On June 1, 2026 Councilperson Jacob Borden presented a proclamation declaring the month of June 2026 Pride Month in the City of Elma. The Elma City Council voted 4-1 in support. The Pride flags have been generously donated by Bethany Whipple- Boling, and they will be flown on City owned buildings June 27, 2026.
WHEREAS, the City of Elma recognizes the importance of diversity of ethnic, cultural, racial, and sexual orientation and gender identities – all of which bring important richness to the City of Elma; and
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ people have historically experienced and continue to face discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodation; and
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ Americans are deserving of the same dignity, respect, justice and rights afforded to all citizens; a principle supported by the City Council’s adopted mission and vision statements and ongoing commitment to see the community of Elma be a welcoming, safe place for all; and
WHEREAS, the fight for equality and dignity for all individuals under the law continues, and equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination are fundamental to ensuring economic success and personal fulfillment; and
WHEREAS, the City of Elma encourages all residents to work together to fight bullying and harassment, and teach respect for everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, faith, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or any differences that are perceived or real; and
WHEREAS, the month of June is nationally recognized as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising, which took place in Manhattan in 1969 which is generally recognized as the catalyst for the US LGBTQ+ civil rights movement; and
WHEREAS, Pride Month is a positive stance against discrimination and violence toward individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and promotes dignity, equal rights and increased visibility; and
WHEREAS, in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, the City of Elma will display the Pride flag on City owned buildings on June 27, 2026.
Signed June 1, 2026
RECOGNIZING APRIL 2026 AS AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH
WHEREAS, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that touches people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities, shaping how they communicate, connect, and view the world around them; and
WHEREAS, individuals with autism bring special talents, unique perspectives, and valuable contributions that enrich our community; and
WHEREAS, Autism Acceptance Month is a time to promote understanding and acceptance of people with autism, inspiring us all to go beyond just awareness and offer genuine support and appreciation; and
WHEREAS, it is important to recognize and appreciate the families, educators, caregivers, and service providers who work tirelessly to ensure that individuals with autism have access to opportunities, resources, and a good quality of life; and
WHEREAS, creating a community built on respect and a sense of belonging helps ensure that everyone—regardless of ability—feels empowered to participate fully in civic, educational, and social activities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Elma is dedicated to promoting a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone is treated with kindness and respect, and where our differences are embraced as strengths;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Josh Collette, Mayor, on behalf of the City of Elma, officially declare the month of April as “Autism Acceptance Month” in our city.
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that the City of Elma encourages all residents to learn more about autism, embrace acceptance, and celebrate the valuable contributions of individuals with autism in our community.
Dated this 6th day of April, 2026.
RECOGNIZING THE LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREER AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF
SUSAN SHULTZ, CHIEF OF THE ELMA POLICE DEPARTMENT
DECLARING FEBRUARY 18, 2026, AS “CHIEF SHULTZ DAY”,
IN THE CITY OF ELMA
WHEREAS, Susan Shultz has devoted her career to public service and law enforcement, and served with distinction as Chief of Police for the City of Elma, and
WHEREAS, Chief Shultz served in law enforcement for thirty (30) years, and led the Elma Police Department for nearly eleven (11) years, during which time she demonstrated steadfast leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to public safety; and
WHEREAS, during her tenure as Chief, Susan Shultz guided the department through significant developments, including the implementation of community safety initiatives and meaningful departmental improvements; and
WHEREAS, under her leadership, the Elma Police Department strengthened its focus on community outreach, crime prevention, and collaborative public safety efforts, fostering trust and partnership between law enforcement, residents, and city officials; and
WHEREAS, Chief Shultz was widely recognized for her approachable leadership style and visible presence within the community, earning the respect and appreciation of residents, colleagues, and civic leaders alike; and
WHEREAS, Chief Shultz played a key role in supporting public safety infrastructure and ensuring the department adapted to the needs of a growing City of Elma, including helping to steer the department through the transition toward a new Public Safety Building, thereby enhancing local law enforcement resources for years to come; and
WHEREAS, Chief Shultz’s retirement marks the close of a notable chapter in Elma’s public safety history, and her contributions will have a lasting and positive impact on the Elma Police Department and the community she faithfully served;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Josh Collette, mayor, on behalf of the City of Elma, do hereby proclaim February 18, 2026, as “Chief Shultz Day” in recognition of her exemplary service, leadership, and dedication to public safety and community well-being.
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that the City of Elma extends its sincere gratitude and best wishes to Chief Susan Shultz as she enters a well-deserved retirement, with appreciation for her lasting legacy of service.
Dated this 20th day of January, 2026.
On June 2, 2025 Councilperson Bethany Whipple -Boling and Councilperson Mike Cooper presented a proclamation declaring the month of June 2025 Pride Month in the City of Elma. The Elma City Council took unanimous action in support. The Pride flags will be generously donated by Councilperson Bethany Whipple- Boling and by Councilperson John Heater, and they will be flown on City owned buildings June 28, 2025.
WHEREAS, the City of Elma recognizes the importance of diversity of ethnic, cultural, racial, and sexual orientation and gender identities – all of which bring important richness to the City of Elma; and
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ people have historically experienced and continue to face discrimination in housing, employment, education, and public accommodation; and
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ Americans are deserving of the same dignity, respect, justice and rights afforded to all citizens; a principle supported by the City Council’s adopted mission and vision statements and ongoing commitment to see the community of Elma be a welcoming, safe place for all; and
WHEREAS, the fight for equality and dignity for all individuals under the law continues, and equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination are fundamental to ensuring economic success and personal fulfillment; and
WHEREAS, the City of Elma encourages all residents to work together to fight bullying and harassment, and teach respect for everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, faith, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or any differences that are perceived or real; and
WHEREAS, the month of June is nationally recognized as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising, which took place in Manhattan in 1969; and
WHEREAS, in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, the City of Elma will display the Pride flag on City owned buildings on June 28, 2025.
Signed June 2, 2025
WHEREAS: The annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has been officially recognized and endorsed by governmental leaders since 1922, and
WHEREAS: VFW Buddy Poppies are assembled by disabled veterans and the proceeds of this worthy fundraising campaign are used exclusively for the benefit of disabled and needy veterans and the widows and orphans of deceased veterans, and
WHEREAS: The basic purpose of the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars is eloquently reflected in the desire to "Honor the Dead by Helping the Living," therefore
I, Josh Collette, Mayor of the city of Elma do hereby urge the citizens of this community to recognize the merits of this cause by contributing generously to its support through your donations for Buddy Poppies on the day set aside for the distribution of these symbols of appreciation for the sacrifices of our honored dead.
I urge all patriotic citizens to wear a Buddy Poppy as mute evidence of our gratitude to the men and women of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens .
Signed April 21, 2025