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Dear Rexburg City Council,
I am writing to voice my opposition to a mandatory mask mandate. I strongly believe in civil liberties which are the foundation of the freedom that we enjoy in this country. The citizens
of Rexburg can and should be trusted to decide for themselves if they will or will not wear a mask. As you area all aware, the topic of mask wearing is controversial and even the experts
do not agree on their effectiveness. In fact, some warn of the dangers of wearing masks and cite many health issues associated with wearing them inappropriately. When the experts do
not agree, there is little hope of us lay people agreeing. The debate over this matter will like continue for months, if not years. In the meantime, using H&W stats: So far there are
103 COVID deaths in Idaho in 2020. In 2018, there were 235 deaths from influenza and pneumonia in Idaho despite vaccines for both (Idaho Vital Statistics, p. 16) All sources admit
that COVID deaths continue to decline throughout the U.S. despite the recent surge in case numbers. This is a compelling argument for leaving the choice of wearing a mask up to individuals.
Another compelling argument against a mask mandate is the protection of civil liberties (as I mentioned above). Individuals can and should be trusted to make this decision for themselves
and their families. Making such a mandate would set a undesirable and dangerous precedent because there is no clear line to be drawn on where these “well intentioned” mandates will
end. Where do we draw the line if not here? The idea of the Rexburg City Council taking on the role of civic “nanny” is an unnecessary overreach. Please understand that the good
people of Rexburg are wise, kind, compassionate, and civic minded. Trust us as we have trusted you to represent us in a fair and legal way. Please protect our freedom to choose for
ourselves what is best for us and our families.
Respectfully Yours,
Carol Garner