News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Cookeville City Council voted unanimously Thursday to offer emergency paid sick leave for city employees impacted by COVID 19.
The benefit replaces a federal mandate in the Families First Coronavirus Act which has not been renewed by Congress. City Manager James Mills said the 80 hours of paid leave are available for a city employee who is being quarantined or is exhibiting COVID symptoms.
“We’re requesting the temporary policy extension for several reasons,” Mills said. “One is we have several new employees that have not yet accumulated many hours. If you’re quarantined or exposed or diagnosed with COVID-19, our employees would potentially face a financial hardship if they’re required to go on unpaid leave. Also, I believe the extension would reduce the possibility of an employee not seeking a diagnosis or even coming into work because of these concerns.”
In the special called meeting Thursday, the Council put the emergency leave in place through March 31. Mills said he hoped the COVID fight would turn the corner by that point.
“We’re hopeful that we can get through these next few months,” Mills said. “And I believe the adoption of this resolution will help us get there.”
Employees will be required to provide test data or other information from physicians. Employees do not have to use other sick time or leave before using this COVID time.
Mills said since the pandemic began, half of the city’s staff, some 268 employees, has missed work because of COVID.
The federal mandate ended December 31.
Mayor Ricky Shelton also announced his appointment to the city planning commission. Chad Gilbert will take over the seat held by Tracy Cody.
