RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Rapid City Council on Friday night approved second and final reading of an ordinance that will temporarily put some restrictions on certain businesses to help curb the spread of COVID-19.
The council voted 7-2 to require businesses like bars, restaurants, food courts, coffee houses and the like that offer on-site consumption to close their indoor consumption areas. Those businesses can come up with other ways to serve customers, such as offering curb-side, drive-thru or delivery service. Businesses like cigar bars and hookah lounges can continue to operate, but they too will need to restrict on-site consumption.
The ordinance, which takes effect immediately, also directs the closure of recreational facilities such as pools, movie theaters, bingo halls, bowling alleys, casinos, trampoline parks, health or athletic clubs and other similar businesses.
The ordinance does not effect what is defined as essential operations — such as grocery stores, convenience stores and food pantries. Health care facilities, residential care facilities, congregate care facilities, and correctional facilities are also exempted, as is hotel room service.
The ordinance is valid for 60 days, but the restriction on operations currently extends until April 8. That is when the council will again take a look at the current situation.
