Live at 2:30: City officials to provide update on coronavirus cases in Sioux Falls area: argusleader.com/story/news/202…
Mayor TenHaken: Our current status to date as operating on the lowest level of CDC mitigation strategy. To date, Sioux Falls (Minnehaha/Lincoln) have been in none. Now we are in the 'substantial community spread,' which means five or more cases.
To clarify: Minnehaha is in substantial, Lincoln is in minimal/moderate.
TenHaken: We are recommending any business that falls within governor's executive order will be limited to 10 or fewer patrons on their business premises. It will be enforceable by a class 2 misdemeanor and possible loss of licenses.
The proposed ordinance is everything that the city can do in the power of the law, TenHaken says.
TenHaken: I do feel some of our social distancing messaging has been effective. ... The next logical step would be a statewide action.
TenHaken reiterates this ordinance will only affect Sioux Falls city limits. "We are doing what we can within the city of Sioux Falls."
TenHaken: The way we are interpreting the law says this is the most stringent step we can take.
TenHaken: We are still promoting and encouraging curbside takeout and delivery for restaurants. "We are not shutting down businesses. The government in Sioux Falls is not doing that."
TenHaken says an increase in 5 to 13 cases is not the surge. "This is just the tip" of potential cases.
TenHaken: You don't need to take five kids to Walmart. You don't need to take the whole family to Hy-Vee. "I don't know how else to say it. People, stay home."
TenHaken: I'm sick of the bars and restaurants being the scapegoat. The patrons have a responsibility as well.
Sanford VP Medical Officer Dr. Mike Wilde says he can't say if Sanford currently has any patients in intensive care but says Sanford has reported positive cases.
TenHaken: The mayor cannot go into the bank and tell the bank president how to run the bank. If you have a problem with how your business is operating or handling coronavirus outbreak, talk to your place of business. He says mayor's office is getting lots of these calls.
