News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Van Buren County will require masks to enter three of its county buildings.
The mandate will begin Monday for the county’s administration building, library and the Burrit College Building. Van Buren Mayor Greg Wilson said the decision will hopefully limit the spread of Covid.
“We have grown 22 cases in the last three weeks,” Wilson said. “That is a bit of a concern. Even though we are a small population, when you go from seven to 29 in a three week period that is quite concerning.”
Wilson said a county wide mandate could come in the future depending on the number of confirmed cases. Until then, encouragement for Van Buren residents to social distance and wear masks continues.
“I want to wait and see what the numbers are later before any of those steps are taken,” Wilson said. “I think it is best right now we rely on the numbers and science. We have advised everyone to wear a mask in public. We are not doing any gatherings inside of 50 or more inside.”
Residents with underlying health conditions and under the age of 12 will not be required to wear a mask to enter the three buildings. Wilson said wearing a mask is not just for your safety but also to protect your neighbors as well.
“The importance is not just protecting yourself, but protecting your fellow citizens at the same time,” Wilson said. “I think it is very important for people to think this way.”
