Loveland council unveils new city flag, honors outgoing members

The Loveland City Council opened its meeting with a community moment and unveiling of a new city flag design before moving into formal business. The sesquicentennial committee announced Arianna Wilson as the winning designer of the new flag, titled "Heartland," and displayed her design to council and the audience.

The announcement noted the contest drew 68 entries from Loveland residents and workers; committee members Gina Devel Smith, Debbie Combs and Peter Sexton led the selection process. Arianna Wilson said her inspiration came from scenic views along local trails and waterways and thanked the community that encouraged her to enter. "Heartland" will be unveiled as part of next year’s 150th celebration.

Council also used the meeting to honor longtime volunteer Peggy Goodwin, who recently died; Mayor Bailey asked the community to keep Goodwin’s family and friends in their thoughts. Later in the session the council recognized two departing members: Councilman Neil Ory, who has served on council since 2017, and Vice Mayor Ted Phelps, who completed 12 years of service. Colleagues praised Ory’s local knowledge and volunteerism and commended Phelps’s steady, de-escalating leadership during contentious periods.

Councilman Neil Ory spoke to the chamber and thanked staff, fellow council members and residents. He quoted John F. Kennedy: "Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democrat answer, but the right answer," and accepted a plaque and other tokens of appreciation.

The meeting continued with routine business after the recognitions, including votes on several ordinances and resolutions.