New Rochelle to Require COVID-19 Vax or Weekly Testing, County Re-Ups Mask Requirements

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — City Manager Charles B. Strome, III has announced New Rochelle will require municipal employees to be vaccinated or to undergo weekly COVID-19 tests, starting September 8th.

“In the interest of health and safety and in recognition of the continued impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the City of New Rochelle will require municipal employees to submit proof of vaccination or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing, beginning September 8.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo praised the decision on Twitter.

The City of New Rochelle will join the State in requiring its employees to either be vaccinated or get tested weekly.

Thank you #NewRochelle for taking this smart step as the #Delta variant spreads. We're all in this together.

— Archive: Governor Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) July 29, 2021

New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson supported the decision of the City Manager.

“I encourage employers throughout New Rochelle to adopt similar measures.

Hundreds of millions of vaccinated Americans now enjoy health and peace of mind,” said Bramson. “By contrast, unvaccinated Americans account for the overwhelming majority of those still — tragically — succumbing to COVID-19. Widespread vaccination is the only means of bringing this public health emergency to a conclusive end.”

Elsewhere, Westchester County Executive George Latimer is giving County employees who are fully vaccinated four free passes to Playland for the 2021 season.

The County will re-establish a mandatory mask mandate for most County facilities. At all Westchester County office buildings, unvaccinated employees and those who visit will be required to be masked at all times. Those who are vaccinated, will need to be masked in all common areas. All County buildings will remain open to the public.

“At all County beaches and County pools, masks will be required when patrons go to concession stands, locker rooms, bathrooms and other locations regardless of vaccination status,” said Latimer. “Playland mask policies are still being evaluated.”