Gulfport is looking for a new flag that honors the coastal city’s heritage while noting the city’s progress in recent years.
On Tuesday, Mayor Billy Hewes announced the Gulfport Flag Commission, which will be tasked with designing a modern city flag that appeases all.
“We’re embarking on a defining project to create a flag representing our city’s resilience and unity,” Hewes said. “The commission is central to this endeavor, channeling the community’s input into a symbol representing Gulfport for generations.”
Leading the commission will be Mississippi GOP chair and Gulfport native Frank Bordeaux. Bordeaux was chosen by Hewes as chair due to his “invaluable insight from his service on the Mississippi Flag Commission,” which in 2020, led the way for a new state flag.
“Having experienced the unifying power of a flag in Mississippi, I am honored to lead an effort that will reflect and celebrate the essence of Gulfport today while laying a foundation for tomorrow,” Bordeaux said.
Joining Bordeaux on the commission will be vice chair Glenn East. Since 2004, East has served as superintendent of the Gulfport School District. Other commission members are Virginia Adolph, James Edward Bates, Natalie Kaigler, John Kelly, Patrice Lombard, and Margaret Murdock. Kameron Weaver will serve as a student representative, providing a younger viewpoint to the conversation.
“Gulfport’s educational community is a pillar of education,” East said. “I am excited to see our students and educators play a pivotal role in creating a new city flag, leaving a lasting educational legacy.”
Joining the commission will be State Rep. Jeffrey Hulum and City Council President Rusty Walker as ex-officio members.
In a release from the city, Gulfport officials said there will be opportunities for the general public to participate in the endeavor with more details to come.
