Public comment: Solvang resident proposes 'white history month'; another resident thanks firefighters and library volunteers

During the public-comment portion of the Solvang City Council meeting Monday, a resident called for the council to consider adopting a "white history month," and another resident offered public thanks to first responders and to volunteers who contribute to the city's appearance and morale.

Brenton Turner, who identified himself as a Solvang resident of more than a decade, told the council he believed a "white history month" was warranted because, in his view, white people had built the country and their birth rates were declining. "I actually wanted to see if the city of Solvang ... would be willing to potentially pass, what I would think would be a groundbreaking ordinance ... introducing a white history month," Turner said. He added: "White people essentially built the country. Right? They built most of the infrastructure, most of pretty much everything, the telephone, the computer, the automobile." The council acknowledged the comment; Mayor Brown said it would be unprecedented.

Joanne Clark used her public-comment time to thank God and to thank city firefighters for their response to a fire on First Street that was contained to one building. Clark also praised the city's seasonal lighting, the installation of lights in the park, and individuals placing painted rocks around town. "I am grateful for the dedication, knowledge, and skills of those responders who put their lives on the line to protect us," Clark said.

The council did not take action on either comment. Public comment is an opportunity for residents to address the council; comments do not constitute council endorsement and do not create policy unless the council later places the matter on a future agenda for consideration.