Mayor Don Hillman said he was not prepared to issue a pro-marriage proclamation that was presented to the City Council last week.

During the Dec. 2 council meeting, former Parks Department Director Chuck Hewitt and his wife Lila Hewitt, representing the First Baptist Church and the Powell Ministerial Association, asked the mayor to issue a proclamation supporting marriage that was submitted, including the phrases “men and women” and “husband and wife” in the proclamation.

Hillman said he had spent some time studying the issue and was not prepared to issue such a proclamation.

“I’m not ready to do that at this time,” he said. “We’re not sure where we’re at with that. We wouldn’t want to address that tonight.”

Chuck Hewitt said that was a “shame.”

The council also rejected a requested waiver of $280 in fees for The Commons on Friday, Feb. 14, for a pro-marriage event.

The free social event, with dessert and music, will honor the 14th annual National Marriage Week and would be held on Valentine’s Day. Powell churches have offered their support, Lila Hewitt said.

Councilman Josh Shorb said such fees have been waived repeatedly of late and he was concerned about setting a precedent. Hillman said fees are usually only waived for the city, the Powell Valley Chamber of Commerce and Powell Economic Partnership.

Councilman John Wetzel noted that The Commons already loses money. A motion to approve the waiver died for the lack of a second, while a motion to reject the request passed 5-1, with only Councilman Floyd Young voting for it.