Sables-Spanish Rivers Township council knows some of their ratepayers will be disappointed, but the members feel they have no choice but to postpone the Clean-Up Days originally set for May.
At Wednesday’s council meeting, many members expressed concerns with the tight restrictions imposed by the Government of Ontario in regards to the stay-at-home order and the state of emergency, which will be in place until at least May 20th.
Councillor Kevin Burke says under the orders, the township should not be encouraging the public to leave their homes to dispose of their garbage, putting them at risk.
He says the township could be held liable by allowing the movement of people through the township, and his fellow councillors agreed.
Council has decided to cancel its Clean-Up Days originally scheduled for the second and third weekends in May until June. pointing out they could be postponed again depending on the COVID-19 protocols.
Council did point out the Household Hazardous Waste Day, a joint endeavour with the Town of Espanola, Township of Nairn & Hyman, Township of Baldwin and Sables-Spanish, will still be held because it meets the protocols as a drive-through where ratepayers are not getting out of their cars.
Ratepayers from all four municipalities can drive to the Public Works garage in Espanola to dispose of their hazardous waste products, such as oils, paints, cleansers and more.
Household Hazardous Waste Day is set for this Saturday, May 1st.