June 22, 2020 8:30p
(WGTD)---The Racine City Council voted 9-5 Monday night to put back in place coronavirus restrictions that were put on hold by a Racine judge last week following a challenge by a fitness center.
As a result of the council action, the measures are now in stronger ordinance form. Other local governments have similar guidelines but compliance is voluntary.
The Racine restrictions will be reviewed at the end of the month. If the number of positive cases continues to trend downward, then the rules could be loosened further, according to the city's health administrator, Dottie-Kay Bowersox, who has the power to act unilaterally. No matter what, another council review will take place no later than August 5th.
Council President John Tate supported the ordinance. "Are we going to allow our public health administrator to make science-based decisions to help maintain safety in the community or are we going to let things go free and let the chips fall where they may?" Tate asked. "And if they do fall in a negative manner then that's on us," he said.
As of Monday, Racine County has the second-highest number of positive cases per capital in the state, right behind Milwaukee County.
Council member Carrie Glenn argued that the proposed ordinance was unconstitutional. "Each and every one of us needs to follow the constitution," she said. "This is political. It is a power grab. And we need to stop this right now."
Also Monday:
The Racine Theatre Guild announced it was delaying the start of its new season until next year. This includes all performances and activities.
Kenosha County announced that the National Guard will conduct two days of drive-thru testing for the public Tuesday and Wednesday outside of Kenosha's Municipal Building. No appointment is needed and the tests are free.
In Racine, Ascension Medical Group will offer tests at its Wisconsin Ave. campus Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Appointments are required.
Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin declared an emergency need for blood donations. A blood drive will be held Wednesday at Washington Park High School. To make an appointment, call 877-232-4376.
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