Rec centre requires proof of vaccine or negative test

LEAMINGTON — The Municipality of Leamington is looking forward to welcoming members and guests back to the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre (NFFRC) on Wednesday, September 8, with a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination/rapid test policy in place.

Beginning September 8, 2021, the Municipality will require individuals, 12 years of age and older, to confirm full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result within 12 hours in order to gain access to the facility.

The municipality will also require that every member or user of the facility make an appointment to participate in any program or class through the municipality’s online booking system. These requirements will be in addition to other COVID-19 pre-screening protocols.

“The Municipality of Leamington has the lowest vaccination rate in the County of Essex with approximately 56% of our residents being fully vaccinated,” said Peter Neufeld, Chief Administrative Officer. “We are taking these necessary precautions to try and eliminate the risk of COVID-19 in our facility to ensure the safety of our employees, guests and the broader community.”

“We are committed to doing what it takes to keep our community safe and this policy demonstrates just that,” said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. “I continue to call on all eligible and unvaccinated residents to roll up their sleeves and do their part in helping to put this pandemic behind us.”

With the lack of a digital tool/electronic vaccine passport program available through government agencies, the municipality is currently developing a process for users to show proof of vaccination or negative test that is both secure and user-friendly.

More information regarding the reopening of the NFFRC will be forthcoming. Please sign up at leamington.ca/subscribe to receive information and updates on the reopening of the facility.