Mask mandate extension voted down after Mayor TenHaken breaks tie
In an emotional conclusion after hours of public input on an ordinance to extend the city’s mask mandate, Mayor Paul TenHaken broke a tie and voted against it, saying the “ancillary damage” it could cause the city was too great.
The city’s mask mandate, which under the ordinance would have continued until the South Dakota Department of Health began vaccinating subgroup 1E in their plan, will now expire on March 13.
Prior to the council’s discussions on this topic, dozens of residents all sitting together, having moved the room’s socially-distanced chairs into a single block rose to voice their opposition to the mandate.
Sioux Falls City Council moves closer to extending mask mandate
An ordinance that would see Sioux Falls mask mandate extended until South Dakota s vaccination plan enters its next phase passed a first reading Tuesday night, but not with out further contention between elected officials and frustration from outspoken residents.
The ordinance meant to help the city navigate the ongoing coronavirus pandemic moved forward on a 6-2 vote, with Councilors Greg Neitzert and Christine Erickson voting against it.
Neitzert, who has long been the strongest opponent to the mask mandate on the council, said at this point he wasn t sure if the city s state of emergency would expire by the time his term ended in 2024.
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