APRIL 8, 2025 — Boise Mayor Lauren McLean announced today that the city will retain its current flag, says the Idaho Statesman, reversing a redesign process that had reached the public voting stage.
The decision comes amid notable public criticism of the proposed new designs.
The flag redesign initiative began with a citywide request for input on Boise’s culture and values, resulting in nearly 3,000 submissions from residents. Around 140 local artists responded with original flag designs, each accompanied by a personal statement explaining its symbolism.
A committee selected four finalists, which were released for public voting less than a week before McLean’s announcement.
“This was a special process where I heard from so many Boiseans what they love most about our city,” McLean said in a statement.
“I’ve weighed that feedback, and one thing is clear: Boiseans are passionate about our city, and our flag! I’ve decided that it isn’t the right time to move forward with a new flag.”
Public response to the finalists appears to have been largely negative. While the selection process was intended to engage the community and reflect civic pride, the four proposed flags received considerable criticism, leading McLean to reconsider the direction of the project.
Despite discontinuing the effort to adopt a new flag, the city has decided to share the submissions publicly.
“Their work helped spark important dialogue about our civic identity, shared values, and the symbols that represent our city,” McLean said. “I am deeply grateful for everyone who shared their art, their time and their perspectives.”
The mayor also thanked the Flag Design Committee for its efforts, acknowledging the time and care it dedicated to the process.
Although the city’s flag will remain unchanged for now, the redesign process served as a platform for community members to express their views on Boise’s identity through visual symbolism.
