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Some in Jacksonville City Council express continued concern over COVID-19

Jacksonville City Hall (News4Jax)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville City Council members are sparring over the positive test of a staff member and the quarantine that other staffers are in over the week of Thanksgiving.

Former Council President Aaron Bowman is frustrated and says there aren’t enough safety measures in place. He told News4Jax his executive assistant is in quarantine after exposure.

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“There’s no reason that had to happen. And so I am very frustrated. To me it’s all about the safety of our people. What can we do? We’ve got to do everything to protect people, and I just don’t feel like we’re getting it right now,” he said. “I just don’t want to see anybody else get exposed.”

While Bowman outlined some precautions and policy he wants in place, Councilman Garrett Dennis says he believes this is misplaced and hypocritical. Dennis says his executive assistant tested positive.

“My ECA is recovering at home with COVID, she’s not doing well. She’s, you know, I don’t want to talk about her, her symptoms. But he’s taking the time to take a shot at at the council president, council vice president and staff because he’s bitter about his council assignments,” Dennis said. “It’s unfortunate, and I wish that he would stop.”

News4Jax asked Bowman if concerns over the virus might derail the big priority in City Council right now -- the discussion over the Lot J development. Bowman said he believes the city can continue to do business, but he feels they are at risk right now and don’t need to be.


About the Author
Kent Justice headshot

Kent Justice co-anchors News4Jax's 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts weeknights and reports on government and politics. He also hosts "This Week in Jacksonville," Channel 4's hot topics and politics public affairs show each Sunday morning at 9 a.m.

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