Cities of Kitchener, Waterloo also introducing mandatory vaccine policy for employees

Just like the Region of Waterloo, the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo are also moving ahead with mandatory vaccine policies for staff.

Both will apply to volunteers as well.

In Kitchener, the policy takes effect immediately, although the city says a phased implementation plan is in place to provide time for employees, volunteers and students to provide verification of their vaccination status. 

Those who are not vaccinated against COVID-19, or who choose not to disclose their vaccination status, will be required to undergo education on the benefits of the vaccine and participate in regular testing.

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have said our primary goal is to protect the health and safety of the Kitchener citizens we serve, and the staff who serve them,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “As the provider of important citizen-facing programs and services as well as being a large employer, the City of Kitchener will continue to focus on making policies that always ensure safe environments for both residents and staff.”

In Waterloo, the policy takes effect on September 27.

The Region of Waterloo and Wilmot Township both announced similar policies on Monday.