Stillwater closing many public venues starting Wednesday

STILLWATER — Beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, the City of Stillwater is ordering the closure of many public venues and restricting restaurants to take out or delivery options within Stillwater city limits.

These additional restrictions are to prevent the spread of the virus within the Stillwater community. These restrictions will remain in effect until Sunday, April 5—but may be extended.

“These measures are taken out of an abundance of caution,” City Manager Norman McNickle said. “The spread of COVID-19 is a serious public health emergency and we must be aggressive in our efforts to protect the lives of our community members. We are doing our best to take the necessary actions to prevent the spread of the virus while keeping the public informed and updated.”

These additional restrictions, as part of a new proclamation declaring a state of emergency, were signed by Mayor Will Joyce on Tuesday, March 17. The following facilities that are located within the City of Stillwater are ordered to close to the public until April 5:

• Gyms and fitness facilities
• Bars and lounges
• Entertainment venues
• Movie theatres
• Bowling alleys
• Skating rinks

Restaurant dining rooms are ordered to close to the public until April 5, although pickup and delivery service may remain open and is encouraged.

This new proclamation follows the mayor’s previous declaration on March 15, the governor’s statewide declaration of emergency and new guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control regarding increased social distancing.

“We realize the COVID-19 prevention strategies that have rolled out this week by schools, businesses, and all levels of government are concerning for community members,” Mayor Will Joyce said. “We empathize and want to thank Stillwater residents and businesses for their flexibility and willingness to make adjustments to their daily lives to help protect and promote the health and wellbeing of their neighbors.”