JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Members of the Jamestown City Council moved to extend the current mask mandate for front-facing employees Monday.

Previously enacted October 2020, the council discussed the current emergency measures of requiring face coverings for every person within the city for all indoor and outdoor environments where a person is exposed to non-household members and where physical distancing of six feet or greater cannot be assured. On Monday, the council voted to expire the mandate for the general public.

Councilmember Dan Buchanan quoted the CDC, saying the city should continue to extend the mask mandate.

Councilmember David Steele stated that the current low number of COVID-19 cases in Jamestown and Stutsman County were the direct result of the current mandate.

Mayor Dwaine Heinrich added to that.

Councilmember David Schloegel said he was concerned if they lifted the mandate, it could jeopardize future plans for events in the community.

Councilmember Brian Kamlitz stated the decision to wear a mask should be up to residents and businesses in Jamestown.

The council voted 3-2 to extend the mandate for front-facing employees with Councilmembers Kamlitz and Schloegel voting nay. This includes face coverings for all public-facing retail and service employees including liquor and eating establishments.

The council voted unanimously to end all other pandemic-related ordinances, including the public mask ordinance and limiting gatherings of 50 or more people.

The front-facing employee mask mandate was extended until the April 5th City Council meeting, where it will be addressed again.