By Dave Thompson

BISMARCK, N.D. (Prairie Public) – Bismarck has become the latest North Dakota city to adopt a mask mandate, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

The vote was 3 to 2.

The mandate does not have any penalties.

Commissioner Nancy Guy said she proposed the mandate, because she fears if Bismarck and Burleigh County don’t reduce the positivity rate, businesses and schools could again face shutdowns.

Guy was joined by Commissioners Greg Zenker and Steve Marquart in voting yes.

Commissioner Mark Splonskowsi was a “no” vote.

Mayor Steve Bakken was the other no vote. He said he still believes in personal responsibility.

About a half-dozen other cities in North Dakota have adopted a mask mandate