Mask mandate returns to Monterey County
MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION) The indoor mask mandate will take effect on Nov. 5 after Monterey County's transmission rate continues to be substantial, according to the Centers of Disease Control COVID-19 data.
Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 in favor of implementing an indoor mask mandate at their Sept. 28 meeting. The ordinance would only go into effect after Oct. 29, if the CDC labels Monterey County as "high" or "substantial" risk of transmission. However, according to the CDC, Monterey County is currently labeled substantial from COVID-19 data collected on Oct. 29.
“We're aware that there’s going to be people who will refuse to wear a mask," said Jose Mancera Mercadito." And we're going to have to deny them entry.”
Jose Mancera is the owner of Mercadito Alegria in Salina and rents space to several businesses inside. Businesses at el Mercadito Algeria lost money by denying entry to customers during the last mandate.
“It’s gonna impact us once again," he said. "With the last mandate, we saw a reduction in the number of customers walking in. We saw and felt it. We saw how it impacted our sales.”
Officials in Monterey County said, "face-covering requirements will remain in effect for 30 days unless the board of Supervisors terminates the requirement."
Some people off camera said masks should not be forced on anyone while others say they’re on board.
“I think it's okay," said Emilia Garcia. "It's for safety, for everyone. I'm vaccinated completely but, I'm still scared to take the virus to my house.”
People can face a fine for violating the mandate and refusing to wear a mask indoors.
