66 Grand River St. N., Paris

*Please note, the Burford and Paris Customer Services Offices are open Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Bulk Water:

As the County has suspended taking in-person payments at County offices, pre-payment for bulk water can now be made on-line using your credit card at: https://webforms.brant.ca/Finance/Bulk-Water-Fill-Station-Reload. Please ensure all fields of the form are completed accurately. There will be a one (1) business day delay before the amount is added to your account.

Composter sales are also temporarily suspended.

If you have questions, please call 519.44-BRANT or email info@brant.ca

As of June 13, 2020, the following public washrooms will be available to the public.

Please note, the frequency of cleaning has been increased and please wash/sanitize your hands upon entry and exit of the washroom. Physical distancing is required while waiting in line and please wear a non-medical face mask when physical distancing may be difficult.

• Lions Park Paris, Amphitheatre area, 36 Laurel St. Paris is open 8:00 am – 6:30 pm, 7 days per week.  If you are downtown Paris and needing a washroom, please access this via the Mechanic Street footbridge.
• Penman’s Dam, at Elm St. and Willow St., Paris.  The portable washroom is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• Paris District High School Tennis Courts, Patrick St., Paris. The portable washroom is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• Bean Park, 4 Spencer St., Paris.  The portable washroom is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• South Dumfries Community Centre, 7 Gaukel Dr., St. George, is open 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, 7 days per week.
• Eric Thomlinson River Access on Forbes Dr., Glen Morris (in the parking lot).  The portable washroom is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• Mt. Pleasant Park, 555 Burtch Rd., Mt. Pleasant.  The portable washroom is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
• Mt. Pleasant Nature Park, 755 Mt. Pleasant Road will be re-open 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, 7 days per week.  

As of March 13, 2020, all county-led, in-person recreation programs and events have been suspended until further notice.  This includes registered programs and drop-in programs such as drop-in skating and turf programs.  As well, the Paris Seniors Club which operates from St. James Anglican church is also cancelled.

Distribution of the Spring/Summer Community Guide was cancelled.

As of May 28, 2020, the difficult decision to cancel summer day camps was made.  For more information, visit www.brant.ca/News

Virtual Recreation

For at-home, virtual recreational activities, visit www.brant.ca/RecAtHome and www.brant.ca/BrantCares.  Also,  www.brant.ca./RecAtHome offers a lending program including recreation and fitness equipment.  Stay active!

If you have a concern, question or report related to COVID-19, we encourage you to the contact the County of Brant.

To report a COVID-19 related concern, please email COVID-19@brant.ca or call 519.44-BRANT or 1.855.44-BRANT from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.  The Bylaw team is happy to assist you. 

To report concerns after hours that are not immediate in nature (will be followed up the next business day), please email covid-19@brant.ca.

For issues that occur on weekends and after hours that require immediate response, contact the County of Brant 519.442.2241 (after hours number) or the OPP at *OPP or 1.888.310.1122.

We are working diligently to educate the public and businesses with respect to the Enforcement of Orders under Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA).  Our number one goal is protecting the health and safety of our residents.

Please read the Public Notice for River Access Re-Opening Guidelines

County of Brant River Access Points are now open.

This includes:

• Eric Thomlinson River Access on Forbes Drive, Glen Morris
• Penman’s Dam (north of the dam), 116 Willow St. Paris
• Bean Park River Access

For information on the Grand River Conservation Authority Park River Access Points, please visit their website.

Additional information:

• No commercial river access permits are being issued at this time.
• Use may occur between 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, 7 days per week, launches must occur by 2:00 pm daily
• Groups (of ten people or less) must practice physical distancing from other groups
• Practice physical distancing when using the boardwalk and stairs

There are a number of food banks in the County of Brant.  For a listing of these as well as other social services resources please visit www.brant.ca/BrantCares

Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program satellite office:

As of March 17 2020 at 4:30 pm, the Community Services Office at 15 Curtis Ave. N., Paris also closed. As a result, the Ontario Works Paris satellite office and the Ontario Disability Support Program satellite office will also be closed. Please contact your case worker directly for more information.

County of Brant Trails
Trails owned and/or managed by the County of Brant are open, but you must practice physical distancing and maintain a minimum of 2 metres / 6 feet from others. Wear a non-medical face mask should physical distancing be difficult.

• Dogs are permitted in parks and trails on a leash and please stoop and scoop.
• Refrain from littering in the parks and on trails.
• When using parking lots, leave one space between vehicles. If parking lot is nearing capacity, come back at a different time when it is less busy.

Here’s an interactive map of the open and closed trails and parks: https://maps.brant.ca/opentrails

Here are additional maps of the trails by community:

• Overview Map (pdf)
• Paris (pdf)
• Mount Pleasant (pdf)
• Burford (pdf)

Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA)
For information about the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) owned and managed properties, facilities, trails and passive use conservation, please visit www.grandriver.ca/en/who-we-are/covid-19.aspx

City of Brantford
Please check the City of Brantford’s website for Park and Trail status for trails that cross municipal boundaries. www.brantford.ca/trails

At this time, Brant eRide will continue to operate. Please use for essential travel only. Enhanced cleaning practices of vehicles has been implemented. We will continue to monitor the situation and address the delivery of public transportation services as required.

The County of Brant waste collection crews continue to pick up blue box material and garbage on the regular schedule. Their efforts on behalf of our community are appreciated more than ever during this time, and we want to keep them healthy.  While crews have their own health and safety procedures in place, they have asked that we take these extra steps to help protect them on the job.

• Ensure used tissues and napkins are placed in the garbage
• Put all garbage in securely tied garbage bags, not loose in garbage cans
• If you are sick, place any item that has come into contact with your mouth, nose or eyes into the garbage. This includes items you would normally put in the blue box, such as water bottles, pop cans, juice boxes, etc.

These steps will help protect the health of crews who handle thousands of bins, bags and boxes each week. We all have a role to play and by working together we can make a difference.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Please refrain from using the Biggars Lane Landfill or Paris Transfer Station unless necessary.

Residents are asked to refrain from using the waste facilities at Biggar’s Lane Landfill and the Paris Transfer Station.

If use of the facilities is necessary, please note that as of Monday March 30, 2020, the County of Brant’s Solid Waste Facilities operating hours have been reduced.

The site hours will be open as follows:

• Biggars Lane Landfill – Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.  Closed Saturday and Sunday.
• Paris Transfer Station – Saturday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.  Closed weekdays and Sunday.

The number of users/vehicles allowed on the sites at one time will be reduced to enable physical distancing. Long waits may occur at times.

Details on the locations of the site can be found on the County website at www.brant.ca/en/resident-services/landfill-and-transfer-station.aspx

The following measures for protection of staff and residents have been implemented:

• Only debit and credit payments will be accepted
• County staff will be practicing social distancing (i.e. maintain 2 metres separating themselves and others)
• If 2 meters of separation cannot be maintained with the Scale House Attendants, users will be instructed to communicate with the Scale House Attendants by calling the scale house phone numbers, if they have a cell phone. A sign is posted at the scale house with instructions.

A friendly reminder to County of Brant residents:

Wipes
Disinfecting wipes are helping people combat spreading germs. Please remember to throw wipes in the trash. Refrain from flushing wipes down the toilet as this can cause blockages and damage to wastewater (sanitary) and septic systems.  

Wipes can cause damage to sewer systems and equipment even if they are labeled "flushable" or "septic-safe".  When a product is labeled 'flushable' it generally means that it will clear your toilet bowl but does not mean it will clear your pipes or break down in the wastewater system and at a wastewater treatment plant.

Toilet paper dissolves easily in the wastewater systems.  However, wipes and paper towels do not.  

For more information, visit: www.brant.ca/en/resident-services/Sanitary-Sewer-Connections.aspx

For more information, visit: Canadian Water and Wastewater article "COVID-19 and Sewers – To avoid a Sewage Back-up don’t treat your toilet like trash can"