FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — An ordinance requiring masks for Fayetteville businesses was passed Tuesday (June 16) evening by a unanimous vote.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) released a data model that predicts a drastic increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths in September and October if social distancing guidelines are relaxed.

While many agree that wearing masks in public is necessary, there are also many people with strong opinions against being forced to wear a mask who choose to avoid visiting or shopping at places that require them.

Mayor Lioneld Jordan wrote a letter to business owners encouraging them to require people to wear masks inside their establishments.

In the letter, Mayor Jordan asks local business owners to take two actions in an effort to mitigate the spread of coronavirus. “First, please posts signs at your business entrance requiring masks or face coverings be worn by anyone who enters. Signs in English and Spanish are available on our website at the links at right (or below on a mobile device). Second, please refuse service to customers who do not wear masks or face coverings. If your business is required by the Arkansas Department of Health directive to enforce masks for employees and customers, please be diligent about enforcing this directive,” writes Mayor Jordan. He acknowledged that, “loss of business and reduced ability to operate has created a great financial burden for you. I am also aware that potentially turning away customers who refuse to wear masks may increase that burden. But I call upon you to send a strong message that each of us must do our part to reduce this threat to our community. Please post signs and continue enforcing responsible, considerate behavior in your business.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials are in Northwest Arkansas to help contain the outbreak of COVID-19 cases as both Benton and Washington Counties continue to see a significant increase in cases of the virus.

What Does The Ordinance Mean For You:

1) Masks required in public service areas at businesses, etc.

a) Except when eating, drinking, exercising.

b) Except in small group settings where social distancing can be followed.

c) Except for people with a relevant disabling condition.

d) Not applicable outdoors generally, except for events where the format or attendance prevents social distancing.

2) Businesses must post signage.

3) Businesses must distribute masks for free or a small fee.

4) Budget adjustment of $100k for a public safety campaign.

a) Targets high interaction sites.

b) Free masks for businesses to redistribute.

c) Sets up non-emergency hotline.

5) Sunset clause. Council will consider repeal when the state emergency order ends.

6) No penalty on individuals, except no access to applicable businesses without a mask. We will distribute a mask to anyone who lacks one.

7) No penalty for businesses, except for willful neglect.

Examples

• Masks will be required in a mechanic’s customer service area, but not in the workshop.

• Masks will be required in a corporate lobby, but generally not in employees-only areas.

• Masks will be required in all public-facing areas in a retail setting, such as a grocery or hardware store.

Full story from KFSM 5 News available at https://bit.ly/2AzBNx3

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