(A) Establishment. There is hereby created the City of Fishers Armed Services Commission. The Commission’s budget will be considered within the city’s Administration Department, which shall be approved as part of the budgeting process by the City Council.
(B) Purpose. The Commission shall further assist the city’s efforts of becoming a community where military service is honored and recognized as a key component to our vibrancy; where military service is incorporated and promoted in programming, policy decisions, and protocols; and to ensure that recognition and appreciation towards military service is woven throughout the community and understood as a critical component to the community’s sense of place. Those serving, those who have served, those desiring to serve, and our entire community that enjoys our daily freedom will be positively impacted by the Commission.
(C) Composition and term. The Commission shall be comprised of 11 members to be appointed by the Mayor. The Mayor shall appoint seven service-connected residents of Fishers, five of which shall be veterans or individuals currently serving in our Armed Forces. The remaining four members shall be: one nomination filled by the American Legion Post 470; one nomination by the OneZone Chamber of Commerce; and two nominations from the Superintendent of HSE Schools, one faculty member and one student. Terms of every member shall be for two years.
(D) Duties, powers, and procedures. The Commission may perform the following:
(1) Provide strategic direction/guidance of:
(a) Hometown Help for Heroes program;
(b) Gold Star Memorial;
(c) Veteran Light Pole Banner program;
(d) Honor a Hero Brick Paver program;
(e) Special events (Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day, and the like); and
(f) Any similar programing created by the city;
(2) Develop events or programs that:
(a) Provide meaningful interactions related to honoring, recognizing, and celebrating military service and the community; and
(b) Expand the vibrancy that accompanies armed forces recognition to individuals not currently participating in this aspect of the community;
(3) Develop outreach initiatives to:
(a) Establish a listing of veterans and families in the community currently serving; and
(b) Connect with other organizations or groups to build alliances and collaborate on opportunities to further promote the Commission’s goals;
(4) Develop procedures and protocols for the city, which may include:
(a) Actions related to recognizing residents entering military service, achievements during military service, or residents leaving military service;
(b) Actions related to recognizing organizations or companies supporting military service; and
(c) Actions related to recognizing significant military events;
(5) Adopt rules for affiliate memberships to encourage inclusivity and greater participation;
(6) Accept gifts, contributions and bequests of funds from individuals, foundations, corporations, limited liability companies, and other organizations or institutions;
(7) Enter into contracts within the limitation of funds available with individuals, organizations and institutions for services furthering the objectives of the Commission; and
(8) Develop and manage a strategic plan, including setting annual goals and updating progress.
(E) Any city board or commission may refer projects which contemplate armed services to the Commission for its review and consideration.
(Ord. 122021, passed 1-18-22)