Newton proclaims June as Pride Month after divided public comment; two commissioners abstain

The Newton City Commission on June 10 approved a proclamation declaring June as Pride Month in Newton, Mayor Rich Stinnett read the proclamation and the motion passed with two commissioners recorded as abstaining and no recorded votes in opposition.

The proclamation was delivered publicly by Molly Millsweiss, who identified herself as a lifelong Newton resident and as a gay woman. ‘‘This proclamation tells our LGBTQ community members, especially young people, that they are seen, valued, and welcome in Newton,’’ Millsweiss said while reading the proclamation text to the commission.

The proclamation text — read in full at the meeting — affirms that the city ‘‘is dedicated to fostering acceptance of all its citizens and preventing discrimination and bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity,’’ and urges residents to ‘‘recognize contributions made by members of the LGBTQ plus community and to actively promote the principles of equality and liberty.’’ Mayor Rich Stinnett then formally proclaimed June as Pride Month in Newton.

Public comment at the meeting was sharply divided. Betty Fineger, who identified herself as not born in Newton, said she opposed the proclamation on religious grounds and urged the commission instead to adopt a general ‘‘Proud to be Newton’’ proclamation that would not single out a specific group. Her husband, Kevin Finneger, spoke in opposition for similar reasons.

Other residents spoke in support. One resident who identified themself as a lesbian said they had left Newton previously because they did not feel welcome and described the proclamation as an important signal that people can ‘‘be your authentic self’’ in their hometown. Laurie Hartke, another speaker, said the commissioners who opposed the proclamation had lost her vote.

At the dais, at least one commissioner said they would declare a conflict of interest and abstain; another commissioner stated they would abstain as well. One commissioner reported they would vote ‘‘no’’ but, in the roll-call style voice vote, the clerk recorded the motion as passing with two abstentions and no opposing votes.

The commission did not take other formal actions connected to the proclamation at the meeting beyond adopting the proclamation itself.

Community members and staff in attendance were told the proclamation is an official city statement of support but does not create new city regulations or programs; no implementing directives or budget changes were included in the motion.

The proclamation followed the meeting’s earlier routine business and preceded other agenda items including special assessments, permits and a discussion of hotel incentives.