Updated city flag policy keeps the PRIDE flag, bans political flags

The Decorah City Council has approved an updated policy on when flags can be flown from flagpoles in downtown Decorah and what types of flags can be flown.

The rewritten city policy allows U.S. flags on listed dates; Luther College and Decorah School flags on agreed upon dates; foreign flags during Syttende Mai and Nordic Fest, as well as during visits from foreigh heads of state; and LGBTQ+ Pride/Rainbow flags during Pride events and activities.

The updated policy also states, "No flags with an express political purpose are allowed."  It explains that the ban involves any flag advocating a candidate or ballot issue, or a reference to an elected official or elected office.  That language was added after last year's controversy over an application for a Trump sign to be flown.

The updated policy was approved on a 6-1 vote, with Randy Schissel the lone dissenting vote.  Council member Ross Hadley remarked, "I've had a large amount of positive feedback from constituents (for keeping the PRIDE flags).