In the heart of Houston County, Minnesota, a spirited discussion unfolded during the recent Board Meeting, where members grappled with the question of which flag should fly at the county office. The atmosphere was charged with personal opinions and a sense of nostalgia as board members reflected on the significance of the old flag versus the newly adopted design.

One board member expressed a strong preference for the old flag, voicing concerns about the process that led to the new design being adopted by the governor with the approval of just 13 individuals. “I’d rather just keep flying the old flag,” they stated, highlighting a sentiment shared by others in the room. The discussion revealed a broader unease about change for change's sake, with some members questioning the necessity of the new flag altogether.

As the conversation progressed, it became clear that there is no legal requirement for the county to display any flag, including the state or federal flags. This opened the door for a practical solution: if the county chooses to continue flying a flag, it could opt for the old design, which is still available for purchase, albeit with some difficulty in sourcing high-quality versions. “You can buy either one,” another member noted, emphasizing that interest in the old flag remains strong, with sales reportedly outpacing those of the new flag.

The board ultimately reached a consensus that, while there was no immediate agenda for action, the preference leaned towards maintaining the status quo. “If it’s not required, we could still fly the old flag. It’s not outlawed,” one member concluded, encapsulating the group’s sentiment that sometimes, the old ways hold a certain value that shouldn’t be hastily discarded.

As the meeting wrapped up, the board members left with a sense of resolution, agreeing that if it isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it. The discussion not only highlighted the complexities of local governance but also underscored the emotional ties that residents have to their symbols and traditions. In a world that often pushes for change, Houston County’s leaders are choosing to honor the past while navigating the future.