The village said people don’t have to wear masks or social distance.
Elk Grove Village geared up for a series of major summer events and prepared to receive large crowds during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“For those people who are ready to move safely, we’re going to do it,” said Mayor Craig Johnson, Elk Grove Village.
Last year, the village canceled Rotary Fest and the summer concert series due to COVID-19 restrictions. This year, however, Mayor Craig Johnson is ready for the return of those events.
“We believe that with the guidelines and vaccination coverage in our community right now, we feel that we can distance ourselves from the masks and bring the community back to normal,” said Mayor Johnson.
Masks are not required at the events. Also, according to the mayor, there will be no capacity limits or social distance requirements. The relaxation of the COVID-19 protocols will start in June.
The events attract thousands of people every year.
“We’re still a few months away. We’re steadfast but flexible,” said Mayor Johnson.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even people who are fully vaccinated should avoid medium or large gatherings.
Officials said they are closely monitoring the COVID-19 positivity rate, number of residents vaccinated and hospital admissions.
“If they don’t feel comfortable, they don’t have to come. This is not mandatory, but again, we have to get back to normal and we will be comfortable by July,” Mayor Johnson said.
As COVID-19 cases increase and new variants emerge, the mayor said plans may change.
“The Cook County Department of Public will investigate and provide appropriate guidance based on the current mitigation requirement. As this concert series is scheduled for June, it is too early to be definitive on guidance other than masks,” said Dr. Rachel Rubin, Senior Medical Officer, Public Health and Co-Lead, Cook County Department of Public Health.
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