Wear your mask, Manitou Springs orders mask mandate

MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- With an objective to promote the public health of residents, visitors and workers, the City of Manitou Springs has signed an emergency order concerning the use of face coverings.

In an online survey conducted by Manitou Springs, more than 80% of the respondents expressed concern over the lack of mask usage in the community.

“We’ve heard a lot of comments from our residents saying they are reluctant to go downtown that they are afraid to go downtown can you please do something to make the streets safer," said Mayor John Graham.

This new order, which is effective immediately, mandates the use of wearing a mask if you cannot keep six feet of social distancing. The ordinance even applies to people outdoors as well.

“My mask protects you, and your mask protects me," Graham said. "If we want to beat the virus then we all need to get serious about this and we need to cooperate and take care of each other."

But what makes this mandate different then the one Governor Jared Polis issued a week ago? Mayor Graham explains.

“The principal differential on this is we are requiring masks if you can’t be at least six feet socially distant," he said. "I believe that’s the primary thing. If you can’t keep that then you need to wear a mask.”

However, there are some exceptions to the new rule. If you are out exercising or walking your dog and you are by yourself or with a member of your household, you don’t have to wear a mask.

“Children under 10 would not be required to wear a mask, individuals who have medical conditions that would prevent them from wearing a mask, they would be a part of that exception,” said the mayor.

The emergency order will be handled by the Manitou Springs Police Department. Individuals contacted for the disturbance may face a fine of $25 for their first offense, a fine of $50 for their second and they are subject to an arrest for trespass for failure to leave the business if not cooperating.

The City of Manitou Springs has also added a form online that you can fill out if needed to file a complaint against a business that is not complying. You can see that form by clicking here.