Hamina's big flag

The suspension of the Hamina Great Flag has recently raised many questions and discussions. The City of Hamina would like to clarify the situation: the suspension has been suspended for safety reasons due to material damage detected on the flagpole.

During the winter, inspections of the flagpole have observed peeling of the paint and zinc surface. In a large-scale structure, peeling of surface materials poses an obvious safety risk to those moving around in the area and the environment – ​​especially in the high wind conditions to which the site is exposed. Flying a flagpole the size of a basketball court exposes the pole to additional stress, and increases the risk of peeling of the material.

The large flagpole process has been discussed in the institutions during the spring and summer terms as follows:

• The Urban Development Committee decided on April 22, 2026, to dismantle the large flagpole.
• At its meeting on April 27, 2026, the City Board exercised its right of withdrawal from the decision made by the Urban Development Committee, overturned it and decided to send the matter to the City Council's evening school, after which the matter will be returned to the Urban Development Committee for consideration.
• The research results of the large flagpole and the history of the flagpole were discussed at the City Council evening school on May 19, 2026.
• At the meeting of the Urban Development Committee on June 17, 2026, the matter was on the agenda, but was withdrawn by the rapporteur before consideration.

The decision-making authority for the future of the flagpole lies with the Urban Development Committee, which will discuss the matter in future meetings.

The City of Hamina emphasizes that the safety of residents, visitors and those working in the area is an absolute priority. Until there is full certainty about the safety and continuity of the structure, no risks will be taken, which is why the flag will not be raised.