Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott, Jr. has announced that effective immediately, all staff and visitors to City of Hammond municipal buildings must wear personal protective masks. The buildings affected by this order include City Hall, Sportsplex, Civic Center, Jean Shepherd Center, Hammond Police Department, Hammond Marina, Hammond Fire Department, Hammond Water Department, Hammond Sanitary District, Hammond Housing Authority, Public Works and Lost Marsh Clubhouse. “With the uprising of COVID 19 cases all across the country as well as an uptick in cases across Northwest Indiana, I believe it is imperative to follow CDC guidelines and wear masks for both the visitors and employees protection,” stated Mayor McDermott.
Players in practices and competitions for sports in the Hammond Sportsplex, Jean Shepherd Center and the Hammond Civic Center are not required to wear masks. However, any other spectators or visitors in these venues will be required to wear a mask as a condition of admittance.
Persons exempt from wearing a face covering due to a medical condition, who are employed in a job involving regular contact with others should wear a non-restrictive alternative, such as a face shield.
“The use of face coverings by the public during a pandemic as well as social distancing and handwashing could help reduce transmission of the disease,” stated Mayor McDermott. “Let’s be vigilant!”