REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Approve a New Council Policy on Display of Ceremonial and/or Commemorative Flags at City Hall (Study Issue); and Adopt a Resolution in Accordance with Such Policy to Authorize the Annual Display of the Pride Flag at City Hall
Report
BACKGROUND
At its March 7, 2019 Study Issues Workshop, the Council ranked Study Issue OCM 19-01 Council Policy on Display of Flags at City Hall as high priority. Throughout the year, the City Council recognizes organizations, individuals and various national events to highlight noteworthy public contributions and achievements. Recognition can take the form of resolutions, proclamations, certificates, letters, and plaques. Some ceremonial or commemorative events are recognized by flying a specific flag, such as Pride month. Currently, the City does not have a Council policy that clearly articulates the display of commemorative or ceremonial flags at City Hall. Study Issue OCM 19-01 resulted in the recommendation of a Council policy that includes language that defines a decision-making process that Council would use when considering whether Ceremonial and/or Commemorative flags can be displayed on the flagpole at City Hall.
EXISTING POLICY
Administrative Policy 6.2 (Display of Flags at City Buildings)
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a "project" within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5) in that it is a governmental, organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect changes in the environment.
DISCUSSION
In the past, the City has displayed flags in accordance with Federal and State law as defined in the City's Administrative Policy 6.2 (Display of Flags at City Buildings), Attachment 1. In the interest of having an equitable and transparent process on the selection of commemorative and ceremonial flags, Study Issue OCM 19-01 proposed a new Council ...
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