Meeting Summary
The Edmond City Council held a special virtual meeting to discuss its COVID-19 emergency declaration. Following extensive public comment and council discussion, the council decided against implementing a mandatory mask ordinance, opting instead to continue with its current policy of strongly recommending mask-wearing and requiring businesses to post their mask policies. The decision emphasized voluntary compliance and concerns about enforcement.
Key Decisions & Votes
COVID-19 Mask Policy
1:06:00The city council decided to continue with its current policy of strongly recommending mask-wearing and requiring businesses to post their mask policies. The council expressed concerns about the enforceability of a mandate and preferred to pursue voluntary compliance, despite calls from some citizens and medical professionals for a mandate.
Public Comments
Public comments were sharply divided. Proponents of a mask mandate, including several medical professionals, cited rising case numbers, the efficacy of masks in reducing transmission, the need to protect vulnerable populations, and the example of neighboring cities. They emphasized the importance of science-based policy and the potential for economic disruption if the virus spreads unchecked. Opponents argued against a mandate, citing individual liberty, concerns about the efficacy of non-N95 masks, the low mortality rate of the virus, and the belief that mandates infringe on personal choice and could lead to unnecessary fear or economic harm.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Revised declaration of emergency in effect until August 3rd, 2020.
- Businesses were required to post their mask policies by July 20th.
Watch For
- Monitoring the impact of current policies and other cities' mandates (expected impact in 1-2 weeks).
- Reopening of Edmond Public Schools in three weeks, including potential impact from surrounding zip codes.
- Potential future consideration of a mask ordinance if conditions change.
Announcements
- The city council has been meeting 18 weeks in a row to keep citizens informed about city services and COVID-19 guidance.
- Oklahoma Governor announced no change to state policy and would not endorse a mandatory mask policy.
- Oklahoma County offices have not endorsed a mandatory mask policy.
- Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Stillwater, and Norman have adopted mandatory mask policies.
- Major national companies have adopted company-wide mask policies for employees and customers.
- The states of Texas and Arkansas have announced mandatory mask policies.
- City buildings require masks for entry; parks are open, Arcadia Lake is well-utilized, and the golf course clubhouse requires masks.
- A data entry issue with the state health department is affecting daily case numbers.
Agenda Summary
Discussion and consideration of amendments to the revised declaration of emergency regarding COVID-19
The council reviewed the existing proclamation, which strongly recommends mask-wearing and requires businesses to post their policies. Updates were provided on state and county COVID-19 statuses, as well as mask mandates in other Oklahoma cities. City staff reported on local case numbers and the implementation of the business signage program.