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CC 2024-04-23_09d Supplemental 1_R MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: Jessica Matson, Legislative & Information Services Director/City Clerk SUBJECT: Supplemental Information Agenda Item 9.d. – April 23, 2024 City Council Meeting Review and Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the Recurring Annual Display of Specified Commemorative Flags at City Hall and Heritage Square Park DATE: April 23, 2024 Attached is correspondence received for the above referenced item. cc: City Manager Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director City Attorney City Clerk City Website and Public Review Binder Enc From:India Henry To:public comment Subject:IN SUPPORT OF PRIDE FLAGS Date:Thursday, April 18, 2024 8:59:53 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hi, my name is India Mafi I live and work here in Arroyo Grande. I have grown up here and currently am raising my son, here. I am in FULL support of the flag flying and proud but, if I’m honest one flag isn’t enough we need a few more scattered amongst the whole entire village. LOVE WINS -India Mafi From:Taylor Kitto | whole nourish To:public comment Subject:Support of Date:Thursday, April 18, 2024 8:53:01 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Born and raised here and just want to give absolute support in flying the pride flag! Keep up the inclusiveness & acceptance, AG! Love wins! Sent from my iPhone Sent from my iPhone From:Neighbors General Store To:public comment Subject:9d. Support for Amendment to Fly Pride and Juneteenth Flags Annually Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 11:08:12 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear City Council Members, I am writing to express my support for the proposed amendment to our city's flag policy, which would allow for the annual flying of both the Pride flag and Juneteenth flag. As the owner of Neighbors in the Village and an active member of our community, I am deeply invested in promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equality. Every day at Neighbors, I have the privilege of interacting with the diverse individuals who make up our community. From these interactions, I am continually inspired by the stories, perspectives, and experiences that each person brings with them. It is abundantly clear to me that our community is made stronger and more vibrant by embracing and celebrating our differences. The idea that people in our community could or would consider a stance other than one of love and acceptance for all deeply saddens me. No one should ever feel marginalized or excluded because of their race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. By flying the Pride flag and Juneteenth flag annually, we celebrate inclusion, compassion, and respect for all individuals. Those who resist this important gesture of support are, in my opinion, denying themselves the opportunity to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from fully accepting and loving themselves and others. I wholeheartedly hope the amendment to fly the Pride flag and Juneteenth flag every year will be passed unanimously. It is my sincere belief that this action should not be a point of discussion or conflict but rather a symbol of our city's commitment to fostering a community where all individuals are valued, respected, and celebrated. Sincerely, Alex Creswell -- Alex Creswell Owner neighborsgeneralstore.com From:Alison Hinrichs To:public comment Subject:Take down pride flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 7:50:31 PM Hello, I find it offensive and non-inclusive to hang the pride flag in the Village of Arroyo Grande. If we are going to hang the pride flag, then we better hang all the other flags of religion & personal stances to include everyone. The American flag includes everyone, the California flag includes everyone. I don’t understand that because the LGBT+ community makes such a stink that that’s why they get to hang their flag. They preach inclusiveness but are very exclusive to those only in their camp. Keep the flag down and include everyone. Blessings, Alie Hinrichs Sent from my iPhone From:Condunbar To:public comment Subject:Progress flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 12:08:20 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear council members, As a simple and powerful show of support to our long-supressed LGBTQ neighors and friens, I wholeheatedly support the flying of the progress flag during pride month. Regards, Constance Dunbar Arroyo Grande From: To:public comment Subject:Pride month Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 8:26:54 PM Please don’t give any undue consideration to any and all bigots who may show up to discourage the city’s support and inclusion for all citizens and guests of our community. With pride and courage, continue to fly the rainbow flag ‍ in June. Arroyo Grande is a “no hate” zone. In strength, Elizabeth Fordyce, MPT, CAE Safety In Motion ( "Work That Fits" From:Jessica Sidenberg To:public comment Subject:Flags Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 3:45:57 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender The American flag represents all of us, every single American. Random other flags represent only select groups. One flag represents unity, the other flags represent exclusivity. (Please stop spending our money on this stuff). From:Megan Fullmer To:public comment Subject:Supporting the pride flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 5:55:40 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hi my name is Megan as a local of the area I support flying the pride flag! Megan Fullmer From:Maryanne Sullivan To:public comment Subject:Pride Flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 12:29:51 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hello, I just wanted to share my opinion on hanging the Pride flag for Pride month in Arroyo Grande. While I understand that some people are very uncomfortable with the LGBTQIA+ movement, I know for a fact that many members of our community are gay. I think it's important for our community to show support for these members, even if there is a risk of backlash against us hanging the flag. I think the majority of people are in support of the LGBTQIA movement, and promoting inclusivity and acceptance would be great for our community. Thank you, Maryanne Sullivan From:Paul Fordyce To:public comment Subject:Pride flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 8:30:32 PM Please don’t give any undue consideration to any and all bigots who may show up to discourage the city’s support and inclusion for all citizens and guests of our community. With pride and courage, continue to fly the rainbow flag ‍ in June. Arroyo Grande is a “no hate” zone. In strength, Paul Fordyce Arroyo Grande Sent from my iPhone From:Richard Lasiewski To:public comment Subject:Rainbow flag Date:Friday, April 19, 2024 6:31:17 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I want to let you know that I completely agree with your decision to fly the rainbow flag this month. Arroyo Grande is a forgiving accepting town and I am glad to be a resident for 40 plus years. You all are doing a great job and I am sorry that you're going to have to put up with some narrow-minded people at your next meeting. Richard Lasiewski, Arroyo Grande, CA From:Brittany Pasion To:public comment Subject:LGTBQ+ flag Date:Saturday, April 20, 2024 5:19:21 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hello, In response to the anti-LGBTQ+ flag protestors, I wanted to offer my full support of flying the flag during pride month. I feel that not flying the flag in support of the LGBTQ+ community is ultimately more damaging to our community. Thank you, Brittany Pasion Sent from my iPhone From:robin greene To:public comment Subject:Pride Flag for June 2024 Date:Saturday, April 20, 2024 8:17:51 PM I would like to express my support for the initiative to fly the Pride Flag in our city during the month of June. The significance of the pride flag for the LGBTQ+ community serves as a powerful symbol of unity, inclusivity, and acceptance. Why as a city would we not choose to promote everyone to feel welcome? By displaying this flag, we are embracing this message of inclusivity and compassion for all members of our community. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration. From:Danielle Dill To:public comment Cc:Danielle Dill Subject:LGBTQ + Date:Sunday, April 21, 2024 11:24:22 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I am completely in support of flying the flag in honor of lgbtq month. In fact it should not have to go to a vote. This division in our community in 2024 is absurd. Danielle Dill Arroyo Grande From:Glenn or Bonnie Vander Plate To:public comment Subject:Fw: Failure Notice Date:Sunday, April 21, 2024 5:09:11 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: "mailer-daemon@aol.com" <mailer-daemon@aol.com> To: " Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 02:50:04 PM PDT Subject: Failure Notice Sorry, we were unable to deliver your message to the following address. <publiccomments@arroyogrande.org>: 550: 5.4.1 Recipient address rejected: Access denied. [BL02EPF0001B417.namprd09.prod.outlook.com 2024-04-21T21:50:03.433Z 08DC6144974E6F6E] ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Sirs, I see that this policy is up again at the city's leadership to adopt this resolution regarding special flag flying days at our city hall and nearby park. Two of the flags I have no quarrel with. However the pride flag is not something to be proud of and should not be given special attention for numerous reasons 1. This violates Gods principles in the Bible ie. Leviticus 20:13, Romans 1:24-27 and verse 33 which is what . you are doing. 2. Also in Revelation 21:8 it explains what the final consequence is in violating this principle. 3. The motto of our country that is on our bills and coins express "In God we trust" and throughout our government this motto is being laughed at and spit on by condoning such practice. There are many more reason but this should suffice. I'm a Christian and as such follow the precepts of the Bible which is God's word to us on how to live. Our country also based the original documents of our country on the same principles of trusting in God and from whom our leaders get the authority to rule/govern. More could be said on this point but it should suffice for this discussion as leaders you will be someday accountable for what you decide today. I do not hate those in our country who have chosen this identity ...my wife and I pray for those in our family who have gone down this road nearly everyday. We love them but cannot condone this activity. Because you are in leadership in AG you are spitting in the face of God and as such you will be held accountable for your actions in the life to come. OK, so you are laughing and say do you really believe that? Well you got a lot more to loose if you don't believe this than I do if I should be wrong..think about it!!!! I will be praying that you vote this item down regarding the flying of the Pride flag...for our community"s sake and ultimately for your sake in the life to come. Glenn Vander Plate From:Karen Miller To:public comment Subject:Flying of Flags at City Hall & Heritage Square Park Date:Sunday, April 21, 2024 1:25:53 AM Dear City Council, As a citizen living in Arroyo Grande, I have a concern along with many others over the proposed Pride Flag issue again this year to be flown at the city hall and heritage park for June. Only this year you have grouped in with two other flags rather than voting on the flags separately as it should be done. To keep things simple and fair in flying flags rather than showing favoritism, I feel that we should only fly our national, state and city flags and no other. As American living in Arroyo Grande, California, this we should all support. This keeps it simple, fair, and consistent year after year. The council needs to listen to their constituents. Last year the majority of emails sent in except for one or two, I believe, said no to flying the pride flag yet the council voted unanimously to fly the flag. Thank you for taking the time to listen to your citizen's concerns. Blessings, Karen Miller From:Stacy Millard To:public comment Subject:Flag proposal Date:Sunday, April 21, 2024 11:13:56 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hello Arroyo Grande City Council, I’m writing to encourage you all to vote in favor of flying the Juneteenth and Pride flags in our beautiful town. It was wonderful to experience the inclusiveness last year & I believe the majority of our town was proud to display that type of love for all. I’m proud to live in a town that is both present and forward thinking. To show our children, no matter what their race, gender or sexual orientation, they are accepted and celebrated here. Please stay on the side of inclusiveness, for all of our marginalized citizens. Best, Stacy Millard From:William Honeycutt To:public comment Subject:Flying of Flaggs Date:Sunday, April 21, 2024 6:32:19 AM The American Flag (and its colors) represent , as stated in the pledge, "ONE NATION", not a group of "special interest". Flying flags of special interest groups promotes DIVISION, not UNITY. Men and women who fought and died did so for what the American flag (not flags) stands for. Please do not allow another thing that only creates disunity and division among residents of this city. Respectfully. W. B. Honeycutt Arroyo Grande Resident From:Ashley To:public comment Subject:Support Pride Flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:44:19 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender We support the Pride Flag. Pls don’t let hate infiltrate ‍ ~Ashley Hain From:Becky Mosgofian To:public comment Subject:I support flying the Pride flag during the month of June Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 4:48:05 PM Subject: Support for Flying the Rainbow Flag during Pride Month Dear Members of the City Council, I am writing to express my strong support for flying the rainbow (or progress) flag in our city during Pride Month. As a resident of this community, I believe that displaying this flag sends a powerful message of inclusivity, support, and celebration of diversity. Here are several reasons why flying the rainbow/progress flag is beneficial for our city: Symbol of Inclusivity: The rainbow flag is universally recognized as a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community. By flying this flag, our city demonstrates its commitment to welcoming and embracing people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Support for LGBTQ+ Residents: Many LGBTQ+ individuals in our community feel marginalized or face discrimination. Seeing this flag flown proudly in public spaces can provide them with a sense of safety, acceptance, and affirmation of their identities. Tourism and Business Impact: Cities that are perceived as inclusive and welcoming to diverse communities often attract more visitors and businesses. By visibly supporting Pride Month through the rainbow flag, we enhance our city's reputation as an open and progressive place to live, work, and visit. Educational Opportunity: Flying the rainbow flag serves as an educational opportunity for residents, particularly young people, to learn about the LGBTQ+ community and the importance of equality and acceptance. Promotion of Unity and Respect: Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community's history and achievements. Flying the rainbow flag promotes unity and respect among all residents, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. I urge you to consider the positive impact that flying the rainbow flag has on our city and continue your support. It would demonstrate our commitment to equality, diversity, and human rights. Thank you. Sincerely, Becky Mosgofian Arroyo Grande, CA From:Clare Kindness To:public comment Subject:flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:15:41 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender i support the pride flag and thank you for being an ally to my lgbtqia+ friends. slove, clare -- Clare Kennedy Owner at Clare Kindness LLC From:Carol Swain To:public comment Subject:The Pride Flag represents freedom, much like the Stars and Stripes Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 8:30:22 PM Thank you to the City of Arroyo Grande! You're a beautiful city with a cool, upbeat vibe, which has been fostered by your actions such as flying the Pride Flag. I'm proud to be your neighbor!! Carol Swain Morro Bay From:Elizabeth Dembosz To:public comment Subject:LGBTQ+ flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 6:50:48 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I wholeheartedly support the LGBTQ+ flag being flown in Arroyo Grande. At best, this community has been oppressed and discriminated against, and the flag is a symbol of support and acknowledgment not only for past wrongdoings but also to acknowledge who these beautiful humans are. The flag is a symbol of “I see you, I love you, I support you.” They deserved this. From:FRANK MADDEN To:public comment Subject:Flags Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 6:58:40 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I think the best resolution is to fly all the flags at one time. Setting one certain flag at a time doesn’t appeal to me. The American and Military deserve our attention every day as they are defending our country. Any other flag you wish to fly add them together. Thanking you in advance. Sent from my iPhone From:Jeanie Greensfelder To:public comment Subject:Bravo Arroyo Grande Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:22:27 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender We need to support our minorities and protect all citizens of all genders and nationalities. Thank you, Jeanie Greensfelder San Luis Obispo From:Kersti Lasiewski To:public comment Subject:LGBTQ+ Flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 1:41:07 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I support flying the LGBTQ flag at city hall. I am proud to live in a place that supports love rather than hate. Kersti Lasiewski From:Kirsten Rambo To:public comment Subject:Thanks for flying the Pride flag! Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 4:46:51 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear AG City Council members, Thank you for flying the Pride flag! Flying this flag helps make our community more welcoming and inclusive for everyone. It's an important symbol that we reject hate and discrimination, and it makes me feel proud to be part of this community. I am a straight woman, but that does not stop me from cherishing the open and welcoming message of this flag. Let's always make sure we continue to send the message to our LGBTQIA+ friends, family, neighbors, and community members that we're glad they're here! Thanks very much, Kirsten Rambo From:Linda Busek To:public comment Subject:Please continue to support our LGBTQ+ community members Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 6:06:17 PM Fly the Pride flag proudly! Thanks for standing up and standing firm! best, Linda Busek From:Laura Emerson To:public comment Subject:Thank you for showing support Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:13:35 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Thank you for supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Laura Emerson From:Michelle Good To:public comment Subject:Inclusivity is important Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:08:27 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I fully support the City of Arroyo Grande flying the Pride flag for the month of June. It is no different than putting up Christmas lights in December, or Easter decorations in the spring. It is important to show that there is support and inclusion of all race, genders, and orientations in our community. It helps foster better mental health for all community members. I am proud to live in a City that realizes that fact. Thank you, Michelle McCovey-Good From:MARLENE JEUNG To:public comment Subject:Pride Flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 7:00:23 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Please continue to fly the rainbow Pride flag in Arroyo Grande which has been the past practice for several years. Anti LGBTQ sentiments are not indicative of most Central Coast residents. Thank you, Marlene and Don Jeung, Grover Beach Sent from my iPhone From: MICHELE NORWOOD < Sent: Monday, April 22, 2024 10:07 AM To: Caren Ray Russom <crayrussom@arroyogrande.org> Cc: Jim Guthrie <jguthrie@arroyogrande.org>; Kate Secrest <ksecrest@arroyogrande.org>; Kristen Barneich <kbarneich@arroyogrande.org>; Lan George <lgeorge@arroyogrande.org> Subject: Flags IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear Mayor and City Council Members, While I have nothing against LGBTQ people, I do have a problem with ANY flag being flown for ANY reason on public grounds other than the American flag. Should you chose to entertain this special interest group, no matter what your, “honorable” intentions, you must be prepared to allow the same display for ANY group that requests. Now just think about that-do you really want satanic, Nazi, Defund the Police, etc. flags displayed? What message are we sending? This is not about inclusion. Don’t start a trend in a community that does not need any more problems. Why such a small sliver of the population is always so overrepresented is beyond me. Michele Norwood Arroyo Grande, CA Michele From:Marja Rafiee To:public comment Subject:Support for Progress Flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 7:56:07 PM Hello AG City Council, This email is to express my support of the LGBTQ+ community through the continued flying of the Progress flag in our fair city during Pride Month. There is not one downside I can think of to showing our fellow humans and community members that they are acknowledged and supported. I encourage you (and local leaders) to continue making decisions that will hopefully, in turn, encourage our citizens of all ages, backgrounds, etc. to be welcoming to everyone with open hearts and minds. Or, at the very least, I hope those opposing the Progress flag become aware that it is not hurting or taking anything away from them for other people in the community to feel seen and welcome here. Thank you for your time, Marja Rafiee Homegrown AG Resident From:Pearl Castro To:public comment Subject:I support LGBTQ Pride Flag flown in Arroyo Grande. Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 5:36:51 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hi, I support the LGBTQ flag being flown at the Arroyo Grande City Council Chambers. Thank you, Pearl Castro Sent from my iPhone From:Pat Crowe To:public comment Subject:Support for LGBTQ+ group .... from Pat Crowe Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 4:41:13 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Although I'm unable to attend your gathering, I want to make certain that I'm able to express my support for the LGBTQ+ community. My husband and I have a multiple cultural family which includes a granddaughter who is married to her wife and they have 2 precious children together. As far as our family is concerned, love is love. Nowadays, more than ever, that is all that really matters. Why anyone would object to the LGBTQ+ community is inconceivable to me! My warmest regards, Pat Crowe Pat Crowe, REALTOR®; SRESAt Home With Diversity certificationCA.RE#: 00820283patcrowe67@gmail. Volunteer: Habitat for Humanity (Family Selection) Court Appointed Special Advocate Special Olympics (Volunteer coach) Make-A-Wish (Wish Granter) From:6771 To:public comment Subject:Pride flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 7:33:38 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Thank you for doing what’s right in the face of criticism and hate. Peggy Thompson Crown Hill Sent with wishes for Peace From:Trisha Oksner To:public comment Subject:Support the Flag Date:Monday, April 22, 2024 9:29:12 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear City Council, I am unfortunately unable to be there in person for the meeting, and wanted to state my opinion that flying a pride flag in the month of June simply recognizes the rights of marginalized members of our city. Last year at this time, my teen son stood up at a similar meeting contesting the flying of the flag, and he spoke about how "nothing bad will come from it if we fly this flag; all that will happen is that I will feel safer in my own city." Those words ring true again this year, and every year. Our children especially need to know that they have our support in these trying times. I fully support flying the Pride flag in our city and hope that others will agree. Best regards, Trisha Oksner 23 year resident of the Village of Arroyo Grande From:Alice Reinheimer To:public comment Subject:I support flying the Pride flag Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 11:55:45 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear Council Members, Thank you for your continued support for the LGBTQ+ community in Arroyo Grande. I’m proud to live in a community that supports diversity. Flying the Pride flag is an important symbolic gesture, and I very much approve of it. Thank you, Alice Reinheimer Arroyo Grande April 23, 2024 From:Cindy Hahn To:public comment Subject:Thank you for your support Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 7:23:47 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear City Council, I'm writing today to thank you for your continued support of the local LGBTQ+ community. It is so important for kids (and adults!) who may not feel supported or accepted at home to know that there are many people that care in our community. Cindy Hahn Questions and Comments Question #1: Have each of you, as members of Arroyo Grande City Council, been elected to represent all citizens of your city? Question #2: By voting for this controversial issue of allowing for the annual flying of both the “pride flag” and “Juneteenth flag” mean that you will also fly our Christian flag at all our holidays and days of prayer? Question #3: If this vote goes through can each of you, in good conscience support the mutilization of children, young adults and consenting adults in this horrifying procedure of a sex change? And have you researched this process? As you have probably deduced, I am a born-again, Bible believing Christian and I do my best to live my life according to the Word and Will of God—not always succeeding, but trying each day. I researched what God has to say about the homosexual lifestyle and here are just a couple of references: Leviticus 18: 22: “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.” I Corinthians 6: 9: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites will inherit the Kingdom of God…….” I am more concerned, at this point, to please God and not man, to obey His Word and not my opinion, and to share His love which leads men and women to repentance. I would add—this has NOTHING, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, to do with loving each one of these individuals who are in this lifestyle. Rather, it is a true concern and act of obedience to love each of these and pray for each of these so that their lives will turn around to what God created them to be—for His plan and purpose in their lives. In this, I pray for their change back to God’s plan for them and that they experience the wonderful love, mercy, hope and grace He offers. I choose NOT to “love them to hell” by accepting and enabling this lifestyle. Thank you for your time and I would appreciate answers to my questions, Sincerely Diane Johnson From:Diane Johnson To:public comment Subject:questions and comment Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 10:52:46 AM Attachments:Questions and Comments.docx IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender From:Milo Armstrong To:public comment Subject:Progress pride flag flown in town Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 1:25:12 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Hello, My name is Milo Armstrong. I am the co-president of the AGHS GSA. We are so happy to have the flag of the community put on display, I personally, as a trans teenager find this so sweet and that it helps our community get a voice out. I’m so thankful to be able to be represented within Arroyo Grande. Sincerely, Milo Armstrong, A senior at the highschool. From:Monica Grant To:public comment Subject:Pride Flag agenda item Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 12:36:32 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear AG City Council members and staff - We have been a residents of AG for 10 years now. During our time living in this town, we have been pleased to see the positive changes that have started to occur around an effort to be more inclusive and welcoming. This was not the case when we first moved here - like many LGBTQ families, we have experienced unwelcoming and biased behavior because of our identity. The reality is that LGBTQ people (for good reasons) often do not feel safe in their local communities. The Pride Flag is a loud message that a town we live in, or visit and spend our dollars, is welcoming and affirming of our family and others like us. It signals that we may be safe to be ourselves in that community. Hopefully, that messaging extends to others who are marginalized in their lives, regardless of sexual or gender identity. The day that the City of AG voted to fly the flag was probably one of the proudest we have felt about living in this town - please don't let fear and bigotry of a vocal few drag the town backwards. Thank you, Monica Grant & Colleen Murphy From: To:public comment Subject:Arroyo Grande Pride Flag During June Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 1:26:20 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender I wanted to email and to show my support in your decision to raise the pride flag in June in Arroyo Grande, I think this is a great decision to make individuals feel more included and comfortable, and I’m glad that this next step is being made. From:Rosemary Remacle To:public comment Subject:Gay pride month Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 12:01:40 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Please support. Best, Rosemary Remacle Sent from my iPhone From:Susan Evard To:public comment Subject:Support for Pride Flag Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 12:33:01 PM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Arroyo Grande City Council, As a resident of Arroyo Grande, I want to express my support for the city flying the Pride flag during the month of June. When I drive by city hall and see the Pride flag, it makes me feel good about living in a community that values inclusivity. Please do not succumb to pressure from those in the community who espouse intolerance and hate. Love is love, Susan Evard From:Shannon Kessler To:public comment Subject:Citizen opposed to flying the LGBTQ+++ form the city"s Flag Poles Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 9:54:59 AM Dear council members,I am writing to express my deep concern over the fact that you, our representatives are again choosing to fly a flag that distinctly represents the endorsement of a sexual lifestyle choice made by a few people. Please reconsider this decision and do not vote to make this decision perpetual. Taking this vote away from future council members removes our voice as people to come to you each year on this matter. I wrote lastyear to object to this along with many others and feel that you ignored us, yourcitizens.A public display of this flag is inappropriate in this public setting since it indicates thatthe citizens of our city endorse this behavior which is not the case for myself, myfamily, and many other residents.I have heard that one of the reasons you want to do this is to take a stand for an underrepresented and historically persecuted group of people. In this free nation, we currently have the freedom to behave how we choose as long as we do not harm others. If mistreated the recourse to address injustice exists through the police and the courts - standing on the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The nation's flag - Old Glory/ the Stars and Stripes- already represents these rights.The only flags that should fly from our city poles are the American Flag, the CaliforniaState flag, and our city's flag. These three more than represent us ALL by standingfor the governments of our free nation, state, and town. No more flags need to beflown especially not one that has nothing to do with a body of governance. -- Grace and Peace, Shannon Kessler From:Shannon Kessler To:public comment Subject:Opposed to the flying of the LGBTQ+++ flag form our city"s flagpoles Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 9:48:26 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender Dear council members, I am writing to express my deep concern over the fact that you, our representatives are again choosing to fly a flag that distinctly represents the endorsement of a sexual lifestyle choice made by a few people. Please reconsider this decision and do not voteto make this decision perpetual. Taking this vote away from future council membersremoves our voice as people to come to you each year on this matter. I wrote lastyear to object to this along with many others and feel that you ignored us, yourcitizens.A public display of this flag is inappropriate in this public setting since it indicates thatthe citizens of our city endorse this behavior which is not the case for myself, my family, and many other residents. I have heard that one of the reasons you want to do this is to take a stand for an underrepresented and historically persecuted group of people. In this free nation, we currently have the freedom to behave how we choose as long as we do not harmothers. If mistreated the recourse to address injustice exists through the police andthe courts - standing on the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The nation's flag - Old Glory/ the Stars and Stripes- already represents these rights.The only flags that should fly from our city poles are the American Flag, the CaliforniaState flag, and our city's flag. These three more than represent us ALL by standingfor the governments of our free nation, state, and town. No more flags need to be flown especially not one that has nothing to do with a body of governance. -- Grace and Peace, Shannon Instagram Facebook Search Homes - Link to my MLS App From:Vita Miller To:public comment Subject:Display the Pride Flag proudly Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 9:46:12 AM IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from this sender To the Arroyo Grande City Council April 23,2024 Hello, Thank you for displaying the Pride Flag to recognize the Rights of the LGBTQ+ community. It is appropriate and meaningful that you continue to do so. Please do not let messages of scorn from those who would impose strict restrictions on individuals lifestyles to influence you. Do the right thing and hang the Pride Flag with pride for the entire community. Thank you. Respectfully, Vita Miller Los Osos, CA 93402’