HENDERSON, Ky. — City Council voted 3-2 Tuesday night to repeal an ordinance protecting gays from discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations.

        “I don't think it's a secret this is not wanted,” said Rick Hile, who had sued the city in opposition to the ordinance. “There will be a lot of happy people in Henderson.”

        A majority of the speakers at Tuesday's meeting, however, disagreed with Mr. Hile. After the vote, supporters left the meeting singing “We Shall Overcome.”

        “Repealing it sends a message that we were wrong and it's OK to discriminate,” said Kyle Burson.

        The ordinance was passed 3-2 by council in 1999. No complaints under it have been filed with the city.

        Last fall, City Commissioner Sonny Ward — a supporter of the ordinance — chose not to seek re-election. His seat was filled by Bob Hall, an ordinance opponent.

        Mr. Hall said Tuesday he didn't think the ordinance was necessary because he had never witnessed any discrimination against gays in Henderson.

        Mayor Joan Hoffman and City Council member Michele Deep said during the meeting they were sad to see the ordinance repealed.

        “I'm sorry for tonight,” Ms. Deep said.

Road projects ready to roll
Boost sought for rental units
Ohio moves on multistate lottery
RADEL: River town
Winds snuff power, batter trees, roofs
Bike path to link Ohio's north, south
Patrol to crack down along death-prone road
SAMPLES: 'Social capital' sustains rally
Contractor to retrieve fallen span from river
M.U. to add new accent
Montgomery may be brighter
Child's play serious for organization of certified therapists
Activist heads to N.Ky.
12 arrested in alleged illegal Freon ring
Arson device found in law office
Crackdown on young smokers
3 generations go to state
Henderson council repeals ordinance protecting gays
Income tax for schools opposed
Ky. meeting today targets OxyContin
Stuck trucks to close Reading railroad crossing
Survey opposes changes in school times
Suspect was on parole
Vote tolerates same-sex unions
Kentucky News Briefs
Tristate A.M. Report