Currently all gyms are closed as a mitigation effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In the meantime, essential businesses such as PUBLIC transportation (buses, metros), grocery stores, large department stores like Walmart, Target, etc. remain OPEN which contain just as high a risk if not higher of being exposed to COVID-19

Gyms not only serve as a place to exercise, but for many of us, it serves as an outlet to relieve stress and better condition ourselves mentally, physically, and psychologically. To many, the gym IS an essential place for us to be; especially for my fellow veterans in Alabama.

The purpose of this petition is for city of Mobile to consider making recommendations to allow the reopening of gyms while adhering to CDC guidelines, such as limiting the amount of people in the location (based of gym size), strict adherence and enforcement of cleaning and sanitizing equipment, and a screening process to ensure patrons are cleared to enter the facility.

As a fitness enthusiast, and USAF Veteran, I feel reopening the gyms will not only boost morale and overall health, we can help keep EMPLOYMENT of our hard working gym staff and bring down the number of people out of work. Thank you for your time and consideration.