Hays Post
In a special meeting that began at noon Friday, the Hays City Commission voted 3-1 to extend the city ordinance requiring face coverings.
The ordinance was set to expire Monday. Commissioners Michael Berges, Shaun Musil and Sandy Jacobs voted in favor of the extension, while Mason Ruder voted against. Commissioner Ron Mellick was absent.
Instead of choosing a date for the expiration, the commission opted to use COVID-19 metrics generated by Berges with endorsement from the Ellis County Health Department. The ordinance now will be lifted if the seven-day average of new cases is at five or below for 14 consecutive days — or if the statewide emergency declaration is lifted.
As of Wednesday, the seven-day average of new cases was 11. On Friday, the health department reported that number had risen to 13.
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The special meeting was requested by Mayor Shaun Musil during Thursday evening's work session and announced just after 8 a.m. Friday on the city's website.
Check Hays Post for more as details are available.