Health Department

Issues Cease, Desist

To Mount Vision Fest

MOUNT VISION – The Otsego County Health Department is warning the public to stay away from the NY Harvest & Freedom Fair/Political Rally at 397 County Highway 15, just west of here, after it was declared a “nonessential gathering” and ordered not to take place.

According to a press release from Public Health Director Heidi Bond, the county Health Department became aware of the event and issued a cease and desist order on Thursday.

However, Bond was notified the event was being held regardless, she said, which would have been a violation of Executive Order 202.8 and Executive Order 202.45: “Businesses/events must limit all non-essential gatherings to 50 or fewer individuals for any lawful purpose or reason.”

“It is in the best interest of the public to avoid this event,” Bond wrote in a press release.

Citations are in the process of being issued to the proprietors of this event for violations of public health law and executive orders. According to Bond, Violation of social gathering restrictions comes with a $15,000 fine and individuals who attend the event and do not wear face coverings may be subjected to a $1,000 fine.

This matter has been turned over to law enforcement.