History & Tradition

Resolution 2026-5: the 1983-2023 designed Minnesota State Flag shall be displayed on all city-owned properties, now or in the future, that fly a Minnesota Flag. Motion by Hilton, seconded by Semler; roll call taken.

“My family has been farming this land for over 100 years. Removing the symbol… feels like erasing part of who we are.”

“The old flag represents a layered and evolving story, one that acknowledges both where we began, and how far we've come. I am in favor of flying our history.”

Mayor Lange informed the council other areas decided to keep the old Minnesota flag versus the new flag. Motion to keep the old Minnesota flag; Clerk to write a resolution for the May meeting. Motion by Lange, seconded by Goodrich; carried 4-0 (Hilton absent).

“I think there was strong sentiment that the old flag better represented the state of Minnesota.”

“Councilmember Huttner introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: Resolution No. 2026-12 to display the old state flag (1983) on city property.”

The City of Champlin will display the 1983 Minnesota State Flag on city property. The February 23 City Council vote was 3-2 (for: Sabas, Huttner, LaCroix; against: Moe, Tesdall); approximately 10 residents spoke.

“The official state flag and seal are not only symbols of our state, but also of our history and both the current official state flag and official state seal contain historical information on our farming background, Native American heritage, and the co-existence that is part of the rich history of our state.”

“Chair Christenson: I am still really struggling with the new flag. When I look at it, I don't see any history. She favored sending a letter to legislators.”

“The official state flag and seal are not only symbols of our state, but also of our history and both the current official state flag and official state seal contain historical information on our farming background, Native American heritage and the coexistence that is part of the rich history of our state.”

“When I look at it, I don't see any history.”

Resolution 202404 adopted in opposition to proposed flag/seal changes: existing flag and seal depict agriculture, Native American heritage, and co-existence as part of Minnesota history.

Resolution 24-CB-12 (Opposition to Redesign of Minnesota State Flag and Seal): the flag and seal contain historical information on farming background and Native American heritage; substantial public cost does not advance the public interest. Krueger moved, Nagel seconded, motion carried unanimously.

“Commissioner Kangas: this is erasing history; supports the resolution.”

“Commissioner Stearns: history is very important. Erasing the flag is not going to erase the history and the new flag stands for nothing in his mind; would vote in favor of the resolution.”

Resolution 2024-7 (Resolution in Opposition to Redesigning the State Flag and Seal): urges legislative delegation and Governor to reject SERC work and retain existing state seal and flag. Motion by Kangas, seconded by Noon; roll call 5-0.