WELLINGTON, Ohio — Wellington Mayor Hans Schneider said he’s not taking any chances when it comes to his residents. He believes bringing thousands of people to the Lorain County Fair next month is dangerous and wants to cancel it this year.

What You Need To Know

  • Mayor Schneider worries not everyone will follow protocols like social distancing

  • Some residents and business owners echo Schneider's concerns

  • Schneider said the village has seen seven cases and one death

“We can’t safely ensure everyone will follow proper techniques--wearing masks, social distancing, hand washing,” Schneider said. “There’s far too much risk versus reward to bring those people in the village.”

Schneider said Wellington has had seven cases of COVID-19, and one passed away.

Some town residents echo the mayor’s concerns.

“I think it should be canceled just because of the danger that’s going on and the insecurities everybody has here in the community,” said Christy Ladine, a Wellington resident.  

“It’s a horrible idea ‘cause no one wants—no one cares. I just think it’s a bad idea,” said Park Adler, a Wellington resident.

Some business owners said they don’t want the county fair because it brings in too many people, threatening health and safety.

“We are just inviting 50,000 people into our town,” said Samantha Stump, owner of the flower and gift shop Platinum Petal.

Stump said it’s scary to have a large crowd of visitors during a deadly pandemic.

“So there is no way to track everyone and keep everyone clean and healthy… There just isn’t,” said Stump.

Just last week there was a caravan protest over plans to continue to sell the Confederate flag at the fair.

“The Confederate flag has no bearing on my stance. I’ve never taken a position on that prior to this with the fair. Health and safety (is) the number (one) priority in my mind,” said Schneider.

The Lorain County Fair is still scheduled to be held on August 23 to August 30.