Midland Mayor to Propose City-Wide Mask Mandate

MIDLAND, TX --  Midland Mayor Patrick Payton has reversed his position on masks and is expected to propose a mask mandate ordinance.

The ordinance would require all owners of commercial businesses open to the public to mandate all customers to wear masks.

Payton had previously been a vocal anti-mask since the pandemic began. He previously said the Midlanders should take “personal responsibility” and “do the right thing.”

The sudden change could be tied to the fact that Midland is experiencing a spike in COVID-19 cases. 

On Thursday the Midland Health Department reported 192 cases. There are currently 1,197 patients isolating.

The health department clarified it is seven days behind in contacting positive cases received. Currently, the health department staff is contacting positive cases and contacts from November 4.

Failure to comply with the proposed mandate could result in a fine of up to $500.

The mandate will be discussed at the November 17 city council meeting.