The Branson, Missouri mayor is currently pleading with attendees at a special aldermanic meeting on masks to wear their masks. The city attorney is outlining the Supreme Court and other legal-constitutional basis for public health orders. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2IJ-fYhZKR47UqYdEnRmQA/live

When Branson, Missouri city attorney Chris Lebeck told the crowd that mask orders/ordinances are considered Constitutional by long-standing SCOTUS decision, at least some part of the crowd groaned. (Watching a live feed)

Mayor Edd Akers just called out a "young lady" for not wearing her mask. Debate now over whether he can do so, under HIPAA. "Complicated issue," says city attorney. Crowd buzz in the background.

It seemed to get a little contentious between one alderman (Milton, I think) and City Attorney Lebeck over HIPAA interpretation with regard to Branson’s proposed mask ordinance.

Lebeck announces a proposed $500 fine limit. Crowd groans. Branson Mayor Akers calls for “decorum.” Fine proposed for failing to wear a face covering when required is actually $100. Crowd groans again when a proposal for pulling business licenses is mentioned as a consequence.

Alderman Bob Simmons asks that a phrase reading “if you do not feel well, go home” be modified to add “please.”

Branson Police Chief Jeff Matthews is now speaking in favor of “education process” and “officer discretion” to promote compliance of any new ordinance.

Applause breaks out when Alderman Milton expresses “utmost respect” for Chief Matthews and the Branson PD.

Branson, Missouri Alderman Milton, City Attorney Lebeck and Mayor Akers are in a tiff over how many aldermen it takes to call a special meeting, how many constitute a quorum, etc. Seems like emotions are very close to the surface.

Milton: "Could this (masking ordinance) go for 12 months?" Lebeck: If City Admin and Police Chief say yes, it could, but two alderman could call a special meeting to change the ordinance. Milton asserting ordinance would send people to jail. Lebeck reminds him jail not a penalty.

Alderman Jeff Seay questioning Branson's police chief on how the ordinance might be enforced in terms of the "education" process. Warning first? "Your officers ask for some compliance?" "Is there a tweener between writing somebody a citation, like giving someone a firm warning?"

Another testy HIPAA discussion between Milton and city attorney. A Taney County resident also watching live feed messages me, "We need more Alderman Simmons who wanna say things like 'please.'"

Mayor Akers again explaining public comment time will come later.