MayorJay Arrowsmith-DeCoux.   Photo: KBJR-TV

By Lyanne Valdez of KBJR-TV - July 14, 2020

A North Shore town is considering a possible face mask requirement.

Cook County only has one confirmed case of COVID-19 but Grand Marais' Mayor, Jay Arrowsmith-DeCoux is concerned about the number of people who've been visiting lately and the possible spread that could come along with them.

"There are a lot of people who are trying to rebound from their self-quarantine by finding a place to spend some time outside," said Arrowsmith-DeCoux.

Though welcomed, Arrowsmith-DeCoux said Tuesday he wants people to realize the county's limitations.

"Our only hospital in the county is the North Shore Health hospital here in Grand Marais which is a critical access hospital. The hospital has no ICU, we have the ability to intubate but we don't have ventilators," said Arrowsmith-DeCoux.

This could lead to potential devastation in the event of an outbreak, added Arrowsmith-DeCoux.

"The concern for our senior community up here and our pretty limited healthcare community is very real."

Which is why he says Grand Marais officials are working on a possible mask regulation.

"The City Council has discussed this at the last two City Council meetings," said Arrowsmith-DeCoux.

Grand Marais leaders hope Governor Tim Walz will consider something similar for the state.

"[We are] Hoping that through multiple efforts we are able to find a solution that works for our community," said Mayor Arrowsmith-DeCoux.

Meanwhile, Virginia Mayor Larry Cuffe Jr. said they've had no talks about a face mask ordinance, but that doesn't mean it's completely off the table.

"As far as mandating it, that will be up to the city council to determine and it could be brought up at a council meeting tonight," said Mayor Cuffe.

Mayor Arrowsmith-DeCoux adds they plan to discuss other cities' mask ordinances at Grand Marais' next city council meeting on July 29.

To watch video version of this report and see related stories, follow this link to the KBJR-TV website.  https://kbjr6.com/2020/07/14/grand-marais-considering-potential-mask-regulation/