Neighbor News
Sparta Stands Against Government Speech in Flag Ordinance
Residents concerned about the impact of proposed flag ordinance on town identity
The newly elected council members of Sparta Township recently introduced a controversial flag ordinance at a council meeting. The ordinance would give them, as the majority of the town council, the power to decide which flags, other than the United States, New Jersey, and POW MIA flags, can be flown on township flagpoles, and on municipal properties including playgrounds and parks.
While the newly elected council members say that this policy is necessary to establish “government speech” and not “based on a request from a third party” or to “sponsor the expression of a third party,” some residents are concerned that this new ordinance may not be in the best interest of Sparta Township.
Councilwoman Christine Quinn has publicly stated her objections to having the council members be the ones to decide which flags will be flown. “In this it says the government is going to decide which of these flags is flown and I am not okay with that,” Quinn said. “I think it’s overreach.”
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Councilman Josh Hertzberg is also concerned about the flag ordinance and its implications for free speech and inclusivity. “As elected officials, we have a responsibility to make sure that our policies and ordinances reflect the values and concerns of all members of our community,” Hertzberg said. “I’m worried that this ordinance could limit the ability of residents to express themselves and to celebrate the diversity of our town.”
Residents are questioning whether this flag ordinance is really the direction that Sparta Township wants to go in, or if an agenda is being driven by the newly elected majority council members. Concerns have been raised about whether this new ordinance will truly promote inclusivity or if it will instead limit the ability of residents to express themselves and lead to further division and controversy in the township.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The newly introduced ordinance cannot become law until after its formal hearing at the next town council meeting scheduled for April 25th at 7:30pm. At this hearing, the public will have an opportunity to comment and express their opinions. All residents are encouraged to attend and share their thoughts and concerns about this important issue. Let’s work together to ensure that Sparta Township remains a welcoming and inclusive community for all.
