On the evenings of Friday, Aug. 21 and Saturday, Aug. 22, officers with the Springfield Police Department conducted masking ordinance compliance checks at several area businesses.
The focus of the checks is to ensure that businesses are following the necessary protocols, including signage, masking, social distancing and capacity limits, as well as making sure patrons mask up when moving throughout the business.
During the checks, officers witnessed a high level of compliance. All locations checked were complying with capacity limitations and employees were masked.
As Springfield Police Chief Paul Williams mentioned in a press briefing Friday, Aug. 21, there was previously confusion among patrons pertaining to rules regarding lines outside businesses. Those locations were closely monitored by officers, who witnessed a significant increase in precautions.
Patrons unable to socially distance while standing in line were wearing masks and some locations placed sidewalk stickers outside, encouraging social distancing and masking.
“As our community navigates this difficult time, we want to make sure our citizens are educated on all the facets of the ordinance,” said Chief Williams. “This weekend’s findings are an example of how education is effective. However, officers have the discretion to issue citations, and will do so if deemed necessary.”
No citations have been issued at this time for violating the masking ordinance, but officers will be following up to ensure compliance.
Educational brochure being provided by SPD Officers
More information about the ordinance
1 comment:
First a city encroaching on being a top 10 most dangerous city in the country, having to make the police do this is beyond preposterous! Let real crime happen but we have to make sure struggling businesses "TOW THE LINE"! What bull...
Post a Comment