The town of New Castle is considering a tough new measure to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Town officials are considering a law that would make wearing face masks mandatory on public and private properties, as well as in places of business - if someone is unable to social distance.

The move comes after a cluster of COVID-19 cases traced to the June 20 Horace Greeley High School drive-thru graduation, and an after-party that was not sponsored by the school.

That number of cases now stands at 27.

Under the proposed law, if a town police officer observes a violation, they can issue a summons similar to a traffic stop.

Fines can range anywhere from $250 to $500.

"We need to make sure that people understand the gravity of their actions, the consequences of their actions, even if it's well-intentioned. Not just regulate what happens in publicly, it's what we don't see that compromises our health," says New Castle Deputy Town Supervisor Jeremy Saland.

The town will hold a public hearing and possible vote on the proposed measure on July 14.

Officials say the proposed law is not about issuing summonses or generating revenue for the town.