A virtual Warwick Twp. meeting - Aug 24/20A virtual Warwick Twp. meeting - Aug 24/20
Sarnia

Warwick latest Lambton municipality to reject mandatory masks

The mandatory mask scorecard in Lambton County is now four in favour and three against.

Warwick Township voted 4-1 against implementing a bylaw Monday.

Councillor Wayne Morris argued it's a provincial responsibility.

"The provincial government-mandated it for students Grades 4 and up to wear a mask," said Morris. "They had the opportunity there, if it was that important, to complete the circle."

The motion calling for a bylaw was presented by Councillor Todd White who ended up being the lone vote in favour.

"Common facts that seem to be agreed upon worldwide are droplets that all of us release and inhale daily through the act of living spread COVID-19," said White. "If I wear a mask and you wear a mask, I am protecting you and you're protecting me."

Also voting in opposition to the bylaw were Mayor Jackie Rombouts, Deputy Mayor Jerry Westgate and Councillor Colin Mitchell.

Warwick Township joins Plympton-Wyoming and St. Clair Township in deciding against enacting temporary orders.

As of Tuesday, masks are mandatory in Point Edward. The village, the City of Sarnia, Petrolia, and Lambton Shores have legislated the wearing of masks in indoor public spaces.

Failure to comply could carry a fine of up to $1,000.

Lambton stands alone as the only region in Ontario without a county-wide bylaw. The matter is to be put to a reconsideration vote on Wednesday, September 2.

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