Community Apology from Mayor Bob Nation
I have received numerous comments and questions from members of the public regarding recent media reports of an incident involving a City Councilman that refused to wear a mask inside one our local retail establishments. While there have been varied descriptions of the event, the basic facts as I understand them are that on November 28, 2020 Chesterfield Police were dispatched by St. Louis County to respond to “a disturbance and refusal to leave” at the Best Buy store location in Chesterfield Valley. Upon arrival, the Officer was advised that a father and his teenage son had repeatedly been asked to wear their masks, as they were making customers uncomfortable. The Manager indicated these individuals had also been asked to leave, but would not comply, and it was only after the Manager called the Police did they exit the store. In the interest of transparency, I have directed that the video linked at the bottom of the page, and the City records be made readily available so that the public can draw their own conclusions of the incident.
When individuals take it upon themselves to defy the requirements that local businesses implement in order to stay safe and open during this Pandemic, it not only impacts these businesses and their employees, it reflects poorly on the City of Chesterfield. I believe that elected officials should set the very best example for our employees and citizens and I sincerely apologize on behalf of the City for the manner in which this individual Councilmember’s behavior reflects on the City. Unfortunately, it is outside my authority to unilaterally act on the public’s request that I take action against this Councilmember; he alone must answer the calls for his resignation.
I believe the City of Chesterfield offers the best holiday shopping experience in the region and I am asking everyone to please support our local businesses and follow their rules so that everyone can enjoy a festive and safe holiday shopping experience.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Bob Nation
Mayor, City of Chesterfield
LINK TO VIDEO
LINK TO OFFICIAL LETTER FROM THE MAYOR