In a recent meeting of the Utah County Commission, community member Mark Allen raised significant concerns regarding the premature display of the Beehive flag, which has sparked considerable debate among residents. Allen, representing Protect and Preserve American Fork Canyon, emphasized that the flag should not be displayed until it has received proper public approval, as many citizens remain unaware of its recent voting status.

Allen referenced a Wall Street Journal article quoting Governor Cox, highlighting the divisiveness surrounding the flag issue. He noted that a recent Senate hearing was filibustered, preventing many voices from being heard. According to Allen, a poll conducted by Senator Kennedy revealed that a majority of his delegates prefer to retain the traditional state flag, indicating a strong sentiment against the new design.

During his address, Allen provided a detailed description of the current state flag's symbolism, which includes elements representing Utah's history and Native American tribes. He argued that displaying the Beehive flag prematurely could mislead the public and diminish the importance of the voting process, which aims to involve 1.8 million citizens.

In conclusion, Allen urged the commission to refrain from displaying the Beehive flag until it is officially sanctioned, reinforcing the need for community engagement and respect for the democratic process. His passionate plea underscored the ongoing dialogue about state identity and representation, setting the stage for future discussions on this contentious topic.