The City of Racine will now offer standard benefits to the state registered domestic partners of city employees and their children, though it’s not a unanimous council decision. The issue grabbed the attention of many residents, and Alderman Jim Morgenroth felt it needed more debate. “At a time when we’re turning off streetlights and cutting bus schedules, I think we need to review this,” he said. Alderman Eric Marcus said the Dane County court case, now under appeal, means benefits are currently the law of the land. “The fact that a case is in litigation, that’s not a reason, in my opinion, for us to hold up our process,” said Marcus.
AUDIO: Public comments (:22)
‘The one element that is really missing is the opportunity for the public to speak freely and comfortably,” said Alderman Sandy Weidner, who supported a wide open committee meeting. Staff said the cost would be negligible. The 10-4 vote adds Racine to a list of communities now offering domestic partner benefits.
Tom Karkow, WRJN
