CITY OF WATERLOO RESPONSE TO GOVERNOR'S PROCLOMATION
In accordance with the proclamation announced on April 16, 2020, by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, the City of Waterloo will be enforcing the following orders to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. These guidelines will be in effect starting at 11:59 PM on April 16, 2020, and continue until 11:59 on April 30, 2020:
- All social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings of ANY size with individuals other than members of the same household who reside together are prohibited
- All people who leave their homes must practice social distancing by remaining at least six feet from people other than members of the same household who reside together (this includes the cancelation of driveway parties, playdates, and other social interactions with family members who do not reside in a resident’s immediate home)
The proclamation is applicable to all Region 6 residents including Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Grundy, Howard, Jones, Linn and Winneshiek counties. Violating these orders is a misdemeanor offense. The Waterloo Police Department will be working with Black Hawk County Sheriff to help enforce these restrictions.
City golf courses, tennis courts, and dog parks are closed. Parks remain open, however, users must abide by the social distancing order and only members of the same household can attend or participate together. Use of public playground equipment continues to be prohibited.
The new restrictions do not include childcare or medical care and residents are still able to perform essential tasks such as grocery shopping. It also does not affect group volunteer activities that are providing a necessary service to the community.
The proclamation does not prohibit residents from reporting to a job outside the home; however, employers are encouraged to find ways for their staff to work remotely if possible. If it is not possible, they should take all precautions to protect the health and safety of workers including inputting social distancing practices in the workplace, utilizing videoconference or phone meetings, and increasing sanitation of workplace equipment and surfaces.
Residents are highly encouraged to wear masks when out in the public as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control have validated that a mask will help considerably in reducing the spread of COVID-19. They should also continue to practice frequent handwashing and disinfection of surfaces.
Waterloo will continue to work together with both state and local health organizations to keep our community safe and informed during the COVID-19 emergency. Keep updated and find informational resources at www.CityofWaterlooIowa.com/COVID-19.
Contact: Wendy Bowman, Communications Director
319-830-9362