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Those wishing to dine indoors in Cathedral City will no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. Cathedral City city council members on Wednesday voted 4-1 to remove the city’s ordinance that would require it for entry into indoor food establishments.
Councilor Rita Lamb was the only one to vote against.
The ordinance has been in effect since August 11. The vote immediately annuls the order. The council also voted unanimously to extend the city’s order of masks until October 31.
The city released a statement regarding the policy change on Thursday:
City council voted Wednesday night to relax some of the COVID-19 requirements, as health data reported to Riverside County shows significant reductions in the number of positive coronavirus cases in Cathedral City. Emergency Order No.6 was immediately overturned, requiring restaurants, bars and similar facilities to require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to be able to dine or drink indoors. Customers will no longer need to show proof to eat or drink inside.
Although the number of positive cases has dropped significantly, the council has decided to extend, out of caution, Emergency Ordinance No.5 which requires the use of face coverings (masks) in all indoor public spaces and public spaces. outdoor public spaces when social distancing with others outside of your household is not possible. Several exceptions would include eating, drinking, or receiving services that require the removal of a mask, including facials and hair care. Emergency Ordinance # 5 will extend through October 31, 2021. City Council will review positive case data by October 31 to determine whether there is a need to extend the mask requirement to- beyond October 31 or cancel or modify the order.
Some Cathedral City companies that News Channel 3 spoke to on Thursday said they were not afraid to carry out the original mandate: “It made us feel better… absolutely. We felt more secure, ”said Michael Maraz, Trunks Bar, Cathedral City.
Jeff McDonald of The Roost Lounge said activity had actually increased due to the requirement: “Customers feel safe coming here because we are asking for vaccination cards.”
While the city’s health data confirms a downward trend over the past three weeks, Cathedral City still remains the valley city with the third highest number of cases. As a result, some companies say they will make their own decision regarding the policy at the gate.
“We are not out of the woods … I have to protect our staff and the customers who come here. The Roost will continue to ask for those vaccination cards because it’s the right thing to do right now.
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