Many municipalities in the province are continuing with their COVID-19 vaccine mandates for their staff even as proof-of-vaccination requirements at community facilities have been lifted.
St. Thomas city manager Sandra Datars-Bere advises such is the case for city hall employees for the time being.
The City of St. Thomas adopted its vaccine mandates for municipal employees in November of last year to address the risks and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. It applies to all members of council and committee appointments, active city employees, volunteers and students.
In her report to city council at the time, Sandra Schulz, Director of Human Resources, indicated “The policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as new information, data, and public health guidance is shared.”
Datars-Bere notes the mandate does still include new employees.
She adds, the COVID-19 state of emergency declared in St. Thomas two years ago this month will also remain in place for the time being.
The order was issued by Mayor Joe Preston in conjunction with Elgin County Warden Dave Mennill.
A decision that wasn’t taken lightly, says Preston. He stressed at the time, “This is a clear call to action, we have to pay attention right now.”
Written by: Ian McCallum
