Starting Wednesday, Boise will require that people stay six feet apart at any indoor or outdoor venue, business or event in the city. It’s the latest move by the city to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Parks, movie theaters, stores and salons are just a few of the businesses affected by the order. The city is mandating so-called social distancing and city enforcement officers will be out educating park goers on the importance of staying apart.
“We have to have people separated for the good of public health,” Boise Mayor Lauren McLean said at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
McLean said if people don’t follow the guidance, the city may be forced to issue further restrictions. Unlike many Idaho cities, Boise has also shut down all dine-in services at restaurants and bars, though take-out and delivery are still available.
Gov. Brad Little has also been reluctant to issue statewide orders, even as the confirmed cases in the state increase by the day.
At the city council meeting, McLean also announced the city had sent a request to Little to issue a moratorium on evictions. She said with people in economic crisis, it’s vital to make sure they aren’t thrown on the street during a pandemic.
“This is something the state could do to protect the health and welfare of residents throughout the city and more importantly throughout the state,” she said.
In Idaho, cities don’t have the power to change eviction law — that’s up to the governor and legislature.
Follow Heath Druzin on Twitter, @HDruzin
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