The wheels of government turn slowly. Nine months after he first proposed the idea of adding banners along Hatch Road to honor Ceres’ military personnel, Mayor Javier Lopez and the council on Jan. 24 finally appointed an ad hoc committee to investigate such a program.

Mayor Lopez first mentioned on April 12 wanting veterans’ banners displayed in Ceres. When the council talked about it on April 26, the council decided to form an ad hoc committee. Lopez recommended himself, Army Sgt. George King of the Turlock U.S. Army recruiting office, Freddy Morales of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Commander Pete Samaniego, resident and veteran Gene Yeakley, Nicholas Otero, veteran and Councilman James Casey and a city staff member.

It wasn’t until Nov. 8, that the council discussed the mayor’s recommendations and directed staff to open an application process for interested community members wanting to serve on the committee. The application period was open from Nov. 15th to Dec. 7. The period was then extended until Jan. 14.

A total of four applicants submitted their names. They included King, Nicholas Otero, Gene Yeakley and John Warren.

Mayor Lopez expressed a desire last year to see the main thoroughfare of Ceres adorned with banners honoring Ceres military veterans and active personnel like what is done in Turlock and other communities.

Lopez said he would like the first banners hung from poles along Hatch Road between Herndon Road and Richland Avenue.

The committee is expected to develop criteria for who will be highlighted on poles, costs, vendors and locations for placement. The council will take their recommendations and report before taking action.