Resident proposes downtown military banner program to honor Cathedral City service members

Rick Saldivar, a Cathedral City resident, asked the Parks and Community Events Commission on May 6 to consider reviving a military banner program that would display vinyl banners honoring active-duty service members with Cathedral City ties.

Saldivar said the idea is modeled on similar programs in nearby cities and would focus initially on downtown placement. “Every time I drive to Beaumont or I go to Indio, I see these amazing military banners of young youth who are serving our communities,” Saldivar said during public comment. He told commissioners he and other community members already have a list of roughly 10 candidates and that the banners can be produced for “under $200”; he estimated a more likely unit cost of about $145 including hardware.

The proposal described a simple application and verification process, with applicants required to verify military service and local ties and to provide a photo. Saldivar suggested options for funding including sponsorships by businesses or families and said the program could rotate a set number of banners at a time (examples discussed included 5, 10 or 15 at a time) and a display period similar to Indio’s one-year cycle.

Commissioners expressed support and asked logistical questions. Commissioner Herrera, who Saldivar noted is a veteran, and Vice Chair Beishu both voiced approval; commission members suggested beginning downtown because of higher pedestrian and tourist activity. Staff said the item was being presented as information and could be agendized for later formal consideration if the commission wanted to pursue it.

No motion was made, and no formal action or funding commitment was taken at the meeting. Saldivar said he would continue discussions with staff and volunteers to refine the design, placement and funding model before any item went to the City Council.