March 30, 2020
An open letter to the community
As the situation with COVID-19 continues to disrupt our daily lives, we are all feeling the anxiety and uncertainty that accompanies this unprecedented situation. We have learned the importance of working together to tackle the challenges before us. Lakefront Utilities, an essential service provider, has implemented measures to ensure that our employees and our communities are safe during this crisis.
Here is how we are doing our part at Lakefront Utilities:
• We activated our Business Continuity Plan, which allows us to scale back our operations to focus on the safe and reliable delivery of core services to our customers;
• We are following all public health guidelines and a large number of our employees have been equipped with remote capabilities that allow them to work from home;
• We have adopted additional precautions to protect our front-line employees. Staff that are in the field are performing maintenance work but are taking special precautions so that we do not enter customer’s premises or occupied areas of vulnerable groups, in order to keep the public and our employees safe; and
• We have given our staff a wide range of options and discretion to conduct their work including video and Facetime meetings, offsite reviews at safe locations, and social distancing while onsite.
We know that this pandemic has caused economic hardship for many residential and small business customers. Hopefully, the recently announced reduction of the Time-of-Use rates will help. To further assist customers, Lakefront Utilities has suspended service disconnections on accounts that are in arrears and we will work closely with customers who require flexible payment plans during this difficult time. We are also offering several programs to help those struggling to pay their electricity bills: Electricity Support Program (OESP): https://ontarioelectricitysupport.ca/ Energy Assistance Programs: https://www.lakefrontutilities.com/?s=Low+income+energy+assistance+program
For our essential staff who remain in the field and in our facilities, I appreciate everything that you’re doing to keep the lights on and water safe. I know it’s difficult for you to leave your families during a crisis like this, so we’re doing everything we can to ensure your well-being.
I’m proud to lead Lakefront Utilities dedicated team of professionals and I am committed to prioritizing our employees’ safety as well as yours throughout the coming weeks. We will post any evolving news related to our business operations on the Lakefront Utilities website www.lakefrontutilities.com to keep you informed.
Finally, on behalf of Lakefront Utilities employees and board of directors, I would like to thank our doctors, nurses and emergency personnel for your tireless efforts in saving lives every day. You have our unwavering support.
Stay Safe. Stay Home. Let’s Come Together by Staying Apart.
Dereck Paul, CEO Lakefront Utilities
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
