Somerville Board Of Health Votes Against COVID Vaccine Passport-Style System
SOMERVILLE (CBS) -- The city of Somerville will not adopt a COVID vaccine passport-style system that is in use in Boston and other communities. On Thursday night, the city's Board of Health defeated the proposal by a count of two to one.
In a statement, Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne said that while she disagrees with the Board's decision, she respects the consideration that went into it.
"The important takeaway from last night's hearing is that the Board and the City are in agreement that vaccination is critical to getting this virus under control," Ballantyne said. "This decision will not slow us down, it just adds fuel to our efforts to address the virus on every front."
Boston's vaccine mandate started last Saturday. Anyone who enters a Boston restaurant, bar, or entertainment venue will be required to show proof of at least a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Employees at Burren Bar in Somerville say another mandate would have killed their already slow season. "If it had been passed, it probably would've hurt us more so that's why we're kind of relieved," said Burren Bar Manager Sean O'Chormacain.
Bargoers said people have to weigh the risks for themselves.
"I just hope that we strike a good balance between supporting local businesses and enforcing protocols that make us all safe," Matthew Briggs said.
