VERGENNES — Masks or other protective facial coverings will no longer be required to enter Vergennes businesses and public buildings, effective as of Tuesday’s Vergennes City Council meeting.

Councilors voted unanimously on Tuesday to rescind their 2020 ordinance requiring masks as a measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Councilor Jill Murray-Killon made the motion that was approved, and it stated that it would take effect “as of this meeting.”

Deputy Mayor Dickie Austin pointed to the “likelihood of the state lifting” its statewide mandate by the end of this week.

Councilor Ian Huizenga noted Vermont is just 3,000 vaccinations away from Gov. Phil Scott’s goal of 80% of the state’s residents being either fully vaccinated or having the first of their necessary two shots.

“I think we’re fine with it,” Huizenga said.

Murray-Killon summed up after the vote: “I’m just really happy to see everyone’s faces.”