CORTLAND — Just as it did last month approving an essential worker bonus pay of 1.5 percent for 29 fire, police and service employees represented by unions, city council on Monday also approved a 1.5 percent essential worker bonus for nine non-union employees.

The positions and pay before bonuses are finance director, $58,799; police chief, $66,125; fire chief, $65,247; service director, $65,000; clerk of council, $19.72 per hour; assistant finance director, $19.72 per hour; administrative assistant, $15.30 per hour; utility administrator, $16.28 per hour; and police / finance administrative clerk, $15.30 per hour.

Council President Kevin Piros said just as the union workers received a $200-per-person uniform and equipment allowance that will cost the city $6,800, the nine other employees also will receive a uniform / equipment equivalent allowance.

Piros said total cost to the city for all the essential worker pay and uniform allowance is $34,000.

He said the bonus pay is not a salary increase. Officials said the employees deserve the bonus for all they have done during the coronavirus pandemic that began in March.

“These employees are all essential workers because they keep working even if the city were to close down due to COVID. They keep the business of the city running,” Piros said.

In other business, council:

• Piros discussed starting a “Kudos for Cortland” program to recognize actions that are positive influences on the community. Anyone associated with the city would be able to recognize someone for going above and beyond the call of duty.

Piros said Monday that parameters for the program are being developed.

“I’ve reached out to some of the the area businesses to get donations of coffee coupons, soda coupons, free doughnuts,” Piros said. “We want to reward people for doing something good or a good deed to help the community. I had the idea to do something positive.”

Years ago, police recognized children for wearing bike helmets with a coupon to a local business.

• Approved the purchase of a 2021 Ford Police Interceptor sport utility vehicle and ready for patrol accessories and installation of accessories from statewide Ford Lincoln Mercury. Piros said the goal of the city is to increase patrol cars so there is no sharing of vehicles during the pandemic;

• Swore in John Picuri as the new councilman to fill the unexpired term of Patti Keller, who resigned because her residency changed. He will serve through Dec. 31, 2023;

• Set trick or treat for 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 31.