SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — The Sioux Falls City Council this afternoon unanimously passed a first reading of a city ordinance that would relax some restrictions on bars, cafes, theatres, gyms and other entertainment facilities.
The vote was 8 to 0.
The earlier ordinance was in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
City officials say the relaxation is ok at this time as the city’s two major hospitals say they have sufficient surge capacity.
Still, under questioning by Councilor Pat Starr, medical experts said the relaxation would likely bring down the mitigation rate in the community from 25 percent to 20 percent.
Even with the relaxation of restrictions–such as allowing restaurants to open if they keep patron six feet apart–one restauranteur said the onus is on the businesses to do right by the employees and customers.
“If we don’t do a good impression when customers walk in, they’re not going to be comfortable the next time they walk in,” said Charlie Kneip, owner of T.C. Referee and Cherry Creek Grill in Sioux Falls.
The second reading of the ordinance is 10:30 a.m. Thursday.
