Clayton takes steps toward adopting city flag

CLAYTON, CA (Nov. 15, 2024) — Here are some recent highlights for the city of Clayton:

Oct. 1. The City Council proclaimed Nov. 6, 2024, as National Shelter in Place Education Day.

The council also received a presentation from our Code Enforcement Unit as that team is stepping up activities to address issues throughout Clayton.

Further, the council obtained input on the process of creating a city flag from Ted Kaye, secretary of the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA) and author of “The Guidebook on Flag Design.”

The city flag process could be one that involves the City Council and representative Clayton citizens. This effort could not only produce a city flag, but the beginnings of a unifying event for Clayton. The next steps will be agendized for a future City Council meeting.

Oct. 15. The City Council recognized public school students for exemplifying the “Do The Right Thing” character trait of “responsibility.” Well done to the Mt. Diablo Elementary and middle school students.

In addition, the City Council thanked Acting Postmaster Jim Mahan for his leadership in improving property maintenance, updating and building enhancement to our postal building.

The council appointed Amit Prayag to the Contra Costa Library Commission. And, we designated Councilmember Holly Tillman as our representative and voting delegate to the 2024 League of California Cities Annual Conference in Long Beach, Oct. 16-18.

The city of Clayton is a member of the League of California Cities, participating through the East Bay division. The annual conference offers excellent opportunities for educational and networking benefits, including analysis of potential laws and regulations under consideration in Sacramento. Further, members can discuss key issues with representatives from throughout California.

Two notable actions from the 2024 conference: the election of league President Lynne Kennedy, a Rancho Cucamonga Councilmember; and first Vice President Gabe Quinto, Councilmember El Cerrito.

Finally, the Clayton City Council adjourned the meeting in honor of three community members who recently passed away:

• Bette Boatmun died on Sept. 20. She was a community leader and member of the Contra Costa Water District board for more than 45 years.
• Kellie Howard died on Oct. 5. She and her husband Allen were residents of Clayton for more than 15 years.
• Debra Gonsalves died on Oct. 4. Born in Pittsburg, she was a lifelong resident of Contra Costa County. She was a wife, mother, grandmother and, along with her husband Steve, a graduate of Clayton Valley High School. The Gonsalves were major supporters of their high school and the greater community.

As your mayor, I will continue to work hard to maintain Clayton’s small-town charm and character while running an open and transparent local government.

You can reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns at 925-673-7316 or JimD@claytonca.gov.