AKRON, Ohio — The city of Akron wants to do their part in slowing down the spread of COVID-19.
On Monday night, Akron City Council passed legislation that prohibits large private gatherings and requires face coverings at small private gatherings in the city.
The private gathering ordinance will be in effect for at least 30 days and specifies that “no residential property owner or family in the City shall host more than 6 guests at a gathering.”
Guests include anyone who does not permanently reside in the home, even close family members who reside elsewhere. For example, if five people live in your household, the maximum gathering you’d be permitted to host is 11 people (including six outside guests).
The new legislation takes effect immediately and will be enforced by Summit County Public Health with support from the Akron Police Department.
Akron Mayor Daniel Horrigan introduced the legislation.
“As Mayor, my highest responsibility is to protect the safety and well-being of the citizens of Akron,” Horrigan said in a statement. “Limiting private gatherings will help keep Akron businesses open, help get our kids back into the classroom sooner, and most importantly, save lives. Reducing contact with immediate family and friends is an enormous sacrifice for many of us, but we cannot let our guard down even around those we know and love. While it may feel safe, the data shows that COVID is spreading rapidly during family and social gatherings. Holiday celebrations must look different this year. This is the first year that my extended family will not be gathering all together to celebrate Thanksgiving, but I know that it’s the right thing to do to keep my loved ones and our community safe.”
Violators of the ordinance may be subject to a $250 fine.
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