Community approves non-discrimination ordinance

OSHTEMO TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) -- Another southwestern Michigan community has approved an ordinance that would ban discrimination in employment, public accommodation and housing practices. The measure passed on a 6-1 vote Tuesday night by trustees in Kalamazoo County's Oshtemo Township, MLive.com reported. It closely models one approved last month in Kalamazoo Township. The ordinance bans discrimination based on several factors, including race, sex, age, religion, national origin, height, weight, marital status, familial status, citizenship, physical or mental ability, gender identity, sexual orientation or genetic information. Numerous other Michigan communities offer similar protections. "Oshtemo is a fairly diverse community ... but are you an inclusive community?" resident Jonathan Richardson asked the board before the vote. "I am a Christian, I'm black, I'm part of an interracial couple, I'm gay and I live in Oshtemo, and I bring all of that to my life every day. So I am in favor of your consideration and a positive vote on this ordinance." Trustee Dave Bushouse cast the lone dissenting vote. Bushouse said he questions whether the township has the authority to adopt the law. "My basic concern is, as a township, we normally do not get into this issue," Bushouse said. "I seriously question that we have the legal right to get into this issue." A violation of the ordinance could bring a fine, from $75 to $500. Published: Fri, Aug 30, 2013