Meeting Summary
The Edmond City Council held a special meeting to discuss potential amendments to the existing COVID-19 emergency proclamation, prompted by a recent surge in cases across Oklahoma. While acknowledging medical recommendations for mask-wearing, the council ultimately decided against implementing mandatory mask requirements or further business closures, emphasizing personal choice and responsibility. Public comments were largely in opposition to new mandates, citing concerns about freedom and economic impact.
Key Decisions & Votes
Mandatory Mask Usage
The City Council decided against implementing mandatory mask usage requirements for employees or the public, emphasizing personal choice and responsibility.
Business Closures
The council explicitly stated that there were no plans to close businesses, addressing widespread rumors that had circulated prior to the meeting.
Financial Matters
Utility Disconnects Moratorium
The emergency declaration identified June 30th as the end date for a moratorium on utility disconnects. The city is considering reinstituting disconnects in July but emphasizes willingness to work with customers on payment plans.
Commercial Utility Payment Arrangements
A business owner highlighted that Edmond Electric does not offer payment arrangements for commercial businesses and urged the council to consider allowing them, especially during the pandemic.
Public Comments
Public comments were highly passionate and largely opposed to any new mandates, particularly regarding masks. Speakers emphasized personal freedom, choice, and responsibility, questioned the validity and interpretation of COVID-19 statistics, and expressed concerns about economic impact and government overreach. A few speakers, including medical professionals, advocated for mask mandates based on scientific evidence and public health, highlighting the medical implications of the virus.
Coming Up
Tabled
- Discussion regarding the emergency proclamation will continue at special meetings on July 13th, July 20th, and July 27th.
Deadlines
- Oklahoma City's current proclamation is in effect through July 17th and will be re-evaluated prior to that date.
- The city is considering reinstituting utility disconnects in July, following the moratorium's end on June 30th.
Watch For
- Review of potential rollback options for city activities and buildings, including restricting access and increasing remote work options.
- Re-evaluation of the Senior Center meal program's projected restart on July 3rd if case numbers continue to rise.
- Consideration of whether to continue allowing City Park pavilion rentals.
- Review of ongoing events at ball fields and soccer fields.
- Staff to provide recommendations regarding mandating masks for eatery groups (bars, cafeterias, food halls, shopping malls, wineries, breweries, restaurants).
Announcements
- The City of Edmond has had its first confirmed case of COVID-19 among its nearly 800 full-time employees.
Agenda Summary
Discussion of possible amendments to the existing emergency Proclamation
Reviewing the current COVID-19 emergency proclamation, considering changes due to a recent increase in cases, and discussing potential mandates for mask usage and business restrictions.