Fresno County Board of Supervisors approval process for county celebrations passes initial vote

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A fight that began over the distribution of condoms at the Fresno Rainbow Pride Parade continues at the County Board of Supervisors.

Supervisor Garry Bredefeld has repeatedly made it clear that he disapproved of the Health Department passing out custom-ordered condoms and other items at the event in June.

"I don't support taking taxpayer money and handing it out; that's advocacy. I disagree with it," said Bredefeld.

RELATED: Condom controversy: Outrage over pride-themed condoms purchased by Fresno County

Last month, the board passed a motion that departments must receive approval from the board to sponsor events. This new policy takes it a step further.

Bredefeld wants the board to decide what celebrations county departments can now recognize.

"But if this board does not approve gay pride month, its not going to happen in the libraries," said Bredefeld.

Supervisor Nathan Magsig brought up his own examples.

"I've heard from constituents in the past who have concerns about departments who get dressed up and spend money on things like Halloween," said Magsig.

RELATED: New Fresno County policy requires supervisor approval of department sponsorships

Not everyone was on board with the idea. Supervisors Brian Pacheco and Luis Chavez questioned if the move is about money and called the policy censorship.

"We should represent all the people, not our personal beliefs, because as the one speaker said, her values are not my values, and who am I to say she's right and I'm wrong," said Pacheco.

Pacheco pushed Bredefeld to draw a clear line to distinguish what would and would not be allowed.

"So if we're going to have the county participate at a Confia event or something like that with the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, according to this, myself or any member of the board is required to bring a resolution or proclamation prior to the event in order for the county to participate in that event," said Pacheco.

"Hmong celebration and all of that, I don't think you need to bring a resolution to do that. But if you want to promote something going on in the library as has been going on, that has not going to be allowed unless there is formal approval by this board," said Bredefeld.

Pacheco and Chavez voted no; each said the decisions should be left to the department heads.

Supervisor Buddy Mendes was the tie breaker; he voted in favor of the policy, but called on the County Administrative Office, which would oversee this system, to work on clarifying the proposal.

One person stood up at public comment to support the motion, and the other five spoke out in opposition.

The County Administrative Office will do some work to clarify this policy and then bring it back to the board in September.

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