House parties are ‘the most dangerous things,’ a South Florida mayor tells his city
Pinecrest Mayor Joseph Corradino called out his city’s “largest problem” in a statement to the community this week — private house parties.
“These are the most dangerous things that impact our community,” he wrote in a Thursday letter to the community. “The law does not enable us to enforce the rules we use on public spaces on private property. So, our current option is to appeal to the common sense and decency of our citizens. This danger comes directly from within.”
Corradino said parties have become “prevalent” in recent weeks.
His warning comes as numbers statewide continue to rise. On Friday, nearly 9,000 new cases were reported in the state.
“Countywide, the trajectory of the disease is on a consistent increase,” Corradino said in the letter. “It can and must be stopped while we still have the hospital capacity.”
Corradino appeared at a news conference this week, where mayors from across the county announced stricter enforcement of COVID rules.
But he said personal responsibility was a huge part of the battle against COVID-19.
“It is time for each of us, as individuals, to recommit to limiting our interactions,” he said. “If you can work from home, do it. If you go out, stay distant, and if unable to, wear a mask. Practice excellent hygiene with frequent hand washing. Strictly limit household gatherings.”
He said residents and businesses in Pinecrest “have been largely compliant in the commercial areas,” but the real problem has been in private homes.
“We understand the fatigue of this situation, particularly during graduation season and summer,” he said. “We understand that young people do not take this seriously. But we ALL must take this seriously.”
He asked residents not to have large gatherings or indoor parties in Pinecrest. He also said residents should adhere to strict guidelines about requiring masks and eliminating shared items.
“You are jeopardizing your lives, the lives of your children, parents, and the lives of your neighbors,” he warned.
This story was originally published June 27, 2020 at 10:08 AM.
