Mask mandate: Mountain officials, local business owner weigh in on enforcement

Governor Roy Cooper's new executive order includes a potential $1,000 fine for anyone who doesn’t mask-up in required public places and a possible misdemeanor for the offense defying the mandate.

The question is: who will enforce it and how aggressive will enforcement be?

It appears it will likely depend on what county in the mountains you live. At 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, Buncombe County health department officials, along with county leaders and Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer, plan to hold a live informational conference on Facebook to discuss community plans surrounding stricter public and private mask orders, as well as enforcement.

GOV. COOPER ISSUES NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER TIGHTENING NC MANDATE ON MASKS

Meanwhile, Haywood County Chief Deputy Jeff Haynes says the sheriff's department will work to educate, but not aggressively ticket. However, he said the department would not ignore the fact that Governor Cooper is asking for law enforcement’s assistance.

“We’re going to tell the public we’re going to be firm, fair and consistent, just like any enforcement of any other statute,” Chief Deputy Haynes told News 13.

The office of Governor Roy Cooper sent the following statement on the latest order:

Governor Cooper appreciates the efforts of North Carolinians to combat Covid-19 and the businesses and local law enforcement who are enforcing executive orders to keep people safe. While action from state officials and local law enforcement is sometimes necessary, these measures are most effective when people work together to prevent the spread of this deadly virus

“The governor’s order says all citizens must mask up in public places, when unable to, distance by six feet," Haynes added. “We’re going to educate and encourage people to comply with that. Enforcement is certainly a last resort.”

Big box retailers like Target will have to return to placing an employee at front doors, counting customers to not exceed capacity and make sure shoppers have masks.

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“I think that’s a very good thing,” said Jodie Gallagher, a registered nurse visiting from Ohio. “I work for a doctor and we see a lot of it. We’ve had record testing."

Sarah Evers, who owns the regional chain of Dancing Bear Toys, said her stores have been self-policing capacity levels for months and prohibiting anyone who doesn’t wear a mask.

“I’m happy to hear that he kind of is giving us more support as retailers,” Evers said of Gov. Cooper's newest executive order. “A little stronger message that people need to wear masks when they’re inside businesses.”

Click here to read a list of frequently asked questions about Executive Order 180.