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Councilman Rader expressed his appreciation for Councilmember Strebig and the community's <br />participation. He stated that Lakewood stands in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community, <br />emphasizing the City's inclusive values. <br />Councilman Baker acknowledged his occasional disagreements with Ohio Governor DeWine but <br />pointed out the significance of Governor DeWine's HB 68 veto statement regarding children's <br />safety and parental rights. He then critiqued the paradox within HB 68, which allegedly <br />champions parental rights while simultaneously undermining them. <br />Councilman Bullock commended Councilmember Strebig for her leadership and asserted that it <br />was entirely fitting for Lakewood to oppose the restrictive legislation. He then emphasized the <br />City's commitment to justice and equality. <br />President Keppleexpressed her appreciation the community's presence and expressed her <br />personal connection to the issue, highlighting the profound mental health implications of denying <br />transgender people access to care. She then voiced her appreciation for Council's willingness to <br />confront significant issues that affect the LGBTQIA+ Community. <br /> <br />Public Comment: Chelsea Brennan – Ms. Brennan shared her gratitude for the accepting <br />atmosphere in Lakewood. She noted that Lakewood’s welcoming environment is a blessing given <br />her past experiences of verbal abuse in other cities. She expressed hope that other cities would <br />follow Lakewood's lead on this issue. <br />Sheamus Dickinson, Lakewood – Sheamus labeled HB 68 as a blatant attack on human dignity <br />and criticized the denial of healthcare rights by the Ohio General Assembly. He highlighted the <br />humanity of trans individuals and questioned the Ohio General Assembly’s excessive concern <br />over personal life choices. <br />Sean Miller,Westwood Avenue -Seanreflected on theLakewoodcommunity's acceptance <br />towards LGBTQIA+ individuals. She stated her appreciation of Lakewood for valuinginclusion <br />and equality. <br />Shannon Miller, Westwood Avenue - Mrs. Miller condemned HB 68 for promoting <br />discrimination and hostility, particularly against children. She shared her personal struggle <br />against anti-LGBTQ legislation and emphasized the importance of Resolution 2024-03 in <br />conveying Lakewood's support for the trans community. <br />Michael Miller, Westwood Avenue – Mr. Miller recounted his family's careful decision to move <br />to Lakewood from Michigan. He stated his dissatisfaction and frustration towards HB 68. Mr. <br />Miller then expressed gratitude for the Council's leadership in these challenging times. <br />Paul Dadisman, Clifton Blvd. – Mr. Dadisman referenced the book "Gay Like Me" by Richie <br />Jackson, to highlight the importance of safety and comfort in life. He expressed frustration with <br />legislative interference in family matters, urging lawmakers to respect familial autonomy. <br />6 <br /> <br /> <br />