By Audrey Jensen | Arizona Republic
The mayor of an eastern Arizona town says he has no plans to cancel a slew of upcoming summer events or require masks, even as COVID-19 cases soar throughout the state.
Eagar Mayor Bryce Hamblin said in a statement Thursday that the town’s upcoming Fourth of July parade will continue as planned and residents will not be required to wear masks.
“Over the past several weeks, I have been asked repeatedly what the Town of Eagar plans to do about COVID-19, masks, visitors, riots, etc. It is somewhat alarming how many expect and almost invite a more drastic infringement on their freedoms,” Hamblin said in the statement. “My response from the onset of COVID-19 pandemic has been that we will err on the side of freedom.”
Since COVID-19 cases have continued to increase in Arizona, Maricopa County and cities throughout the state have mandated masks in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also state everyone should wear a mask when out in public.
