Posted: 12:12 PM Aug 19, 2012 Reporter: Bonney Bowman
Some Residents Concerned Over Fairness Ordinance Vote Delay- Bonney Bowman reports
The fairness ordinance has been a hot topic since the city council voted on the issue back in May, but it doesn't look like the matter will be resolved any time soon.
For some residents, like Gail Ogden, say that's a good thing.
Ogden says, "I think that's OK. It gives people time to cool down and form different opinions about this issue and maybe to get more education about it."
The ordinance bans discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
It was originally passed by the city council, but the Nebraska Family Council collected enough signatures to put the ordinance on the ballot.
The city originally planned to have residents vote on the issue in November, but to do that, the city council would need to approve the ballot language at Monday's meeting and the issue is not on the agenda.
Some residents we spoke to were concerned over the delay.
Others, like Ed Rumbaugh, just want the issue to be decided.
He says, "I don't think it matters when it happens. It's more important that is does happen. What's wrong with being fair to everyone? What's wrong with recognizing the inequities and the unfairness in the laws?"
Mayor Chris Beutler has been clear: he wants the fairness ordinance to be approved by voters.
Now we just have to wait and see when Lincoln residents will get the chance to make their voices heard.