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Anti-LGBTQ remarks at Scranton council meeting draw rebukes from residents and council members
Summary
A public commenter used profane language to denounce the pride flag displayed at City Hall, prompting multiple residents and council members to call for enforcement of meeting conduct rules and for the council president to use the gavel to maintain order.
A heated exchange during the public-comment period of a Scranton City Council meeting escalated when a speaker used profane, anti-LGBTQ language to criticize the city's decision to fly a pride flag, prompting several residents and council members to demand enforcement of chamber conduct rules.
Bob Bolas, who identified himself during public comment as a mayoral candidate, addressed the council about the pride flag at City Hall. "That flag behind you, gentlemen... The other is the American flag. And we just pledged 1 nation under God. Out front, we have a **** queer flag flying on my city hall. And it's a slap in the face to all of us that served under that flag," Bolas said during an extended remark that included additional profane statements about LGBTQ individuals and institutions. Bolas also urged the removal of the pride flag and said he would not "patronize" or show deference to those groups.
Multiple speakers and council members immediately pushed back. Angela Ramon, a member of the public, reminded the council of the rule prohibiting direct attacks on individual council members or audience members and said she would like that rule enforced. Doris Koloski, who had earlier thanked the council for cleaning a property, told the meeting she was "glad that the pride flag is flying" and said such remarks were insulting to those present.
Council members condemned the tone and language used. Doctor Rothschild (Dr. Rothschild) called the remarks "horribly offensive" and urged that people be treated with "humanity, dignity, respect." Councilman King and others said the president should use the gavel and enforce the meeting rules when speakers violated decorum. King said no one should feel intimidated in the chambers based on race, religion or sexual orientation and called the conduct "an embarrassment to this body." Several members noted similar incidents in recent meetings and asked for consistent enforcement going forward.
There was no vote or formal disciplinary action taken at the meeting against the speaker; council members asked that the president enforce existing rules and to have disruptive or harassing speakers removed in future instances. Several residents said they were uncomfortable and urged the council to ensure the chamber is a safe place for people to bring forward city business without intimidation.
