To discuss, consider and take appropriate action on policy surrounding the display of flags on county property.
Background
Justices of the Peace KT Musselman, Precinct 1, and Stacy Hackenberg, Precinct 4, respectfully ask permission from the Williamson County Commissioners Court to fly the rainbow Pride flag outside their court buildings during the month of June. June is the national month for LGBTQ+ Pride. The judges want to publicly display a sign of their commitment to be welcoming and ensure that justice is applied to all constituents regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation.
The judges also ask permission to fly the POW/MIA (Prisoners of War/Missing in Action) flag during the week of Veteran's Day out of respect to those soldiers who have not returned from war, who were captured and held prisoner during combat, and their comrades in arms who are honored members of our communities.
The current policy allows for the United States and Texas flags to be flown outside county buildings. This request would allow the judges to fly a third flag below the Texas flag. We have talked to Facilities and have been informed that it would cost about $20 and 15 minutes of labor to add flag clips to the existing flagpole for JP Precinct 4. We assume the cost would be similar for Precinct 1. The flags will be purchased with private funds.
We anticipate there may be future opportunities to add a third flag. When they are identified, we will bring them forward to Commissioners Court for consideration.