MARCH 7, 2026 — In Arkansas, a legislative committee in Saline County has moved toward adopting a new official flag by merging elements from two winning submissions following a public design competition, says MySaline.com.
The Saline County Public Works and Safety Committee recently reviewed a proposal that combines the artistic contributions of a local high school student and a resident businessman, though final approval remains contingent on addressing concerns regarding symbolism and fiscal responsibility.
Launched in July 2025, the contest sought entries that adhered to the North American Vexillological Association’s principles, which advocate for simplicity, meaningful symbolism, and the absence of lettering or complex seals to ensure the design remains identifiable and easily reproduced.
15 submissions were received, according to the Saline Courier.
The two primary designs selected by a specialized flag committee, led by Justice of the Peace Keith Kellum, featured the Saline County Courthouse as a central motif.
Student Adi Storey’s entry included a specific chronological tribute, setting the courthouse clock hands to 6:35 to represent 18:35 in 24-hour time, the year of the county’s founding. While her original design utilized a maroon field, officials noted the colour’s strong association with Benton High School and opted instead for the palette proposed by Ryan Taneja.
Taneja’s submission utilized green, blue, and orange to represent the region’s agricultural roots, the Saline River, and its historical clay and pottery industry. The resulting “Option C” integrates Storey’s clocktower and chronological detail with Taneja’s colour scheme and star arrangement.
The number of stars on the flag became a point of deliberation among officials. Current proposals feature seven stars to represent the county’s incorporated municipalities: Benton, Bryant, Haskell, Alexander, Shannon Hills, Bauxite, and the Saline County portion of Hot Springs Village.
During the presentation, Justice of the Peace Clint Chism expressed concern over the exclusion of smaller, unincorporated communities, while others questioned the status of Hot Springs Village, which is a gated community rather than a municipality. Justice of the Peace Josh Curtis inquired about the design’s flexibility should future incorporations occur, prompted by the committee’s desire to maintain a balanced and uncluttered aesthetic.
Financial considerations have also slowed the immediate adoption of the emblem. The committee ultimately deferred a final vote to allow for further public input. The proposal is expected to appear on a future Quorum Court agenda once funding and final design adjustments are reconciled.
Image: MySaline.com
