Columbus Mayor Robert Smith is taking a sick week following an approximately 12-hour visit to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle on Sunday.
A statement Smith released Monday did not say why he was admitted to the hospital but said he did not stay overnight. City officials said doctors ran some tests and told Smith to stay home and rest.
Vice Mayor and Ward 6 Councilman Bill Gavin confirmed he spoke to Smith on Sunday and is taking over some of his duties for the week.
Gavin said he oversaw a department head meeting first thing Monday morning and will spend every morning this week in the conference room at City Hall to handle any city business the mayor normally would.
“The reason for that is to give people a (chance to) call and let us know what they need,” he said. “(Smith’s administrative assistant) Joyce (Doughty) will be there. She’ll take those calls and then I’ll go in and try and take care of them best I can.”
Gavin said when he’s not at City Hall, he will work from his office at home, and that anyone with city business can also call him at 662-574-0295.
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