Minutes - Council - 08/10/2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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could be closed down if the COVID numbers increase. He stated that he disagrees with the language in the proposed resolution and would not support it. Councilmember Specht stated that he wants to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and fairness. He referenced number three, noting that medical exemptions are identified in the Executive Order. He stated that people are being attacked for not wearing masks when there could be a health condition that prevents them from wearing a mask. He stated that peoples differences should be respected. He referenced number two, noting that there are articles on both sides of the topic and mask wearing does not seem to be the key factor in determining the spikes in COVID. He stated that he would support the resolution as proposed. Councilmember Musgrove commented that number three states nothing less or more than the Governor’s Executive Order. She stated that it does not say that people do not have to wear a mask, it simply says if someone does not have a mask on, they should still be treated with respect. She stated that she would like to see the Governor work with the legislative branches of the government to craft something. She believed that the Minnesota numbers show that people are able to follow the precautions necessary to protect the community. She commented that the mask sometimes gives people a false sense of security and causes them to spread germs more than they would without the mask. Motion by Councilmember Musgrove, seconded by Councilmember Specht, to Adopt Resolution #20-163 Demonstrating Values of Kindness and Respect During Unprecedented Times. Further discussion: Ms. Howell recognized that people are frustrated and want to get back to normal life. She stated that her grandmother is 89 and has health problems that prevent her from wearing a mask. She stated that her grandmother has been turned away from stores telling her to come back with written documentation of her health exemption. She stated that she has a friend that has severe medical issues that has passed out twice in a salon from wearing a mask. She stated that the community could be kind to people rather than being frustrated that they are not doing the same as others. Mayor LeTourneau stated that he has an adult son with a disability that has not been turned away from any stores for not wearing a mask. He commented that his wife has a compromised immune system and has not been turned away or treated differently in the community. He stated that Ramsey is a great community that has a sense of kindness and fairness. He believed that adopting this resolution would pose a higher risk to residents and businesses and would go in violation of the Executive Order from the Governor. Motion failed. Voting Yes: Councilmembers Musgrove, Specht, and Riley. Voting No: Mayor LeTourneau, Councilmembers Kuzma and Menth. 8. MAYOR, COUNCIL AND STAFF INPUT Deputy City Administrator Gladhill announced upcoming meetings and events. 9. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Councilmember Kuzma, seconded by Councilmember Menth, to adjourn the meeting. City Council / August 10, 2020 Page 10 of 13