County of Onondaga Office of the County Executive J. Ryan MeMahon, I Brian J. Donnelly conyBecse John H, Mulroy Civic Centr, 14th Flor int Dany Bootie ‘Ann Rooney 2 Mom Se Shee a Mary Beth Primo gy Cony Exes, ian Svs one 315.425.3516. Fax 315.495.8582 gy Cauty Base, Phys Soies wwnw.ongov.net February 7, 2022 Dr. Mary T. Bassett, M.D., M.P.H., Commissioner New York State Department of Health Corning Tower Empire State Plaza Albany, NY 12237 Dear Commissioner Bassett, ‘Throughout this pandemic, like many of our other counties, Onondaga County has taken a data driven approach when responding to COVID-19. This approach instilled confidence and faith in our community. When we had to make difficult decisions about our local businesses or schools, the people of Onondaga County knew it was based on nothing more than the available data. Thankfully we now have widespread availability of an effective vaccine for COVID-19 and incredibly effective treatments for those who may need them. Alll of this has changed the data dramatically and with a change in data so too should come a change in policy. To that end, this letter is sent to respectfully request that a metric be developed as quickly as possible to allow for the removal of masks in schools. While governed by New York State, Onondaga County enjoys a strong partnership with our local school districts. Whether it be for testing, vaccine clinics or offering general guidance on best practices, our local health department and my administration have developed a collaborative and respectful relationship. My team stands ready to serve as a resource to help districts implement the metric and guidance from New York State Health to allow for the removal of masks in schools. First, however, we need you and your team to develop and release that guidance and do so using the voluminous amount of data and keeping in mind the aforementioned facts. ‘Now, more than ever, we must instill confidence in our community. During the last 23 months, our community has suffered extensively from more than just COVID-19. Our children deserve to know that their community leaders are working to restore a sense of normalcy and consistency at school.‘Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out, I standby as a ready and willing partner to accomplish this goal. Sincerely, at E pean MleMahon, I mty Executive Ce: Dr. Betty A. Rosa, Commissioner of Education Dr. Indu Gupta, M.D., M.P.H., Onondaga County Health Commissioner Sarah Ravenhall, M.H.A., C-H.E.S, Executive Director, NYSACHO