Westminster City Council
SUBJECT
Title
Request to Hang Flags of the United States of America Along Westminster Boulevard Between Bolsa Chica Road and Bushard Street and around the Civic Center Annually at Various Times Throughout the Year.
End
From: Christine Cordon, City Manager
Requested by: Councilwoman Amy Phan West;
Council Member Carlos Manzo
Prepared by*: Christine Cordon, City Manager
*Staff reports prepared by staff on behalf of members of the City Council do not reflect the opinions of staff and are generated in collaboration with the requesting council member(s).
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
Recommendation
Consider the request to hang flags of the United States of America on light poles along Westminster Boulevard between Bolsa Chica Road and Bushard Street and along All American Way and 13th Street from All American Way to Beach Boulevard annually, beginning on the Friday before Memorial Day and through the 4th of July, and from November 1-14; and provide direction for placement of the flags.
BACKGROUND
This item was requested by Councilwoman Amy Phan West (District 1) and seconded by Council Member Carlos Manzo (District 2).
Westminster is a proud, diverse community with its rich American history and roots. Once farmland, Westminster has evolved into a multicultural, urban mix of retail, food, housing, industries, and experiences for families from all walks of life. Many residents in Westminster have lived here for decades, including veterans or families of veterans or those who have passed while serving in the armed forces. Recognized as an “All-America City” by the National Civic League, Westminster continues to embrace a strong sense of patriotism.
Councilwoman Phan West and Council Member Manzo recognize the importance of celebrating Westminster’s history and roots and paying tribute to the values of American democracy and freedom. Therefore, they are requesting that the American flag be hung on light poles along the following streets annually beginning on the Friday before Memorial Day through the 4th of July, and from November 1-14 (Attachment 1):
• Westminster Boulevard between Bolsa Chica Road and Bushard Street;
• All American Way between Westminster Boulevard and 13th Street; and
• 13th Street between All American Way and Beach Boulevard
The flags would be flown beginning on the Friday before Memorial Day and through the 4th of July; this covers several major patriotic holidays: Memorial Day, Flag Day on June 14, and Independence Day on July 4th. Flags would be removed on July 5th or shortly thereafter. The flags would then be flown from November 1 through 14, which covers Election Day (the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November) and Veterans’ Day on November 11.
FISCAL IMPACT
The approximate cost is $2,500 per installation but may increase over time due to inflation. The cost would currently be paid through the General Fund. However, there may be opportunities for funding through alternative sources such as the Westminster Community Foundation, non-profit groups, or community partners to offset this cost.
LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney’s Office has reviewed as to form.
CONCLUSION
Councilwoman Phan West and Council Member Manzo request these flags be displayed during these times to show support of the community and encourage patriotism in Westminster, which has ultimately embodied the American dream. If approved, this action will be implemented as a Council policy.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Location Maps
REVIEWED BY
Erin Backs, Finance Director
Christian Bettenhausen, City Attorney
Christine Cordon, City Manager