Holladay to consider nondiscrimination ordinance to help gays

HOLLADAY — The trend toward local laws banning discrimination in employment or housing based on sexual orientation or gender identity is spreading quickly throughout the Wasatch Front.

The issue came up recently at a town meeting in Holladay, and the City Council is scheduled to discuss the issue Thursday.

"It's simply equal rights — nondiscrimination for everyone," said Councilwoman Pat Pignanelli, who placed the issue on the agenda. "It just seems right to me that we do this."

The planned Holladay meeting comes just weeks after West Valley City took up the issue. Taylorsville, unincorporated Salt Lake County, Park City and Summit County also have shown interest in protecting the homes and jobs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.

The trend falls in line with Utah Gov. Gary Herbert's stated preference that localities deal with discrimination against gays on a local level.

A bill that would have made nondiscrimination part of state code was abandoned earlier this year in a truce between Republican and Democratic lawmakers.

The Holladay City Council will discuss nondiscrimination during its 5 p.m. study meeting at 4580 S. 2300 East.

— Rebecca Palmer