SALISBURY -- In a 3-2 vote Tuesday night, the Salisbury city council decided to hold a moment of silence instead of saying a prayer before meetings.

Mayor Al Heggins says the decision comes as one step to make city council meetings more inclusive.

While she says this does not have to do with the Rowan County prayer case, she said it's important for all citizens to feel safe and welcome at all city council meetings.

"We just have many different faith groups in our community and in a public government space we want everyone to feel welcome and for them to know that you’re included here," says Heggins.

The Salisbury city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays at 5 p.m.​