One of the first Minnesota township challenges of the validity of executive orders signed by Governor Tim Walz that have ordered the vast majority of businesses to close amid concerns of the coronavirus pandemic has been passed here in Wright County.
Members of the Cokato Township Board this week passed a resolution stating support for businesses that have been, and continue to be unable to do business.
The board adopted the resolution that establishes Cokato Township as a “Constitutional and Business-Friendly Community.” The board’s actions stem from what they feel are violations of the constitutional rights of both business owners and their patrons.
The resolution passed states; “That the Cokato Township Board will not direct any City of Cokato, Wright County and Meeker County resources to enforce any executive order or any other directive which infringes on the rights of law-abiding citizens to keep their businesses open as per the Constitution.”
While the board indicated it did not take issue with any Cokato Township residents who choose to continue to shelter-at-home, it also supported the choice of township residents or visitors to move freely within the township and support its economy.
The resolution sets-up at least the potential for a legal interpretation of the constitutionality of the governor’s executive orders should any complaint be made against any business located in the township that chooses to open for business despite the current shut-down orders.
The board’s resolution does encourage all of its citizens to follow the Minnesota Department of Public Health and CDC guidelines for social distancing and general conduct while in public.
