On Wednesday, May 13, 2020, Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until Wednesday, May 27, 2020. The proclamation permits salons, barbershops, and massage and tattoo establishments to reopen in all Iowa counties in a limited fashion with appropriate public health measures in place. The proclamation also permits restaurants (not bars), fitness centers, libraries and race tracks to reopen in the remaining 22 counties where they have remained closed. This does include Polk County, which the City of Johnston resides, however, entry to the Johnston Public Library will remain closed to the public. These changes are effective at 5:00 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2020, and until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.
Businesses allowed to reopen who serve the public must reduce their capacity as outlined in the proclamation. An official occupant load number should be obtained from a licensed architect, as there can be additional factors to consider to ensure the occupant capacity is accurate. Learn more about the occupancy calculation.
The proclamation continues the other ongoing closures and public health measures, including the prohibition on the social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more than 10 people, until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.
Governor Reynolds encourages all vulnerable Iowans, including those with preexisting medical conditions and those older than 65, in all counties of the state to continue to limit their activities outside of their home, including their visits to businesses and other establishments and their participation in gatherings of any size and any purpose.
See the full details of the proclamation.
A list of the canceled City of Johnston events, closures and City services can be found by visiting, www.cityofjohnston.com/COVID19.
We encourage everyone to continue practicing social distancing, wear face coverings in public when social distancing is not possible, wash your hands often, and stay home if you are not feeling well, or if you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive with COVID-19.