MANHATTAN -The Manhattan City Commission unanimously approved an ordinance adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the city’s anti-discrimination policy, according to minutes from Tuesday night’s meeting.

Under the ordinance it is unlawful for the city, landlords and others to discriminate against LGBT individuals.

Those who violate the ordinance can face fines of up to $500.

Riley County Police Department Director Brad Schoen requested an exemption to the ordinance.

Following a 3-2 vote, the commission approved an amendment that would exempt the RCPD.

Kansas State University, other state and federal offices are also covered by their own policies.

In July 2015, then Manhattan Mayor Karen McCulloh proposed legislation to include sexual orientation to the list of classes that the City will not discriminate against.

The new ordinance will go into effect November 1.