Resident demands answers after Confederate flag displayed at Founders Day booth

Chris Burner, a Summerfield resident, told the council at the June 9 meeting that a Sons of Confederate Veterans booth displayed a Confederate flag at the town's Founders Day festival on school property across from Somerfield Elementary. "The Confederate flag is a symbol of hatred, not heritage," Burner said, and asked the council for written answers on three points: who authorized the booth, what officials at the event did when the flag was visible, and what the town will do to prevent a recurrence.

Burner said she contacted town officials twice by email before speaking and received no acknowledgement. She told the council that display of the flag on public school grounds at a family event sent a message that some residents do not belong in the community. The remarks prompted council discussion of how booths are approved for Founders Day and whether the town needs clearer standards for event platforms.

Council members acknowledged the concern and several said they would follow up. One council member asked staff to review past processes and to ensure minutes and records reflect any required follow-up. The council did not announce a specific remedial action during the meeting; Burner's request for written answers was recorded as a public comment and the council indicated staff would respond.

What happens next: Council staff said they will review the Founders Day booth-approval process and follow up with the resident. If the town issues a formal response, it will be added to the public record and any change to booth approval procedures would be considered at a future council meeting.