Council discusses apt way to honor centenarians

Councilman Gil Coerper withdrew his proposal Monday to give out $30 bouquets of flowers to anyone who turns 100 after city staff said they had trouble finding a public purpose for doing so — a legal requirement when the city spends money.

“The question remains: Is it a valid public purpose to recognize individuals?” City Atty. Jennifer McGrath asked.

Residents who turn 100 already get a special proclamation and certificate from the council, but don’t get a gift.

“How come other cities do it?” Coerper countered. “They don’t have a problem honoring their own. I will get that information. I will do it. And I’ll bring it back.”

Several council members suggested they privately take up a collection to honor centenarians instead.

— Michael Alexander