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NATCHEZ — The Natchez Mayor and Board of Aldermen unanimously passed a resolution to issue a stay-at-home order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

The order was presented during the regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday that was held via teleconference.

The order requires that all “non-essential businesses and business functions” close to the public starting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, including all bars; entertainment venues; meetings of fraternal and civic organizations; bowling alleys; theatres; tattoo parlors; barbershops; hair, beauty nail and tanning salons; spas; gyms; convention centers; community centers, parks (except walking trails), shopping centers and retail stores.

The order excludes essential businesses, places where curbside services are being utilized and where a waiver is issued for business that meet Centers for Disease Control guidelines and lasts through April 9 unless officials vote to extend it further.

In the resolution passed Tuesday, officials recommend that all citizens maintain social distancing and remain at home except for essential errands, such as travel to the grocery store or health-related appointments.

Outdoor exercise is also encouraged in the order provided that people do not congregate in groups of more than 10 people and they maintain proper social distancing.

All gathering places such as private clubs, churches and temples are required to adhere to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and the Mississippi Department of Health and limit crowds to no more than 10 people.

City officials recommended that essential businesses and services remain operational while following the CDC guidelines, such as city government services; healthcare operations; veterinarian offices; gas stations; drug stores and pharmacies; food services and businesses providing necessary living and professional services.

Officials said the regulations outlined in the order would be enforced by the Natchez Police Department, who may issue a warning for first offenses and impose fines and penalties for subsequent offenses.

Read the city’s resolution here.