Verona council approves yearlong display of progress pride flag after hours of public comment

The Verona Common Council on Monday approved Resolution 24-033 to publicly support the LGBTQIA+ community and fly the progress pride flag at designated city facilities during 2025, following nearly an hour and a half of public comment and extended council discussion.

Supporters, including students, parents, faith leaders and members of local advocacy groups, told the council the flag would make LGBTQIA+ residents — particularly young people and elders — feel seen and safer in Verona. Opponents said flying the flag year-round would single out one group and risk divisiveness. The council approved the motion by voice vote after Ald. Helmke moved to adopt the resolution and Ald. Harrison seconded the motion.

The resolution is framed as a symbolic, cost-neutral action: Mayor (name on file with city) said the progress flags are donated under existing city policy and “they're not paid for out of public money. The city of Verona flies the American flag, always have and always will.” The mayor said flying the progress flag does not remove other flags or symbols from city poles.

Why it matters: speakers cited research…