Holiday Season COVID-19 Spread Prompts Extended Measures in Des Moines

The City of Des Moines has implemented extended COVID-19 safety measures in light of the ongoing community spread during the winter holiday season. Mayor Frank Cownie announced the amendment to the emergency proclamation, which now limits outdoor gatherings on City property to just 30 individuals, down from a previous limit of 250. This decision reflects the city's commitment to curbing the spread of the virus as it reported a total of 37,738 positive cases and 371 deaths in Polk County. In addition to the gathering restrictions, all youth and adult sports activities on City property are currently prohibited, although community recreation centers will remain open at a reduced capacity of 50 percent. Cownie emphasized the importance of community compliance with health measures and expressed hope that the arrival of a vaccine will help restore normalcy.

The city's existing face covering mandate, enacted in August 2020, remains in effect with no changes. Furthermore, Des Moines administration buildings will remain closed to the public until at least February 1, 2021, ensuring the safety of residents and staff. These measures highlight the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in managing public health during the pandemic.