**CITY OF TIMMINS NEWS RELEASE**

At noon today, the City of Timmins declared a State of Emergency in accordance with Ontario’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

The City of Timmins, and its partners in public health are currently working very hard to protect the health and safety of all citizens in the municipality. Declaring a State of Emergency is an important measure in supporting the Province of Ontario to provide a swift response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A State of Emergency was declared for the following reasons:
– To raise public awareness regarding the gravity of the current pandemic situation,
– To protect volunteers that are called to assist, and
– To ensure the Corporation can quickly respond to other unforeseen events should they arise.

“By declaring a State of Emergency I want the community to understand that we are acting in their best interests, and to also ensure that operations within the municipality will continue to run smoothly,” said Mayor George Pirie. “Our Municipal Emergency Control Group is taking the best course of action to protect our most vulnerable citizens.”

Declaring a State of Emergency offers protection to volunteers and preserves the rights of the municipality for future support related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today’s decision is the latest step taken from the City of Timmins to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“Our emergency declaration was necessary based on the evaluation of the Emergency Control Group and will further aid the City of Timmins as we work with our community partners across public health and in government to coordinate emergency response efforts,” said Timmins Fire Chief and Emergency Management Program Coordinator Tom Laughren.

The City of Timmins would like to remind the community that City Hall remains closed to public access at this time, but essential and emergency services remain in place. City services may be accessed through Service Timmins at:
– Online Citizen Service Centre: https://service.timmins.ca
– Phone: 705-264-1331
– After-hours emergencies: 705-264-1201

Municipal employees are committed to ensuring citizens receive the most accurate and up-to-date information possible regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, and appreciate the public’s patience and understanding throughout this quickly-evolving situation. A page has been created, and is updated regularly, on the timmins.ca website, offering information from credible sources regarding services and public health information. Various links are also provided for businesses and individuals on how to manage and cope during these uncertain times.

Stay connected while staying apart!

Filed under: Local News