There is no doubt that the outbreak of COVID-19 in Kingston last week has shed a spot light on how highly contagious this virus is and reminded us that it is becoming stronger, not weaker.  I spent much of the past 5 days talking to people – Westport business owners, community members, staff, mayoral colleagues, the Medical Officer of Health, AMO and ROMA – about mandatory wearing of face masks when inside businesses and government buildings.

I have encouraged the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) to assess the situation in Leeds, Grenville & Lanark similar to that in the Kingston region and issue a directive that makes the public use of cloth masks, if able, mandatory in indoor settings of commercial establishments.  The MOH’S region includes Leeds & Grenville and Lanark Counties.  At this time, Dr Stewart has not issued the directive.

I have asked CAO Snider to put this matter on the Agenda for Tuesday’s (July 7) Council meeting for Council to consider a by-law mandating the use of cloth masks in certain situations.   If you have strong feelings about this issue, please share your thoughts with me or the Councillor of your choice over the next few days to assist us in our deliberations.

Call any time – rjones@villageofwestport.ca    613-273-9195