Hunter
08/24/20
Social media images from Iowa City nightspots over the weekend have raised concerns about coronavirus mitigation, as Johnson County recorded its highest number of new cases.
Cedar Rapids Gazette reporter Vanessa Miller was in the area late Saturday and early Sunday; she posted images showing a lack of social distancing and proper mask use.
The actions are in direct violation of the city’s mask mandate.
Miller also reported that although door checkers at the bars required patrons to be masked to enter, many of them pulled them off once they got inside.
Classes start at the University of Iowa today, and students were sent another message Friday reminding them to wear face coverings per city and county mandates, and to practice social distancing.
City Councilor Susan Mims told the paper that they’re working with the Alcoholic Beverages Division and hopes they will take action against violators. She says all council members “are very concerned.”
A KCJJ staffer was in the downtown area Friday afternoon and noticed most shoppers and pedestrians adhering to the mask mandate and social distancing requirements.
On Sunday, Johnson County reported 91 new coronavirus cases in the 24 hour period ending at 11am, its highest-ever number since the first positive cases in Iowa were confirmed in the county on March 8.