Social and Recreational Gatherings Banned In West Hartford

From the Town Manager's office:

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Town Manager Matt Hart announced Thursday that pursuant to Mayor Shari Cantor’s recent Emergency Declaration, he is issuing an Executive Order to prohibit social and recreational gatherings of more than 10 people.

The social and recreational activities include, but are not limited to: community, civic and sporting events; plays or live performances; and religious, spiritual or worship gatherings. Several other municipalities in the region have issued similar orders.

Hart’s order will take effect Friday, and will be enforced by the West Hartford Police Department.

"Consistent with CDC guidance, I am issuing this emergency order to emphasize that everyone must minimize contact with others if we are going to be successful in slowing down the spread of COVID-19," Hart said. "We will use this emergency order to direct people to stop congregating in groups of more than 10, as we do everything possible to get the word out about the importance of social distancing. We realize that this a significant step to take but believe that it is fully warranted given the magnitude of the public health crisis that we are facing."

Cantor said, "Each day the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing rapidly in Connecticut and it is undoubtedly here in West Hartford. This executive order is a life-saving measure as we have to take every precaution available to us to slow the spread of this deadly disease. I call upon all members of the West Hartford community to do everything in their power to assist us in this effort."

Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control issued guidance that all events of 10 or more people should be canceled. The emergency order runs through Apr. 30, 2020, but may be modified, extended or terminated at any time.