In response to new provincial health requirements announced in late October under Alberta’s Restrictions Exemption Program, and in consultation with public health officials, the Town of Ponoka will be implementing the following changes at its indoor recreation facilities.
Beginning on Monday, November 15, when entering the Ponoka Aquaplex and the Ponoka Arena Complex, spectators aged 12 and older will be required to show one of the following:
- Proof of vaccination (a valid QR code showing the individual has received the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or a single dose of the Janssen vaccine at least 14 days prior to attending the facility.
- Proof of a privately-paid negative rapid test result issued within 72 hours before attending the facility; or
- Valid documentation showing proof of a medical exemption (an original signed letter from a physician or nurse practitioner).
These new changes will also apply to private bookings at the Hudson’s Green Nature and Activity Centre.
“This was not an easy decision for council to make, but as a municipality, the town is required to follow all provincial health regulations and requirements,” said Ponoka Mayor Kevin Ferguson in the release.
“By implementing these new requirements, the town will be able to continue offering adult programming at our indoor recreation facilities and resume drop-in activities like public skating,” he said.
Prior to implementing these new requirements, the Town’s indoor recreation facilities have been operating at one-third of fire code capacity for spectators and private bookings, in accordance with previous provincial health requirements.
Once these new changes are in place, the Aquaplex, arena and Hudson’s Green will return to full capacity.
Under current provincial health regulations, all youth under 18 will continue not to be required to show proof of vaccination when participating in sport or recreation activities at the Aquaplex or Arena.
Schools Schools groups that attend the town’s indoor recreation facilities are exempt from the new requirements.
Adult Programming (18 years of age and older) Adult fitness classes will remain status quo under the new changes.
The new changes do not apply to the town’s outdoor recreation facilities. All parks, trails, playgrounds, soccer fields, baseball diamonds and outdoor rinks in Ponoka remain open for the public to enjoy.
For the full release, visit ponoka.ca.