Council voted 9-3 in favour, which will include the nativity scene
A 9-3 vote at St. Catharines city council means religious symbols, including the nativity scene, will be allowed at city hall and parks.
Councillor Carlos Garcia pointed out participating groups be solely responsible for maintenance, which has worked out well.
Councillor Joe Kushner added we're moving into a very politically and culturally hostile environment. "I would suggest that for this we look at it every year, because I can see in the future this becoming a very disputed situation."
Councillor Robin McPherson voted no, getting clarification from city staff that no other municipality does this.
Councillor Greg Miller also voted against, and referred to a previous motion from past discussion. "That was engineered in such a way by councillors, working with the Christian churches, to basically only set up that the nativity scene would allowed to be displayed. It was modified in such a way, as the mayor pointed out, that no other religion, including the satanists, were able to meet the criteria."
Council decided if there are enough complaints, they will re-visit the issue.
The vote was against a staff recommendation, that was done in consultation with the diversity and equity committee.
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