minr&o 05-05-20 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Director Gelsomino indicated that the Westerly Building has strongly encouraged residents to wear masks and have made them accessible. The Human Services Department has started providing masks to seniors with Health Lakewood Foundation emergency funding. Building management companies do not feel they can enforce the use of masks in common areas. It was noted however,that any time a senior is on city transportation they must wear masks per the policy of the city. Chairperson Kepple stated she's hearing that it is unenforceable for the city to require masks in communal residential spaces and that private building management companies are finding the same thing. Education is the tool left to use to encourage people to wear masks in those environments. Chairperson Kepple gave a brief overview of social distancing in public spaces, such as sidewalks and parks. Captain Wilkins noted that the Police Department has received a substantial amount of calls regarding social distancing. The police's biggest tool is mediation rather than ticketing in these situations. Councilmember Shachner questioned whether identified unsanitary practices, such as not wearing a mask, could be cited as a nuisance.Assistant Director Swallow was unsure whether that could be done. Property owners could potentially require this under the ADA, but they should speak with their counsel on the issue. Councilmember Neff highlighted the importance of mediation, education, and signage. She expressed concern about creating a law with consequences when people are already worried during the pandemic. Director Gelsomino noted that provisions that provide guidance under this type of situation could be added into leases moving forward. Chairperson Kepple inquired as to what educational resources and messaging can the city offer to residents. Chief Dunphy noted that the Fire Department has sent out flyers to the Westerly, Fedor Manor, and other buildings, looking to get the word out in a friendly way. He suggested a continued partnership between Lakewood Alive and the Chamber of Commerce to build a message highlighting the theme of everyone being in this effort together. Ian Andrews gave an overview of communications that have gone out to Lakewood merchants. Many merchants want all of their customers to wear masks and other believe they would lose customers if they were to enforce mask wearing. He stated that the city should support merchants,but could be in a difficult position to do so. Ms. Mary Gamon, a resident of the Westerly Building, indicated that there are lots of common areas in her building and that an individual cannot leave his or her apartment without running into others. She stated that people are not social distancing or wearing masks. She is worried for her personal safety. Assistant Director Swallow committed to putting up COVID related information in regard to landlord-tenant situations.