Proclamation policy
Purpose Statement
From time to time, the Mayor receives requests for proclamations. The Council Rules of Procedure provide rules for proclamations that are presented during a City Council meeting; specifically, proclamations related to City-sponsored events can be presented during a council meeting. This Policy provides guidelines for processing requests for proclamations that are not related to City-sponsored events and cannot be presented at a City Council meeting.
Definitions
Policy Statement
The Mayor may issue proclamations for the City of Bloomington (“City”) to recognize and raise awareness for programs, events, activities, organizations, causes, and groups and individuals that enhance the community’s quality of life. Organizations and individuals who live, work, learn or volunteer in Bloomington may request a Bloomington proclamation. Requests will be evaluated using this Policy and the Council Rules of Procedure.
Policy
In order for the Mayor to consider issuing a proclamation, it must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Recognize the importance of a social, cultural, or historical celebration with local significance to the City of Bloomington; or
- Recognize significant achievements by community members or organizations; or
- Raise awareness on an important issue impacting the City of Bloomington; or
- Be related to services, initiatives, or programs the City is responsible for providing.
The Mayor will not issue proclamations for matters that have no relationship with the City, are for commercial purposes (i.e., promoting a new business or business anniversary), or that promote or recognize illegal activities (i.e., unlawful discrimination or inciting violence).
In the alternative, the Mayor in the Mayor’s sole discretion, can decide to provide a letter instead of a proclamation.
Applicability
Proclamations are issued by the Mayor to recognize a day, week, or month. The goal of a proclamation is for the City to honor, celebrate, or create awareness of an event or significant issue.
Policy Owner
City Manager’s Office
Responsibilities
The Communications and Community Engagement Department will create and manage the online portal to be used by those requesting a proclamation.
Requestors must use the online request form and requests must be submitted at least 14 business days in advance of the date requested.
The City Manager’s Office will receive and provide an initial evaluation of proclamation requests, make a recommendation for the Mayor’s consideration, and prepare and coordinate delivery of signed proclamations to the requestor.
The City Attorney’s Office will provide legal advice upon request by City staff or the Mayor.
The Mayor is not required to present proclamations in person, but may present proclamations in person in the Mayor’s sole discretion. The Mayor may also designate a Mayor pro tem to present a proclamation on behalf of the Mayor.
Resources
Section 25, City Council Rules of Procedure (last revised June 29, 2026).
City Council Meeting Schedule (adopted at least annually).