Klamath Falls, Ore. – A display of four words is generating controversy in Klamath County.
Klamath County Commissioner Tom Mallams has been spearheading an effort to display ‘In God we trust’ on the back of the Commissioner’s hearing room of the Klamath County Government Center.
“I’m not delving into the religious possibilities, or aspects of it.” States Mallams. “This is our national motto, plain and simple.”
The board voted 2 to 1 Tuesday to display the motto.
The dissenting vote was cast by Commissioner Kelley Minty Morris, who wants more time for County Counsel to review the legal implications…
“Because it was put on the agenda at the last minute, I hadn’t had a chance to circle back, and I guess, get comfortable with the issue.”
The resolution will go before the Commissioners for a second reading next Tuesday.
“I’m going to make a suggestion that we table the issues, and that we don’t vote on it first thing.” Notes Commissioner Morris. “And we wait until we have public comment.”
A private group has already raised $2000 for a permanent, 4-foot wide display.
“I think it’s the right thing to do.” Said Commissioner Mallams. “And I think it’s the right time to do it.”
“In God we trust’ was re-affirmed by Congress as the national motto 5 years ago.
Opponents claim its display in a public building blurs a separation of church and state.
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