Chatham-Kent has launched its own tip line to report illegal and unsafe public activity during the COVID-19 crisis.
Residents who have concerns about open non-essential businesses, unlawful use of public playgrounds, or illegal social gatherings of more than five people can now report their concerns by phone or email.
The provincial government issued new emergency orders on March 24 prohibiting the operation of non-essential businesses and organized public events and social gatherings of more than five people. The government has also closed outdoor recreational facilities.
“Our hope is that there are minimal calls into the line as people are obeying the orders which help protect their own and others’ health," said John Norton, General Manager of Community Development. “But in the event this is not happening, enforcement officers will have the ability to lay fines to ensure compliance of the provincial and municipal closures."
The public can call 519-360-1998, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email Covid19enforcement@chatham-kent.ca to report illegal activity across the municipality.
Enforcement officers will investigate concerns surrounding non-essential businesses that are not closed, the unlawful use of all municipally-owned playground equipment, including publicly owned basketball and tennis courts, picnic areas, dog parks, community gardens, park shelters, and BMX and skate parks, social gatherings where there are more than five people with the exception of funerals which are allowed to take place with up to 10 people in attendance. Boat ramps and boat launches within the municipality remain open at this time.
Chatham-Kent Police Chief Gary Conn is pleased to learn that the enforcement email and phone line is open because it will ease the volume of people calling 9-1-1 to complain about violations and will keep it free for emergencies.
A full list of closures can be found here.