DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) — The Tri-County Health Department voted to require masks for children ages 2-11 in childcare facilities and schools starting Aug. 23.
Tri-County Health said this was an extremely difficult decision but essential for the children’s wellbeing to help minimize spread of the illness.
What was originally a recommendation is now a requirement, but not all are in favor of the decision.
The Douglas County School District said it would follow the requirement, but the county’s commissioners are pushing back and want to opt out.
Douglas County Commissioner George Teal said he understands where the Board of Health is coming from but disagrees with it. He said this is all about individual choice.
If a county chooses to opt out, it is then up to the school districts and individual schools to decide if they will follow the public health order.
There will be a work session on Wednesday at 4 p.m.
On Thursday, there will be a special meeting scheduled regarding the mask mandate and possible next steps.
The public can speak at that meeting Thursday at 10:30 a.m.