Hopkinsville City Council seated a new Ward 6 councilmember at Tuesday’s meeting and approved measures relating to sick leave in the wake of COVID-19.
Seven candidates—Mary Martins, Chris Dudley, Bernard Standard, Travis Martin, Kenneth Hatzakorzian, Paula Knight and Gregory Watkins—took questions and discussed many topics, including what issues the city is facing and what they could bring to the table. Although it was a close call between Bernard Standared and Travis Martin, Martin won the seat with city council voting 6 to 5 to appoint him.
He was sworn in at the meeting and immediately took his seat in the Ward 6 spot. Martin says he brings a unique perspective to the position and is ready to help Hopkinsville move forward.
Council approved a municipal order that specifics details concerning city employees that may have to isolate due to COVID-19. Mayor Wendell Lynch says they’re trying to stay ahead of a possible crisis situation.
According to the order, an employee who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 will be granted paid leave for up to 80 hours or for 24-shift employees up to 96 work hours in a 14-day calendar period. That also includes employees who have been exposed to a diagnosed case of COVID-19 or a possible and has been asked to self-quarantine by a healthcare provider. Employees utilizing this sick leave must provide documentation of COVID-19 diagnosis and quarantine.