Hastings council approves resolution to display 'In God We Trust' on city property after extended public comment

Hastings City Council approved Resolution 2025-20 requiring certain city-owned facilities open to the public to display the phrase “In God We Trust” alongside the city logo at its regular meeting after extended public comment and council debate.

The resolution, introduced in the council packet as “requiring certain city property that is open to the public to display the phrase, In God We Trust, and the city logo,” was moved by Councilmember Anderson and seconded by Councilmember Larry Konsbrook. The council deliberated after more than two dozen members of the public addressed the measure during the citizen comment period.

The debate centered on whether the phrase is a patriotic, ceremonial motto or a government endorsement of religion and on who should pay for any signs. Supporters argued the phrase is the nation’s motto and a unifying patriotic symbol; opponents said it could alienate nonbelievers and religious minorities and raised First Amendment and fiscal concerns. Several speakers urged the council to delay the decision to allow broader public review and to get cost estimates and operational input from…