Our local municipal governments are taking extra steps during the COVID-19 pandemic to help keep people safe and minimize the spread of the virus.

The RM of Ritchot has announced that all of its outdoor recreation facilities are closed, including basketball courts, outdoor rinks, sports fields, and outdoor gyms. Playgrounds and indoor recreation facilities have already been closed for some time.

“Open spaces and trails in municipal parks remain open for people to get outdoors while maintaining the required physical distance,” reads a statement from the municipality. “Public health advice is very clear: when people are outside their homes, they must maintain a physical distance of at least two meters.”

The municipal office at 352 Main Street in St. Adolphe is closed until further notice. If residents needs to get in touch with the RM, they are encouraged to call and leave a voicemail (204-883-2293) or email (info@ritchot.com) with any questions. Municipal staff have access to their emails and landlines remotely at this time.

In Niverville, the municipal office at 329 Bronstone Drive is closed to the public, although town staff are continuing to work their usual hours. Town residents should reach out by phone (204-388-4600) or by email (feedback@whereyoubelong.ca).

All recreation programming in Niverville has been cancelled until further notice, and facilities such as the arena and curling rink are closed until at least April 30.

Niverville’s council has said that regularly scheduled council meetings are still taking place at the Heritage Centre. Should residents wish to weigh in on public hearings, they are asked to do so in advance by email (planning@whereyoubelong.ca).

Both Niverville and Ritchot are advising its residents to make bill payments through online means if possible.