Oct. 28, 2020 4:30p
(WGTD)---The City of Racine says it'll be cracking down on violators of the city's mask ordinance and 25% capacity limits. Up until now, enforcement has been on a complaint-only basis.
In a news release, Racine Public Health Administrator Dottie-Kay Bowersox said the new proactive enforcement strategy is needed because cases of COVID-19 are either equal to or are surging past last April's numbers.
"Many businesses and individuals in the community are taking this virus incredibly seriously, doing what they need to do in order to stay safe, and we are very appreciative of that," Bowersox said. "At the same time, there are some in the community who could do better or who are simply refusing to do their part," she said.
Bowersox said it's too late in the game for officials to wait for a complaint before acting.
Wisconsin is now ranked 4th in the nation in terms of new cases over the past week, trailing Texas, Illinois and California, all of which have populations significantly larger than Wisconsin.
The city's "Safer at Home" ordinance can be found here.
Restaurants and bars can still serve indoors, but at a 25% capacity, as long as social distancing is possible.
Gov. Evers' 25% capacity limit is on hold pending a court challenge.
A "Safer at Home" ticket can cost up to $250, according to a news release from the city. A first offense violation of the city's mask ordinance result in a $25 fine for an individual.
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