Letter to the Editor: An Open Letter to the Door County Board of Supervisors

Dear Supervisors,

I’m extremely disappointed with the Door County Board of Supervisors’ decision not to pursue a mask ordinance for Door County. The reasoning seems to be that “it’s too difficult.” These are difficult times for everyone. We will get through it if we all do our part. I feel your part is to take a leadership role and to support citizens and businesses that are crying out for somebody to do something, even though it’s difficult.

There is a small minority of people who are science challenged, and they will object. Enforcement may be difficult. However, you will not know whether you can help if you don’t try. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Doing nothing may be more trouble than a mask ordinance. As the number of cases of COVID-19 in Door County increases, people will stop using local businesses. Tourists will think twice about coming here. Would you risk vacationing with your family in Florida, Texas or Arizona? I’m already getting anxious to go into a local business establishment as our COVID-19 positive numbers rise. Many more people will consider it unsafe if the numbers continue to climb.

I don’t think an ordinance would be as difficult to enforce as you imagine. Consider a small fine, which will deter most people. The general public will help with peaceful but ugly stares, ostracization, shunning and refusal of service, which will be much easier for a business to carry out with a county ordinance in effect. 

Step up! Be brave! Tackle this difficult job! We’re counting on you.

Nancy Nehring

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin