A controversial item calling for the Town Council on Thursday evening to address a proposed non-discrimination policy for Fountain Hills on Monday was pulled from the agenda.

Following the Nov. 6 council meeting and last week’s Times story about the issue, church groups and others were organizing opposition to such a policy or ordinance.

They were specifically rallying against the measure because it would have mentioned the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The councilwoman who was pushing for consideration, Ginny Dickey, said she was surprised the item came back so quickly and worked with town administration Monday to have the agenda item removed.

“It was never my intention for the item to be brought back at this meeting as there was not adequate time to prepare a well-vetted non-discrimination proposal for our community,” Dickey said.

“Local anti-discrimination policy is not for special treatment, but for equal rights and access to all the great things our town has to offer.

“Not all people are protected from discrimination in employment or public accommodation under Arizona or National laws.

“A discussion about the best way to show that Fountain Hills is a welcoming community and ‘open for business’ should be a positive one, with all the options, knowledge and facts available before making a commitment.”

Dickey is retiring from the council and this week will be her final meeting.

Several letters to the editor (see Page 6A) on the issue were received by the newspaper prior to the agenda item being pulled Monday afternoon.

At the Nov. 6 Town Council meeting, as many as 40 people turned in comment cards with approximately a dozen of them speaking during call to the public, urging the council to pass an ordinance or some other measure.

The council ultimately approved a motion to bring back the proposal as a policy, pledge or statement for consideration. The vote was 5-2 with Mayor Linda Kavanagh and Vice Mayor Cecil Yates the dissenting votes.

Staff had prepared for the discussion with examples of a Town Code policy, non-discrimination statement and a proclamation.

Town Manager Ken Buchanan said Monday staff needs to gather further information regarding the issue. He said it is undetermined when the item will be placed back on the agenda.

Town Clerk Bev Bender sent the following email to council members on Monday afternoon, “…the Town Manager has removed agenda item #6 regarding the “discussion and consideration of a non-discrimination policy, pledge, or statement as approved for discussion at the Nov. 6, 2014 Town Council meeting” from the …agenda after consultation with the Town Attorney.”