Clovis Mayor Drew Bessinger is self-quarantined at home after learning he was exposed Monday to someone who later tested positive for COVID-19.

Bessinger says he tested negative for COVID-19 on Thursday.

“I feel fine and have no symptoms of COVID 19, or any illness,” says Bessinger in a statement. “I will consult with my personal physician and Public Health Officials and follow their direction about safely returning to work as soon as possible.”

Airport Meeting

Bessinger says he attended a regional economic opportunities meeting at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport administration building.

According to Bessinger’s statement, all those in attendance were temperature scanned and answered a COVID questionnaire prior to entering the room. Masks were worn by everyone and we were socially distanced six feet or more apart, he said.

Clovis City Council Meeting Held Monday Night

“Later that evening, I presided over the meeting of the Clovis City Council,” said Bessinger. “Along with my colleagues, I wore a mask into and out of the chambers.  I removed my mask to speak, and put it back on several times during the meeting.”

The city of Clovis is currently limiting the number of people in its council chambers to 16. Those in attendance, including councilmembers, are separated from each other to in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the city said.

Bessinger Learned of Exposure Tuesday Afternoon

Bessinger says it wasn’t until Tuesday afternoon when he learned that a person at the meeting he attended had tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday afternoon.

“I immediately notified the Clovis City Manager, and out of an abundance of caution I decided to self-quarantine at home.  I contacted my Council colleagues and alerted them to the situation,” says Bessinger.