City council readdresses pandemic protocols due to surge
The Sanibel City Council updated the city’s COVID-19 policies during a recent meeting.
In light of the recent surge in local cases and infection rates, the council held a special meeting on Aug. 7 to discuss the city’s pandemic protocols and to decide on any changes as needed.
The council approved an indoor face covering requirement for ages 2 and older for all city buildings open to the public, including City Hall, Public Works, the Sanibel Recreation Center and Donax Wastewater facilities. The requirement includes the following at the rec center: city-sponsored after-school youth programs and activities, weight room and treadmill users, fitness class instructors and participants, and those buying beach parking permits and dog licenses.
The council agreed that those with valid medical conditions can wear a face shield instead.
Face coverings are optional for outdoor rec areas, like the pool deck and tennis courts.
Also during the meeting, the council voted to update the messaging on the electronic signage observed upon entering Sanibel. The dais approved directing staff to change the wording to: “Welcome to Sanibel,” “Please vaccinate” — or something similar, and “Please mask indoors.”
In addition, the city council adopted a resolution at the meeting that encourages vaccinations against COVID-19 and the wearing of face coverings indoors in public for those who can.
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email