Helena city commissioners went on record Monday night, narrowly passing a resolution critical of the USA Patriot Act. The 3-2 vote "protecting the civil liberties of the citizens" sends what Mayor Jim Smith said is a message that Helenans have "deep concerns and unrest" over the act. The six-page resolution takes issue with the controversial legislation, lauds the Helena Police Department for its good efforts protecting civil liberties, and asks city staff to provide periodic reports on local terrorism investigations. (The resolution can be found on the city Web site, http://www.ci.helena.mt.us.)

Supporters of the Helena Patriot Committee wore green lapel signs reading "I support a free and safe Helena" in Commission Chambers. After the outcome, they hugged each other in the hallways.

"(The vote) says that the commission truly listened to Helena citizens," said Diane Carlson Evans, a former Army nurse and committee co-chair. The resolution has substance and accountability, she said.

http://www.infowars.com/articles/ps/city_against_patriot_act.htm


From:
Aftermath News
Top Stories - December 11th, 2004