Due to COVID-19 precautions, and in consultation with public health officials, the Town of Saugeen Shores will be closing further facilities to the public, including the Municipal office. Operations will continue during this time, and staff can be reached by telephone or email.

See also: Recreational programming and facility rentals cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns

In a March 17 media release, beginning Wednesday, March 18, the facilities listed below will be closed to the public until further notice. Staff will reassess closures on a regular basis. The additional municipal facilities that will be closed to the public are:

Municipal Office (600 Tomlinson Dr., Port Elgin)
Public Works facilities (339 Concession 6, Port Elgin and 429 Peel St., Southampton)
Saugeen Shores Fire Department (612 Emma St., Port Elgin and 50 Victoria St. S, Southampton)
Saugeen Shores Police Service (1240 MacKenzie Rd., Port Elgin)

The Southampton Landfill will remain open. No cash transactions will be permitted and debit tap will be the only accepted form of payment. The machine will be disinfected after each use. Staff will be practicing social distancing at these sites and will be encouraged to not come into contact with the public. Residents are encouraged to use curbside collection and to not bring tagged garbage to the landfill. Consider limiting trips to the landfill by maximizing loads.

Cemetery plot sales will continue via phone or email. For more information on cemetery services, please visit saugeenshores.ca/en/living-in-our-community/cemeteries.aspx or contact the Town at 519-832-2008.

“This situation is constantly evolving, but Town Council and staff are committed to delivering continued service while also helping to slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau.

Building Services will shift to partial digital operations. Building staff can process applications and building permits electronically, and will work with builders for scheduling inspections (virtual or in person, as required). For more information on digital building operations, please visit the Building Services webpage. If you have questions, please contact the Building Services by email building@saugeenshores.ca or phone 519-832-2008.

Taxes and other municipal payments can be paid by mail, the drop box at the Municipal Office, and through online or telephone banking. Payments will continue to be processed on a daily basis, and information for payment options can be found online. Please contact the Corporate Services Department if you have concerns about how to make your payments during this time.

We will continue to closely monitor information provided by the Grey Bruce Health Unit and will follow their guidance regarding facility status as this situation evolves.

Please remember that although the doors are closed to the public, staff are here to keep services running smoothly and to assist you in any way possible. Please do not hesitate to call or email us for assistance.

See also: Saugeen Shores Police Service releases statement concerning COVID-19