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Weighing Both Sides, Cris Medina Supports Non-Discrimination Ordinance

City of San Antonio

San Antonio District 7 Councilman Cris Medina is the latest to throw his support behind the proposed non-discrimination ordinance, which would extend protections for veteran status, gender identity and sexual orientation.

In a statement, Medina wrote:

"I am supporting the proposed ordinance because I oppose discrimination in all forms."

Medina is a military veteran and has been seen as a supporter of traditional values but said he has looked into the non-discrimination ordinance on both sides of the issue and found out the overwhelming majority of people he spoke with agree with the purpose of the ordinance.

He also said he recognizes the faith communities who do not support the ordinance and believes Mayor Julián Castro and his colleagues will continue to improve the language of the ordinance so that everyone is represented equally under the law.

Medina joins District 8 Councilman Ron Nirenberg, who also recently announced his support.

That brings the tally to at least six "yes" votes, the number needed to pass the ordinance.

District 2 Councilwoman Ivy Taylor remains on the fence, saying she cannot make the determination until after the final draft is presented at a council session next week.

District 9 Councilwoman Elisa Chan, who was caught on tape strategizing how to oppose the ordinance, said this week she will not recuse herself from the vote.

Ryan Loyd was Texas Public Radio's city beat and political reporter. He left the organization in December, 2014.