PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – During the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, County Commissioner Jack Mariano motioned for the Board to end the mandated mask order .
“I’m not saying don’t wear it. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing to do, but I just want to get the freedom back to the people that want to go and live their lives without it. Let them have that choice,” said Commissioner Mariano, “Nothing wrong with where you can make your decisions. If you’re going to be at a crowded area put it on, if you feel comfortable take it off. “
Commissioner Mariano’s motion wasn’t received with support from the Board.
Commissioner Mike Wells said, “I don’t disagree with it but I think if you’re sick you should wear a mask, if you think you might have COVID, you should wear a mask to help others, and I don’t really have an issue doing it. I do agree with you commissioner (Mariano), I just don’t think there are three other votes and again, I think we should make it highly recommended.”
Commissioner Mike Moore said, “Listen to the local health care professionals, give them a call, hospital CEOs, medical directors.”
“I don’t know how many people here besides myself receive those calls and those emails (from medical professionals) and have those discussions with hospital CEOs medical directors. ER physicians epidemiologists infectious disease physicians, which I do constantly because I know a lot of them as well, coming from a healthcare background.,” said Commissioner Moore.
Moore added, “I have a lot of connections obviously. I have a wife that works in the COVID pit on a daily basis as you well know, and sees what’s happening.”
The mask order will stay in place and requires:
Face Covering Order Requirements:
– Face coverings should cover the nose and mouth
– Order applies to all businesses and county government facilities open to the public
– Businesses must ensure compliance with this Order
– Businesses in violation of this Order could face a fine of up to $250