As Windsor is allowed to move to Stage 2 of re-opening, Mayor Drew Dilkens is urging businesses and residents do so responsibly.
"There will be jubilation amongst the business community that there is a pathway forward for them to open. Of course, it will be slow and deliberate. But that's ok, as long as we see some traction, some positive momentum which this move does. I think we're willing to follow the rules with masks, and all the appropriate PPE and restrictions that will be in place," said Dilkens. "There will be positive momentum, there will be excitement in the community amongst folks who can actually get out and sit on a patio. And as long as we do this reasonably and responsibly, we'll position ourselves to move to Stage 3 at some point in the future."
As part of Stage 2, personal care services like hair salons and day spas can reopen, restaurants can open outdoor dining areas, and breweries and wineries can operate tastings and tours. A full breakdown of the businesses allowed to reopen can be found on the Ontario government website.
Dilkens said council plans to move quickly and reduce red tape to allow restaurants to open patios where ever possible.
"If there is a way for us to be supportive of a business who wants to set up a patio and a way for us to expedite that to happen, in a place that is fair and reasonable, we want to be part of that solution. We want to help support them do that," said Dilkens.
Revamping of other city services is also under development including offering limited day camps.
"We are going to operate as expediently as possible, as practically as possible to make sure that we are addressing the demands that we see in the city and responding appropriately to the services people want to see," said Dilkens.
Transit Windsor services will be monitored as businesses reopen. Currently, the service is set to operate on a Sunday schedule with limited passengers until the end of July.
"We certainly want to be responsive so as we see businesses open and pressure build in the system based on ridership we will look at how we can scale up the system to be more responsive," said Dilkens.
Dilkens said he will continue to fight for the region and be a voice to ensure farms in Leamington and Kingsville get the support they need so the entire region's economy can reopen.
