A mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy for Chatham-Kent council and affiliated committee and volunteer members is now in place.
Council voted 14-3 to adopt the policy Oct. 4.
It will affect between 50 to 75 people, but it didn’t come without controversy.
Prior to the vote, council heard seven deputations relating to COVID-19 vaccines, however, most of these centered on the new policy the municipality has adopted for municipal employees, but that’s a matter over which council has no authority.
READ MORE: C-K staff have vaxx policy
North Kent Coun. Joe Faas, who put forth the original motion for the mandatory shot for council and volunteers, said he was happy with the outcome.
“I’m pleased the results came in like they did because that’s what the majority is in favour of. How can we expect others to be vaccinated if we are not willing to do it ourselves?” Faas said.
The municipality has adopted a vaccine policy, which allows employees to be tested for COVID-19 every 72 hours – at their own expense – in lieu of taking the shot.
The council policy will apply to anyone entering a municipal building to serve on a committee or volunteer in a facility.
