Sun Valley council approves public-health emergency order, backs mask guidance

The Sun Valley City Council voted unanimously on Sept. 14, 2021 to approve Public Health Emergency Order 2021-01, a measure that includes mask guidance aimed at reducing COVID-19 spread. Council Member Jane Conard moved to approve the order and Council President Michelle Griffith seconded; the motion carried by roll call.

Council Member Jane Conard said "it is not pleasant to wear a mask but it's a responsibility that we have," framing mask-wearing as a civic duty rather than a personal preference. Council Member Brad DuFur noted nearby Hailey had passed a mask mandate and urged consistency across local governments. Council President Michelle Griffith, who stated she is vaccinated and previously had COVID-19, said resolving the disease will require coordinated national effort and that she had been persuaded by the school district to show solidarity on masks.

The council did not record dissenting votes; the Mayor declared the motion approved. The order was adopted at the special meeting; the transcript does not specify enforcement mechanisms or a termination date for the order.