Reading Mayor Eddie Morán announced Thursday afternoon that the COVID-19 mask and meeting policy for city-owned properties has been lifted.
“After meeting with the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator, Jeremy Searfoss, and other key team members, I learned that our community transmission is at its lowest rate yet. As a result of our meeting, I have decided to end the mask mandate I previously implemented for employees and visitors in all City-owned buildings, effective immediately” said Morán.
“However, employees who want to continue masking are welcome to do so. I want to encourage everyone to choose what they are most comfortable with and ask that we respect each other’s choices.”
In-person meetings can now resume; social distancing in waiting areas and conference rooms is also lifted, and regular operations may continue inside all City-owned buildings and properties.
“Nevertheless, I encourage all departments, entities, boards, authorities, and commissions to utilize the hybrid technology available to continue conducting meetings and providing flexibility for guests and stakeholders, as we have all seen the tremendous benefits of this technology over the last two years.”
Morán added that the announcement and the return to a state of normalcy are not to be taken lightly. “Our team will continue to monitor the transmission rates and data closely, and if necessary, I will reverse my decision.”
“I want to thank each of our City employees for remaining resilient. Their commitment to the people of Reading, ensuring they continued to receive quality service during a challenging health crisis, and embracing the technological advancements that allowed us to provide that quality service and continue business matters safely, does not go unseen. Thank you.”
