The Decatur City Council convened on Tuesday evening, with all six council members present, to discuss several key topics, including a significant proclamation recognizing Pride Day and PrideFest 2024.
Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe opened the meeting by calling for the roll, confirming the attendance of all council members. Following the pledge of allegiance, the mayor introduced a proclamation on behalf of Decatur Only Pride. The proclamation highlighted the importance of celebrating LGBTQIA+ identities and acknowledged the ongoing struggles faced by these communities in securing their rights. Mayor Wolfe officially declared September 14, 2024, as Pride Day and the date for PrideFest 2024, emphasizing the city's commitment to affirming its LGBTQIA+ citizens.
The meeting also included a segment for citizen appearances, allowing residents to express their views before the council. The mayor outlined the policy for citizen participation, which allocates a 30-minute period for public comments, with each speaker limited to three minutes.
During this segment, Shirley Stanley, representing the Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation, approached the podium. She expressed the foundation's mission to advocate for animals in need, emphasizing their role as representatives for those without a voice.
The meeting concluded with the mayor confirming that all citizens wishing to speak had done so, and the council members were invited to make comments. The discussions underscored the council's engagement with both community celebrations and advocacy for vulnerable populations.