By: City of Westerville; 1808Delaware
Over the last several days, the increasing counts for key metrics in COVID-19 cases in Ohio has seen political leaders in several Ohio cities and villages consider the issuance of face covering orders.
This past week, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther took that step, requiring that masks be worn in a wide range of public places. Exceptions apply for hearing imparied individuals who need to recognize lip movements, young children, and those who cannot wear masks for medical reasons.
Interestingly, while the order applies to all individuals, only businesses will be subject to enforcement actions. As the order shared, “Citations under this Executive Order shall be written only to businesses or organizations that fail to enforce the requirement to wear Face Coverings.”
Columbus’ move took place after similar measures were enacted in places like Yellow Springs and Dayton.
On Monday, Westerville City Manager David Collinsworth issued an Executive Order concerning the weaning of facial coverings in public areas which takes effect this Wednesday morning, July 8, at 8 AM.
The press release accompanying the order reads in part:
“Public health experts and the CDC maintain that COVID-19 remains very much active with cases increasing steadily statewide and that the use of face coverings can save lives,” Collinsworth said. “It is imperative that we continue to heed the warnings and best practices to help limit the spread of this virus.”
The order reflects similar legislation passed in neighboring communities and acknowledges Franklin County’s designation of Risk Level 3 under Gov. DeWine’s recently established Public Health Advisory System indicating “very high exposure and spread,” trending toward Risk Level 4 which would be the highest level in the State. It is a middle ground approach that empowers business and property owners to trespass non-compliant individuals from their property or establishment.
The order provides for certain exemptions including children 8 years of age and younger; those with medical mental conditions unable to secure or remove a face covering without assistance; in the provision of certain medical or dental services; customers of restaurants or bars but only when seated and as necessary to consume food or drink.
In addition to the face-covering provision, the City encourages residents and visitors to continue following best practices from public health officials to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These steps include, but are not limited to, frequent hand washing for at least 20 seconds, maintaining social distancing and avoiding contact with the public if demonstrating symptoms of illness.”
