“Mask up, Rome” campaign underway

September 15, 2020–6:25 p.m.

STAFF REPORTS

A campaign is underway to encourage people to wear a mask while in public in the City of Rome.

Mask up, Rome is an effort to promote health, safety, and public welfare by reducing the transmission of COVID-19, according to Rome City Manager Sammy Rich.

“The mayor had a conversation with the good folks at Floyd Medical Center and they have provided us with a supply of masks,” he said.  “We have been trying to give those out.  So, we kicked that off this past weekend through our convention and visitors bureau.  If you were downtown and saw the Roman Chariots running around, they had masks on board.”

Masks are available at both the downtown and Jackson Hill visitor centers,

“We’re trying a soft-handed approach, focusing on folks who, for whatever reason, don’t have a mask on and make sure they are offered one,” Rich added.  “We’re seeing some good results with that, so far.

Remember, face coverings are required within the City of Rome in public places when social distancing is not feasible.

Rich gave an update during Monday’s Rome City Commission meeting.

Also, during the meeting, the commission voted to appoint local attorney Christopher Jackson as the new Municipal Court judge.

John Scott Husser Jr. was named associate judge.

Current Rome Municipal Court Judge Bryan Johnson is replacing retiring Floyd County Superior Court Judge Bryant Durham in January.