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A few weeks ago, we criticized the Hogansville City Council after the city voted down a mask ordinance for the city.

At that time, Hogansville had held two council meetings and had discussed a mask ordinance at both. The first meeting was held before LaGrange and West Point passed mask ordinances, but later that week Hogansville met for a special called meeting to again discuss the ordinance (and one other topic).

It failed both times — the second without a motion to even take an official vote.

Well, on Monday night Hogansville finally elected to pass a mask ordinance, though it came down to a tiebreaker vote from Mayor Bill Stankiewicz. We applaud that move, though now we honestly wonder what’s changed over the last few weeks.

Regardless, passing the ordinance was the right thing to do.

We understand some being hesitant about a mask ordinance, especially considering it’ll be hard to enforce and doesn’t eliminate the fact that fighting the virus really comes down to personal responsibility.

However, as we argued before, the three cities in Troup County have now shown unison in how they feel about mask wearing. The ordinances essentially allow businesses to opt-in to require masks, as well as require them on city property, so it has limitations.

But, all three city councils have now voted to pass mask ordinances, which shows how they feel about the importance of wearing one.

It’s more about the message than the actual enforceability.

Wearing a mask and social distancing are the two best ways to combat this virus, according to health officials.

We know there are doubters out there, but the truth is that wearing a mask is the easiest way to protect yourself and others from getting really sick.

We’re glad that Hogansville has decided to pass a mask ordinance, even if it’s a few weeks behind others.

It’s the right decision and it sends the right message about the essential role of masks.