TRAVERSE CITY — A downstate activist contends Traverse City officials improperly worded ballot language for an upcoming election on an ordinance that protects gays from discrimination.
Gary Glenn, president of the Midland-based American Family Association of Michigan, contacted the Michigan Secretary of State to voice his concerns. The AFA actively opposes gay rights issues across the state.
"State law says that a ballot question must be worded in such a way that those who are in favor of a proposal vote yes, and those who are opposed to a proposal vote no," Glenn said. "The Traverse City city commission has worded the ballot question exactly the opposite of what state law requires."
Ballot language drafted by City Attorney Karrie Zeits and unanimously approved by city commissioners for the Nov. 8 general election asks residents to vote "yes" if they want to reject the ordinance, so they'd vote "no" if they support the ordinance.
Zeits believes the language is fine as it is.
"The underlying proposal is should the ordinance be repealed or rejected," she said. "If the Secretary of State has concerns and they want to explain them to me, I'll certainly take a look at it."
The Secretary of State's office couldn't say whether Glenn's concerns are valid.
"We've received his concerns and are reviewing the matter," said department spokesman Fred Woodhams.
The non-discrimination ordinance, adopted by city commissioners in October, prevents discrimination against gays in employment, housing and other areas.
City officials drafted the ordinance to "close the gap" in existing civil rights laws. Federal and state laws prevent discrimination based on religion, race and a host of other criteria, but sexual orientation isn't mentioned. The city's non-discrimination ordinance includes several criteria already protected by other laws.
A group led by local residents Paul Nepote, Matt Schoech and Michael Mulcahy turned in enough signatures to force a referendum election.
Glenn, who said he stays in touch with locals, is opposed to the ordinance because he said such laws aren't necessary and are used by gay activists to punish individuals or groups who don't agree with the gay lifestyle. He said AFA might get involved in Traverse City's election, but wouldn't specify in what capacity.
"We will do anything we can to help local citizens make an educated decision about this ordinance," he said.
City Commissioner Jim Carruthers, who is gay, is confident voters will uphold the ordinance. He's not surprised to hear of Glenn's involvement.
"We know that these .... groups are going to do anything to fight it," he said. "That's not anything new."
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Gary Glenn, president of the American Family Association of Michigan
Ballot language questioned
AFA of Michigan takes issue with wording
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