Masks To Come Off Sooner In Most, But Not All Places In Everett

Editor’s Update 6:20 PM: This in a few minutes ago from Naval Station Everett.
As of today, following guidance from DoD, wearing face masks is no longer required at Naval Station Everett.
This decision reflects guidance from the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force and the low cases of COVID-19 in our local community.
Individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask regardless of the change to base restrictions.
Health protection regulations will remain in place for people with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19.
More rigorous mask-wearing requirements may continue for some health care or safety workers.
Employees who have questions about other related mandates in their work area should contact their immediate supervisor.
Thank you to everyone for doing your part in supporting the mass effort it has taken to reach this milestone of success

Monday Governor Inslee moved the deadline for not having to wear masks indoors from March 21st up to March 12th.

Washington will join California and Oregon in updating masking guidance. However, if you’re getting on a bus in Everett, taking a plane at Paine Field or riding the train to or from Seattle masks are still required.

State policies do not change federal requirements, which still include masks on public transportation. Masks are also still going to be required in health care facilities and correctional institutions.

Here’s the Statement issued by Inslee:
“We’ve continued to monitor data from our state Department of Health, and have determined we are able to adjust the timing of our statewide mask requirement. While this represents another step forward for Washingtonians, we must still be mindful that many within our communities remain vulnerable. Many businesses and families will continue choosing to wear masks, because we’ve learned how effective they are at keeping one another safe. As we transition to this next phase, we will continue to move forward together carefully and cautiously.”

Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin had this to say about the move in an email to MyEverettNews.com.

“As we see cases decline locally, I’m relieved to be moving towards a more normal life and seeing our community more engaged and actively out and about. I also understand that although many of us may see this as welcome news, others may still have some anxiety about this change. I encourage us all to support each other in our choices and be respectful to one another.”

No word yet on the timeline for resuming in-person meetings such as Everett City Council, Planning Commission, etc.

The Everett Silvertips today issued the following guidance on changes in their COVID-19 policy today.

Starting on March 1, 2022: The vaccination or proof of negative test mandate for all fans 12 and older for large indoor gatherings will be lifted (announced by Washington State health authorities on 2/17/22). Fans will still be required to properly wear a face mask at all times inside the arena, unless actively eating or drinking, for home games on March 4, 5 & 11. For home games after March 12th, fans will no longer be required to wear a face mask inside the arena while attending games (as announced on 2/28/22).

The Everett School District issued an update on their Masking Policy in response to the Governor’s announcement.

Beginning Monday, March 14, barring a new requirement from our local health department, masks will become optional in our school buildings and on school buses. Students and staff will have the choice to wear a mask at school, with the expectation that others’ choices will be respected. One should not make assumptions regarding someone’s beliefs or health status, nor should they comment on them. Our district will not tolerate bullying of any kind for those who choose to continue wearing masks.

Until March 14, masks will continue to be required for all students, staff and visitors in all Everett Public School District buildings and on buses.

The Washington Department of Health is updating their K-12 guidance, which will be completed by March 7, so there likely will be additional adjustments to other COVID parameters in schools, like social distancing, etc. We will update you when they release their guidance.