Saskatoon Council passes policy to prohibit controversial flags at city hall

A new policy for the City of Saskatoon will regulate the flags that fly at city hall.

The Flag and Proclamations policy was passed Monday night, and will prohibit flags that are “controversial,” “politically,” or “religiously” motivated.

City council unanimously approved the policy, voting 9-0 in favour. Mayor Charlie Clark was absent, as he attends the CityLab DC conference in Washington, D.C., while Ann Iwanchuk was also absent, due to the sudden passing of her father.

Administration said the policy is intended to apply “mostly” to proclamations and flag raising requests from third parties outside of the city.

Acting Deputy Mayor Sarina Gersher said the policy would help the city, and there’s room to adjust if need be.

“I think it’s helpful to have this policy in place … I’m happy to try (the policy) at this point, and if we need to adjust the policy, we can do so at a later date, or review it within our normal processes.”

The approval for a flag raising will now be delegated to the city clerk’s office, with appeals to the city’s governance and priorities committee.

Under the past policy, council would have to approve every flag and proclamation request.

Counc. Hillary Gough brought up the question of lowering flags to half-staff. Administration said they would follow the provincial policy, which indicates a long list of dignitaries that would be flown as a sign of respect and mourning upon death.

Currently, city hall has three “guest” flag poles that are available for community groups.

The Canadian, Saskatchewan, Treaty 6 Territory and Metis Nation flags permanently fly at Saskatoon city hall.