MOUNT VERNON, Wash. -- Protesters angry over a plan by Mount Vernon's mayor to honor conservative TV host Glenn Beck presented petitions to the City Council on Wednesday night, and the council distanced itself from "Glenn Beck Day."

A sold-out event this Saturday organized by Mayor Bud Norris will honor Beck -- who grew up in Mount Vernon and got his start in radio there -- with a key to the city.

"Shame on you and the City Council for not standing up for community values of inclusivity, respect and diversity," Mark Oomman told the council at the meeting.

People protesting Beck's visit vastly outnumbered Beck supporters, said KIRO 7 Eyewitness News reporter Gary Horcher.

A few people spoke in favor of the mayor's decision to invite Beck.

"I stand with Mayor Norris in inviting divergent views to be heard in the city of Mount Vernon," said Don Gordon.

The resolution unanimously approved by seven council members states that the "Mount Vernon City Council is in no way sponsoring the Mayor's event on Sept. 26, 2009, and is not connected to the Glenn Beck event in any manner."

In July, Beck said he believes President Barack Obama is a racist.

Members of the Seattle progressive advocacy group Fuse gave the council a petition accusing Beck of fear mongering and race baiting.

Norris said he's had no second thoughts. He said he simply wanted to honor someone who grew up in his city and is now on the national stage.

The Saturday night Glenn Beck event at McIntyre Hall sold out all the tickets at $25 each. It's a fundraiser for Mount Vernon's Lincoln Theater.