By
June 25, 2021
-Western Standard
Edmonton city council voted 7-6 to end its face mask bylaw, July 1 – the same date the province is dropping its COVID-19 regulations.
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced last week Alberta was dropping all COVID-19 rules as of July 1, including the face-covering bylaw.
But this week Calgary City Council, led by Mayor Naheed Nenshi, voted to keep its face mask bylaw in place until at least July 5, but city administrators want it kept in place until July 31.
In Edmonton, the first two readings of a motion to drop face coverings was approved by a 7-6 vote.
But a no vote from Coun. Aaron Paquette to proceed with the third reading postponed the final decision.
Another meeting was scheduled for July 1, but councillors opted to bring it forward to Friday.
“I am glad that Council decided to support my motion to end the mask bylaw and follow the advice of Alberta and Edmonton’s health officials,” said Ward 3 Coun. Jon Dziadyk.
Coun. Aaron Paquette said: “I want masks gone.”
The province is still mandating the wearing of masks on public transit systems.
