Mayor Gameros responds to governor's no-mask executive order.

To The Citizens of Globe,

Today Governor Ducey signed an Executive Oder 2021-06 that outlined the “New Phase of COVID-19 Mitigation-Business Guidelines Transition from Requirements To Recommendations”. 

The Executive Order is effective immediately, and addresses the following bullet points;

• Events of more than 50 people will no longer need the approval of local governments.  These events should continue to follow safe practices and CDC recommendations, including physical distancing.  This includes youth sports.
• The business guidance will transition from requirements to recommendations.  Governor Ducey is providing businesses with ability to continue requiring masks and social distancing.
• Bars have already been allowed to operate as “dine-in” at full capacity.  They will now be allowed to resume regular operations, with the ability to require social distancing and masks.
• Unlike some other states, Arizona never issued a statewide mask mandate, instead encouraged personal responsibility with an aggressive education campaign.  Local Mayors and governments were given the authority to pass Proclamations to mandate masks in their cities or towns.  Those local mandates will now be phased out and Mayors will not have authority to enforce these proclamations.

Although I personally believe that it is too early to lift these restrictions and do not agree with this Executive Order, Mayors across Arizona do not have the authority to override the order of the Governor.  It would be incorrect to let our guard down or to conclude that we can completely return to normal without observing prudent and recommended protocols especially with only 17% of Arizonans vaccinated.  COVID- 19 has taken a terrible toll on the lives and livelihoods of Arizonans and the residents our Globe-Miami community.    

I encourage all residents in our community to continue to be mindful, respectful, and supportive to those businesses, facilities, and organizations that have the authority to enforce the CDC guidelines and require masks and social distancing.  I also encourage that you respect those individuals who will continue to follow the CDC guidelines and wear masks and social distance in public settings.  May God continue to protect and Bless our community.  Please continue to be responsible and respectful in your actions as we move forward to normalcy. 

Mayor Al Gameros