May 29, 2020 (Moscow, Idaho) -- The Moscow City Council will review and discuss the potential and concerns to be considered in opening the Hamilton Lowe Aquatic Center (HLAC) and a business expansion proposal on Monday, Jun. 1.

The HLAC is a popular and beloved facility that many in the community and region enjoy visiting.  The City has been working on mitigation strategies to address necessary sanitization and social distancing at the facility, given concerns with the COVID-19 virus.  Significant concerns have been vetted and will be presented for the Council's consideration in regard to opening the HLAC facility in 2020.  City staff has reviewed and developed plans for best practices for sanitization and social distancing, knowing there is no way to eliminate these issues at the facility, as confirmed by the North Idaho Public Health Department.  The recommendation for an opening date, with the Council's approval, is Jul. 1, to comply with stage 4 of the Idaho Rebounds guidelines.

Per the Mayor and Council's previous direction, City staff has continued to research potential opportunities for businesses that have been impacted by social distancing requirements during the COVID-19 outbreak. Current discussions include the idea of allowing temporary expanded use of the public rights-of-way for Sidewalk Cafes and expediting the expansion of the boundaries of licensed serving areas for duly licensed alcoholic beverage service and consumption.  Sidewalk Cafes are regulated by Moscow City Code (MCC) Title 9, Chapter 12.

Due to current restrictions for hosting meetings the public may attend, the Mayor and Council are requesting input from the community via email at council@ci.moscow.id.us. 
 
The meeting will be livestreamed via the following services:

• City Website: https://www.ci.moscow.id.us/522/Meeting-Videos
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CityofMoscow
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofMoscowIdaho
• Spectrum Cable: 1301