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Council condemns vandalism of Pride flag; members pledge support and coordinate with schools
Summary
Council members said two vandalism incidents targeting a Pride flag were upsetting to residents and discussed steps to support LGBTQ+ community members, coordinate with the board of education about a high‑school flag and consider replacing it. Residents and the mayor praised a swift police and DPW response.
Council members in Waldwick addressed two recent incidents in which a Pride flag at a borough location was vandalized, calling the acts unacceptable and expressing support for LGBTQ+ residents.
"I was really disappointed and hurt and frustrated and sad," said Miss Smith, who told the council she had spoken with transgender residents who said they keep 'go' bags ready in case they need to leave quickly. "They deserve to be part of this community and to feel safe," she added, and thanked police and the DPW for acting quickly to restore the flag.
Mayor Grodana and other council members praised residents who responded with visible support, noted that the town received media attention for the community reaction and said they will meet with the Board of Education about a Pride flag at the high school and explore replacing or upgrading the flag if appropriate. The mayor singled out a local resident, Jamie Stanton, for participating in media outreach and thanked residents who distributed "love is love" signs.
Council members emphasized that random acts of prejudice do not represent the entire community and that officials want all residents to feel welcome. The council indicated it will coordinate with school officials on next steps and report back to the public at a future meeting.
Next steps: the council said it will meet with the Board of Education to discuss the high‑school flag and will update residents on any follow‑up measures after that meeting.
