MIN 06-17-19 - Laserfiche WebLink

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There were two items on the agenda this evening—the first was to discuss Ordinance 15-19 which is to repeal LCO Chapter 503, Abortions. Councilman Rader was present from the Committee as was Councilman Anderson and Law Director Butler. Various members of the public, including members of NARAL spoke during that meeting. The Committee came to the conclusion that state and federal law already regulates abortion so we voted that out of committee. The next item we discussed was Ordinance 16-19 which is regarding public records. Law Director Butler pointed out that City of Cleveland has a nice public records portal that we're going to look at further and we're going to continue that discussion at a future Rules & Ordinances Committee meeting. Motion by Councilwoman George, seconded by President O'Leary to receive and file the communication. All members voted in favor. Motion passed. 10. ORDINANCE 15-19 —AN ORDINANCE to take effect at the earliest period allowed by law repealing Chapter 503, Abortions. (Placed on 1st reading and referred to Rules & Ordinances Committee 5/6/19; 2nd reading 5/20/19) (pg. 31) Cecilia Brown of 2182 Lakeland Ave. asked about the timing of the ordinance. President O'Leary stated that he did not realize that the City had this chapter in its code and added that it seems superfluous and unconstitutional. Councilwoman George added that the chapter contains language that refers to directors of old city departments that are no longer employed by the city or the departments themselves no longer exist. Ms. Brown asked that if an abortion clinic wanted to open in Lakewood, would that be a matter upon which the public or City Council can vote. President O'Leary stated that such a matter would be addressed in the same manner as any other land use question before the city. Jaime Miracle of NARAL stated her support of Ord. 15-19. She expressed concern over specific language in Chapter 503 and argued that it is outdated and stigmatizing. Hannah Servedio of NARAL and 12206 Clifton Blvd. stated her support of Ord. 15-19. She stated that she has had conversations with City Council regarding Chapter 503 and that state law already regulates the matter of abortion. Jennifer Jaketic of NARAL and 1614 Ridgewood Ave. stated her support of Ord. 15-19. By removing Chapter 503 from the code, she stated that Council would be indicating that it cares about its residents' well-being. Anna Mulfalato of Pre-Term and 2142 Glenberry Ave. stated her support of Ord. 15-19. She stated that the code is outdated and stigmatizing. She added that the state already regulates and regularly inspects Pre-Term, which is located in the Buckeye-Shaker neighborhood of Cleveland. Councilman O'Malley noted that many of the councilmembers were not alive the last time Chapter 503 was considered by Council and expressed his astonishment in regard to its presence in the 5