Mask ordinance appears likely for Joplin residents, issue to be revisited during special meeting Wednesday

The Joplin City Council took two steps tonight toward what is most likely to be a face mask ordinance for the city.

During the first, the City Council voted unanimously to spend $64,500 to buy reusable masks for distribution to every Joplin resident.

The second step was the scheduling of a special meeting for 6 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall to discuss a face mask ordinance.

Considering that the council already rejected the ordinance last week, but only by a 5-4 vote, it appears likely the ordinance will be adopted.

During the city's weekly press conference today, Mayor Ryan Stanley, one of the five council members who voted against the ordinance, strongly urged Joplin residents to wear face masks