The City of Lapeer is working towards implementing a policy for ribbon decorations on downtown light poles, supporting various charitable and philanthropic causes. The proposed guidelines aim to create an organized and visually appealing display that benefits the community.

Establishing a Policy for Ribbon Decorations on Downtown Light Poles in Lapeer

( Credit to: Thecountypress )

The City of Lapeer is taking steps to establish a policy regarding the placement of commemorative and awareness ribbons on downtown light poles. City Manager Mike Womack presented a proposed policy to the City Commission during their recent meeting, with the intention of adopting it in March.

Womack explained that several groups have expressed interest in decorating the downtown light poles with ribbons for various educational, charitable, and philanthropic purposes. These may include raising awareness for cancer, supporting military veterans, or showing appreciation for police and fire services.

To ensure a visually appealing and organized display, Womack recommended the following guidelines for the policy:

• The decoration of light poles must receive approval from the City Commission at least 30 days prior to the event.
• The purpose of the decorations should align with the City's official sentiments and not serve as a public forum for free expression.
• Organizations requesting to decorate the light poles must provide evidence of their nonprofit, charitable, or philanthropic status upon request.
• Examples of the ribbon design should be included in the request for approval.
• Ribbons can only be attached to light poles on Nepessing Street between N. Washington and N. Saginaw streets.
• Organizations may place one temporary sign, no larger than 24 square feet, on city property to explain the purpose of the ribbon decorations.
• The decorations must be weather resistant and well-maintained to avoid becoming unsightly or degraded.
• The ribbons should not have any commercial intent or promote the sale of goods or services.
• They must not cause damage to the light poles.
• Ribbons must be securely fastened to prevent them from falling due to rain or wind.
• No decorations will be allowed on city light poles during Lapeer Days.

In addition to the policy discussion, the City Commission addressed other matters during the meeting. They approved a request from Friends Helping Friends, Inc., a nonprofit organization, to hold the East Lapeer Farmers Market in the parking lot of the Tractor Supply Co. store on Imlay City Road. The market will operate every Saturday from April 12 to December 28, featuring approximately 17 vendors.

Furthermore, Mike Robinet was reappointed for a five-year term on the Lapeer Cemetery Board, and Didrik Krogh was appointed to the City's Board of Review.

The City of Lapeer's efforts to establish a policy for ribbon decorations on downtown light poles demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the city's aesthetics while supporting charitable and philanthropic causes. By implementing guidelines and ensuring proper approval, the City aims to create a visually appealing and organized display that benefits the community.