Planned Parenthood asks court to force scheduled opening

Planned Parenthood today asked a federal judge to ensure its planned opening next week of a women's health clinic in Aurora.

The clinic will provide a variety of services, such as mammograms and gynecological exams. But the fact it also will offer abortions has sparked vocal opposition as well as support.

Planned Parenthood leaders accused Aurora officials of delaying the clinic's scheduled start date Tuesday and asked the court to issue an injunction allowing the opening to proceed.

The city is reviewing how the agency received approval following complaints Planned Parenthood evaded identifying itself in planning documents.

Upon completion of the review, if it's shown the organization acted appropriately, city officials have said a final occupancy permit will be issued.

Planned Parenthood CEO Steve Trombley charged the city was bowing to pressure from anti-abortion activists. "It's time to put patients before politics," he said.

Eric Scheidler, a spokesman for the Pro-Life Action League countered that Planned Parenthood "lied about who they were."