LA VERKIN CITY, Utah -- Forget all that peacekeeping and humanitarian stuff. This tiny town doesn't want any part of the United Nations. Sensing a threat from the world organization, the La Verkin City Council held a special session on Independence Day to approve an anti-U.N. ordinance by a vote of 3-2.
Many of the law's supporters fear their land is in jeopardy from the United Nations. The 3,300 folks in this southwestern Utah town, are keenly protective of their property, always looking out for federal -- or in this case, international -- interference.
The law prohibits the city from spending money to support the United Nations or putting U.N. insignia on city property. Two-thirds of Utah land is owned by the federal government. Those who favor the ordinance say U.N. environmental policies could sway how the feds use that land.
Although La Verkin may now stand alone in its homegrown fight against U.N. oppression, there was an attempt in Montana this year to pass a resolution denouncing the organization.
"I think it's a big issue all over the West," said Councilman Kelly Wilson, who voted against the ordinance, wanting instead to outline his anti-U.N. stance in a resolution rather than an ordinance. U.N. officials said they had no comment.