The topic of which commemorative flags will be allowed in downtown Merced’s Bob Hart Square during the upcoming year is scheduled for discussion during Monday’s city council meeting.
The issue comes after the council back in April decided after much debate to update the city’s flag policy.
The city had previously offered an application on its website allowing third parties to make requests for commemorative flags to fly in the square.
After Councilmember Shane Smith argued the policy could subject the city to a free speech lawsuit, the council by a slim majority decided commemorative flags must now come by the suggestion of a council member.
Each flag that is chosen must receive the majority support of the council. During Monday’s meeting, council members will be able to offer recommendations for which flags will fly in the square.
The city’s flag policy over the years has been a lightning rod for controversy. Some have argued the only flags that belong in the square are the U.S. and California flags, with some exceptions like the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag and the flags of Merced’s sister cities.
Others have argued the square should be a place to recognize the diverse cultures and communities that make Merced a vibrant place to live, particularly in a university town that welcomes students from all over the world.
Flags that have previously been approved to fly in Bob Hart Square include the Pride flag, the Mexican flag, the Christian flag, the Italian flag and the Black History Month flag.
Monday’s meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. inside council chambers at 678 W. 18th St.