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KSMU is dedicated to broadcasting critically important information as our community experiences the COVID-19 pandemic. Below, you'll find our ongoing coverage.

Nixa Bans Large Gatherings To Control The Coronavirus

Nixa’s Mayor has banned public gatherings of 10 or more people in a single space or room.  Mayor Brian Steele made the decision after two cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in Christian County.

The order doesn’t include funeral homes, educational institutions, daycare facilities, places of employment, grocery stores and retail stores. 

Restaurants are still allowed to offer food delivery, pickup and drive-thru services.

Original Story:  Nixa City Council has declared an emergency during an emergency meeting Wednesday.  It gives power to the Mayor to make orders to restrict public gatherings and enact regulations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A violation of an order of the Mayor would be considered a violation of city ordinance, punishable by fine. As of 6pm on March 18th, the Mayor had not issued any order restricting public gatherings or operation of any businesses.

Christian County presiding commissioner Ralph Phillips issued an order Tuesday prohibiting public gatherings of 50 people or more and made it unlawful for anyone to organize or attend gatherings exceeding that size.

The City of Nixa continues to strongly encourage cancellation of events, meetings, and gatherings of 50 people or more. The City and the Mayor will continue to be in consultation with the County Health Department regarding any potential future action, according to a news release.

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.