Burlington Real Estate Blog

Stage Three Of Reopening Begins July 24th

This is big news, Burlington is entering into stage three of reopening on July 24th. As we enter into this new normal we want to stay positive and know that we are still working together to make it through this unprecedented time. Let’s look at some of the new bylaws and restrictions in place, and some of the new loosening of rules.

Gathering limits have now increased for both outdoor and indoor gatherings. However, they are still subject to social distancing. Nearly all businesses and public spaces will be able to gradually reopen, with public health and workplace safety measures in place.

Remember to keep in mind that some high-risk venues and activities will remain closed for now, until it’s safe to reopen them. Also, in keeping with the gradual reopening approach, Ontario will continue to monitor key public health indicators and some stage three restrictions.

What Does Stage Three Mean To You

This is another significant step toward fully restoring the economy and the Ontario government wants to make sure that we do this in the safest way. Stage three has more restrictions eased with almost all businesses and public spaces reopen.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health, public health experts and other health officials have advised the following high-risk places and activities remain closed for the time being.

• Amusement parks and water parks
• Buffet-style food services
• Clubs and bars,
• Overnight summer camps
• Private Karaoke rooms
• Prolonged or deliberate contact sports
• Saunas, steam rooms, bath houses and oxygen bars
• Table games at casinos and gaming establishments

Go Transit

Taking public transit is going to have some adjustments, the major one is that wearing a face covering or non-medical face mask is now required at all times. Metorlinx has expanded it’s safety and cleaning measures and launched a safety kiosk at the Burlington Go Station.

Face Covering Bylaw

We want to make sure that we keep our loved ones safe, and wearing a face mask or face covering is the way to help stop the spread. Burlington City Council approved a bylaw that makes wearing a mask or face covering mandatory in all enclosed public spaces as of July 24th. Halton Region put a similar bylaw in place, it too effect on July 22nd.

The Burlington bylaw will in effect until September 30th 2020, unless it’s extended or revoked by city council. This new bylaw applies to all indoor public spaces that are openly accessible to the public, including:

• Retail stores
• Convenience stores
• Malls and shopping plazas
• Grocery stores, bakeries, farmer’s markets (enclosed areas)
• Restaurants and bars (when permitted to open indoor service)
• Indoor recreational facilities (unless exempt)
• Libraries
• Community centres
• Community service agencies
• Personal service settings
• Churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and faith settings
• Art galleries and museums
• Banquet halls, convention centres and arenas
• Real estate facilities such as open houses and presentation centres
• Common areas in hotels, motels and short-term rentals (lobbies, elevators, meeting rooms, etc)
• Entertainment facilities including concert venues, theatres and cinemas
• Business offices that are open to the public

Back To School

Finally we can talk about what will be happening in the fall. Ontario wants to ensure that all 2 million students in 5,000 publicly funded schools can go back in September. The Ministry of Education released a safety plan and school boards are working hard to prepare their own plans. All plans will be submitted to the Ministry by August 4th. Once approved boards will inform parents.

Joesph Brant Drive-Thru Testing

It should be mentioned that Joesph Brant Hospital has now opened a drive-thru COVID-19 testing. This is in effort to continue to keep the public safe. The clinic is dedicated to testing individuals that are not experiencing any symptoms, but are worried they have been exposed.

The testing is located on the Joesph Brant grounds and will be open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm. This service is by appointment only, so make sure you make an appointment before showing up.

Contact Lori VanDinther and Team Today

We have been through a lot as both a local community and a world wide community. If we continue to take the right steps and follow the new bylaw, we know that we will continue to make it through this extraordinary time. Of course the real estate industry has also continued to move forward and we continue to help clients find their dream home.

If you’re looking for more information about market up dates related to COVID-19, Lori will be happy to help answer those questions as well. Or you might be looking to put your property on the market, please contact Lori and her team and they’ll be happy to help.