Cloverdale council discusses 'Clover Veil' recognition program; staff to implement per council direction

City staff presented a proposed "Clover Veil" citizen recognition program at the July 8 meeting and asked the council for direction about frequency, eligibility and implementation. Staff said the program would allow each council member to independently select one person or organization per calendar year to receive a formal recognition distinct from proclamations; selections would be for individuals or groups who "enhance civic spirit, improve quality of life, and otherwise contribute meaningfully to the Cloverdale community."

Staff emphasized the recognitions would be council-driven and that recipients must be willing to accept the recognition. Council members generally supported the program and said they wanted to keep it special: suggestions included one selection per council member per year, with recognitions staggered and limited to no more than one council-selection recognition per meeting. Council members expressed that the recognition should be meaningful, not so frequent as to dilute the honor, and suggested staff coordinate scheduling so the awards are spread across meetings.

Public commenters supported the idea and suggested small mementos such as keychains; staff said they would work with council members on physical items if the council wanted them and would return to the council if costs were prohibitive. No formal ordinance or resolution was proposed; staff sought and received direction to proceed with implementation under the described parameters.