Beginning Monday, January 3, 2022, visitors will no longer be required to wear masks when inside City-operated facilities, except when entering secure, staff-only areas where mask required signage is present.
To protect the workforce and maintain programs and services, City employees are still required to wear masks that cover their mouth and nose when inside all areas of indoor City-operated facilities. The decision to modify the mask policy for City facilities was made by City Manager Ron Fehr.
“I made the decision to modify our mask policy primarily based on our ability to reasonably and adequately enforce mask requirement provisions, which can be very stressful and lead to confrontations," said City Manager Ron Fehr. “If you're a visitor seeking in-person services at City Hall, participating in a City Commission or Advisory Board meeting in the City Commission Room or accessing programs or gyms at one of our recreation centers, masks won't be required, but are strongly recommended. However, if you're meeting with City staff in any of our private office areas, masks will be required or an alternative engagement provision may be developed. Please refer to the signage at our facilities. We echo the recommendations of health officials on the use of medical type masks versus cloth masks. I also encourage community members to get vaccinated if they haven't already, and also receive a booster if eligible.”
This mask policy is related to indoor, City-operated facilities only. In secure, staff-only areas where masks are required, the policy applies to people older than two years of age, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated. There is no City-wide mask ordinance that has been approved or is being considered at this time.
Manhattan Regional Airport will continue to follow federal laws requiring masks for all people at airports. Masks must be worn at Manhattan Regional Airport, and visitors and travelers should refer to federal guidelines for the latest information.
Signs will be posted at the entrance of each facility and at entries to secure, staff-only areas. Medical type masks are available upon request for those visiting city facilities. Contact the City facility for options to conduct business remotely if preferred.
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