District of Oak Bay
News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2020

Closure of District of Oak Bay Municipal Facilities

Oak Bay, B.C. - In response to the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation, Municipal facilities will be closed to the public effective immediately. The District has made this decision based on available evidence-based expertise and recommendations from senior levels of government to slow the spread of COVID-19. Mayor Kevin Murdoch stated that “while there is still a low risk to individuals in our region, it’s important for the municipality to act to interrupt the potential spread of this disease.  This is intended to prevent the kinds of spikes seen in other jurisdictions like Italy”.

Staff are working to develop processes for alternate provision of Municipal services. Please be advised that our response time may be longer than usual during this transition phase.  While some services may be delayed or unavailable, we will work to reduce these service disruptions and provide regular updates as information becomes available.

All closures will be regularly reviewed to minimize the impact on our community members, balanced with the ongoing measures taken to protect public health. 

Please be reminded that child care services and spring break camps are anticipated to remain operational through March 20, 2020. In addition, the Transfer Station at the Public Works Yard remains open for recycling, garbage and garden waste drop-off. 

We apologize for any inconveniences that may be experienced during these extraordinary times and appreciate the public’s patience and understanding. If you have questions about services, please contact the appropriate department or facility.  Customer service contact information is available on the District’s website at https://www.oakbay.ca/municipal-hall/contacts.

Please be assured that while the physical buildings may be closed at this time, staff are working diligently to provide necessary services. The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) remains functional and staff are closely monitoring the evolving situation and adjusting the District’s response as necessary. 

Oak Bay is following the directions of the Federal and Provincial Governments, Island Health, and other authorities.  The District is committed to providing regular updates on the municipal website at www.oakbay.ca/covid-19 and on the District’s official social media accounts.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Information Officer
Emergency Operations Centre
eocinformation@oakbay.ca