South Bay cities are cracking down on mask avoiders — and they’re using private contracting firms to do it.
The Los Angeles Times reports that four health ordinance enforcement officers from Willdan Group are now helping the Hermosa Beach Police Department enforce a local mask mandate passed on July 28. They do not have the power to arrest people, but they can free up police resources by trying to enforce certain rules.
Manhattan Beach has also hired a private security firm to help enforce its mask requirements. Contemporary Services Corp. has provided the city with guards who hand out masks and issue warnings to violators.
Widespread mask wearing is one of the best ways to slow the spread of coronavirus, but cities and counties are encountering obstinancy. With municipal police departments strapped, they hope private firms could be part of the solution.