The City of Barrie is looking at legal options to help stop gatherings at Meridian Place.
The City notes that gatherings have taken place there contrary to the Provincial Stay-at-Home Order, provincial legislation and regulations, the City’s own COVID-19 Emergency Measures By-law, and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s public health guidelines.
A release from the City states that the people who’ve been seen attending are not practicing physical distancing, and for the most part, are not wearing masks or face coverings. These gatherings threaten efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the community and may place a further strain on the city’s already stretched healthcare system.
“While the gatherings remain subject to police enforcement with respect to the Provincial Stay-at-Home Order, provincial legislation, and regulations, the City is exploring all available actions to stop these gatherings, including possible court action for an injunction to restrain the organizers,” reads the release.
Barrie’s top priority continues to be the health and safety of Barrie residents and staff.
The City urges everyone to comply with Ontario’s Stay-at-Home Order, provincial legislation and regulations, the City’s COVID-19 Emergency Measures By-law, and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s public health guidelines.
The City release ends by stating that ‘we all have a role to play. Please stay home and save lives.’