Yea, the mayor of Stillwater has decided to end the required mask ordinance early as of Friday at 3pm. It was going to end May 25. Mayor Joyce made his decision based on updated CDC guidance and improved local conditions, in consultation with local health officials.
As of May 12, Payne County had 17 active COVID-19 cases, a significant decrease from the 132 active cases the week of April 21, according to the City of Stillwater release. As of May 10, Payne County had 0.7 cases per 100,000 people which places the county in the Green COVID-19 Risk Level, the lowest level.
“This is an exciting step in the nation’s fight against the pandemic,” Mayor Joyce said. “It demonstrates the power and benefit of the vaccine. Without a doubt, the vaccine is making a real difference and I encourage everyone who is able to get vaccinated.”
“The CDC continues to recommend face masks for all non-vaccinated people in most cases,” Joyce said. “In addition, local businesses, schools and other entities may also continue to require face masks. We ask Stillwater residents to follow the CDC guidelines and respect the requirements of local businesses and others.”
Stillwater Police Department will continue to respond to trespassing complaints for businesses or other entities who still require masks. City manager McNickle said SPD has not been called to do that many times over the past year. "You could count it on one hand," he said.
On May 13, the CDC announced that individuals who have received the vaccine may stop wearing masks and are no longer required to social distance in most indoor and outdoor settings. Those who have not been vaccinated for the coronavirus are advised to continue to wear masks and social distance.
The CDC guidelines continue to recommend masks and social distancing for vaccinated individuals in a variety of situations, including air, bus and other public transportation; visiting doctors’ offices, hospitals or long-term care facilities; and visiting prisons and jails.
OSU has also dropped mask requirements. Two exceptions for this change exist — masks remain required on OSU transportation buses and in certain areas of University Health Services. OSU officials have confirmed that this ruling will extend into the fall semester unless a change in guidance comes from the CDC.
