MANITOWOC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Starting next week, face masks will be required in some areas in Manitowoc.
The Manitowoc Common Council voted 8-2 to require face masks to be worn in city-owned facilities.
The policy will take effect on Monday, July 27 and go through Monday, Sept. 21, unless it is extended further by the common council.
The policy applies to city employees and any patron of the city-owned facilities. Masks will be provided for free at the entrance of the facilities. Any patron who has a pre-existing health condition where wearing a mask is not possible should contact the city in advance so accommodations can be made.
The policy applies to the following buildings:
- City Hall
- Senior Center
- Police Station
- Fire Stations
- Rahr-West Art Museum
- Manitowoc Public Library (The Library Board is discussing this policy at their board meeting on Monday, July 27 and the recommendation is to implement this policy for the library effective Monday, August 3)
- Wastewater Treatment Facility
- Department of Public Infrastructure Shop on Viebahn Street
- Evergreen Cemetery Building (not required while outside)
- Farmers Market vendors are required to wear a mask. Patrons are not
Where masks are NOT required (but social distancing still applies)
- Children under 2 years old
- Parks facilities (fieldhouse or cabins) when rented by a private party. However, masks are STRONGLY encouraged by the city
- Parks and outdoor spaces including playground equipment and ball diamonds along with park restrooms
- Mini golf course
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- Evergreen Cemetery (outside)
- City owned buildings/property but have a private agreement: Marina, Carferry, MAVCB, Rollaire
- For city employees: anywhere outdoors or when driving alone in a city vehicle AND certain instances for public safety
- Maritime Metro Transit (Masks or faceguards are required for drivers. Strongly encourage patrons to wear a mask)
In regards to the August 11 primary, the city cannot legally require people coming into city facilities to wear a mask while voting.
