Greenfield considers increasing enforcement on mask order

GREENFIELD, Calif. (KION) "It's a really small sacrifice," said Brenda Armendariz, while walking into a grocery store in Greenfield. She chose to wear a mask while picking up the essentials.

"I don't really think it's that much of an issue. I know a lot of people do complain about it and protest it," said Armendariz.

The City of Greenfield has also noticed some residents' distaste for wearing masks. Mayor, Lance Walker, said around 10% are choosing not to follow Monterey County's order.

"It's not fair for the people who are putting in 110%, sheltering in place, wearing masks and social distancing," said Walker.

on April 30, the health officer ordered everyone in Monterey County to wear a mask in public. Businesses were told to post signs and are allowed to refuse service if customers do not cooperate.

"Most of the people you see on the streets aren't using it. They use a mask when they go inside of the store," said Greenfield resident, Jose Gutierrez.

The city is now considering their own enforcements. A pending ordinance would allow police to issue $50 t0 $1,000 citations. For violators, this could mean jail time and a misdemeanor charge.

"95% of Greenfield is going to be very glad that we are doing this. We plan on doing this as long as Governor Newsom and Monterey County have the Shelter in Place," said Walker.

Saturday, the city plans to begin educating the public about the new enforcement.

"I think the only time it would be an issue is if people don't have the resources, but I also know there are some outlets for people to stop by and they will give you a few masks," said Armendariz.

Greenfield city council plans to vote on the ordinance at their next meeting.