ARNPRIOR – The Town of Arnprior has closed four public buildings to help mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19.

“The Town of Arnprior and the Emergency Management Team continues to work closely with the Renfrew County Health Unit and community partners to monitor the COVID-19 virus (coronavirus) and respond appropriately,” the town released in a statement today (March 13). “For the most up-to-date information and news, please visit the Ontario Ministry of Health website here.”

Residents are encouraged to follow the guidance and protocols of local experts in Public Health. The town is taking actions to help protect the health of our community and prevent the spread of the virus.

“Effective immediately the Nick Smith Centre, the Arnprior and District Museum, the Arnprior Library and the Stanley Tourangeau Fire Services Building are closed to the public until further notice,” town staff said. “All programing including exhibits, drop-in programs and March Break programs are cancelled. All essential services will continue to be offered and Town Hall remains open to assist residents in person at reception. Staff at any facility can be contacted by phone or e-mail for assistance or questions.”

The closure of the Nick Smith Centre has effectively cancelled a provincial broomball championship that was scheduled to take place at the facility this weekend (March 14).

Please find contact information on the Town of Arnprior website’s contact us page.

Due to the closure of the Nick Smith Centre, spring program registration has been postponed from March 16 until further notice.

“If you or a family member suspect you have symptoms of COVID-19, please self-isolate and contact the Renfrew County District Health Unit at 613-735-8653 ext. 555 as soon as possible,” town staff said. “We appreciate your cooperation and understand as we work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Please monitor www.arnprior.ca or the Arnprior App for updates.”

In West Carleton most events currently remain unaffected but an Irish Stew Dinner in Fitzroy Harbour on March 17 and Light Up Dunrobin’s spring vendor sale April 18 have cancelled their events due to coronavirus concerns.