(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission voted unanimously Monday to rescind the countywide mask mandate that has been in effect since November 16.

The Commission took the action despite a recommendation from County Health Officer Robin Downard and Hiawatha Community Hospital CEO John Broberg that the mandate be extended until January 18.

The Commission also voted to rescind the previous order limiting mass gatherings to 50 people and to re-open the courthouse to the public starting January 4, with each department able to set limitations on the number of customers. 

Broberg said he believes the mask mandate has been working, noting a decrease in the number of  COVID-19 cases since it was put in place. As of Monday,  the Brown County Health Department reported 39 active cases in the county with three individuals currently hospitalized.

Two south Brown County residents, Lucas Heinen and Rex Lockwood, voiced their opposition to the mandate and urged the Commission to rescind it.  Both felt the wearing of a mask should be an individual choice. Heinen questioned the effectiveness of wearing a mask. He said the mask mandate- along with other guidelines that have gone along with the COVID-19 pandemic--have created challenges for communities and business owners.  

Commissioner Rich Lehmkuhl said he had received letters both for and against the mask mandate. 

In making the motion to rescind the mandate, Commissioner Keith Olsen said he felt it should be an individual choice and up to businesses if they want to require masks.

While the county mandate has been rescinded, a mask mandate still remains in effect in the city of Hiawatha.