To continue to safeguard the health and safety of residents due to COVID-19, Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce has issued a proclamation effective Feb. 26, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. that declares a continued state of emergency for the City and recommends certain precautions remain in place until April 30.
“While the State of Oklahoma lifted mandatory restrictions earlier this month, we are recommending that Stillwater continue to follow precautions that will help us battle the pandemic,” said Joyce. “With the rollout of proven vaccines and the support of the community, we are hopeful we are nearing a return to a more normal environment. But we must remain diligent. I appreciate the understanding and continued cooperation of the citizens of Stillwater.”
The proclamation recommends continued precautions for bars and restaurants, retail businesses, and churches and other religious institutions.
“Stillwater businesses have gone above and beyond to serve customers through this time,” Joyce said. “We know the pandemic has brought tremendous financial and logistical challenges. Local businesses have shown great flexibility and creativity in serving their customers.”
Bars, taverns, dancehalls, restaurants and food service establishments providing seating areas for on-premises consumption of food and/or beverages are strongly encouraged to follow the guidelines in the proclamation, as well as implement all other CDC or public health authority recommended measures to minimize crowding and promote social and physical distancing of patrons.
It is recommended that retail establishments continue efforts to protect customers and employees from exposure to COVID-19. Those steps include providing face coverings to customers and employees who do not have them and making hand sanitizer and wipes available, social distancing and protective barriers, and adjusting hours of operation to minimize crowding in stores.
Churches and other religious institutions are strongly encouraged to enforce social and physical distancing practices and require participants and guests to wear face coverings during worship services and all other organized events and activities. It is also recommended that these institutions consider offering additional worship service opportunities if needed.
The proclamation also provides guidelines on access to City offices and facilities. The Stillwater Community Center, Stillwater Armory, Stillwater Public Library, Stillwater Senior Center and the Swimming Pool at Couch Park (scheduled to open in May) will be open to the public with certain safety guidelines. All Stillwater City Park facilities shall remain open.
Read the full proclamation and list of recommended precautions.
