Marpe: Masks, Mutts, Rentals And More

First Selectman Jim Marpe says:

This weekend, I witnessed most people maintaining the recommended distance between neighbors and friends when out and about in Westport neighborhoods and public facilities. Thank you to all who heeded the clear message that we need to self-isolate and, when we do go out, we maintain social distancing at all times. We are still a long way from the end of this battle, so please continue to practice appropriate social distancing and avoid gathering even on private property.

A new directive from the CDC states that when going out, all individuals, whether infected or not, should wear a mask or cover their face.

This directive does not eliminate the need for 6-foot virus distancing. Self-isolation and distancing ensures your own health and safety, as well as the health and safety of your family, friends, neighbors and community. It is very important that we continue on this path, and do everything we can to insure that others follow our positive examples. Remember that if you walk your dog anywhere, it must be on a leash.

Social distancing at the beach. The photo was taken before the CDC’s new mask directive. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)

To our new neighbors who are moving into Westport: You must quarantine for 14 days. Realtors and homeowners must cease short-term (31 days or fewer) rental transactions.

Compliance with these directives and managing quarantining in this manner is an effective way to reduce the risk of community spread. Thank you for considering your new neighbors and fellow-Westporters when you move to town.

Thank you also to the many Westporters who leave messages and send e-mails about incidents, data, reports or concerns specific to COVID-19. We appreciate your intentions, and are trying to review and respond as quickly as possible. Many of your questions are addressed in regular updates and media posts. If you have not done so already, please follow or check updates:

• Online:  www.westportct.gov/COVID19
• Sign up for emergency alerts
• Sign up for email subscriptions
• Social Media:  #Westportctcovid19info

The current crisis is both active and ever-changing. While we are looking ahead to the social and economic impacts this crisis may impose in the future, we must balance that with immediate public safety needs and day-to-day government functions. Your patience and understanding is appreciated.

Please continue to self-isolate, quarantine if necessary, socially distance yourself and, as much as possible, stay at home. Remember, you’re not stuck at home; you’re safe at home.

As of today, there are 146 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in  Westport. That’s 11 more than yesterday.

Statewide, Connecticut has recorded 6,906 cases. That’s an increase of 1,231 from yesterday. There have been 206 deaths.

Fairfield County continued to lead the state in cases with 3,719. There have been 101 deaths.