Owasso residents are now under a shelter in place order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
They are not to leave their homes unless they’re going to work at an essential business or for essential activities, like buying groceries, picking up prescriptions, taking a pet to the vet, or buying supplies to work from home or maintain their property.
Some city officials had concerns the order went further than previous discussions about a resolution encouraging residents to stay home.
"We lost seven people in Oklahoma yesterday. They died. So, I think it's not something to take lightly anymore," said Councilor Kelly Lewis.
Residents can also exercise outdoors if they follow social distancing guidelines.
City dog parks will remain open, but playgrounds and shelters in city parks are off-limits. Neighborhood parks are encouraged to follow suit.
The order tells businesses to comply with social distancing requirements for employees and the public. It also encourages them to stagger employee shifts and allow them to work remotely as much as possible.
The order is in effect until 6:30 p.m. on April 14 unless the city council extends or terminates it sooner.
