Pride flag draws mixed reviews in Southport
As Pride Month is celebrated this month, the Southport selectboard is receiving both positive and negative remarks about the Pride flag hanging near the municipal building. During the June 5 board meeting, selectmen read two correspondences from citizens regarding the town’s participation. Selectmen read resident Bob Cronk’s response to their decision to hang a Pride flag outside the town hall for June and enact a municipal proclamation supporting Pride Month. Cronk disagrees with the board’s decision. On June 6, Selectman Gerry Gamage reported Cronk wrote he didn’t think it was appropriate for a governmental agency to take a public stand on a controversial issue.
But another correspondence had an opposite opinion. Southport resident Ashlea Tibbetts sent a message supporting the board’s decision. “She congratulated us on being bold, and for doing it,” Gamage said.
In other action, selectmen approved a liquor license renewal for Newagen Seaside Inn. Later, selectmen entered into an executive session to discuss a personnel issue. The board took no action after returning to public session.
Selectmen meet next at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 12 in the municipal building.