Bozeman decision on Commandments draws ACLU notice

BOZEMAN – The American Civil Liberties Union plans to review a decision by the Bozeman City Commission to reinstall a Ten Commandments monument in a city park.

“It’s just a disappointment that this is how the commission chooses to use its time and judgment,” said Scott Crichton, executive director of the ACLU of Montana.

The Helena-based organization said it will review a recording of last Monday’s meeting to learn what arguments were used in reaching the decision before deciding if it will pursue legal action.

“Litigation is always a last resort,” he said.

However, he noted that the commission apparently disregarded advice from city attorney Paul Luew, who suggested putting the monument on private property.

“You wonder why they pay an attorney if they choose to ignore (him),” Crichton said.

In discussing the issue last Monday, three of the commissioners said the monument didn’t necessarily promote one religion over another and didn’t infringe on anyone’s rights.