We are expressing our concern about what “appears” to be a too relaxed policy on Covid protection, especially based on the age and vulnerability of the Polo membership, particularly relating to short-term visits of vertical families. 

We must remember that simply following government guidelines, which are influenced by political and economic factors, in addition to health protection, can not be enough for a private community, particularly based on the demographics of our members

Although it is understandable that vertical families would want to visit Polo, and Polo residents are anxious to see their families, the primary responsibility of the Board, management and Polo members should be the safety of all residents & staff.

We strongly suggest that all visitors should be restricted from the Club facilities, particularly all restaurants, whether indoors or outside, as social distancing is extremely difficult even outdoors with people moving about, and servers moving between tables with visitors, and tables with members only

PLUS....this seems to be the policy of all other Clubs in our area, at least for the period between prior to Thanksgiving and after New Years.

We also appreciate the distinction between vertical members' families that have taken refuge from their regular homes and are living temporarily-permanently with Polo members, and vertical family members that wish to visit for the holidays (several days or a few weeks at a time).

Although short-term visiting vertical family members may be permitted, then they should be restricted to the outside spaces only, and restricted from all restaurants, whether indoors or out (especially since staff move between restaurants). It is clear that they are visiting from all over, and many from areas with very high Covid transmission rates. They should be restricted to their hosts homes, & outdoor activities, excluding all on-property restaurants. They absolutely should not be allowed to use the fitness center, locker rooms, or indoor dining facilities. 

And, all, residents & staff must absolutely be required to wear masks at all times when anywhere inside Polo premises, other than when seated in a restaurant.

As permanent residents, we have every right to be concerned about the Board regulations concerning vertical family members visits.

As part-time residents, trying to decide whether to return to Polo, we would like to clearly understand the safety precautions that are in place, or will be quickly put in place, to ensure that all possible is being done to prevent the spread of Covid within our property. This will greatly impact our decision as to whether to return to Polo this winter.