City of Courtenay Annual Report 2021 draft

COVID 19 AND CITY FACILITIES Gradual Reopening of City Facilities in July Following the move to Step 3 of BC’s Restart Plan on July 1, 2021, the City of Courtenay made plans for a phased reopening of facilities, in addition to improved or new virtual services implemented in response to COVID-19. City Hall, Public Works Services, and the Courtenay Fire Hall reopened to the public effective July 5. In-person cemetery administration services were available that same month. Residents and businesses were encouraged to continue accessing many City services from the convenience and comfort of home. Courtenay Council meetings increased options for public attendance in September, with in-person attendance once again available, and existing virtual options maintained. This “hybrid” model will give spectators, delegates, and members of Council the choice of attending virtually or in person. Council meetings moved to the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) Civic Room in October, with this larger space able to physically accommodate more people. Public Hearings remained virtual throughout 2021, with participation by telephone, web conferencing, or written submission. Courtenay Recreation Reopening Recreation facilities closed to the public on March 16, 2020. That summer, recreation facilities reopened with limited availability for program participants in compliance with Provincial Health Orders. In June 2021, Courtenay Recreation started making plans for the full re-opening of facilities and services with careful consideration for provincial orders and guidelines. An online survey was released that month to help staff better understand the priorities and comfort levels of patrons. The survey was completed by over 700 people, providing valuable feedback that informed decisions by Recreation staff. Facilities began reopening more fully starting in July and continued throughout the summer. A phased approach allowed staff to address capacity increases and operating changes. The following priority areas were identified for expansion of services and access: • Courtenay & District Memorial Outdoor Pool • Wellness Centre & Lewis Centre • Recreation Programs (drop-in fitness, Evergreen Club 55+ • The LINC Youth Centre

ORGANIZATIONAL AND GOVERNANCE EXCELLENCE

Courtenay Recreation and COVID Adaptations Throughout the year Public Health Orders were amended numerous times outlining which specific programs and activities were permitted, and associated physical distancing requirements. Recreation staff continuously monitored and adapted programs, facilities and service levels in accordance with Public Health updates. This required extensive planning on required cancellation of services, relocation of programs, and adjustments to participant numbers to meet distancing requirements. Courtenay Recreation also shifted to pre-registration only for drop-in programs such as the Wellness Centre, outdoor pool, and fitness. In summer 2021, Recreation staff continued adapting to Public Health Orders for mandatory masking and proof of vaccination in public facilities, including recreation centres. Effective August 25, all members of the public 12 & over were required to wear a mask in all public areas. (Masks could be removed while engaged in physical activity in a program or in the Wellness Centre.) Proof of vaccination took effect on September 13, with participants 12 years and over needing to show proof of one vaccine dose to take part in adult programs, parent and tot classes, fitness and the Wellness Centre. Participants in children and youth programs were not required to show vaccine proof. On October 24, participants were required to show proof of two vaccine doses. Mandatory masking and proof of vaccination were lifted by the Province in spring 2022.

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City of Courtenay | 2021 Annual Report