Mayor Proposes

New Mask Law

Private Homes Won’t Be Included,

As In Law Herzig Vetoed Last Week

ONEONTA – After vetoing a mask ordinance last week, Mayor Gary Herzig will be asking the Common Council to approve a revised ordinance Tuesday that does not include regulations of activities inside private homes.

The revised ordinance will require masks at all times in outdoor public space in the city’s downtown (MU-1) zoning district. Masks will also be required by all customers in retail and service businesses, as well as in restaurants and bars when not seated and eating.

Throughout the rest of the city, masks will be required in outdoor public spaces whenever a minimum of 6-feet social distancing cannot be assured. The local law does not apply to private residences.

In announcing the new proposed law, Herzig encouraged citizens to wear masks.  “We are entering a critical time with a recent uptick in cases of COVID-19,” he said.  “The people of Oneonta have worked too hard to now risk an outbreak during this fall and winter.”