After three years of debating the issue, the Berea City Council has voted down a proposed fairness ordinance. The measure failed Tuesday night by a vote of 3 to 5.
The measure sought to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
The meeting room and an overflow area in a garage next door were both crowded with people with opposing viewpoints. Berea native Betty Rowlett was pleased with the vote.
"Well, I just don't think we need it in Berea. I think everybody is treated equally in my opinion. I've lived here all my life and I've never known anything to happen," said Rowlett.
Supporters of the fairness ordinance expressed sadness. Angelique Walker says the vote signified, quote, "an old way of thinking." Walker believes lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people are being left out.
"I don't understand why they're not included in these basic human rights. We all have them. I mean, I don't understand. We're all human," said Walker.
Tamarri Wieder also supports changing the local law.
"I'm very disappointed. I was really hopeful that a fairness ordinance would be enacted here in Berea. There's a great history of civil rights in this town. It's really depressing but we will carry on and we won't stop fighting for this here," said Wieder.
Resident Tim Taylor said the matter has been polarizing for Berea citizens. Taylor believes the council made the right decision. He said he hopes the city can heal.
"I hope and pray that we'll come together again and it will be a strong community and help one another. Berea's always been a fair town and I believe it will come back together," said Taylor.
In casting her yes vote, council member Diane Kerby said it affects all citizens in Berea if some don't have equal rights. Voting no, council member Violet Farmer said she worries legal court battles could drain city financial resources. Seven Kentucky cities have passed fairness ordinances including Lexington, Louisville, and Danville. ?
