A special ordinance that would send to the voters the question of whether or not to repeal the recently-passed non-discrimination ordinance has been tabled for 30 days. Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky made the motion to table the measure at the Springfield City Council meeting Monday night. The motion passed six to three.
The decision means the issue will go to the voters in April. Until then, the protections have been put on hold.
City Council had three options: to repeal the ordinance, send it to voters or take no action. If no action is taken within 30 days of a petition being certified, City Charter dictates it automatically goes to the voters.
Council voted October 13th to amend the city’s non-discrimination ordinance to extend protections to the LGBT community. Shortly after, opponents circulated petitions in an effort to repeal the decision.
In other action Monday, City Council tabled for 30 days a general ordinance that would require a license to operate a motorized bicycle, prohibit passengers and require helmets and proof of financial responsibility.