Libraries, pools shut but childcare’s open

Responding to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, Mayor Steve Christou reassured residents that the council’s essential services would continue to be delivered.
“Bins will be collected, our contact centre will remain open to answer the calls of our community,” he said.
“Important essential services such as Meals on Wheels will continue at this stage.
“Childcare services to continue operating as normal, and will be closely monitored in accordance with any determination made in relation to the closing of schools across NSW.”
Cr Christou said in line with new restrictions on non-essential gatherings of more than 100 people, the council had also cancelled events for Youth Week, Cumberland Reconciliation Day, the Ramadan Street Food Festival in May, the Fun 4 Kids ‘Warali Wali’ Naidoc event, Refugee Camp in My Neighbourhood and Anzac Day events.
“A decision will be made closer to the event date in relation to the Cherry Blossom Festival,” he said.
Other measures include the cancellation of citizenship ceremonies, suspension of the council-run Learn To Swim program and all bookings for the Holroyd Centre, Central Gardens, Holroyd Gardens and Auburn Botanic Gardens.
Cr Christou said capital works that had not already been committed, would also be postponed to offset the anticipated loss of revenue and council staff would work from home “where feasible”.
“I acknowledge these are drastic measures which will affect our community, but the health and safety of our staff and residents is absolutely our priority,” Cr Christou said.
Councillors also voted unanimously to give the mayor and the general manager the authority to “exercise the powers of council between meetings for any urgent or critical decisions” related to slowing the spread of Covid-19.