Coronavirus News Archives April 2021-July 2021
July 30
Council colleagues ignore London politician’s latest bizarre COVID take
A London city councillor who’s pushed anti-mask and anti-vaccination rhetoric throughout the COVID-19 pandemic was met with stony silence when he asked his colleagues to investigate the “oppression” created by vaccine mandates. Read more…
Central Okanagan travel discouraged amid COVID-19 outbreak
Health officials have declared a COVID-19 outbreak in the Central Okanagan and are urging unvaccinated British Columbians not to travel there. Read more…
Nenshi slams decision to lift health orders
The mayor of Calgary says it’s the “height of insanity” that Alberta is moving ahead with removing almost all of its remaining COVID-19 public health orders, even as cases climb in the province. Read more…
Sask. town puts “heart of the community” on auction: growing costs, COVID
After 15 years operating the Aberdeen Recreation Complex, the town is looking for a buyer to take over the burden of repairing and revitalizing the centre from taxpayers. Read more…
U.S. capital city issues sweeping mask requirement
Masks will be required indoors in Washington, D.C., for everyone two years and older starting Saturday, Mayor Muriel Bowser said on Thursday, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Read more…
Transit fares returning Aug. 30, masks still required on public transit
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo will start collecting fees on public transit starting Aug. 30. Fares were temporarily waived last year to limit interactions between drivers and passengers. Read more…
$72K spent on safety measures at Niagara Falls city hall since pandemic began
About $72,000 has been spent on health and safety measures at Niagara Falls city hall during the past 16 months, including on plexiglass barriers in offices, departments, and council chambers. Read more…
July 29
New Brunswick municipalities take similar approach to opening up
While private businesses vary on how they tackle the change – from cautious baby steps to completely returning to pre-COVID conditions – New Brunswick’s three largest cities are taking very similar approaches to lifting restrictions. Read more…
City of Toronto closing five out of nine COVID-19 mass vaccination clinics
The City of Toronto will be closing more than half of its mass COVID-19 vaccination clinics as public health officials change their immunization strategy. Read more…
Australia’s largest city seeks military help as COVID-19 cases hit new record
Sydney, Australia’s biggest city, posted a record one-day rise in local COVID-19 cases on Thursday, as authorities sought military help to enforce a lockdown of six million people poised to enter its sixth week. Read more…
July 28
Red Deer councillor sanctioned for pandemic social media post
A Red Deer city councillor has been sanctioned by his peers for a pandemic-related comment he posted online earlier this year. Read more…
City of Regina’s pop-up vaccination clinics continuing
The City of Regina and the Saskatchewan Health Authority, along with the Regina Exhibition Association, are continuing to work together when it comes to pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinics. Read more…
Toronto officials to hold final scheduled COVID-19 update today
Toronto officials are holding their last scheduled COVID-19 media briefing on Wednesday due to low COVID-19 case counts and increasing vaccination rates. Read more…
Winnipeg airport planning for return of international travellers
On August 9, fully-vaccinated non-essential travellers who are American citizens will be allowed to enter Canada by air, including at the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. Read more…
July 27
Still no set date for return to in-person Chatham-Kent council meetings
With the rollout of vaccines and more indoor activities slowly being permitted in the province, it is still up in the air how long it will be before in-person council meetings can return to Chatham-Kent. Read more…
California, NYC to require employees to get COVID-19 vaccine or face testing
California and New York City announced Monday that they would require all government employees to get the coronavirus vaccine or face weekly COVID-19 testing. Read more…
Pandemic packs $50M punch to London city hall’s ‘infrastructure gap’
Spiking costs of roadwork and other construction amid the COVID-19 pandemic have added about $50 million to the estimated cost of keeping public works in London in good shape over the next decade. Read more…
Saskatoon’s Clark renews challenge with Regina mayor
Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark and Regina Mayor Sandra Masters are betting on which city will have the most number of vaccinations with the losing mayor lip syncing a song chosen by the loser. Read more…
City libraries reopen as safe harbours, ports of knowledge
Winnipeg public libraries reopened for in-person browsing Monday for the first time since October, amid a recent provincewide easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Read more…
July 26
“Rebuild the vibrancy”: Delight, joy as Toronto tourist attractions reopen
After months of lockdown, popular Toronto attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, the CN Tower, and the Toronto Zoo have reopened to the public – at reduced capacity. Read more…
Gimli sees jump in visitors as Manitobans opt for staycations
While Manitobans can travel outside the province, many are choosing staycations – a move that is being welcomed by one of Manitoba’s lakeside communities. Read more…
Ottawa’s Pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics this week open to all
Ottawa Public Health says its pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics are now open to anyone in the city 12 and older, no matter where they live. Read more…
July 23
Alberta closing rapid-flow immunization clinics in Edmonton, Calgary
Rapid flow COVID-19 immunization clinics at the Expo Centre in Edmonton and the Calgary Telus Convention Centre will close by the end of July, Alberta Health Services said Wednesday. Read more…
Windsor mayor surprised U.S. extending land border restrictions
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens says he’s surprised and frustrated residents won’t be able to cross the land border into Detroit for non-essential reasons for at least another month. Read more…
New York City requires health workers to be vaccinated or get tested weekly
As part of a nationwide response to the threat posed by the more contagious Delta coronavirus variant, New York City will require COVID-19 vaccinations or weekly tests for workers at city-run hospitals and clinics. Read more…
City of Regina vaccination pop-up clinics offer free Queen City Ex tickets
The City of Regina has partnered with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to create incentives for those not yet vaccinated to get their COVID-19 shot. Read more…
July 22
Winnipeg libraries to expand in-person services
With the recent easing of public health COVID-19 pandemic orders, all Winnipeg Public Library branches will expand services July 26. Read more…
Montreal chamber urges workers to return to city’s downtown towers
Montreal’s Chamber of Commerce is hoping that office workers will realize that when they’re alone and life is making them lonely, they can always go back to work downtown. Read more…
Vaccinations are doing what we expected: Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown
COVID-19 rates continue to fall and vaccinations continue to rise and Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown knows that isn’t a coincidence. Read more…
Calgary city hall fully reopens to public as pandemic precautions lifted
Calgary’s city hall is open to visitors once again. The building has been closed to the public since March 23, 2020, when the city imposed extraordinary safety measures in the early days of the pandemic. Read more…
City of Ottawa lifting COVID-19 state of emergency
Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson has announced the municipal state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic is coming to an end. Read more…
NWT not budging on isolation rules for under-12s
Despite border and travel restrictions easing federally, the NWT government gave no indication it will relax mandatory isolation requirements for children under 12 and their caregivers. Read more…
N.B. border towns prepare for confusion with land crossing restrictions
Confusion is expected at Canadian/U.S. land border crossings next month, as both countries go in different directions with restrictions after months of mutual measures. Read more…
Saskatoon saves money while managing pandemic
Saskatoon officials have lauded the city’s efforts in surviving the challenges last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while still managing to provide services to the public despite health restrictions and protocols. Read more…
July 21
Outbreak declared over in City of Iqaluit
The COVID-19 outbreak in Iqaluit that swelled to 253 cases since April 15 has been declared over. As of Monday, it’s been 28 days since anyone had COVID-19. Read more…
Ottawa closing some COVID-19 vaccine, testing clinics as demand slows
Some COVID-19 vaccination clinics and at least one testing site in Ottawa will be closing this week as demand for vaccines slows down and COVID-19 case counts remain low. Read more…
July 20
Quebec City to host concerts to test safety of big events
After Barcelona and Paris, Quebec City will host post-pandemic concerts organized by researchers at Université Laval. One will be held outdoors, with about 20,000 people, and another indoors, with about 5,000. Read more…
Public, media again welcome to attend city meetings in person
With the province now in Step 3 of the pandemic-related Restart Plan, the City of Kamloops is welcoming residents and the media to attend council meetings and public hearings in person. Read more…
Burlington mayor addresses concerns over city’s mandatory mask bylaw
At a recent Halton Regional Council meeting, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward raised the question of when the mask bylaw could potentially be lifted. Read more…
July 19
COVID-19 made Waterloo Region mayors appreciate the little things
Waterloo Region’s mayors are all keen on the relaxed restrictions of the newest reopening stage, from getting a long-overdue haircut to enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Read more…
Ottawa council to remain virtual over summer, but many ready to return now
For more than a year, Mayor Jim Watson has been sitting alone in the council chamber during city council meetings, while Ottawa’s 23 ward councillors connect virtually via Zoom. Read more…
Los Angeles hopes new mask mandate will reverse virus spike
Los Angeles County residents are again required to wear masks indoors regardless of their vaccination status – a new mandate health officials hope will reverse the latest spikes in coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Read more…
Maritime ports look to retain pre-pandemic cruise ship traffic
While Canada’s cruise ship ban is ending months ahead of schedule, large passenger vessels aren’t expected to enter Maritime harbours until 2022. Read more…
Researchers tested Metro Vancouver’s wastewater for COVID virus
New research from the University of British Columbia suggests that testing wastewater can help health officials determine levels of COVID-19 infection in a community, including the rise of variants of concern. Read more…
July 16
Proof of vaccination just practical: Toronto mayor
City of Toronto officials are not pushing for a vaccine passport, but people will likely need some evidence of vaccination for practical reasons, Mayor John Tory says. Read more…
Lower Mainlanders discovering big opportunities in smaller B.C. communities
Powell River, Sooke, and Vernon are “pandemic pivot” hotspots that have been drawing once proud and committed Lower Mainlanders out of the city. Read more…
Grande Prairie region businesses, leaders see light at end of pandemic tunnel
Stores in Grande Prairie are busier these days, one of several signs of an upturn, Mayor Jackie Clayton said at a State of the Region event Wednesday. Read more…
Will rising COVID-19 cases in the U.S. impact Canada’s border reopening?
After months of declining numbers, COVID-19 infection rates in the United States have more than doubled in the past two weeks. The spike in numbers also comes a week before the Canada-U.S. border ban is set to expire. Read more…
July 15
Edmonton, but better: 10-year plan unveiled to make city destination spot
More than six million people visited Edmonton in 2019 before the pandemic hit. The city’s tourism agency has a plan to help the rest of the world get to know Edmonton once again. Read more…
Small businesses quick to apply for Calgary reopening grants
Calgary’s new reopening grants program is targeting restaurants, bars, pubs, fitness centres, and entertainment venues like nightclubs. Read more…
City of Ottawa considering closing some vaccination clinics, testing centres
As COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations remain at record lows and the rate of vaccinations starts to slow down at some city facilities, city staff say an eventual wind down of testing and vaccination services is being considered. Read more…
City of Thunder Bay announces step three re-opening plans
City of Thunder Bay arenas, recreation centres, pools, and other facilities are getting set to re-open their doors. The province will move into step three of its re-opening on Friday. Read more…
Pandemic accelerates exodus from city to suburbia
Over time the pandemic has prompted stories – many of them anecdotal – of an exodus from the city to suburbia or cottage country as COVID-19 permanently entrenches the concept of working from home or hybrid work hours. Read more…
July 14
Cities after COVID: Resiliency is about embracing the crisis
In the last hundred years, cities have seen an increase in crises, pandemics and economic pressures – but not all are hit equally. Read more…
City of Prince Albert reinstates ban on plastic bags after COVID hiatus
Prince Albert city councillors have voted unanimously to reinstate a ban on all plastic bags being used at retail store checkouts. The ban was temporarily suspended during the pandemic due to sanitary reasons. Read more…
Sydney lockdown extended as city struggles to curb delta spread
Sydney extended its lockdown for a further two weeks as Australia’s most-populous city battles an outbreak of the delta strain of the coronavirus that’s already kept it isolated from the rest of the nation for three weeks. Read more…
Canadian municipalities face insurance premium spike, forcing service cuts
Canadian municipalities reeling from a pandemic-driven hit to revenues are facing an added blow from surging liability insurance costs, forcing them to raise property taxes or even cut services for residents. Read more…
July 13
Northern communities on James Bay coast working to lower COVID-19 cases
Over the past month, residents in communities on the James Bay coast have worked hard to reduce positive cases of the virus. Read more…
Quebec retailers pleased as COVID-19 capacity restrictions lifted
An association representing Quebec retailers says it’s pleased with the provincial government’s decision to lift COVID-19 capacity restrictions on retail stores. Read more…
Alberta premier says province will not bring in COVID-19 vaccine passports
Premier Jason Kenney says Alberta will not be following the lead of Quebec and Manitoba on vaccine passports. Read more…
Hamilton’s city-run rec centres, pools likely to open July 26
The City of Hamilton will take some time to check all the boxes before it reopens city-run facilities during Step 3 of Ontario’s reopening. Read more…
July 12
Restrictions lifted at all City of Prince Albert owned facilities
The City of Prince Albert will be following the implementation of stage three of Saskatchewan’s re-open plan. Read more…
Dropping of public restrictions in Sask., doesn’t mean a change for everyone
As of Sunday masks weren’t required in public spaces in Saskatchewan anymore, but business still get to decide what rules they’re enforcing. Read more…
July 9
Toronto insists on slow, cautious COVID-19 re-opening
Even if Ontario lifted all of its COVID-19 measures tomorrow, Toronto’s pandemic bylaws will remain on the books until at least Oct. 1. Read more…
Quebec earmarks $25 million to help city centres recover from COVID-19
The Legault government on Thursday announced $25 million in funding for 19 regional downtowns that can be used to boost businesses, improve downtowns, create special events, or invest in infrastructure. Read more…
July 8
Brampton mayor wants Step 3 of Ontario reopening to be moved up
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is calling for Step 3 of Ontario’s reopening plan to be moved up, noting improving health indicators and “very impressive” vaccination rates in Peel Region. Read more…
Quebec to drop capacity limits for stores, relax social distancing rules
Starting July 12, shoppers in Quebec might feel like their favourite stores are a little more crowded than usual amid evolving COVID-19 safety measures. Read more…
Tokyo expected to declare state of emergency just weeks before Olympics
Surging COVID-19 cases in Tokyo have hit a two-month high that almost guarantees the Japanese government will declare a new state of emergency to start next week, and continue for the duration of the Olympics. Read more…
Toronto, board of trade launch new “playbooks” for downtown return
Toronto is entering “a new phase of the pandemic” and the day is now “fast approaching” when the city will be able to welcome back tens of thousands of workers to its downtown core, Mayor John Tory says. Read more…
Hay River lifting mandatory mask policy at town facilities
The Town of Hay River will be lifting its mandatory mask policy at all municipal facilities starting at 8 a.m. on July 8. Read more…
Council approves shuttle service funded by COVID relief reserve
Jasper Municipal Council approved the use of the COVID relief reserve to fund a shuttle service as a pilot project this summer during its July 6 regular meeting. Read more…
July 7
Edmonton to offer $1M recovery grant for festivals impacted by COVID-19
The City of Edmonton is offering $1 million for festivals negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Canmore removes indoor masking bylaw, falling in line with rest of Alberta
Canmore council decided Tuesday afternoon to remove their indoor masking bylaw in the town, officially marking the last municipality in the province to do so. Read more…
Missouri mayor who required masks faces recall vote
As the coronavirus surges in Missouri, a mayor who imposed a mask requirement and other public safety measures is facing a recall vote, even though the requirements have long since expired. Read more…
Australia’s largest city Sydney locks down for third week
Sydney’s two-week lockdown has been extended for another week due to the vulnerability of an Australia population largely unvaccinated against COVID-19, officials said on Wednesday. Read more…
July 6
Calgary city council votes to rescind mask bylaw
Calgary council voted on Monday to rescind its mandatory COVID-19 mask bylaw. Revoking the bylaw brings the city in line with most other municipalities across Alberta as well as new provincial rules. Read more…
July 5
Winnipeg sports fans returning to the stands amid loosened restrictions
Last weekend, restrictions were loosened as part of the Manitoba reopening plan, and soon sports fans in Winnipeg will be able to reap the rewards. Read more…
Oil is rebounding, but rural municipalities are waiting on their bills
Rural municipalities in northwest Saskatchewan are chasing after millions of dollars in unpaid taxes from struggling oil companies as prices rebound. Read more…
Ottawa Public Library reopens enhanced in-person services
The Ottawa Public Library will reopen enhanced in-person services on Monday, allowing patrons to browse the shelves, access public computers, and read newspapers and magazines. Read more…
Calgary Stampede officials say the event will be much different
The Calgary Stampede is going ahead on schedule this month, but guests and businesses are expected to notice a marked difference between this year’s event and the last one, held prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
July 2
Montreal to host outdoor viewings of Canadiens games
Montreal has announced it will set up outdoor viewing parties to allow fans to watch the Canadiens play in the Stanley Cup final, a day after Quebec public health denied a request to allow more fans into the Bell Centre. Read more…
Edmontonians ease into life without COVID-19 health restrictions
As Edmonton venues and businesses threw the doors open to clients on the first day with almost no provincial health restrictions, it wasn’t quite like time travelling to before the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
B.C.’s mandatory mask order, other COVID restrictions eased
You can now dine with more people, have more guests over, and won’t have to wear masks in all indoor public spaces, as B.C. moves into the third stage of its plan to lift COVID-19 restrictions. Read more…
Toronto hits another major COVID-19 vaccine milestone
Mayor John Tory visited a vaccination clinic at the Cloverdale Mall on Thursday morning as he continued his push to get residents in some areas of the city with lower vaccination rates to roll up their sleeves. Read more…
Calgary city workers can voluntarily return to the office
Starting today, thousands of City of Calgary workers now have the option of returning to the office. But office workplace will be limited to no more than 33 percent of its normal capacity. Read more…
Prince Edward Island reopens to Atlantic Canada
For the first time since November of 2020, carloads of Nova Scotians and New Brunswickers poured over the Confederation Bridge, entering Prince Edward Island without having to self-isolate. Read more…
June 30
Grande Prairie mayor disappointed over lack of vaccine clinic funding
Mayor Jackie Clayton will be sending a letter to the provincial government expressing her disappointment in their lack of financial support regarding the Montrose Cultural Centre rapid flow vaccination clinic. Read more…
City council repeals Lethbridge’s mandatory mask bylaw, effective July 1
When the province enters Stage 3 of Alberta’s Open for Summer Plan on Canada Day, Lethbridge’s mandatory mask bylaw will no longer be in effect. Read more…
COVID-19 continues to plague Windsor’s bottom line – $14.5M deficit projected
COVID-19 continues to hammer Windsor’s finances, according to a city budget variance report that projects a $14.5 million deficit by year’s end. Read more…
June 29
Lethbridge doctors tell city council to remove mask bylaw
A group of specialists in respiratory and critical care say the City of Lethbridge’s face mask bylaw is no longer necessary. Read more…
City of Saskatoon to drop masking for guests, making plan for staff
The City of Saskatoon plans to stop requiring guests in civic facilities to wear masks, but hasn’t decided when to do the same for the transit system and its employees. Read more…
June 28
City working on outdoor Finals viewing options for Habs fans: Plante
Montreal is gearing up for the Habs’ first Stanley Cup Final in 28 years, but one question is lingering over the excitement: how will celebrations be affected by pandemic public health rules? Read more…
Hanover announces plans for spending COVID-19 funding
Council for the Rural Municipality of Hanover has decided to spend its restart funding on a number of local projects, including the installation of updated audio and video equipment to the council chambers. Read more…
All of Quebec heads to zone green as of Monday
All of Quebec will go to the green COVID-19 pandemic alert level on Monday, which means more flexibility across the province. Read more…
Edmonton’s mandatory mask bylaw to end on July 1 after city council vote
Edmonton city council voted narrowly Friday to drop its mandatory mask bylaw July 1, the same day the provincial government will lift its own mask mandate and most other COVID-19 health restrictions. Read more…
Nearly 30 percent of respondents broke COVID-19 restrictions: survey
Almost 30 percent of respondents in a newly released Canada-wide survey admitted to breaking COVID-19 rules – and felt justified doing so. Read more…
June 25
Hot spot Waterloo Region to delay Step 2 reopening until mid-July or later
The next stage of Ontario’s reopening, slightly advanced elsewhere, will be delayed to mid-July or later in Waterloo Region as it copes with COVID-19 infections that are five times higher than the provincial rate. Read more…
City of Saskatoon has no plans to drop COVID-19 health protocols
The City of Saskatoon says it has no immediate plans to stop masking, remote work, or other COVID-19 safety measures when Saskatchewan drops its last public health restrictions on July 11. Read more…
Manitoba offers wage subsidy to encourage hiring vaccinated employees
Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister announced a $30-million program aimed at helping businesses hire or re-hire employees as they reopen, providing the new hires attest that they will be vaccinated. Read more…
Fort McMurray airport gets $15M grant to help it survive pandemic’s effects
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is giving a $15 million cash injection to the operator of the Fort McMurray International Airport to help it cope with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Timmins lifts state of emergency, prepares to enter Step 1 of reopening
The City of Timmins has lifted its state of emergency. In place since May 17, the order enabled officials to access additional vaccines, mobilize resources, and establish a community isolation centre. Read more…
Prince George city council meetings reopen to the public
The Prince George council chambers and an overflow room will be available to the media and the public for city council meetings again starting on Monday. Read more…
Charlottetown to hold in-person Canada Day celebrations
The City of Charlottetown announced it will be celebrating Canada Day with in-person celebrations this summer – though things will look a little different than usual with COVID-19 restrictions in place. Read more…
San Francisco to require vaccinations for all city employees
San Francisco’s 35,000 city workers will be required to be vaccinated against the coronavirus when a vaccine receives full federal approval. Read more…
June 24
Mayor urges respect for others when masks no longer required
Medicine Hat Mayor Ted Clugston is urging people to be respectful to one another once masks are not required as some people will still want to wear them. Read more…
Kenney accuses Calgary of bending to “angry voices on Twitter” over masks
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney says Calgary city council should stop listening to “angry voices on Twitter” when it comes to repealing the city’s mask bylaw. Read more…
June 23
City council votes to improve accessibility issues around Calgary pop-up patios
While pop-up patios are a popular pandemic choice for Calgarians, some say the barricades are creating a barrier for those who have mobility issues. Read more…
Mayor of Niagara Falls hopes to see vaccinated U.S. tourists
The mayor of Niagara Falls says a forthcoming change in quarantine rules for Canadians from Ottawa is “a good step in the right direction,” but it’s just a “baby step” when it comes to much needed tourism dollars. Read more…
Edmonton mask bylaw to remain in place after narrow defeat
A motion to deactivate Edmonton’s mandatory mask bylaw on Canada Day was defeated by one vote on Tuesday. Read more…
Masters leads mayors’ lip-sync challenge to vaccinate more in Regina, Saskatoon
Regina is in the lead with more of its residents who’ve received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose which could mean it’s showtime for Saskatoon’s mayor. Read more…
Grande Prairie mayor eager for economic recovery with restrictions soon lifting
Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton is hopeful that a rebound in the economy will quickly follow the lifting of almost all provincial COVID-19 restrictions on July 1. Read more…
June 22
City council to reconvene July 5 to discuss repealing Calgary mask bylaw
Calgary city council has come to a decision on its mandatory mask bylaw that could see masks gone as soon as July 5. Read more…
Swimming lanes, hot tubs among reopened services in Saskatoon
The City of Saskatoon has adjusted its recreational services following the province’s move to Step Two of its COVID-19 reopening plan. Read more…
June 21
Virtual municipal meetings may continue until the end of the year
Unless there is a loosening of the public health measures associated with the pandemic, North Bay city council, municipal boards, and committees will continue to meet online until the end of the year. Read more…
COVID-19 vaccinations in Richmond lagged due to disinformation, doctors say
Richmond has seen some of the lowest vaccine uptake in Metro Vancouver, in part due to misinformation and concerns about vaccine efficacy, local health experts say. Read more…
June 18
Quebec businesses celebrate reopening of the Ottawa-Gatineau boundary
Ontario has lifted the non-essential travel restrictions at the borders with Quebec and Manitoba, allowing residents to travel between the provinces. Read more…
City of London prepares to wind down emergency shelters, pandemic spaces
Advocates are renewing calls for more “low-barrier” spaces for homeless Londoners, just as city hall proposes winding down use of the hotel rooms rented during the pandemic. Read more…
Caledon launches new website to boost business retention and expansion
The Town of Caledon launched a new website dedicated to supporting both new investment and local business in recovering from the pandemic. Read more…
Sault Ste. Marie throws support behind locally developed COVID app
The City of Sault Ste. Marie has thrown its support behind the locally developed COVID-19 screening and contact tracing app, CommunityPass. Read more…
Fake COVID-19 notices in Coquitlam claim all restrictions lifted
Another wave of bogus notices declaring COVID-19 is a hoax and that all restrictions have been lifted have been delivered to some businesses on the Lower Mainland, and the mayor of Coquitlam says anti-maskers have been flaunting them. Read more…
June 17
Peterborough mayor “disappointed” by council’s reaction to pandemic report
The report of the Community Recovery and Resilience Task Force – chaired by Mayor Diane Therrien – came very close to being dismissed outright by council. Read more…
Winnipeg outdoor pools set to reopen, hundreds of staff returning to work
As COVID-19 restrictions begin to loosen up and the weather continues to get warmer, Winnipeg is set to start reopening outdoor pools next week. Read more…
St Catharines to temporarily limit the number of beach-goers
After recently reopening its three city beaches, St Catharines is now temporarily limiting the number of citizens who can go sunbathe. Read more…
Kelowna’s mayor expects city will be tourism hot spot this summer
With summer coinciding with a lifting of many restrictions and a return of visitors from across the country, Kelowna’s mayor says the city is in for a “very busy summer.” Read more…
Jasper will stop mandating masks once stage three reached
Jasper will no longer require mandatory masks once the province hits stage three of the Open for Summer plan. This will occur two weeks after 70 per cent of Albertans age 12-plus have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Read more…
June 16
City launches strategy to bring life back to Edmonton’s downtown
The City of Edmonton is moving forward with the Downtown Vibrancy Strategy, a two-year plan aimed at supporting businesses, visitors and residents. Read more…
Town of Banff reopens to visitors after pandemic forces tourists to stay away
After months of telling visitors to stay home and stay away, officials and business owners in Banff are swinging open their doors and welcoming visitors back to the mountain town. Read more…
Tech interest in Toronto signals city will rebound, mayor says
The mayor of Toronto is counting on interest from global technology companies to rejuvenate business life in Canada’s largest city, which has endured one of the continent’s longest lockdowns to combat COVID-19. Read more…
Ottawa mayor, Health Minister spar over city’s COVID-19 vaccine allocation
Disagreements over the quantity of COVID-19 vaccines sent to Ottawa have devolved into a war of words between the city’s mayor and the Ontario government. Read more…
City of Orillia council doubles down on popular patio program
Orillia council approves expansion of See You on the Patio to include Saturday-evening street closures; “We have to do what we can to keep our businesses going.” Read more…
June 15
Calgary lifts state of local emergency as COVID-19 cases continue to fall
Calgary officials lifted the city’s state of local emergency Monday as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to decline. Read more…
New York City to hold ticker-tape parade for essential COVID-19 workers
New York City will hold a ticker-tape parade next month for essential workers to honor their heroism on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. Read more…
June 14
No more red or orange COVID-19 zones left in Quebec
Quebec no longer has any red or orange zones due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with big cities like Montreal and Quebec City moving to yellow as of Monday. Read more…
Toronto residents celebrate with patios, non-essential shopping this weekend
There were long lines outside non-essential stores and patios were packed in Toronto on the first weekend after the province eased COVID-19 restrictions. Read more…
June 11
Vancouver’s “temporary” restaurant patios likely here to stay
The City of Vancouver’s temporary expedited patio program, which launched last June, may not be temporary for much longer thanks to the overwhelmingly positive response from the public and restaurants. Read more…
Feds eyeing Canada-U.S. land border reopening
As Ontario prepares to reopen, the Canada-U.S. border is still closed. But after consultations with border city mayors, including the mayor of Sault Ste. Marie, Ottawa is looking at mid-June for a re-opening of land crossings. Read more…
City of Ottawa outlines outdoor dining, patio regulations
For those who don’t remember the outside dining rules from last summer, the City of Ottawa has prepared a refresher course. Read more…
Japan city uses tsunami lessons for COVID-19 vaccinations
Soma, a rural city north of Tokyo that was devastated by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, has surged ahead of most of the country in vaccinations by heeding lessons learned from the catastrophe of a decade ago. Read more…
Temporary outdoor patios permitted in Strathroy-Caradoc until 2022
Strathroy-Caradoc councillors passed a motion during their June 7 meeting authorizing temporary outdoor patios throughout the municipality until 2022. Read more…
North Vancouver allocates $50,000 of COVID-19 restart grants to a “dog strategy”
Mayor Linda Buchanan spoke up for the city’s furry friends and their owners at the June 7 general council meeting, raising the need for a “city dog strategy.” Read more…
June 10
Winnipeg mayor questions vaccine card privacy
Winnipeg’s mayor is urging the province to reveal exactly how personal health information tied to its new immunization cards will be used and who will be able to access it. Read more…
City of Ottawa readies recreation services for provincial reopening
The City of Ottawa will have a number of recreation facilities ready to go as Ontario embarks on step one of its reopening plan Friday. Read more…
Fraser health mayors go head to head in COVID-19 vaccination competition
A competition between communities in the Fraser Health region on who can get the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates is heating up. Read more…
Toronto extends mask wearing, other COVID-19 bylaws through September
Torontonians will need to continue wearing masks in businesses until the fall after the city approved the extension of its COVID-19 bylaws today. Read more…
Alberta premier hopes cities stay in lockstep when COVID mask rules lift
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney says he hopes the cities of Edmonton and Calgary will stay in lockstep with the province when it comes to eventually lifting mask restrictions tied to COVID-19. Read more…
June 9
Edmonton mayor “looking forward” to welcoming back 1K laid-off city workers
Roughly 1,000 City of Edmonton employees who were temporarily laid off due to restrictions caused by COVID-19 will be returning to work during Stage 2 of the provincial relaunch. Read more…
City of Trail to allow outdoor fitness classes
The City of Trail has decided that as long as restrictions continue to shut down indoor group workouts, local fitness groups can now access city parks and hold outdoor workouts through a permitting process. Read more…
Halifax to offer free parking as part of $184K plan to lure visitors downtown
The Halifax Regional Municipality is coming up with parking incentives to help businesses recover from the pandemic and encourage residents to start visiting downtown areas. Read more…
City of Thunder Bay ends state of emergency
The City of Thunder Bay is lifting a state of emergency months after it was declared during the peak of a COVID-19 crisis that hit the city’s homeless and incarcerated populations particularly hard. Read more…
June 8
Wasaga Beach mayor “appalled” after town visitors violate COVID-19 restrictions
The mayor of Wasaga Beach, Ont., said she’s “appalled” after visitors swarmed the town’s beachfront over the weekend, left a mess and violated the province’s current COVID-19 restrictions. Read more…
Outdoor patios proving to be popular in New Westminster
The business and local economy task force is reporting a sharp uptake in the number of inquires about the City of New Westminster’s temporary patio and sidewalk café program. Read more…
Ottawa mayor Watson writes to Premier Ford asking for more vaccines
Ottawa’s mayor is calling for an injection of extra COVID-19 vaccine doses in the nation’s capital amid technical issues in the provincial booking system and rapid expansions in eligibility. Read more…
Grey Highlands increases patrols to prepare for summer guests
The municipality of Grey Highlands is gearing up for another busy summer by establishing additional OPP highway enforcement and tourism ambassadors in hotspots. Read more…
Lethbridge prepares for adult sports with “no restrictions”
Youth sports have been on and off throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, but for those old enough to vote, it’s been a while. But the end is in sight for athletic adults eagerly awaiting the return of sports across Alberta. Read more…
June 7
Municipal leaders gather to move Canada Forward
Municipal leaders from across Canada gathered online May 31 to June 4 – engaging national party leaders, shaping policy priorities, and gearing up to carry communities forward into a strong post-COVID recovery. Read more…
Blue Mountains paves the way for more patios this summer
The Town of the Blue Mountains recently approved a plan that will allow local businesses to expand their patios on private and town-owned lands for the upcoming summer months. Read more…
New rules on future virtual meetings now in place in Grande Prairie
Grande Prairie council has approved a change that would limit remote attendance at a maximum of six committee days and six council meetings per year, post pandemic. Read more…
More than $28M in fines issued in Quebec during lockdown
While Quebec’s strict public health measures are finally being scaled back, there are still thousands of court cases in the works as people fight – or ignore – tickets issued for offences ranging from breaking curfew to gathering in homes. Read more…
June 4
Restrictions ease in Iqaluit as territory reports no new COVID-19 cases
Restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 in Iqaluit are being relaxed Thursday, following several days without new cases in Nunavut. Read more…
June 3
City of Regina COVID-19 reserve fund aimed at pandemic recovery costs
The City of Regina has established a COVID-19 reserve fund to help the city recover from the pandemic that shook the globe. Read more…
City of Swift Current re-allocates funding to help non-profits
Sitting on $990,495 from the Federal Safe Restart Program, the City of Swift Current has decided to re-allocate just over $751,000 of it towards a pair of projects and various non-profits in the community. Read more…
Toronto top doctor urges all residents to get COVID-19 vaccination
Toronto officials are urging eligible residents to get a COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible as some age groups are not rolling up their sleeves as fast as others. Read more…
June 2
City council approves over $15M to support Calgary restaurants, gyms
City council voted unanimously to approve more than $15 million for a COVID-19 relief package for certain types of Calgary businesses on Tuesday. Read more…
Vancouver approves drinking in specific areas in 22 of the city’s 230 parks
Vancouverites are one step closer to being allowed to drink in designated zones of nearly two-dozen of the city’s 230 parks. Read more…
Gyms, dining rooms to reopen as Montreal, Laval move to orange zones
Restrictions designed to stem the spread of COVID-19 will be eased in Montreal and Laval as those two areas are downgraded from red to orange zones next week. Read more…
June 1
Eight Quebec regions went to bed red, woke up orange
Eight of Quebec’s administrative regions woke up on Monday as orange zones, allowing their populations to enjoy a relaxing of COVID-19 health restrictions. Read more…
City council eyes September return to in-person meetings
As the province re-opens, the City of Saskatoon is adjusting around relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. In-person council meetings are tentatively expected to be able to resume in September. Read more…
City of Calgary prepares additional COVID-19 business relief
Alberta is set to begin the first stage in its multi-phase reopening plan, and the City of Calgary is eyeing relief for businesses that have faced the brunt of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Iqaluit to ease public health restrictions Thursday
Iqaluit will start easing public health restrictions on Thursday as the city continues to recover from a COVID-19 outbreak. Read more…
May 31
Eight Quebec regions going orange Monday as COVID-19 situation improves
Several regions of Quebec will go into the orange zone on Monday for the first time in several months as the COVID-19 situation in the province remains stable. Read more…
Only 20 percent of workers want to return to office full-time post-COVID-19
Canadians are in no rush to head back to the office even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to decline across the country, a new survey suggests. Read more…
Montreal vaccination centres were overstaffed at great expense, sources say
Montreal’s vaccination centres were vastly overstaffed for at least two months this spring, with hundreds of workers spending hours doing absolutely nothing, says a vaccinator who worked at three large clinics. Read more…
May 28
Surrey mayor Doug McCallum dodges “friendly” immunization challenge
Surrey Mayor Doug McCallum is the lone mayor not participating in a “friendly challenge to race to community immunity,” even though his city has been most affected by COVID-19 infections. Read more…
Prince Rupert, Whistler won’t get accelerated reopening
The B.C. government has rejected calls from the local chamber of commerce to reopen Prince Rupert sooner than the rest of the province, despite the North Coast city recording no new cases of COVID-19 last week. Read more…
Regina libraries, museum to reopen next week
Regina Public Library branches and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum are scheduled to reopen early next week after a second forced closure due to COVID-19 spread in the city. Read more…
May 27
Calgary launches pilot project for permitting alcohol in city parks
Under the alcohol in parks program, Calgarians will be able to have drinks at one of 30 picnic tables at designated parks across the city from June 1 to Sept. 7. Read more…
Inuit organizations roll out COVID-19 support for Nunavut communities
Food hampers, grocery vouchers, and subsidies to get out on the land – these are some of the ways the Qikiqtani Inuit Association is putting federal money for pandemic relief to work in Kinngait and Iqaluit. Read more…
Pandemic cost City of Ottawa $8 million in parking fees
The City of Ottawa says parking fee revenue was down more than $8 million in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
No discussions to re-up city mask bylaw when provincial mandate ends
The City of Grande Prairie is not currently planning to re-instate its mandatory mask bylaw when the provincial order eventually gets lifted. Read more…
Regina’s first supervised overdose prevention site opens downtown
The Nēwo Yōtina Friendship Centre opened its overdose prevention site in Regina. The site offers supervision to drug users who have already acquired drugs. Read more…
Main street patios will return to Meaford this summer
The Municipality of Meaford will start to prepare for a repeat of the pandemic-induced parking-spot patios along Sykes Street in the coming days. Read more…
May 26
Wood Buffalo council approves patio support grants
Wood Buffalo council has unanimously asked the Alberta government to cap fees charged by third-party food delivery apps at 15 percent. Read more…
Edmonton waives fee for monthly payment plan in response to COVID-19
Property tax bills will soon be landing in mailboxes across Edmonton and the city has made it easier to pay to help property owners hit hard by the COVID-19 impact. Read more…
Montreal, Laval to stay as COVID-19 red zones as Quebec begins to reopen
Quebec is on its way to slowly reopening but Montreal and Laval will remain designated red zones under the province’s COVID-19 colour-coded scale until at least June 7. Read more…
May 25
B.C. tourist towns hopeful that eased restrictions will allow more travel
The May long weekend is often considered the kick-off to tourism season in many B.C. towns, but restrictions from the provincial health officer mean that tourism season has been delayed for a second year. Read more…
Pickering mayor blasts car rally that draws more than 300
The mayor of Pickering has condemned a car rally that drew hundreds of people to a parking lot in the city just east of Toronto Sunday, flouting provincial restrictions in place to stem the spread of the COVID-19. Read more…
Winnipeg Transit routes continue to deal with potential exposures to COVID-19
Health officials are warning Manitobans about more potential exposures to COVID-19, the majority happening on Winnipeg Transit routes. Read more…
New York City, Los Angeles to send students back to school
New York City and Los Angeles, the two largest U.S. public school districts, on Monday announced plans to fully reopen schools, part of a parent-led nationwide trend amid a sustained decline in COVID-19 infections and rise in vaccinations. Read more…
May 21
Windsor mayor irate over decision to stop cross-border vaccinations
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens says he is irate over the “preposterous” decision to stop cross-border vaccinations against COVID-19. Read more…
“Playing with fire”: Kelowna Mayor disappointed with downtown visitors
Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran was none too pleased with what he saw in downtown Kelowna over the weekend – a massive influx of people in Kelowna’s City Park and other areas in the downtown core. Read more…
Beachside town mayors urge Ontarians to stay home this May 24 weekend
A pair of beachside town mayors are urging would-be daytrippers this Victoria Day long weekend to stay home mid the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
City of Camrose issues friendly COVID-19 vaccination challenge to Wetaskiwin
City of Camrose Mayor Norm Mayer has challenged Mayor Tyler Gandam and the City of Wetaskiwin to a friendly competition this week about city-wide COVID-19 vaccines. Read more…
Gananoque council calls for an end to lockdowns
Gananoque town council has passed a motion calling for the ending of lockdowns and the reopening of all schools in Ontario to regular capacity. Read more…
Wood Buffalo school divisions support move to extend online learning
School officials in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo say they are in full support of the Alberta government’s decision to keep their students learning online until at least the end of the month. Read more…
Cottages outside your community off limits, Nova Scotia top doc says
The May long weekend is often a popular time for cottage goers. But this year, thanks to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, Nova Scotians are being told to stay put. Read more…
Concern growing as community spread confirmed in parts of CBRM
There is a growing concern in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in that region. Read more…
Researchers surveying opinions on mask wearing in Calgary during COVID-19
A survey is underway asking Calgarians if they are choosing to wear face masks as protection from COVID-19 or not, and why. Read more…
“City in transition”: New York vies to turn page on pandemic
More than a year after coronavirus shutdowns sent “the city that never sleeps” into a fitful slumber, New York could be wide awake again this summer. Read more…
May 20
Ottawa’s top doctor says city not in a position to lift COVID-19 restrictions
The City of Ottawa’s top doctor says while there are “encouraging” signs with the capital’s COVID-19 indicators, the city is not yet in a position to begin lifting public health measures in place to limit the spread of novel coronavirus. Read more…
City staff redeployed to help ensure COVID-19 rules in Winnipeg parks
Over 100 city staff whose jobs are affected by the Manitoba public health orders will be stepping up to enforce those very restrictions at Winnipeg parks and outdoor spaces, Mayor Brian Bowman said Wednesday afternoon. Read more…
Iqaluit’s state of emergency extended
The City of Iqaluit has extended its state of emergency for another week as the number of active COVID-19 cases in Nunavut’s capital continues to fluctuate. Read more…
City of Fernie promoting outdoor dining options
The City of Fernie is supporting local food-service providers by promoting pop-up COVID-safe dining options throughout the city. Read more…
North Bay to host municipalities conference in 2022
North Bay has been selected to host the annual Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities conference in 2022. Next year’s gathering will be held May 9-11, and is expected to return to an in-person format. Read more…
May 19
City of Vancouver allows alcohol consumption at three public plazas
Vancouver city council has voted to allow public drinking at three spots in the city. Public drinking will be allowed from May 31 until Oct. 11 between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. Read more…
London approves $1.3 million in funding to support COVID-19 recovery
London councillors have approved over $1.3 million in funding for the London Community Recovery Network as the city works to rebuild after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
“City in transition”: New York vies to turn page on pandemic
More than a year after coronavirus shutdowns sent “the city that never sleeps” into a fitful slumber, New York could be wide awake again this summer. Read more…
City of Grande Prairie officials unsure when spray parks will open
The City of Grande Prairie still doesn’t have a firm date for when residents can expect the splash and spray parks to open in the municipality. Read more…
Quebec presents sweeping COVID-19 reopening plan
Quebec Premier Francois Legault presented his government’s COVID-19 reopening plan Tuesday, which begins with lifting the curfew on May 28 and ends with the possible removal of the mask mandate in late August. Read more…
May 18
Toronto’s top doc says the city must “prevent history from repeating itself”
The city’s top doctor says Toronto residents need to do everything possible to “prevent history from repeating itself” when it comes to transmission of emerging COVID-19 variants. Read more…
Winnipeg hospitals send out urgent plea as pandemic’s third wave crashes down
Winnipeg hospitals are sending out an urgent plea for donations to get life-saving equipment, iPads for patients, and free coffee to keep staff going as the pandemic’s third wave comes crashing down. Read more…
Travel advisory for Regina-area lifted, effective immediately
The advisory against travel in and out of the Regina area has been lifted, the province said Monday. All other COVID-19 measures and public health orders remain in place. Read more…
May 17
Irresponsible for organizers to hold anti-lockdown rally in Ottawa, mayor says
Mayor Jim Watson is expressing his frustration with the anti-lockdown rally in downtown Ottawa this weekend, saying it was irresponsible for organizers to hold a demonstration during the stay-at-home order. Read more…
Vancouver considers no patio fees for restaurants and bars this year
City restaurants applaud Vancouver council’s discussion around the of waiving patio fees this year, but say keeping expanded patios a permanent feature would benefit not only restaurants but the city itself. Read more…
Regina restaurants get ready for in-person dining to resume on Monday
As the Saskatchewan government is loosening COVID-19 health restrictions around dining-in services on Monday, Regina restaurant staff say they’re looking forward to welcoming back patrons. Read more…
Enhanced bike routes start to open in Winnipeg
A popular City of Winnipeg pilot program allowing cyclists and pedestrians to take over local streets has returned, minus the pedestrians. Read more…
May 14
Barrie takes fight with anti-lockdown protests to Ontario Superior Court
The City of Barrie has taken its fight to stop recurring anti-lockdown protests on city property to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Read more…
Winnipeg redeploying staff as community safety ambassadors in parks
The City of Winnipeg is relaunching its community safety ambassador program and redeploying staff from community services shuttered by the latest round of COVID-19 measures. Read more…
Iqaluit city council distributes $500K for COVID-19 relief
Four Iqaluit organizations will receive a share of a half million dollars for pandemic relief, city council decided Tuesday evening. Read more…
Toronto not yet ready to consider reopening schools, city’s top doctor suggests
Despite encouraging words from public health officials in other regions, Toronto’s top doctor says there’s not yet any reason to expect local schools will reopen before the end of the school year. Read more…
Canadian towns grapple with big-city-like real estate boom
Small cities and cottage towns across Canada are grappling with the fallout of surging popularity amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as urbanites flock in, driving up home prices and putting pressure on municipal services. Read more…
U.S. cities see surge in deadly street racing amid pandemic
Across America, illegal drag racing has exploded in popularity since the coronavirus pandemic began, with dangerous upticks reported from Georgia and New York to New Mexico and Oregon. Read more…
May 13
Metro Vancouver municipalities prepare for more patios and beer in parks
In recent months, West Vancouver, Delta, and New Westminster have all given the green light to alcohol in a limited number of parks this summer. Read more…
City of Winnipeg libraries to offer contactless holds pickup and return service
All 20 branches of the Winnipeg Public Library will start providing contactless holds pickup and return services as of Thursday. Read more…
Guelph mayor lays out list of demands for Ontario government
While he’s usually known for having a little bit of fun on Twitter, one of Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie’s latest tweets is all business. Read more…
May 12
City of Lloydminster discussing temporary outdoor patio program
With the warmer weather and the ongoing COVID restrictions, Lloydminster City Administration is looking at a temporary outdoor patio program to enhance business recovery, but in keeping with health guidelines. Read more…
Transit union says members worried about growing exposure list on buses
Despite a reduced schedule and far fewer passengers, a growing list of possible exposures involving Halifax Transit buses has the driver’s union concerned. Read more…
Gatineau turns corner on COVID-19; restrictions easing Monday
Residents in Gatineau and parts of the Outaouais region of Quebec still under strict COVID-19 measures will soon see an easing of restrictions. Read more…
Stratford City Council reviewing patio fees for downtown restaurants
It could be back to the drawing board for the amount restaurants will pay to set up temporary sidewalk patios in downtown Stratford to help cope with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns. Read more…
Brandon mayor implores residents to get COVID-19 vaccine
The mayor of Brandon said despite the current restrictions in Manitoba, he’s never felt more optimistic about the pandemic than he does right now because of the vaccines. Read more…
City makes downtown parking free in Lethbridge
City officials say parking enforcement will be modified to only have a minimal presence for general parking complaints around accessible parking stalls and fire hydrants. Read more…
May 11
Mississauga’s COVID heroes recognized by city
Over the course of the pandemic, dozens of residents and companies stepped up to help each other over and a few weeks ago the City of Mississauga decided to honour those who came forward to make a difference. Read more…
City of Winnipeg shutters rec facilities, libraries once more
City of Winnipeg gyms, indoor pools, arenas, libraries, and other recreation facilities are closed indefinitely once again, due to the latest surge in COVID-19 cases. Read more…
Toronto mayor calls out party that led to dozens of COVID-19 charges
Toronto Mayor John Tory scolded partygoers who packed a downtown commercial building overnight on Sunday, attending an event that led to 24 charges being laid and $13,000 worth of alcohol being seized. Read more…
City of Saskatoon developing return-to-worksite plan for employees
As Saskatchewan talks about entering Step 1 of its reopening plan, the City of Saskatoon is looking ahead to a time where more workers will be back in the office. Read more…
Calgary votes to increase fine for not wearing face mask from $100 to $500
Calgary city council took the first step toward increasing the fine for not wearing a face covering while indoors on city property from $100 to $500. Read more…
May 10
Calgary mayor: anti-mask rallies are “thinly veiled white nationalist” protests
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi says some recent rallies billed as opposing the wearing of masks during the pandemic are really just “thinly veiled white nationalist” and “anti-government” activities. Read more…
Winnipeg to close facilities, suspend programming amid COVID-19 lockdown
The City of Winnipeg is responding to the latest COVID-19 provincial health orders by suspending Leisure Guide programming and closing the doors of city-owned facilities. Read more…
A third of Quebecers want to move to the country post-COVID-19: survey
In a potential post-COVID-19 pandemic world, it seems more Quebecers are looking to enjoy the quiet country life, rather than bask in the busy hustle and bustle of city living. Read more…
Halifax airport CEO hopes for more on-site COVID testing
The chief executive of Atlantic Canada’s largest airport is hoping for COVID-19 testing for arriving passengers “sooner rather than later,” as an added measure to combat Nova Scotia’s third wave of the pandemic. Read more…
May 7
Trudeau pledges federal supports to Calgary, Edmonton amid 3rd COVID-19 wave
Alberta’s two biggest cities could soon be getting help from the federal government, as cases and case rates in the province reach record levels. Read more…
Municipal leaders preaching kindness as region works to combat COVID-19
Municipal leaders from across the Grande Prairie region have come together urging residents to be supportive of one another as the response to COVID-19 continues across the province. Read more…
City cracks down on Londoners, businesses flouting provincewide restrictions
The City of London is reminding people to adhere to rules set in place to curb the spread of COVID-19 as officers have laid about a dozen fines for violations of the Reopening Ontario Act in the past two weeks. Read more…
Mayor, city manager say most Edmontonians still complying with COVID-19 rules
Edmonton’s mayor and city manager say while there are signs of pandemic fatigue in the city, most citizens continue to comply with public health rules as Alberta’s capital tries to get through a brutal third wave of COVID-19. Read more…
Wood Buffalo declares state of emergency
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has declared a state of emergency due to the increasing cases of COVID-19. Several oilsands sites within the region are on Alberta’s COVID-19 outbreak list. Read more…
New Glasgow police charge 11 people for violating public health orders
Police in New Glasgow have charged six men and four women with violating the province’s Health Protection Act and the Emergency Management Acts, following four separate incidents. Read more…
May 6
COVID-19 restrictions “will drag out if people do not comply”: Lethbridge mayor
Lethbridge Mayor Chris Spearman says he hopes the province follows through on its promise of a greater commitment to enforcing public health orders. Read more…
City of Regina could be tasked with greater enforcement of bylaws
The City of Regina could be taking a more active role in bylaw enforcement following a report from Regina police. Read more…
City of Wetaskiwin waives fees for patios
Wetaskiwin City Council passed a policy for temporary patios to help local restaurants while COVID-19 indoor dining restrictions are in place. Read more…
Mayor urges Red Deerians to “pull together” to limit COVID spread
Red Deer’s mayor says she knows people are frustrated over COVID-19 and the latest round of public health measures aimed at beating it. Read more…
May 5
Kingston City Council unanimously votes to condemn MPP’s actions
Kingston City Council has voted unanimously to condemn a local member of provincial parliament over actions and messaging during the pandemic. Read more…
City facilities, businesses temporarily close in Yellowknife amid COVID-19
The City of Yellowknife’s Fieldhouse, along with City Hall, are the latest facilities to shut down as the city grapples with COVID-19 cases connected to a school outbreak. Read more…
Dual-citizen B.C. mayor asks for understanding after U.S. trip
A Kootenay mayor is asking the Rossland community for understanding rather than condemnation following an extended visit to the United States. Read more…
Saskatoon mayor applauds tougher fines for breaking COVID-19 rules
Mayor Charlie Clark is welcoming the province’s introduction of harsher fines for people who break COVID-19 rules. Read more…
May 4
Iqaluit declares state of emergency
Iqaluit city council has declared a state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 outbreak that arrived in Nunavut’s capital more than two weeks ago. Read more…
Calgary mayor wants courts to uphold COVID-19 measures
The mayor of Alberta’s largest city says he’s frustrated to hear tickets given to people for breaching COVID-19 public health orders are being thrown out in the courts. Read more…
City of Edmonton approves alcohol consumption in select parks
The City of Edmonton has approved a pilot project to permit alcohol consumption at 47 designated picnic sites, in select parks in the river valley. Read more…
Halifax men fined for leaving municipality, breaking public health order
Two men from Halifax have been fined for leaving the municipality for non-essential reasons, landing them fines of more than $2,000 each. Read more…
London mayor promises action after rogue golfers spotted on city-run course
The City of London golf courses remain closed due to provincial order, but a few rogue golfers have been spotted ignoring the rules. Read more…
Sault mayor calls for an end to outdoor restrictions
Sault Ste. Marie’s mayor is calling on the provincial government to reconsider restrictions placed on outdoor activities. Read more…
May 3
All Yellowknife schools close as city’s COVID-19 caseload rises
All schools in Yellowknife, Dettah, and Ndilǫ are closed after six confirmed and 10 probable cases of COVID-19 were identified. Read more…
Calgary’s COVID-19 infection rate double that of India, Nenshi says
With more than 8,800 active cases of COVID-19 in Calgary zone, Mayor Naheed Nenshi is concerned about the rapid rise of cases that he says is outstripping some of the largest crisis areas elsewhere in the world. Read more…
Halifax police issue 17 tickets at three separate gatherings
Police in Halifax ticketed 17 people for failing to follow the Health Protection Act after responding to three separate noise complaints on Saturday night, into early Sunday morning. Read more…
St. Albert mayor advocates for regional approach to COVID hotspot restrictions
St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron isn’t surprised to see St. Albert surpass the provincial threshold for hotspot COVID-19 health measures and said she would rather see a regional approach to restrictions than a municipal one. Read more…
Declare entire Peel Region a COVID hotspot, urges Mississauga mayor
Two weeks after the entire City of Brampton was declared a COVID-19 hotspot, Mississauga’s mayor is calling on the province to expand the designation to the entire Region of Peel. Read more…
April 30
Banff and Fort McMurray to receive targeted immunizations
Banff and Fort McMurray, two hot spots in Alberta’s swelling third wave of COVID-19, will receive priority for immunizations against the virus, Premier Jason Kenney announced. Read more…
Saskatoon mayor wants more restrictions put in place to combat COVID-19
Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark wants the province to implement more restrictions to ward off ever-rising cases of COVID-19 in the city. Read more…
Peel Region could reach herd immunity before summer, says top doctor
Peel Region has been among the hardest hit municipalities across the country, and while it is still engaged in an ongoing battle with the third wave, the region’s top doctor says he can see a way out. Read more…
Local town-branded mask initiative writes first cheque to charity
The Huntsville branded three-ply mask charity fundraising campaign is writing a $600 cheque for its local and non-profit mental health services provider. Read more…
Vernon considering street closure to bring vitality to downtown
Just like in other Okanagan communities, the COVID-19 pandemic is prompting Vernon, B.C., to rethink some of its outdoor space. Read more…
New York City plans to “fully reopen” on July 1 after year of COVID-19 closures
New York City plans to “fully reopen” on July 1 after more than a year of coronavirus-induced closures and capacity restrictions, Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Thursday. Read more…
Barrie mayor attempting to quell anti-lockdown, anti-mask protests
Mayor Jeff Lehman has issued an emergency order to immediately close and fence off one downtown public venue in response to ongoing and illegal mass gatherings. Read more…
Shut down all public schools in Winnipeg, Manitoba teachers’ union says
The Manitoba Teachers’ Society is calling on the provincial government to declare code red and move all public schools in Winnipeg to remote learning. Read more…
Montreal suburb’s plan to charge for picnic table reservations draws backlash
A Montreal suburb’s plan to charge its citizens to reserve picnic tables in city parks is stirring up debate over how best to manage the increased demand for green space brought on by COVID-19. Read more…
Toronto preparing for curbside patios ahead of stay-at-home order end date
Toronto will begin installing the infrastructure needed for curbside patios in early May in an effort to ensure restaurants and bars are ready to hit the ground running when the stay-at-home order and lockdown lifts. Read more…
April 29
Niagara Region recruiting nurses in fight against COVID-19
Niagara Region is asking for a few good men and women to join in the fight against COVID-19 but is facing increased competition for recruits from across the province. Read more…
Anchorage making pandemic business, gathering rules advisory
The Anchorage Assembly has voted to revoke pandemic-related restrictions on businesses and gatherings and to make them recommendations instead. Read more…
Montreal says city on track with vaccination strategy, but more work ahead
Thirty percent of the Montreal population has received its first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, public health confirmed on Wednesday, as the city said it was on track with its immunization campaign. Read more…
City of Ottawa cracking down on gyms flouting public health rules
City of Ottawa officials say they’re already seeing results after introducing new rules for fitness centres open for people with disabilities to exercise. Read more…
April 28
Toronto partnering with Vaccine Hunters Canada to connect COVID-19 shots
The City of Toronto is officially partnering with a volunteer group that helps people navigate Ontario’s increasingly complicated COVID-19 vaccination rollout to connect them with opportunities for shots. Read more…
Montreal, Laval’s curfew will return to 9:30 p.m. as of May 3
Montreal and Laval’s 8 p.m. curfew will return to 9:30 p.m. as of Monday, May 3, Quebec Premier Francois Legault announced Tuesday. Read more…
State of emergency in Fort McMurray, Alta. as COVID-19 cases surge
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, which includes the oilsands hub of Fort McMurray, has declared a local state of emergency as coronavirus cases surge across northern Alberta. Read more…
Regina police focusing COVID-19 enforcement on rally organizers
As the Regina Police Service continues to deal with people who are breaking COVID-19 related public health orders, it says it is focusing on organizers of large rallies instead of all participants. Read more…
City of Barrie to get tough on anti-lockdown rallies
The City of Barrie plans to get tough on the anti-lockdown gatherings, saying they threaten efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Read more…
Timmins council to honour heroine from the last pandemic over 100 years ago
Laura Keon was a young nurse from the Pembroke area who volunteered to treat patients in Timmins during the Spanish Flu pandemic. She will finally get the memorial plaque the council at the time promised in 1918. Read more…
Winnipeg’s mayor calls for tighter lockdown on eve of new Manitoba restrictions
Before admonishing the provincial government for not going far enough to lock down Manitoba as COVID-19 cases surged, Mayor Brian Bowman gave a finger-wag at Winnipeggers. Read more…
April 27
City of Brampton lowers flags in honour of teenager who died from COVID-19
The flags at Brampton City Hall are being flown at half-mast in memory of Emily Victoria Viegas, 13, who died from COVID-19 on Sunday evening. Read more…
All schools in Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding area to close
More than 50,000 students will be learning from home for at least the next two weeks, after the Nova Scotia government announced schools in the Halifax area will close due to unprecedented daily numbers of COVID-19 cases. Read more…
Regina public and Catholic schools to return to classroom May 3
Regina Catholic and Public schools will be returning to mostly in person class May 3. Both divisions say the move comes after extensive consultation with public health officers. Read more…
Kootenay city elects new mayor after predecessor quit over holiday travel
Voters in Castlegar, B.C., have chosen a replacement for the former mayor who resigned earlier this year following criticism of his decision to travel over Christmas, contrary to provincial health guidelines. Read more…
April 26
State of local emergency to be declared in Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
In a special council meeting held Sunday evening, councillors in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo passed a motion to declare a state of local emergency in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. Read more…
City of Vancouver commissioning artists to reflect challenges of COVID-19
The City of Vancouver is looking for artists to create works that reflect the challenges of the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and they’ll pay you for it. Read more…
Banff, crushed by third wave of COVID-19, calls for targeted immunization
Banff’s head of emergency management says immunizations for workers are needed to help beat back high COVID-19 rates in the tourist town amid the pandemic’s third wave. Read more…
Quebec City tourism industry anticipates busy summer despite COVID-19
Hotels in Quebec City’s core had a 27 percent occupancy last summer, and the regional hotel association anticipates that number could nearly double this year. Read more…
Four tickets issued following Saturday’s “freedom rally” in Regina
Regina Police Service handed out four tickets to participants of a “freedom rally” on Saturday for disobeying public health orders in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the province. Read more…
Halifax police issue more tickets for health order violations
Police in Halifax handed out two more tickets Saturday night, which each carry a $1,000 fine, for violations of Nova Scotia’s public health orders. Read more…
Tillsonburg mayor reacts to local course defying provincial orders
The town of Tillsonburg, Ont. is making national news after the Bridges at Tillsonburg golf course opened for a second straight day against provincial orders. Read more…
April 23
City to triple vaccine efforts in Toronto’s hotspots: Tory
Toronto Mayor John Tory unveiled a new mobile vaccination “sprint strategy” Wednesday which aims to triple the number of vaccine shots available in 13 of the city’s hotspot neighbourhoods during the next two weeks. Read more…
How a town rallied around a quarantined oil tanker off the Cape Breton coast
People in Port Hawkesbury, N.S., have rallied together to make sure crew members of a ship quarantined just off the Cape Breton coast are comfortable while they wait to restart their journey. Read more…
N.S. announces “near full-lockdown” for Halifax area as COVID-19 cases climb
Nova Scotia’s premier has announced tighter restrictions in the Halifax area and some surrounding communities in order to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Read more…
How London hopes to cover $58M in COVID-related costs in 2021
The pandemic will take another massive bite out of London’s budget this year, and the options to fill the financial hole are limited. Read more…
Jasper restaurants find relief with sidewalk seating
The Municipality of Jasper has allowed sidewalk seating earlier than expected due to the province banning indoor dining earlier this month. Read more…
April 22
City of Winnipeg steps toward open summer streets for cyclists
The City of Winnipeg could offer even more open streets for cyclists this year, but it’s unclear if it will find a way to reopen them to pedestrians. Read more…
Calgary actually posted $219M surplus in 2020, city says
The day after posting a $98-million surplus, the City of Calgary says the number it saved last year is actually much higher – $219 million. Read more…
Ottawa’s Paint It Up! program embarks on a “totally COVID” year
Paint It Up! Ottawa, an arts program jointly funded by the City of Ottawa and Crime Prevention Ottawa to encourage youth-led mural projects, is gearing up for its first full-year venture during the pandemic. Read more…
Edmonton earmarks $12M in 2021 for COVID-19 projects
Edmonton will spend $12 million this year on COVID-19 specific initiatives to help the city cope with the pandemic, city council agreed Wednesday. Read more…
Bylaw banning plastic bags in Regina still a year away due to COVID
COVID-19 has messed up an untold number of plans, including the rollout of the City of Regina’s ban on single-use plastics. Read more…
April 21
All 13 Edmonton region municipalities commit to joint COVID-19 recovery
All 13 municipalities in the Edmonton area have signed on to create a new collaborative initiative to advance economic growth in the region and rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Ottawa mayor objects to solicitor general quoting him on border closures
Ottawa’s mayor is looking to set the record straight after his words were used in Ontario’s legislature to defend the provincial border checkpoints – a COVID-19 measure he’s been outspoken against in the past. Read more…
City of Calgary finished 2020 with a $98M cash surplus
After a year of hand-wringing that it might wind up with a deficit, the City of Calgary finished 2020 with a cash surplus of $98 million. Read more…
Costs for upgrades to Winnipeg’s sewage plants rise by $81.5M
Two major City of Winnipeg waste projects have blown past their budgets as the pandemic affects bidding and a contractor struggles to meet deadlines, according to a briefing presented to the city’s finance committee. Read more…
Despite pandemic, business licence list grows in Kamloops
The city’s active business licences continued to rise last year, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, and home-based businesses now make up a third of such licences. Read more…
April 20
Federal budget will help Montreal’s post-pandemic recovery, city says
The City of Montreal is giving its seal of approval to the federal government’s 2021-2022 budget tabled Monday afternoon by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Read more…
Federal budget doesn’t go far enough to help Calgary, city’s mayor says
The first federal budget in more than two years aims to pull Canada through the pandemic, but doesn’t go far enough to help Calgary’s post-COVID recovery, Mayor Naheed Nenshi said Monday. Read more…
Ottawa mayor slams border checkpoints, says they won’t last the week
Ottawa’s mayor says he doesn’t think police border checkpoints on the interprovincial crossings between Gatineau and Ottawa will last the week, slamming them as “impractical and unnecessary.” Read more…
Prince Albert Mayor warns future “Freedom” rally organizers will face charges
Prince Albert Mayor Greg Dionne says he is very disappointed in the people who organized and took part in a rally outside Court of Queen’s Bench on Saturday. Read more…
London fines people as it cracks down on public gatherings, organized events
Two women have been handed tickets by the City of London after organizing a protest in March where hundreds of people were seen flouting public health measures to protest the provincial health measures. Read more…
B.C. will soon restrict non-essential travel outside of health regions
The provincial government is working on regulations that will restrict the non-essential travel of British Columbians outside their own health regions. Read more…
April 19
Banff council declines bringing COVID-19 rapid-testing pilot to town
Banff will not pilot a municipality-wide COVID-19 rapid-testing program after the town’s council voted against the proposal 4–3 on April 12. Read more…
Large gatherings prompt mayor to contact police chief about enforcement
With beautiful weather comes beach days in Vancouver and Kitsilano Beach was a hotspot this weekend, with people taking soaking up the sun on the first hot days of the year. Read more…
Southwestern Ontario city’s mayor blasts protesters who targeted his home
Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis says he regrets running for public office after protesters took their anti-lockdown messages to his home this weekend. Read more…
Border checkpoints go into effect between Quebec and Ontario
Police checkpoints were set up Monday morning on both sides of the Quebec/Ontario border to limit non-essential travel between the two provinces. Read more…
April 16
Petition to remove Taber’s mask bylaw legally “not sufficient”
A petition signed by 528 people asked the Town of Taber to rescind its Temporary Mandatory Mask Bylaw. In the end, the petition was deemed “not sufficient” under the regulations of the Municipal Government Act. Read more…
Health minister urges Iqaluit residents not to hoard as city enters lockdown
Despite the mostly calm response of Iqaluit residents to the COVID-19 imposed lockdown, some early pandemic habits have returned. Read more…
Kincardine to close municipal facilities for a few days
In addition to the existing closures, and to protect staff, council, and the community, the Municipality of Kincardine has decided to close all municipal facilities until Monday April 19, at the earliest. Read more…
Council pens open letter to COVID-19 lockdown protesters
Barrie city council has penned an open letter to people who are planning on attending an in-person demonstration on Saturday that protests the province-wide COVID-19 lockdown. Read more…
Mississauga boxing gym remains open as city pursues maximum fine
Huf Gym in Mississauga is set to stay open in defiance of provincial lockdown for the third straight day, despite mayor Bonnie Crombie’s announcement Wednesday that the city would pursue the heftiest fines possible under the Reopening Ontario Act. Read more…
NCC opening up Ottawa parkways for active use as city plans park restrictions
The National Capital Commission is opening up its parkways in Ottawa for pedestrians and cyclists even as the city hammers out the details of new COVID-19 restrictions coming to municipal parks. Read more…
Drouin hoping latest restrictions will help Montreal avoid lockdown
Montreal’s top health official said she’s hopeful the latest round of COVID-19 restrictions will help the city steer clear of another full lockdown over the coming weeks. Read more…
Saskatoon hits “tipping point” with COVID-19 variants
Civic leaders in Saskatoon are urging people to renew efforts to work from home and limit social interaction as COVID-19 variant cases climb in the city. Read more…
April 15
Halifax restaurants receive $40,000 break from patio fees
Restaurant owners who plan to operate their patios or sidewalk cafes this sunny season just got a fee break from the Halifax Regional Municipality. Read more…
No blanket curfew for City of Ottawa parks, but some could start closing early
The City of Ottawa won’t pursue a uniform 8 p.m. closing time for its parks, but “certain problematic parks” could be closed by 9 p.m. or earlier if the local councillor approves. Read more…
Calgary seeing surge in demand for pop-up patios, with indoor dining ban
The current ban on indoor dining has some Calgary restaurant owners rushing to set up an outdoor space. The city has received 140 applications for patio permits on top of the 70 requests already approved. Read more…
First case of COVID-19 confirmed in Iqaluit as city locks down
Nunavut has confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Iqaluit, the territory’s largest community. All non-essential businesses, government offices, and schools in Iqaluit are being closed. Read more…
Mayor John Tory nixes Toronto COVID curfew
Mayor John Tory said he has no plans to follow the lead of his counterpart in Ottawa, Mayor Jim Watson, who called for an 8 p.m. curfew in city parks after reports of large gatherings over the weekend. Read more…
April 14
Vancouver pushes province to prioritize police, firefighters COVID vaccine
Police and firefighters in Surrey and White Rock are being vaccinated against COVID-19, but the same can’t be said for their counterparts in Vancouver. Read more…
West Lincoln mayor removed from emergency ops post after COVID-19 protest
The mayor of West Lincoln has lost his seat on the city’s emergency operations centre after council removed him from the position following his participation in an anti-COVID-19 lockdown protest. Read more..
Moncton launches survey to make city more inviting for cyclists, pedestrians
The City of Moncton has posted an active transportation survey on its website as it looks for ways to make navigating the city more attractive to cyclists and pedestrians. Read more…
City of Ottawa eyeing 8 p.m. curfew in parks
The City of Ottawa is looking at imposing an 8 p.m. curfew in city parks after concerns about crowding last weekend during the provincial stay-at-home order. Read more…
Quebec City opened an overnight COVID-19 vaccine clinic
Quebec City has done what Toronto says is not yet possible – opened an overnight clinic to get more people vaccinated. Read more…
Surrey officers, city to ensure locals follow COVID rules as warm weather arrives
City officials say they don’t want to see B.C.’s pandemic hot zone get any worse just because of warmer weather and so RCMP, bylaw officers, and park ambassadors will be out in full force patrolling Surrey parks and beaches. Read more…
Burlington calls for kindness to city staff: “We are all human”
The City of Burlington has issued a call for civility in a statement that recognized the stress new COVID-19 restrictions have placed on residents, while adding that doesn’t mean people should stop being considerate. Read more…
April 13
Montreal mayor calls destructive protests against COVID-19 curfew “stupid”
Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante condemned an anti-curfew protest that turned violent on Sunday, telling reporters what happened was “not acceptable” and describing the vandalism as “ridiculous” and “stupid.” Read more…
City of Cold Lake to allow temporary outdoor dining
The City of Cold Lake will allow temporary outdoor dining areas in an effort to ease the stress placed on restaurants by the COVID-19 restrictions. Read more…
COVID-19’s toll leaving firefighting in the city understaffed
COVID-19 infections and isolations are stretching the capabilities of Calgary firefighters, who need to be prioritized for vaccinations, according to their union and city officials. Read more…
Winnipeg considers extending active transportation routes, without pedestrians
More routes could be opened for active transportation in Winnipeg this summer, but those streets may not include pedestrians. Read more…
Fort St. John to apply for funding to address pandemic impacts
The City of Fort St. John is applying for COVID-19 Restart Funding to address homelessness and other community impacts due to the pandemic. Read more…
City of Prince Albert asks public to follow COVID-19 protocols at playgrounds
The City of Prince Albert asked visitors to playgrounds, parks, and outdoor facilities to respect the COVID-19 restrictions that are in place or outdoor facilities could be shut down. Read more…
April 12
New Brunswick suspends municipal elections in lockdown areas
New Brunswick’s municipal elections, scheduled for May 10 after being postponed last year due to the pandemic, are being put on hold in some northwest regions that are under lockdown. Read more…
Ajax mayor reaching out to address vaccine hesitancy
In an attempt to combat hesitancy around the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, Ajax Mayor Shaun Collier is holding a series of Live w/ Mayor Talks throughout April. Read more…
Expansion of high-speed internet not speedy enough, say rural Nova Scotians
With many people working from home and moving to Nova Scotia for remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic, some say high-speed internet services can’t come fast enough. Read more…
City of Red Deer expedites patio process for desperate restaurants
In an effort to offer immediate assistance to businesses, the City of Red Deer is modifying its processes to allow for installation of patios prior to permits being issued. Read more….
Is COVID-19 pushing Canadians away from the big cities?
The pandemic has triggered a record surge in Canadians leaving the big cities in favour of suburbs and small towns where house prices are more affordable, recent figures from Statistics Canada has shown. Read more…
City of Brooks helping restaurants establish patios amid restrictions
The City of Brooks is lending a hand to help local restaurants generate revenue while still complying with the latest restrictions that ban indoor dining. Read more…
Vancouver to temporarily close streets to encourage active transportation
The City of Vancouver will be closing the streets in front of three elementary schools starting Monday to encourage parents to use active transportation to pick up and drop off their children. Read more…
Montreal mayor issues 500 day challenge to revive city’s economy
Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante has a challenge for the city’s residents: to take 500 days to revive the city from the economic devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
April 9
Guelph may revoke licenses of businesses that repeatedly ignore shutdown
The City of Guelph said it could consider revoking business licences of those that repeatedly disobey the provincial shutdown order, but only as a last resort. Read more…
Nova Scotia updates several municipal government operating regulations
Spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nova Scotia is revamping the way municipal governments can operate, introducing amendments to the Municipal Government Act and the Halifax Regional Municipality charter. Read more…
Construction on Hamilton Health Sciences field hospital to start next week
The CEO of Hamilton Health Sciences says the hospital network is moving forward with its temporary field hospital. Read more…
Wastewater data suggests COVID-19 cases to soon reach record highs in London
Researchers say wastewater surveillance in London suggests COVID-19 case counts in the coming week will be equivalent to what was seen at the peak of the pandemic’s second wave. Read more…
Kamloops looks at helping businesses with vandalism, graffiti repair
The City of Kamloops is exploring the idea of helping local businesses impacted by vandalism and graffiti during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Quebec extends lockdown in COVID-19 hot spots
Quebec Premier François Legault announced an extension of emergency measures in the cities of Gatineau, Lévis, Quebec City, as well as the Beauce region, after a spike in new COVID-19 cases. Read more…
Toronto lowering COVID-19 vaccine age eligibility to 50 in hot spots Friday
The City of Toronto says that residents 50 years old and over living in all hot spot neighbourhoods in the city will be able to book an appointment to receive a COVID-19 vaccine shot starting Friday morning. Read more…
Downtown Vancouver office vacancy rate exceeds level of 2008 financial crisis
Downtown Vancouver’s office vacancy rate is currently at 6.7 percent, putting it above the peak levels that followed the global financial crisis in 2008 when many companies let go of their prime office space. Read more…
April 8
Venezuelan mayor marks homes of COVID patients with red symbol
A mayor in central Venezuela has begun placing red warning symbols on the homes of people with COVID-19 and also threatened to cut welfare handouts for those breaking quarantine. Read more…
Staff recommends Saskatoon use reserves to cover fiscal year-end deficit
Saskatoon city administration is recommending council use funds from reserves to cover a year-end budget deficit for 2020 at just over $700,000. Read more…
City of Grande Prairie reminds restaurant owners of COVID-19 grants
City Hall is reminding restaurant owners they can take advantage of grants offered under the City of Grande Prairie’s Economic Recovery Program. Read more…
April 7
Ontario to enact month-long stay-at-home order beginning Thursday: sources
The Ford government is set to announce a provincewide, month-long stay-at-home order today similar to what was enacted in January in a bid to stem the third wave of COVID-19, multiple sources say. Read more…
Weyburn city council back to Zoom due to COVID
Weyburn city council will be holding its April 12 meeting at its regular time of 5 p.m. via Zoom, due to increased COVID-19 and variant of concern cases in the community and surrounding area. Read more…
Quebec tightens COVID-19 restrictions in Montreal two weeks after easing them
Less than two weeks after easing restrictions, Quebec is reversing its decision to reopen gyms and high schools in the greater Montreal area. Read more…
April 6
Five more Quebec municipalities to enter lockdown
The mayor of a small town that was set to enter lockdown Monday night says the provincial government has been incoherent in its messaging on COVID-19 health orders. Read more…
Proposal to help restaurants pay for temporary patios withdrawn
Owen Sound council didn’t end up voting on a councillor’s proposal to provide matching grants to help downtown restaurants – hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic – with the cost of setting up temporary patios this summer. Read more…
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph public health to order temporary closure of schools
The medical officer of health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph has decided to order the temporary closure of schools in the region effective Wednesday amid a “troubling rise in cases of COVID-19 among children,” officials say. Read more…
City of Toronto will look at more “targeted approach” to vaccinate people: Tory
Vaccinating people in higher-risk neighbourhoods and workplaces, regardless of age, is a targeted approach the city should consider going forward, Toronto Mayor John Tory says. Read more…
Business licenses for two COVID rule-flouting Vancouver restaurants suspended
The City of Vancouver has suspended the business licenses for two restaurants for at least two weeks, after they defied COVID-19 related health orders. Read more…
April 1
Ontario heading back into lockdown starting on Saturday
Sources say the Ford government is triggering an Ontario-wide 28-day emergency break starting this Saturday, this in response to the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Read more…
Legault puts Quebec City, Lévis and Gatineau “on pause”
Premier François Legault slapped additional emergency COVID-19 restrictions on Quebec City, Lévis and Gatineau Wednesday, rolling the curfew back to 8 p.m. and closing non-essential businesses and schools until at least April 12. Read more…
Dawson Creek mayor asks for community-wide vaccinations
The mayor of Dawson Creek is calling on the Northern Health Authority to open a community-wide vaccination clinic to combat dramatically rising infection rates in the region. Read more…
City of Prince George to waive patio fees
In an effort to help local restaurants, cafes, and pubs as they transition to outdoor food services, the City of Prince George is waiving all fees associated with temporary permitting requirements for the use of outdoor patios. Read more…
Moose Jaw mayor urges discipline, NDP calls for tighter rules in zone
Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie urged residents to keep following COVID-19 restrictions a day after Saskatchewan’s chief medical health officer said the city was on “red alert.” Read more…
Future Air Canada flights to Regina could be affected by loss of control tower
Air Canada confirmed that if the Regina airport loses its air traffic control tower it will have an effect on the airline’s decision to send flights to the Queen City. Read more…