Two Newark city council members are at odds with Licking County commissioners over their decision to not allow the county courthouse to be lit with rainbow colors during a gay pride festival.
Council members Jeremy Blake and Sean Fennell sought to have the courthouse illuminated during Newark's inaugural pride event in June. County commissioners rebuffed the request and said their policy is to allow special lighting only on designated days. Blake, an openly gay council member who sponsored the city's anti-discrimination ordinance, called the decision "hurtful." He and Fennell plan to pack an upcoming commissioners meeting. The courthouse's 40 thousand dollar controller system has been programmed for special lighting during holidays and occasions like Heart Awareness Week included on a list commissioners approved. Commissioner Tim Bubb said no exception will be made for the pride festival.