It's expected Labor will put forward a motion to 'Support Marriage Equality' at tonight's city council meeting. But not everyone in favour of marriage equality thinks the motion is a good idea.
Liberal Cr Nick Jones says his same sex partner "would kill [him]" if he didn't support marriage equality, but this isn't an issue that should be discussed by local council.
"It's not up to council to make this decision on behalf of our residents."
Cr Jones says that upcoming postal vote, which he isn't in favour of, should express how residents feel about the matter, rather than council doing it on their behalf.
What frustrates Cr Jones is that "the issue shouldn't be coming up in front of council at all", and that some Councillors are "just trying to make the most of a political opportunity for themselves."
"They might be genuine about marriage equality- I'm not saying they don't support it- but their intentions here are not to try and persuade the federal government."
"Lake Macquarie Council voting one way or another in this issue doesn't change the federal government's mind, it doesn't change the general public's mind. It's just not up to us to make that decision."
Cr Jones suggests that the best way for Lake Macquarie Council to serve its LGBTI residents is to have inclusive and respectful policies and procedures for staff who deal with their concerns.
"Our staff are fantastic. They're progressive, they're understanding of the social world changing. That's where council need to focus, to make sure they keep their ship in order."
