City Council votes to enforce mask regulations for special events

The Fayetteville City Council held a special meeting on May 5, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on mask regulations and public safety at special events. The meeting began with a review of existing state statutes regarding mask usage in public spaces, particularly in relation to preventing the spread of contagious diseases.

City Attorney Hall provided an overview of General Statute 14-12, which outlines the legal framework for mask-wearing in public. He noted that there are specific exemptions for individuals wearing medical or surgical masks, as well as for traditional holiday costumes and certain occupational requirements. The discussion highlighted the need for clarity on what constitutes acceptable mask usage during city events, especially in light of recent public gatherings like the Dogwood Festival.

Council members expressed concerns about the enforcement of these regulations, particularly regarding the potential for law enforcement to approach individuals wearing masks. The council debated whether to specify certain types of masks, such as ski masks, in their regulations to avoid confusion and ensure compliance with state law. The conversation also touched on the distribution of non-clear bags at events, raising questions about how these items align with the proposed clear bag policy for special events.

After thorough discussion, a motion was made to incorporate mask regulations into the special events permit process. The council voted on the motion, which passed with a majority of 9-1, with Council Member Benavente opposing the decision on the grounds of adhering strictly to state law.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of public safety at city events and the need for clear communication regarding mask policies. The council plans to continue refining these regulations to ensure they are both effective and compliant with existing laws.