Crescent City Council Meeting

377 J STREET CRESCENT CITY, CALIFORNIA 95531-4025 Administration/Finance: 707-464-7483 Public Works/Planning: 707-464-9506 Utilities: 707-464-6517 FAX: 707-465-4405 October 4, 2021 <ADDRESSEE> Dear < >, We are writing you because we are concerned about the recent push in the State of California to mandate the Novel Coronavirus vaccines for health care professionals, correctional staff, educators, and children in schools. We acknowledge and understand that COVID-19 and its variants pose a real threat to the state and our community. The vaccines developed recently are largely effective in preventing severe symptoms and hospitalizations associated with contracting Covid among most age groups. However, we are also concerned that the mandates will fuel a hesitancy to receive the vaccine because it creates a feeling that it is forced and, in turn, creating more resistance instead of encouraging people to do research and make that decision for themselves. Our concern is that the State will create other unintended adverse effects by forcing its constituents to receive the vaccines and generate a decrease in services and loss of professional employees. With an already nationwide shortage of medical, educational, and correctional staff, it seems counterproductive to use coercion to pressure those in such positions to choose between taking the shot or losing their employment. People in our community have already quit their jobs or retired early because of their apprehension about the vaccines. This only exacerbates issues associated with staffing levels that already exist due to Covid and preexisting shortages. The recently released mandate for students in private, public, and charter schools is concerning because it creates parental rights issues. These decisions should be left to the parents and guardians in consultation with a physician. A student's ability to attend in-person instruction or even step foot onto campus should not be dependent on receiving these vaccines. It is the opinion of the City Council of the City of Crescent City that the State ceases any and all COVID-19 vaccine mandates currently in effect and that you utilize your authority and influence to continue to encourage the people of California to get vaccinated instead of using said authority to force it. We believe in the individual's right to choose what medical intervention to take in one's own life. Sincerely, Jason Greenough Mayor City of Crescent City