"This is something that the city has talked about for a number of years," said Mayor Harry Smith in support of spending more than $1,100 for the purchase of two custom-made 3- by 5-foot silk-screened flags.
Smith said city flags are a common sight at the annual meetings of the Mississippi Municipal League, which includes a parade of flags ceremony.
"It seems to be a matter of community pride, just like parks and the sponsorship of community events. It's just a matter of public recognition," Smith said.
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While Jordan said he thinks he price the pair of flags seemed "a little high," he never questioned the wisdom of having a flag to enhance the city's image.
"I think it is a significant one - image wise," he said.
Jordan, who serves as the chairman of the state Senate's Municipality Committee, said that most of the state's 297 municipalities have flags.
Smith said the flags, which will feature a 2-inch gold fringe along the outside edge, will primarily be used for indoor events. They should have a life expectancy of 10 years.
He defended the purchase of the flags as another way of advertising the city. "We're talking about $1,100 over 10 years," he said.
One flag will likely be on display in the City Council chamber or in Smith's office in City Hall.
The second flag will be carried by the Greenwood Police Honor Guard at public ceremonies such as Veterans Day and the Fourth of July, Smith said.
Greenwood resident Lee Underwood objected to the expense to taxpayers in a letter to the editor published in Sunday's Commonwealth.
Jordan said he is sensitive to the use of public funds for the flags. "When you're working for the public, it is important to know what the money is being used for," he said.
Jordan, who voted to buy the flags, said he has not received any negative fallout from his vote and doubts he will. "I'm not expecting any criticism. I don't think that would be a major problem."
