During a City Council meeting on March 19, 2024, the Ames City Council adopted an ordinance that protects gender identity under Municipal Code 14. This decision follows recent legislative actions in Iowa that have sparked significant debate over the protection of gender identity as a class under civil rights law.
Legislative Context and Local Response
The Council’s move comes in the wake of the 2025 legislative session, where the 91st General Assembly passed Senate File 514, effectively removing gender identity from the list of protected classes within the Iowa Civil Rights Code. This prompted the Council to revisit its local regulations, first discussing potential modifications in December 2023.
In January 2024, the Council advanced with an alternative proposal that allows the city to investigate claims of gender identity discrimination. This new ordinance imposes stringent penalties on violators and offers mediation provisions aimed at resolving disputes. The urgency of this local initiative is underscored by the introduction of House Study Bill 664, which, if enacted, would prevent municipalities like Ames from enacting protective measures beyond state law.
“If they pass this, then it’s over,” stated Tim Gartin, a representative from Ward 2. He expressed concern that any efforts made to protect gender identity would be rendered futile. Despite his motion to pause the Council’s decision until the outcome of the proposed bill in the legislature is clear, it did not receive support from other council members.
Council Members’ Perspectives
Despite the looming threat of state legislation, some council members remained steadfast in their commitment to protecting all residents. Amber Corrieri, representing At-Large, articulated that the state legislature has shown little interest in engaging with local governments. “I don’t think the legislature over the last several years has shown any interest in listening to what municipalities have to say,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for local ordinances that safeguard individuals against discrimination.
Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen, representing Ward 1, reinforced this sentiment by stating, “In Ames, we believe in equal access to housing, to employment, to education, for all people.” Her remarks highlight the Council’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly in an environment where state control appears to be tightening.
During the meeting, public input was limited, with only one individual opposing the modification. Following a show of hands, the Council voted decisively in favor of the ordinance, with a final tally of 5-1. Gartin was the sole dissenting vote throughout the process, including the motions to suspend rules and approve the first, second, and third readings of the ordinance.
The ordinance will not take effect until officially published, marking a significant step in Ames’ local governance and its stance on civil rights.
Budgetary Decisions
In addition to the ordinance, the Council unanimously approved the 2026 to 2031 Capital Improvement Plan and the adjusted budget for fiscal year 2025/26. They set March 24 as the deadline for adopting the property tax levy for fiscal year 2026/27, indicating a proactive approach to financial planning within the city.
For ongoing updates and information about the Ames City Council, residents can visit the official city webpage.
