What Will Portsmouth Do About Its Mask Requirement Ordinance?
Mask mandates on the Seacoast have been adjusted, ended early or allowed to expire with one notable exception, the city of Portsmouth, where city councilors are expected to discuss the issue on Tuesday.
The Exeter Select Board on Monday voted to lift its mask ordinance in favor of a recommendation advisory asking residents and visitors to wear a mask indoors in public spaces when close to others and to follow both CDC and state guidelines. We simply ask everyone to do their part in wearing masks or face coverings where appropriate. We do not condone shaming or calling out those that are or are not wearing face coverings, the advisory reads.
PORTSMOUTH – Assistant Mayor Jim Splaine thinks it’s time “to consider ending” the city’s mask ordinance, which is scheduled to remain in effect until June 30.
“I have asked the city clerk to place an item on the (City) Council agenda for Monday, June 7 under my section of the agenda to do so, and I have asked City Attorney Bob Sullivan to advise the council on the proper procedure to act that night if we decide to,” Splaine said. “Otherwise, the ordinance will expire on June 30th. A few months back, I had suggested the expiration date be June 1, but the council voted for June 30th. Now we need a chance to consider ending it sooner.”