VFW asks Tenino to clarify who will maintain 24/7 flag display and fund replacements

Tenino — A representative of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) told the Tenino City Council on Nov. 26 that lights have been installed and the flags are now flying 24 hours a day at the Flag Pavilion, and asked the council to clarify responsibility for replacements and maintenance.

The VFW representative said some members worry whether the flags are rated for storm conditions and expressed concern about potential vandalism. The speaker said the VFW will start soliciting funds from community organizations, including the Grange and Lions, to help cover replacement costs and to consider purchasing more durable poles. The VFW also requested at least two additional flags — for a Space Force flag and a rotating replacement cycle.

Council members and the mayor discussed who currently owns and who has custody of the flags and agreed to coordinate with community organizations on funding and maintenance. One participant estimated commercial, internal‑lanyard poles for all downtown locations could run in the low five‑digits; the VFW said it would provide more research on flag replacement costs so the council could plan funding.