NOVEMBER 22, 2025 — Laguna Beach, California, has once again found itself at the crossroads as the City Council renewed deliberations over what should represent the municipality on an official flag, says the Los Angeles Times and the Laguna Beach Independent.
The discussion on November 18 centres on a banner designed by resident Chad Cooper, who first proposed the flag in 2013. Although the flag design — showcasing the city’s famed Main Beach lifeguard tower set before a sunset, the inscription “1927” representing Laguna Beach’s incorporation year, and the phrase “artistic freedom” — has been informally embraced by many, the city has not yet formally approved it as its official flag.
Cooper, addressing the council on November 18, asserted that his flag has already become a fixture of local culture.
“This flag is ingrained in our local culture. The locals have already enthusiastically embraced it. Hopefully, you guys will too… I’ve funded this out of my own pocket for over 10 years. I have them made, and I will give them to anybody,” he said.
According to Cooper, the flag’s development drew upon extensive historical research and feedback from many residents.
Longtime community members recalled an earlier flag, believed to have been created in the 1980s via a city-sponsored competition. However, that banner was reportedly lost after being loaned to the county, leaving Laguna Beach without an official emblem. “We owe it to our community to locate that original design,” said local resident Nick Aronoff.
Council members, while appreciative of Cooper’s persistence and creativity, stopped short of immediate adoption. Mayor Pro Tem Mark Orgill commended Cooper’s commitment, stating, “Chad, the reason we’re here tonight is because of you, and I congratulate your ambitions early on.”
However, Orgill also acknowledged the diversity of opinion in the community, suggesting the need for a broader selection process.
Councilmember Bob Whalen echoed this sentiment, advocating for a citywide competition: “Typically, we as a city, for lots of things, we do competitions or we do requests for proposals… I think having a process where there is a choice, which I think should include this flag, is probably worthwhile.”
The debate is also timely, as Laguna Beach nears its centennial in 2027. In anticipation, the council tasked its Arts Commission with outlining a process for selecting a flag, which could include soliciting new designs from the community’s artists.
Councilmember Sue Kempf noted that open calls for proposals are a city tradition and suggested that any new design should reflect Laguna Beach’s approaching 100th anniversary.
The next step will be determined by the Arts Commission, with the goal of presenting a transparent and inclusive process to the council before the city’s centenary.
As for Cooper’s creation, it continues to fly unofficially at community events.
Image: CRW Flags
