As we look forward to the summer and the gradual re-opening of the Province, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the successes and positive changes from the last few months.
In terms of staffing, we are pleased to have been able to utilize flexible work hours, staggered shifts, working from home, and redeployment of staff so that the Town did not have to lay off any employees. Special thanks to union representatives of CUPE local 401 for their support, flexibility and dedication during these complex working times. Our staff have been working harder than ever, keeping the Town running at our usual high standard, while also following new procedures to ensure their safety and that of the community we work for. As a temporary measure, we have chosen not to hire student workers this year. Our students typically work in the summer months on beautification projects, however these projects have been scaled back and taken over by permanent staff, and although there may be fewer blooms on the street this year, our Town is still rich with natural beauty.
Despite COVID-19 throwing a wrench into most plans, the Town has managed to complete several large projects. Our airport renovation is now complete, which includes improvements to parking (new paved lot, with lighting, enhanced security, and pay station) and the terminal, which includes the Final Approach Restaurant. Memorial Avenue now has a multi-use pathway running from uptown to the waterfront, with a living wall, sound barriers, and drought-resistant plants. Line painting is underway throughout the Town, to ensure continued safety for all road users. Grandon Creek will reopen in June, after suffered extensive damage from the rains in February. Also, expect to see work on the roundabout at Memorial Avenue and Highway 19A in the coming months.
Our Emergency Management Oceanside (EMO) team have carried us through this pandemic with exceptional calm and sensibility. With months of hard work behind them, our EMO is now developing and implementing re-opening procedures, while also preparing for a second, or even third, wave of COVID-19 infections. Our EMO is also busy preparing for the wildfire season ahead. As a Council, and on behalf of the community, we extend our sincerest thanks to everyone at Emergency Management Oceanside for their dedication and hard work.
Local businesses have been developing re-opening plans and are excited to welcome back shoppers in a safe and measured way. We encourage everyone to shop local whenever possible, to lend your support to our local workforce friends and neighbours, many of whom have suffered losses in efforts to safeguard the health of the community. Remember to be patient and stay respectful as businesses navigate the inevitable hiccups associated with re-opening. Special thanks to our local Chamber of Commerce for their hard work behind the scenes ensuring consistent communication and the advancement of our local business interests.
Public dialogue has been a challenge but remains a priority for Council. The Town has been introducing alternative formats for meetings and is also working on different communication approaches for such things as our open houses and future public hearings. Please stay tuned for more in the weeks to come.
Many of our outdoor spaces and parks are now open for casual use, and we ask users to respect posted guidelines. Groups should be small (two to six people) and keep to the physical distance guidelines of two metres. Get active, enjoy the
warming weather, but stay safe.
On behalf of Council, Mayor Brian Wiese.
With the temporary closure of Town Hall during the COVID-19 Pandemic, residents have certainly risen to the challenge of making it work!
We have seen an excellent response to the alternative options available to pay taxes and utilities, and claim home owner grants. Please refer to the Noteworthy enclosed with your notices for details.
Below are some quick steps to help you claim your Home Owner Grant online, and to pay your bill via online banking.
How to Claim your Home Owner Grant Online
- Open the link here (also found on the front page of our website)
- Enter the Roll Number - found on the bottom tear off section of your Tax Notice (see pic below)
- Enter the Access Code - found just above the bottom tear off section of your Tax Notice (see pic below)
How to Pay your Property Tax & Utility Bills via Online Banking
If you are unsure about paying your bills through online banking, here are some videos that may be of assistance. Note that each bank is slightly different:
RBC - Add a payee - view here RBC - Pay a Bill on Mobile app - view here
To add the Town as a Payee, search using " Town of Qualicum " or " Qualicum Beach ". A separate Payee is available for Property Taxes and Utilities:
If you create a Payee for Property Taxes, use the Roll No as the account number.
If you create a Payee for Utilities, use the Account No. from your Utility Notice.
If you have trouble with online banking and require assistance, please call your bank directly.
Please refer to the Noteworthy enclosed with both your notices for other payment and Home Owner Grant options.
Facilities Open
Facilities Open
NEW Opening June 1 - Leigh House washrooms (downtown core) - 8am to 5pm
NEW Opening June 30 - Civic Centre (for bookings that meet the COVID criteria)
Beach Washrooms - 7am to 7pm
Veterans Way Washrooms - 7am to 5pm
Town Hall Parkade - 7am to 4pm Monday to Friday (closed Statutory Holidays)
Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course
Tennis Courts
Skateboard Park
Facilities that Remain Closed
Town Hall
BMX Park
Playgrounds
Beach shower facilities
Community Hall
Supporting Local
Below are some great links to help support local:
- Supporting Oceanside Businesses - a tool for all local businesses to outline their current services being offered. Created by the Chamber of Commerce.
- Open During COVID-19 - a directory of businesses that are open during COVID-19. Created by the Parksville and Qualicum Beach Tourism Association.
- Supporting Local Restaurants - a helpful quick find directory showing where you can eat during COVID-19. Created by Oceansidetakeout.ca
COVID-19 Information Sources
