Submissions were accepted Oct. 1 to Dec. 9, and the flag design contest was open to everyone.

More than 75% of the submissions came from people who provided contact numbers with 937 area codes.

About 20% of submissions were from current Dayton Public Schools students.

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A steering committee reviewed all of the submissions, as well as attached narratives that described design inspirations and decisions, like the colors and symbols.

The committee selected their seven favorite flag designs, and those were sent to the city commission and mayor for consideration.

Cecelia Freeman submission. Explanation of flag design: “Dayton; a city of innovation, grit, unity in community, and a dynamic river system full of history which provides recreation and fun for all. This flag displays a river in white which also represents the highs and lows that Dayton has gone through and come out stronger.Soaring in the blue sky and above the lowest part of the river on the flag, the 10-point stars shine bright like gems as they rise with grit and resilience through the hardships. The 3-stars represent diversity- convey through size difference-and unity of community. The 10-points of the star bring an ode to the gears of innovation which take flight from the heart of Dayton.Strong in adversity, innovative with diversity and sky’s the limit as we reach for the stars and possibilities of what the future holds. This flag encapsulates the heart of Dayton and inspires each of us to work hard, build community, seek adventure, and fly the flag of Dayton proudly.”

Commissioners and the mayor narrowed the list down to three.

Community members will be asked to provide feedback on the final three. They can do this here. Residents are asked to share their thoughts on what they like and what they would change.

If there is a clear favorite, that design will become Dayton’s new city flag.

If people prefer bits and pieces of the submissions, a graphic designer will work to try to mix them together into a single flag.