The Odessa City Council passes a controversial toilet ordinance after heated debate

ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) – Several important items were passed at last night’s Odessa City Council meeting. Among them was a $45 million project to build and design a 200 million-gallon water tower in the northeast part of the city. Additionally, the council approved $1.7 million to fund current city positions and $1.3 million to cover staffing needs next year. The Odessa Fire Rescue pension fund also underwent changes, moving from a fixed contribution of 28% to an actuarial rate.

The most discussed item of the evening, however, was the proposed change to Section 8-1-6 of the City Code, which addresses the use of restrooms by persons of the opposite sex. The ordinance sparked strong opposition from community members, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community, who viewed it as discriminatory and unnecessary.

One concerned citizen commented during the meeting: “Odessa faces real challenges that affect everyone’s quality of life. Instead, we are wasting energy on toilet policy.” Opponents argued that the ordinance targeted certain groups without addressing a real problem in the community.

Jonathan Saenz, attorney and president of Texas Values, supported the ordinance, stating, “What we’re seeing in our culture right now is people trying to confuse others.” They’re pressuring people to change long-held beliefs about men and women and about who should use which toilet.” Saenz also emphasized the ordinance’s consistency with current cultural standards and specified access to restrooms based on a person’s gender on the birth certificate. He argued that this standard would be applied not only in Odessa, but also in other communities throughout Texas.

Opponents expressed concerns about Texas Values’ involvement in the local ordinance and questioned why the organization was involved in a city matter. When asked if any city officials had invited him, Saenz replied, “People from the Odessa community have expressed concern to us about this issue, and we are continually responding to it.”

Despite the opposition, the ordinance passed by a vote of 5-2. It now provides for civil penalties and trespassing charges against anyone who knowingly uses a toilet that does not correspond to their birth gender. Exceptions apply for minors under 12 years of age accompanied by an adult, medical emergencies, supervisory staff and first responders in necessary situations.

One concerned citizen expressed frustration and said, “If you all get re-elected, will this continue?” Where does it stop? Where does all this gay bashing end?” Councilman Haynie, who was reportedly behind the ordinance, declined to comment after the meeting.

The decision has left many community members questioning the council’s priorities and possible next steps.

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