After a contentious hearing today, a Kansas City Council Committee is recommending against full council approval of a measure to block city involvement in companies that make nuclear weapons parts.
Sharpest critics of the Botts Road Honeywell Plant have been members of the Kansas City Peace Planters. They were out in force before the Council Finance Committee.
But the majority of Council members in the hearing room prevailed, arguing that the proposal was unconstitutional and should not be put before voters.
The proposed ordinance declares the city must remove itself from any financial investment in making nuclear components. Lone committee backer of the plan, Councilman Ed Ford argued for allowing a referendum.
“If someone presents us with a petition initiative, even if it would scare away businesses and developers, we have an obligation to put it on the ballot,” Ford said.
Ford argued the city has charter protection because, even if voters pass the measure, the Council can invalidate it. The measure goes to the full Council next week. The recommendation is ‘do not pass.’