Public Request for Proclamation

Before completing a Proclamation Request Form, please review the policy below.

Policy for Responding to Public Requests for Proclamations

Policy

Proclamations encourage public awareness, provide valuable education and information, and provide recognition for organizations, issues or activities that are significant to the residents of Ridgefield.

The Ridgefield City Council may issue proclamations for events/activities, causes, programs and nonprofit organizations that have a positive impact on or enhance the community, convey a positive and inclusive message to Ridgefield residents, and are consistent with the City mission.

Guidelines

Definition: Proclamations are ceremonial documents signed by the Mayor to formally recognize a special event or issue that is deemed to be of interest and/or benefit to the residents of Ridgefield. Proclamations are generally issued for:

Public awareness campaigns.
Nonprofit organizations
Arts and cultural celebrations within Ridgefield
Special honors

Making a Request.

The following procedures apply to public requests for proclamations:

The request for a proclamation must be made by a non-profit, community organization or City Partner. An organization may only make two requests annually.
The organization making the request must submit an application to the City Clerk. The application must be submitted by someone who has the authority to speak/act on behalf of the organization.
If the request is from a national or out-of-state organization, a local office or chapter should be associated with the request.
The request should be submitted at least four weeks in advance of the proclamation date.
A representative of the organization should agree to be in attendance to accept the proclamation.

Proclamations are not automatically renewed. Requests must be made on an annual basis.

Consideration of the Request

Upon receipt of a request, the City will determine if the proposed proclamation meets the intent of this policy. In making the determination, consideration will be given to the following factors:

Is the purpose of the proclamation consistent with the City's vision, mission and goals?
Does the subject matter demonstrate respect for all Ridgefield residents?
Would the proclamation foster a sense of community?
Would the proclamation provide education, raise awareness or similar benefits for Ridgefield residents?
Does the proclamation relate or connect to the City, to an organization within the city or to a statewide or national issue impacting Ridgefield?
Is the request similar to already issued proclamations?
Does the proclamation acknowledge significant community events or celebrations?
Will the proclamation have a significant, citywide impact and demonstrate relevancy to Ridgefield?

Proclamations will not be approved for:

A commercial/for-profit purpose.
Attempting to influence government policy.
Campaigns or events contrary to adopted City policy or mission.
Personal activities that are not of a general public interest.

The City will make the final decision on whether a proclamation will be issued or not, and the date that it will be issued. An organization does not have exclusive rights to the day, week or month of their proclamation.

In some circumstances, a congratulatory letter is an alternative where proclamation criteria are not met.