Mayor issues multiple proclamations; residents and groups announce local events and outreach

Mayor Carolyn Harvey read several proclamations recognizing civic service and community observances, and numerous residents used the public‑comment period to announce upcoming events and programs.

Proclamations and recognitions: Mayor Harvey read a proclamation recognizing Don Prosser for 50 years of service to the Carbondale Public Library Board of Trustees. She also proclaimed June 2026 as Gun Violence Prevention Month, cited National Gun Violence Awareness Day on 06/05/2026 and proclaimed May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month and May as National Preservation Month.

Community announcements and public comments: During the public‑comment period, Doug Cherry invited residents to a ribbon‑cutting and open house for the Victory Dreams Center’s new building this coming Sunday at 12:20 and shared distribution and youth‑program statistics. Jeff Young (Historic Preservation Commission) described the Carbon Rail event and a Nickelodeon‑themed screening, and Carmelita Cahill (Carbondale United) announced Wear Orange and firearm‑education events. Other speakers included Sandy Lottecki (Keep Carbondale Beautiful) with a garden tour, Lee Furnabarger urging planning for Carbondale’s 175th anniversary, Justin Zirlindon promoting a citywide yard sale, Jorge Raul (Fulbright/SIU students) thanking the city for hosting international students, and Eileen Trout Irvin (Moms Demand Action) announcing a screening and discussion on gun‑safety work.

The mayor and staff reminded speakers of the public‑comment rules (four minutes, city business only, name and residency required) and limited repetitive testimony during the meeting when points of order were raised.