UPDATE #20-12 COVID 19 - Boat Launches, Marina and Water Access Properties, Information
For Immediate Release
Algonquin Highlands, Ontario
Thursday, April 23, 2020
3:00 pm
Release # 20-12
Subject: Boat Launches, Marina and Water Access Properties, Information
This is a challenging time for everyone, including municipalities. Of the many operational issues facing the Township, the matters of boat launches and water access properties have proven the most confusing - and frustrating. Substantial time has been spent seeking clarity from the Province and from the OPP.
Below please find information on boat launches, marinas, water-access maintenance and where to find breaking news.
Boat Launches and Docks:
Boat launches remain open in Algonquin Highlands.
Contrary to ongoing debate, boat launches were not included in the list of recreational amenities required to be closed under the Provincial Order of March 30, 2020. Their closure remains the purview of each municipality.
There are two important notes on this:
- Last week, temporary signage with incorrect language was mistakenly put up at some AH boat launches and although those signs were removed within 24 hours, that erroneous message was widely shared.
- The Minden Times newspaper this week reports that boat launches are closed. This is incorrect - boat launches in Algonquin Highlands are open
Our apologies for the confusion.
New signs are coming that will remind users of appropriate COVID-19 related protocols remain in place.
The Township will continue to monitor the situation.
Marinas and Water Access Properties:
The Province of Ontario has deemed marinas nonessential unless the marina is "necessary to enable individuals to access their primary place of residence". While many consider their seasonal property to be 'home' there are actually less than 20 permanent addresses on water-access properties in Algonquin Highlands.
We understand from speaking with local marina operators that they're using driver's licenses to confirm residency in order to assist those they are permitted to serve, and the Township is unable to intervene on this or provide any special permissions that contravene the Provincial Order.
We also understand that various marina owners across the province are pressing the provincial government for modifications to this part of the Order; meantime, fines for breaching the Order are substantial and the public is asked to refrain from pressuring our local business owners to violate provincial direction.
Maintenance at Water Access Properties:
We are sympathetic to the many concerns about the need to check water-access properties however, the Township cannot supersede the Provincial Order by providing special permissions or escorted visits.
Those needing to check their properties but unable to get there due to the closure of marinas could consider contacting cottage care or property maintenance companies that may be able to assist within the Essential Business exclusions.
Where to Get Information
Accurate information has proven a challenge in fast-paced world of social media.
The Township’s Emergency Operations Group is in constant communication with our own MPP, Health Unit and OPP; and with the County and neighbouring municipalities. As such, we have the most accurate and up-to-date information about and for Algonquin Highlands property owners.
The public is asked to confirm information directly from the Township website before sharing it. The best way to keep up with the latest new by subscribing to News and Notices.
The public is also welcome to follow the Mayor’s page on Facebook.
You may also leave a message at the Township office at 705-489-2379 and your call will be returned as soon as possible or email [email protected] We appreciate your patience in potential delays.
These are trying times for everyone and various Provincial Orders have complicated or otherwise put a damper on all manner of things.
We value our relationship with lake associations and thank you for the important role you play in our community.
Please stay safe.
Once again, we thank the public for their understanding as we work toward keeping our community safe and healthy in this uncertain time.
Contact Information:
Jonathan Wilker
Fire Chief/CEMC
Township of Algonquin Highlands
1123 North Shore Road
Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J2
[email protected]
Dawn Newhook
Clerk/Emergency Information Officer
Township of Algonquin Highlands
[email protected]
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