SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — SUMMERSIDE – The City of Summerside is increasing its efforts to flatten the curve of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic by closing city hall and limiting staff interactions with the public until further notice.
The city announced Tuesday afternoon that as of the end of the day, city hall, all Culture Summerside and Municipal Services offices will close to the public. The city had previously closed Credit Union Place.
Summerside Mayor Basil Stewart commended city staff on their work during this difficult time and asked the public for their understanding and patience as the municipality does as much as it can to help keep people safe.
“Everything is being done here in Summerside that is supposed to be done,” said Stewart.
“We thank everybody for co-operating. We’ll get through this. We’re not exactly sure when, and this is uncharted waters for all of us, not only for the municipality but the country and the world.”
Because of the city office closures, residents will no longer be able to make their utility payments in person. The city is asking for the bills to be paid online through the city’s website, www.summerside.ca, through their preferred banking institution, by dropping off a cheque in the city’s secure mailbox at city hall or via direct billing as normal.
The city has also said that penalty charges on late utility bills will not be accrued for at least the next four weeks.
Anyone requiring a connection or disconnection of utility service is asked to call 902-432-1230 or email [email protected].
Permit applications will be handled on a case-by-case basis and vetted through staff. Requests can be made by calling 902-432-1262 or following the online submission portal found on the city’s website.
For any questions or general inquiries relating to city hall needs, residents are asked to email [email protected] or call 902-432-1230 during regular business hours.
The city has also pointed out that even though people should keep a distance between each other, it is still OK for people who are social-distancing themselves to participate in outdoor activities like fat-biking, walking and skating. To that end, city trails continue to be groomed and outdoor facilities maintained.
“We all play a role in this,” said Deputy Mayor Norma McColeman.
“But I think we’re all on board to try and get through this together.”
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