Public Statement - City Responds to Concerns Regarding August Ukrainian Flag Raising

The City is issuing the following statement to clarify criticisms being received surrounding the Ukrainian flag raising at City Hall on Thursday, August 21, 2025. 

City Council and Administration recognizes the significance of Ukraine Independence Day (Sunday, August 24) to many residents, including veterans, military families, and those with personal ties to Ukraine. The City has a long-standing tradition of supporting Ukraine through ceremonial flag raisings, and this commitment continues. 

This year, event organizers for the flag raising submitted a request in early August. Upon receiving the request, City Administration informed event organizers that:

• Mayor and Council would not be available to attend on that date, and
• The flag could not be raised at noon, as requested, because it coincided with a pre-scheduled, once-a-year staff appreciation event that was scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Despite these scheduling limitations, the City Administration was accommodating by arranging to complete the flag raising on August 21, after the staff appreciation event. The Ukrainian flag was raised the same day, as soon as possible, after a rainstorm ended. 

Council and City Administration absence at the organizers’ noon-hour flag raising were not a reflection of any lack of support for Ukraine, its people, or the significance of Ukraine Independence Day. Rather, this was a scheduling conflict that had been clearly communicated in advance, and the City made every effort to accommodate the request within the constraints of existing plans and weather. 

It was important that Council and Administration attend the staff appreciation event to recognize the hard work and dedication of City staff. The closure was advertised well in advance. 

Flag raisings at City Hall are coordinated through the City’s Administration, and Council attendance is not guaranteed for every event. 

We acknowledge the comments from residents who have voiced their concerns. However, the criticism directed at Council and Administration in this instance is unfounded, as the City acted in good faith, clearly communicated in advance, and fulfilled the commitment to raise the flag in recognition of Ukraine’s Independence.