BROOKINGS, S.D.(KJJQ)- What had been a mask mandate in Brookings, in place since September,
will now become a recommendation.

The City Council took that action last night. City Manager Paul Briseno says city staff agrees with moving to recommendations.

Briseno says the intention of extending the mask mandate was to protect those most vulnerable. He says that group has now had the opportunity to become fully inoculated.

Brookings resident Cole Sartell spoke in support.

Council Member Ope Niemeyer says some businesses may still require masks.

The measure passed 6-1 with Leah Brink voting “no.”

The mandate ends Friday and the recommendation runs through May.