Athens City Council passed a resolution in support of same-sex marriage at its meeting on Tuesday.
As a small, liberal town in a largely conservative state, Athens has often gone against the grain when it comes to political decisions and ideas.
Christopher Geggie, spokesman for Why Marriage Matters Ohio, said Athens is the second governing body in the state to unanimously pass a resolution supporting marriage equality.
At Athens City Council’s meeting Tuesday, the legislative body passed a resolution “expressing council’s support for marriage equality” and “appreciation for the work of Why Marriage Matters Ohio.”
“Athens City Council supports full equality and protections for the LGBT community,” said Councilwoman Jennifer Cochran, D-At large.
The resolution reflected that opinion, calling Athens an “open and inclusive community that values diversity.”
Council concluded the resolution’s reading with a letter from Jim Sands, former president of Athens City Council.
The letter outlined Sands’ relationship with his now-deceased partner David Ratliff, whom he was with for 42 years and married in August of 2013.
“I heard on the Columbus news that Athens City Council will be voting on a resolution supporting Marriage Equality,” Sands said in the letter.
“I want to enthusiastically support a positive vote by all council members.”
After resounding applause and an unanimous vote, the resolution was adopted.
“I am overwhelmed by the fact that this is moving forward, and I’m happy that it is,” said Councilman Steve Patterson, D-At large.
Geggie added that, with the help of Athens City Council, “we will achieve freedom to marry in the state of Ohio.”
When Ohio voted on Issue 1 — a measure that limited marriage to heterosexual relationships — in 2004’s November election, Athens was the only county to vote against the measure.
Additionally, the council session kicked off with the induction of its newest member, Mike Canterbury, who took council President Chris Knisely’s former at-large seat.
“We now have a full complement,” Knisely said.
The council has not seen complete attendance from all legislators since mid-October.
Knisely also announced that Councilman Jeff Risner, D-2nd ward, would be taking over as chairman of the Finance and Personnel Committee. Knisely previously held the position.
Council also discussed the purchase of two new public transit buses. Councilwoman Michele Papai, D-3rd ward, said the buses will cost a total of $131,325, but the city’s local share sat around $26,000.
The buses would not be ready to begin a route for six months after their purchase. It’s unclear when the buses will be purchased.
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