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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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----- 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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From:Milo Armstrong
To:public comment
Subject:Progress pride flag flown in town
Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 1:25:12 PM
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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From:Vita Miller
To:public comment
Subject:Display the Pride Flag proudly
Date:Tuesday, April 23, 2024 9:46:12 AM
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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’