Council proclaims Gunter a Purple Heart City

Mona Stember (speaker 15), a resident who said she lives at 1921 Bledsoe Road, asked council to proclaim Gunter a Purple Heart City and outlined the criteria and local history behind the request, including a brief biography of Paul Thomas Payne, a two-time Purple Heart recipient who attended the local high school.

Following the presentation, a councilmember moved to approve the resolution and the motion was seconded. The mayor read the proclamation and the council adopted the resolution by voice vote, with ayes recorded. Staff indicated the proclamation could be incorporated into the city's Veterans Day observance and that the presenter is coordinating with the high school principal about a formal event.

Why it matters: Proclaiming Gunter a Purple Heart City is a symbolic recognition intended to honor local veterans who were wounded or killed in action. Councilmembers and the presenter emphasized public remembrance and a community event tied to Veterans Day.

Next steps: Staff will coordinate with the high school and veterans groups on an observance during Veterans Day activities; the proclamation has been signed and filed.