More businesses charged by City of Hamilton for allegedly flouting COVID rules

Seven more businesses in Hamilton have been charged with allegedly flouting COVID-19 regulations, according to the city.

Golden Grain Bakery Inc., a deli in Stoney Creek, was charged three times for failing to comply with the Reopening Ontario Act (ROA). The Spectator was unable to reach the business on Monday.

On Dec. 27, the Highway 8 shop allegedly failed to conduct required screenings, ensure that face coverings were worn and a required safety plan" was neither available or posted, according to the city.

On Christmas Eve, a Stoney Creek Tim Hortons allegedly broke three rules under the ROA.

According to the city, they failed to ensure physical distance, ensure that face coverings were worn and had too many people inside in the South Service Road restaurant.

That same day, a Beer Store on Mohawk Road East allegedly failed to conduct screenings.

Neither Tim Hortons nor the Beer Store responded to a request for comment.

The city posts information on its website each Monday about businesses charged with breaking COVID-related laws. The move came in the wake of public outrage last month after the city slammed a Stoney Creek restaurant for allegedly flouting COVID rules but refused to name it.

City councillors then voted to make more information public in early November, likely making Hamilton one of the most transparent cities when it comes to disclosing information about law-breaking businesses.

As of Monday, at least 37 businesses in Hamilton have been charged for allegedly breaking COVID-19 rules since Nov. 13. Charges are not convictions and may be challenged in court.

Fallon Hewitt is a Hamilton-based reporter at The Spectator. Reach her via email: fhewitt@thespec.com