By BRENT MARTIN
St. Joseph Post
St. Joseph will remain under a shelter-in-place order through the rest of this month with city officials eyeing lifting some restrictions by May 4th, in conjunction with the state emergency order.
The city council has a work session scheduled for April 30th in which it will re-evaluate plans to lift some restrictions.
The ordinance which prevents all but essential businesses to operate calls on residents to stay home except for outings to get essentials. Groups are limited to fewer than 10 people. Residents are required to stay six feet apart in accordance with health official guidelines in the fight against COVID-19.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson has extended the statewide stay-at-home order through the third of May with the goal of beginning to ease restrictions by Monday, May 4th. The city ordinance was set to expire on the 24th.
Under the city emergency ordinance, St. Joseph residents are encouraged to stay at home, venturing out only for necessities. Essential businesses can remain open, but must allow room for customers to be separated by at least six feet. Restaurants and bars can provide drive-through, pick up, or delivery services. Gatherings of 10 or more are prohibited, which includes church services.
Residents also can travel for outdoor recreational activities.