Adopting Boulder County’s mask mandate in town buildings, especially the community center, is a huge mistake. Boulder County is well known as the most left-leaning in the state, while Erie is split between Boulder and Weld. Adopting a more restrictive policy in an area with a very high rate of vaccination is the opposite of encouraging community engagement or health. Gyms are where people go to stay in shape, not to cower in fear from a virus they’ve already been vaccinated against (or at least been offered a vaccine). Masks are uncomfortable, particularly while exercising, and discourage community members from making the healthy decision to exercise.

I will be voting against any Board of Trustees members who endorse the mask decision.