01/11/1988 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

e Mr. Holmer noted an apparent typographical error that states the draft ordinances will take effect May 3. He asked what is meant by the phrase "truly nuclear free" in Section 3 A of the MRV. Mr. Holmer asked if the phrase "aggressive nuclear warfare" in subsection b2 exempts prosecution of "defensive nuclear warfare." Mr. Miller asked Mr. Sercombe whether he is prepared to give an opinion now on the MRV. Mr. Sercombe said he is prepared to discuss issues in the MRV. He said the City Attorney's Office is also prepared to draft a written opinion of the ordinance. Mr. Sercombe said a written opinion would focus on the constitutionality and enforcement problems of the section that prohibits the preparation for nuclear war. In addition, he said there is a technical problem in that the ordinance does not specify a maximum limit for the fine. Both problems could be remedied with a later amendment. He said the rest of the ordinance is consistent with the opinion issued earlier in January. Mayor Obie asked how the MRV and a second measure based on the Lane County ordinance would appear on the ballot. Mr. Sercombe said both ordinances would appear on the ballot for a yes/no vote. The ballot titles and subsequent explanations would have to clearly distinguish for voters the differences between the two. If both ordinances passed, the one with the higher number of "yes" votes would be enacted. If both ordinances failed, the current ordinance would continue in effect. e Ms. Ehrman said she favors a March election date because of the lengthy amount of time that has passed since the ordinance was orginally voted on. She said that spending $10,000 to $20,000 on a special election is not that significant in light of the fact the City has already spent nearly $90,000 on the issue so far. She said the subject matter would ensure a large number of voters regardless of the date. Ms. Ehrman said that although she would like to have a voter1s pamphlet on the issue, she said the council should not be put in the position of arguing for or against either ordinance because the issue belongs to lithe people." She said she will vote for a March election. Mr. Holmer said it is important for the proposed ordinances to go to voters with a voter's pamphlet. He said supports a vote during the May primary election. Ms. Schue said she agrees with Mr. Holmer in that the ordinances should be placed on the May ballot. She said she is willing to save $10,000 to $20,000 in City funds by going to a later election date. Mr. Holmer said the proposed pamphlet will be mailed to every resident in the City of Eugene. The pamphlet will contain the text and title of the ballot measures with an impartial explanation compiled by proponents and opponents of each version. He said the pamphlet will be on the council's January 20 work session agenda. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council January 11, 1988 Page 2