Editor's note: The story updates the information to state that the mask mandate will begin on Monday, July 20.

Youngstown Mayor Jamael Tito Brown announced Friday, July 17, that he is enacting a mask mandate for anyone within the city limits to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the city. The mask mandate begins Monday.

"This is our best line of defense right now," Brown said. 

The mandate states that all people must wear a mask when in public, but are able to go without a mask outdoors if space properly allows for social distancing when outside.

"When you're inside in a public space, you need it on," Brown said. "When you sit down at your table if it's a restaurant or bar, you can take it off." 

Brown said if you can social distance outside you do not have to wear a mask.

He said the decision was influenced by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's plea for all Ohioans to wear masks. 

All city council members are supporting Brown's decision, and the mayor said the city is still working on the details on how to mandate this order in public spaces. 

Warnings will be issued for anyone in violation of the order within the city. Citations also may be issued, with a fine of $100.

Brown said this decision is what is best for Youngstown and its citizens.

"We're going to provide masks to local business owners," Brown said, "If you come in and you don't have a mask, they [businesses] can provide you with one."

The state of Ohio currently has 19 counties in the "red zone" with masks mandates in place. Trumbull Co. which had a mask mandate was removed from that list Thursday, when the county went from a level 3 to a level 2, based on Ohio Health Department rating scale. 

"We're in orange, " Mayor Brown said, "so we wanted to keep it that way."

The Mahoning-Youngstown Community Action and the Youngstown City Health District is hosting two  COVID-19 drive-thrus Friday, July 17, until 6 p.m., one at MYCAP, 1325 Fifth Ave. and the other at Wick Park, 260 Park Ave.

Anyone can get tested and there is no charge or pre-registration needed. 

Anyone attending the testing locations must wear a mask. 

For those driving to MYCAP, enter from Elm St. to Broadway Ave. to Fifth Ave. Remain in your vehicle and follow the traffic cones.

Wick Park is a walk-in location only, go to the Pavillion in the park and follow the directions from volunteers.