Alex Kurial/Local Journalism Initiative

“There’s no way I can wear a mask that long, I’ll be passed out somewhere.”

St. Clair Mayor Steve Arnold told his council Monday he’ll be bowing out of the annual Remembrance Day Honours and Awards Dinner hosted by the Legion due to the indoor mask requirement. He’s not opposed to the mandate but says physically he just can’t do it. 

“There is no way I can wear a mask for three and a half hours. So I’m looking for someone to take my place at the Legion that night,” Arnold said.

Councillor Pat Brown volunteered to take the mayor’s place and represent council at the event. 

Arnold did say he’ll be in attendance during outdoor Remembrance Day Services including the wreath laying ceremony at the Village Clock Tower Memorial in Corunna Nov. 11. 

Later in the meeting council discussed a vaccine policy for all municipal staff but tabled it to their next meeting later this month. Councillors wanted more time to consult with local unions on the specifics of the proposal. 

“It certainly wouldn’t hurt to have some discussions with them,” says CAO John Rodey.

The draft policy says any township employee who isn’t fully vaccinated by December will have to submit a negative rapid antigen test at their own expense every week. Failure to do so can result in a person’s dismissal from their position.