After reading District 4 Commissioner Robert Bender’s comments in an interview with Inweekly reporter Jeremy Morrison, Pensacola City Councilwoman Sherri Myers called to say she did write the commissioner over a week ago and never heard back from him.
“I live in his district and expected the courtesy of a reply,” said Myers, who is serving her third term on the council. “I will not be ignored.”
Here is her email:
From: Sherri Myers
Subject: Mandatory Mask
Date: July 17, 2020 at 11:46:46 AM CDT
To: District4
Dear Commissioner Bender, I am writing you as the city council representative for District 2, and also as one of your constituents. I strongly urge you to take a leadership role in getting the BCC to adopt a mandatory mask requirement consistent with the City of Pensacola. I would like to take this opportunity to point out why I feel this an important responsibility for you.
First, your district on the mainland is largely comprised of city residents. I have looked at the District 4 map and it appears that District 4 runs close to 9 miles north to south. That is approximately the length of the city. Last night the council voted 6 to 1 on a resolution respectfully requesting the BCC to adopt a mandatory mask policy consistent with the city. At least 5 of the 7 members of the city council represent constituents that are in your district.
Second, the scientific data supports the evidence that wearing mask reduces substantially the spread of Covid-19, thereby saving lives and reducing the stress on medical facilities and other resources.
Third, when the Mayor and I discussed ways the city could help our businesses, I suggested and I believe he agreed, that mandatory mask requirements put the onus of the requirement and enforcement on the government. I represent the Pensacola’s primary business core and have had the opportunity to talk with business owners who expressed appreciation for the mandatory mask requirement. I have witnessed our businesses try to handle this issue on their own and I felt they needed help and backup from the government.
Fourth, my district is completely bifurcated by the county. This makes it difficult for businesses and citizens when there is not a consistent policy that crosses city and county lines. See the District 2 map below.
Fifth, Mayor Robinson has shown fearless and courageous leadership on this issue. He represents all of the constituents in the city, who are also your constituents. I am asking you to show the same leadership and join our mayor and city council to win the fight against Covid-19.
Sincerely, Sherri Myers