Sarnia council has endorsed a plan for the reopening of pools and rinks as early as next month, and for the full opening of all sports fields and parks.
At council's virtual meeting Monday, councillors supported hiring plans at Canatara Beach, at Tecumseh Pool and Splash Pad and at city arenas.
Councillor Bill Dennis said reopening the facilities has always been about mental health to him.
"I feel strongly that these current staff recommendations will help overall with the mental health issues in our community related to COVID," said Dennis. "I would hope that we can also assist with the soccer community's needs as well, with respect to fields."
As part of the recommendations passed Monday, lifeguards will be hired at Canatara Beach, and staff brought on so the pool and splash pad are ready to reopen as early as August 1.
City arenas would reopen in a phased approach starting as early as August 4.
Councillor Mike Stark asked if the city's liability insurance would cover COVID-19 infection claims.
"At this point in time we don't have a specific COVID-19 claim exemption, but we can verify and get back to council on the fact that if a pandemic was declared would that have affected our insurance specific uses," said Director of Legal and Property Services Sutheat Tim.
Mayor Mike Bradley said numerous groups have been denied coverage making claims under COVID.