Leamington has put a vaccine policy in place for anyone who plans to attend the municipality's rec centre after Labour Day.
Starting September 8, the Municipality of Leamington said all individuals 12 and up will have to confirm full COVID-19 vaccination, or a negative test result within 12 hours in order to have access to the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre.
Additionally, Leamington said every member or user of the facility must make an appointment prior to participating in any program or class through the municipality's online booking system.
"The Municipality of Leamington has the lowest vaccination rate in the County of Essex with approximately 56 per cent of our residents being fully vaccinated," said Chief Administrative Officer, Peter Neufeld. "We are taking these necessary precautions to try and eliminate the risk of COVID-19 in our facility to ensure the safety of our employees, guests and the broader community."
While the province has not yet officially confirmed a vaccine passport program, Leamington said a"user-friendly" way for users to show their proof of vaccination or negative test is currently in the works.
Mayor Hilda MacDonald said the new policy demonstrates how the municipality is committed to keeping the community safe.
"I continue to call on all eligible and unvaccinated residents to roll up their sleeves and do their part in helping to put this pandemic behind us," MacDonald said.
Municipal officials added more information about the reopening of the rec centre will be announced shortly. The community can subscribe to updates by visiting the Leamington website.