"They're adjusting well," he said. "People are playing nice."
On March 25, council voted to impose the ability for police to fine residents up to $1,000 if they fail to social distance, gather in groups of 10 or more people or do not comply with other Galveston County stay-at-home orders amid the coronavirus outbreak. As of April 6, police have not had to fine or arrest anyone, Spier said.
Council approved of the measure to encourage residents to follow orders to help slow the spread of COVID-19, he said.
"It gets people’s attention," Spier said of the fine amount. "We’re really worried about people congregating more than anything.”
Under Clear Lake Shores protocol, if officers were to discover large groups gathered, they would pull up, honk their "impressive air horn" and tell residents to disperse. If residents were to again congregate, police would fine violators, Spier said.
In the event that residents gather yet a third time, Galveston County officials have told cities to document violations to be possibly forwarded to the district attorney after the outbreak ends, Spier said.
So far, Spier said, police have not had to even use the air horn. Driving around the city, Spier said he has seen an increase of outdoor activity as residents try to avoid going "stir crazy." People are walking and talking together but remaining 10 feet apart, he said.
"They're following the rules," Spier said.
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On March 24, League City City Council also passed an ordinance that allows police to fine residents up to $2,000 for violating stay-at-home orders. As of April 1, there have been no citations issued or arrests made in League City.
