[snipped] ...
That said, and my point is if you break the rules, face the consequences. In this case, backlash from the community.
... [snipped more]
IMO, community backlash is not the only consequence I'd expect. Public officials who do wrong deserve that even if they avoid punitive actions.
If you or I were to do the same thing, or try to, what would be the consequences?
Would the venue manager turn away everyone who exceeded the limit of attendees?
Would the group be asked to leave if they exceeded the limit after the manager tells them they are breaking the rules?
Would the Cops be called?
Would the manager/owner be fined for breaking the rules? Issued a summons to appear in front of a judge?
Whatever the prescribed punishments are for someone who knowingly and willingly violates COVID rules -- that's the appropriate consequence. As the person who signed the order to enact the rules, arguing he didn't know would be dishonest.