In a mostly symbolic move, the Sioux City council will consider a resolution tonight opposing same-sex marriage.

The resolution, authored by Councilman Brent Hoffman, would have very little real impact since cities lack authority over marriage. But Hoffman told The Des Moines Register that it would direct city departments, boards and commissions to stay in line with the council’s position.

The council voted in March to add sexual orientation as one of the protected classes of citizens to bring the city’s Human Rights Commission in step with state civil rights code.

Whether the five-member council will pass the measure is still up in the air, as some council members have been openly critical of even discussing marriage.

“It’s just a sad day for the city. This resolution has nothing to do with the city’s business, and it’s a divisive issue,” [Councilman Jim Rixner] said. “The whole resolution is overreaching.”

The resolution also calls on state government to hold a vote on same-sex marriage.