The Benton County Board of Commissioners is 'strongly' recommending mask usage in public places where social distancing isn't possible after passing a resolution Thursday night.
While some oregon counties are in their first few days of requiring masks, benton county is taking a different approach.
Kezi 9 news reporter chris lueneburg explains why the county board made a 'strong recommendation' instead.
Masks are becoming a common sight in downtown corvallis -- but not as common as some would like to see.
"we haven't had a real sharp spike at any time.
People have kind of let their guard down."
On thursday the benton county board of commissioners voted through a resolution to strongly recommend mask use in public when social distancing isn't possible "that is probably the least that the community could do."
Officials say they made the decision at the recommendation of county public health officials in light of a relatively steady case count-- but it has some wondering what would prompt a full requirement.
"if that means everybody needs to wear a mask everywhere, ok, so be it.
But i just don't know how that will be enforced."
The board may consider a requirement if there is a spike in cases.
"some corvallis businesses like this lingerie shop are requiring masks to enter-- and it's that freedom of choice that officials say this recommendation maintains."
Officials say the recomendation avoids stigmatizing those without masks.
"i think that our board really wanted to be sensitive to the fact that many memebers of our community may have a reason why they can't have a face covering on.
So having the strong reccommendation allows for personal preference as well as personal ability.
Officials hope the strength of the recommendation will encourage voluntary mask usage-- so they don't have to make it a requirement.
"that concerns me because i just think we need to take care of each other."
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