- Lehi pauses a proposed ordinance that would restrict bridge activities.
- The ordinance aimed to prevent unsafe activities, affecting veterans' flag tradition.
- City officials will further study the potential ordinance impacts before a council vote.
LEHI — In some front yards, the American flag doesn't just fly, it stands.
Quinn Allred's flag in his Lehi front yard is one of them.
"It's emotional for every veteran," said Allred, commander of American Legion Post 19 in Lehi.
He loves showing his patriotism and appreciates when people thank him for his service.
"To be honored for your service, that means something to a veteran," said Allred. "Worst thing that a veteran can be is forgotten."
That's why, every Veterans Day and Memorial Day, Allred and a group of fellow veterans stand on a pair of bridges over I-15 and state Route 89 in Lehi.
They bring American flags and salute traffic to remind drivers what the meaning of the day is all about.
"You know, it's to remember the veterans and those that served this country," he said.
But this year, the tradition was suddenly at risk.
Lehi city officials drafted an ordinance that would make it a misdemeanor to stand, sit or loiter on any city bridge.
The proposal came in response to complaints about kids jumping into the Jordan River from pedestrian bridges.
The original proposal was an attempt to keep kid safe.
However, as written, the ordinance would have made Allred and his fellow veterans technically in violation of the law this coming Veterans Day.
"I believe it was a knee-jerk reaction," said Allred. "It's like when you were in school. If somebody screwed up, everybody got the word."
Just hours before Tuesday night's City Council meeting, Lehi leaders pulled the ordinance from the agenda.
For now, there will be no vote, allowing city staff more time to study the potential unintended consequences.
The city said the goal is still safety and taking the proposed bridge ordinance off the City Council agenda will allow for additional discussion during a work session or pre-council meeting.
Allred is just happy the city is looking into it further.
"Well, the veterans will do it whether they have a code or not," he said with a laugh. "They don't want bad publicity."
