Sneeze Guards Installed In Council Chambers

You have seen plexi-glass partitions in restaurants, you have seen it in stores and now you have seen plexi-glass in more than a hockey rink as it is being used in the Moose Jaw City Council chambers.

For the media attending the August 10th Council meeting, those tuning in on SHAW Cable 10 or via the City of Moose Jaw web-site there were two noticeable differences.

First off the entire seven member Council was present for the first time in months plus additionally they and members of Administration were separated by plexi-glass shielding.

Referred to as sneeze guards or even spit guards in some circles the plexi-glass is designed to stop droplets and potential transmission of COVID - 19.

They are a government health requirement in some places they are used.

A closer look at the sneeze guards - MJ Independent photo

Council never mentioned the new physical reality they are forced into for their protection in the world of the COVID - 19 pandemic.

A look at the plexi-glass structures show them framed with oak and then fastened into the work space with screws. Making them more secure and most likely a long time renovation.

During the discussions though on numerous occasions members of Council - including Mayor Fraser Tolmie and Councillor Heather Eby - leaned behind the plexi-glass to momentarily talk or pass paperwork amongst themselves. Thereby exposing themselves to potential droplet transmission.

It did not appear any of the Council members who did so used hand sanitizer after passing paperwork amongst themselves.

The partitioning has also been installed on the two tables between members of Administration thereby separating them with sneeze guards as well.

And like their Council counterparts on a few occasions Administration members did lean outside the protection of the sneeze guards to whisper or to pass paperwork. Also without the apparent use of hand sanitizer.

It is unknown how much these semi-permanent COVID - 19 measures cost the City. Nor how long they will be needed.