Westport First Selectman Urges Indoor Masking, Not Mandating
From the Westport First Selectman Jim MarpeDue to increasing COVID cases in Fairfield County, Westport residents are strongly encouraged to wear a mask in indoor public spaces, whether located in retail establishments, restaurants, gyms, workout studios or other businesses, as well as galleries, museums, performance spaces or government buildings. The CDC has designated Fairfield County as having “substantial” community transmission, out of the low, moderate, substantial and high rates. Currently 90 percent of all COVID cases in CT are of the Delta variant.
Last week, Governor Lamont issued an Executive Order that provides municipal leaders with the option of requiring masks in indoor public spaces within their respective towns and cities for all individuals regardless of vaccination status. Westport is not mandating masks at this time. However, given the rapid spread of the Delta variant, we are requesting that residents return to a higher level of vigilance. This pandemic does not know borders or buildings. The Delta variant is much more contagious than COVID-19 and extra precautions are warranted. Wearing a mask and exercising caution whether it is in Westport, another community, or in a place of business should be consistent.
Town officials have listened to other communities and understand that varying approaches are being explored relative to increased mask usage, particularly based on community size, density, and transmission rates. We also understand that some businesses in Westport, including most gyms and some restaurants, have returned to requiring masks for all visitors, customers, and staff. Most retailers are requiring staff to wear a mask. We request that everyone respect and comply with the conditions set by these individual establishments.
While those who are being hospitalized due to COVID are overwhelmingly unvaccinated, there is still cause for concern among the vaccinated. The Delta variant of COVID is very new and more is discovered each day about vaccine efficacy. It is beneficial for everyone’s health and safety to wear a mask because it protects yourself and others and slows the spread. Some within our community are unable to be vaccinated, including children under 12, so it is incumbent upon us all to help protect others. From the beginning of this challenging time, I have stated, “we are in this together.” Now more than ever, that message is important. In my opinion, the personal choice to wear a mask reflects compassion for all of our neighbors, families and friends.
We continue to urge all who are eligible to get vaccinated. Studies show that any side effects are temporary or very rare. With a high vaccination rate, mutual cooperation, patience and understanding for adhering to the safety protocols, Westport can keep the spread of COVID to a minimum.
Municipal Buildings:
Town Officials have implemented the following safety protocols at Town Hall, the Westport Library and other town facilities:
Regardless of vaccination status,
Visitors and patrons of all town buildings including the library are required to wear a mask.
Walk-ins will continue to be allowed in Town Hall. Visitors must follow contact tracing, mask requirements, temperature checks and other safety protocols upon entering. As an alternative, it is recommended that the public consider the town’s online services or other options for in-person meetings.
Town Hall staff are required to check their temperature upon entering work for the day and wear a mask in the common public areas.
Town and Library employees will return to weekly testing for COVID for their safety and for the safety of any visitors.
First Responders will wear masks when interacting with the public indoors.
Morning Weather Report: Heat Nearing 100 Degrees Tomorrow
Today
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 8 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight
A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. South wind around 7 mph.
Tomorrow
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. Heat index values as high as 99. Southwest wind 6 to 10 mph.
Tomorrow Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind 5 to 7 mph.
Clouds Move Out
Monday clouds moved out from Westport, giving a clear view of Pecks Ledge Light in the distance from Saugatuck Shores.
Roof Fire Extinguished at Post Road West Businesses
Westport firefighters were dispatched to a commercial fire alarm at a multi-occupancy strip mall on Post Road West. The initial dispatch was for Engine 4, Engine 2 Truck 1 and the Shift Commander. Engine 6 was added to the assignment after clearing from another emergency incident.
E4 arrived and reported an odor of burning and light smoke condition inside the occupancy. Truck 1 laddered the roof and found smoke coming from a roof scuttle hatch. Engine 4 and Engine 2 stretched a hose line and checked each of the businesses for smoke and fire. Truck 1, assisted by Engine 6, located a smoldering fire involving roofing materials in the area of the roof scuttle.
The fire was quickly extinguished and crews worked on providing salvage and overhaul to the business directly below. The Westport Fire Marshal’s Office responded to investigate. Roof repair work from earlier in the day was determined to be the cause.
The activation of the smoke detectors and monitored fire alarm system provided early notification, allowing the occupants to evacuate and firefighters to quickly extinguish the fire before it spread.