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Veterans, residents press Pottstown council to fix 'Heroes' banner program and broaden representation
Summary
Speakers at the June 3 Committee of the Whole urged Pottstown council to take concrete steps to make the Pottstown Heroes banner program more transparent and inclusive, recommending a manager report with recommendations, a public timeline, revised governing agreements, and more banner locations.
Robert Brown, speaking during public comment at the June 3 Pottstown Borough Committee of the Whole meeting, urged council to move beyond study and adopt a clear plan to revise the Pottstown Heroes banner program so it “reflects all the veterans who serve this nation and call Pottstown home.” Brown said minority veterans — including Black, Latino, Asian and women veterans — were not being represented on the banners and asked council to direct the borough manager to present specific recommendations, a public implementation timeline, and a review of the governing agreement that oversees the program.
Why it matters: The Heroes banners are a visible, public recognition program on High Street; residents and veterans told council the selection and placement process needs clearer rules and broader outreach so the program does not unintentionally exclude neighborhoods or demographic groups. Brown said the issue has drawn regional media attention and urged formal council action rather than continued explanation.
What was requested: Brown asked council to place the matter on a future agenda and to: direct the borough manager to produce recommendations for program expansion; establish a public timeline for improvements; review and, if needed, modify the program’s governing agreement; evaluate additional banner locations beyond the High Street corridor; and implement a transparent process for applications, waiting lists and sponsorships.
Other public comments reinforced the call. Johnny Corson, a local resident, urged council to include veterans of color among those honored and suggested the borough negotiate with contractors to print banners locally rather than outsourcing. Mike Hayes and other residents endorsed continuing the conversation and finding an equitable solution.
Council response and next steps: No formal motion or vote on these requests was recorded in the committee meeting. Robert Brown and speakers asked that council formally refer the item for staff study and place a report and recommended actions on a future regular session agenda; staff did not provide a definitive date but the speaker requested action rather than further study. The committee’s public‑record statements indicate council will receive these requests ahead of the Monday meeting where consent and agenda items will be finalized.
Context and limitations: Speakers framed their recommendations as corrective and inclusive changes to a civic recognition program rather than allegations of specific procedural wrongdoing. The record shows requests for staff to prepare options and timelines; the transcript does not record any formal council direction, vote, or a timeline commitment by staff.
