News release

For immediate release

Saanich reopens public service counters at municipal hall

Saanich, BC – Residents will soon have enhanced access to the Saanich Municipal Hall following a closure of more than four months as an initial response to COVID-19.

As of August 4, the municipal hall and annex will reopen to the public with counter services in the areas of Planning, Engineering, Building Inspections, Finance, Reception, Legislative Services, Recreation, Human Resources, Occupational Health and Safety and the Mayor’s Office.

“We are very pleased residents will once again be able to conduct their business in person at our services counters,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “We thank our residents for their patience during our initial response, and for their flexibility in using emails, the phone, mail in and the drop off. This excellent cooperation greatly aided our ability to maintain our services. Once you come into the hall and other facilities, please remember to use our ‘best Dr. Bonnie Henry’ manners for compliance with physical distancing.” 

Building access will be on a first-come first-serve basis via the parking lot entrance of the municipal hall. Visitors will be limited to a maximum of 11 people at a time and will be required to use hand sanitizer and wear a visitor badge when entering the facility. Providing public access will enhance customer service, however Saanich encourages the public to continue to access online services or make appointments if possible.

Plexi-glas protective barriers and other measures such as advisory and directional signage have been installed in all public areas and at all service counters for the health and safety of staff and the public. Saanich asks that you do not visit a municipal facility if you:

• Have any of the following symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • New or worsening cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • New muscle aches or headache
  • Sore throat
  • Have travelled outside of Canada within the last 14 days
  • Are a close contact of a person who tested positive for COVID-19

Saanich’s safety protocols were developed based on guidelines and requirements from the Provincial Health Officer, BC Centre for Disease Control, WorkSafe BC, and Vancouver Island Health Authority. Saanich closed all municipal facilities to the public March 19 to minimize the risk related to COVID-19.

Services at Saanich’s Parks and Public Works Yard continue to be available by appointment only. The yard and garden waste drop off is open with modified hours:

• Monday - 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Tuesday - 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Wednesday - closed
• Thursday - closed
• Friday - 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
• Saturday - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Sunday – closed

Saanich recreation centres are offering some services as they gradually reopen to the public. Visit saanich.ca/recreation for a detailed listing of what services are available at each centre and the relevant safety protocols.

Learn more:

Visit saanich.ca/COVID-19 to find appointment information, facility safety plans and the most up-to-date information as Saanich resumes services and reopens facilities.

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Media contact:
Paul Thorkelsson
Chief Administrative Officer
250-475-5405
paul.thorkelsson@saanich.ca