City of Chesapeake Ceremonial Documents

The City of Chesapeake has a rich history and heritage that reflect the accomplishments, commitments, and social conscience of its citizens. It is appropriate and necessary to acknowledge and recognize the dedication, sacrifice, and actions of those who exemplify the highest standards of citizenship, compassion, and humanity. The Office of the Mayor provides constituent services such as ceremonial documents on behalf of the Mayor and City Council. Requests for ceremonial documents must have a specific connection to the City of Chesapeake. Allow up to 14 business days for consideration and processing of your request.

Mayoral Proclamation

Events and city-wide initiatives that promote cohesiveness and a sense of community, must be codified, and preserved. Community events that foster such ethos are preserved and promulgated through Proclamations. Proclamations may be requested by individuals, organizations, or a mixture thereof – to promote a worthy cause and increases awareness on matters that promote good order and quality of life for all Chesapeake citizens. Proclamations must not be partisan in matters of political controversy nor address personal convications. Proclamations are NOT written for individuals unless approved by the Mayor.

Certificate of Recognition/Honor

A Certificate of Recognition is a written and formal level of recognition. Such recognition includes acknowledgement of individual and/or organizational celebrating professional/career service milestones, birthdays, anniversaries, contributing to the safety and overall wellbeing of Chesapeake communities.

Certificate of Appreciation

A Certificate of Appreciation is appropriate for an individual or entity that identifies a public need or concern, and significantly contributes to efforts aimed at resolving and mitigating the concern.

Distinguish Service and Citizenship – Special Recognition

This recognition reflects a high level of impact and accomplishments. It is intended and reserved for the (few) highly committed, accomplished, and distinguished acts of servitude and heroism. This recommendation will be considered appropriate for commending individuals for extraordinary acts of valor (heroism), exemplary leadership, and exceptional noteworthy service.

Letters: Greeting, Endorsement, Sympathy

Greeting letters are issued to organizations hosting a conference, convention, family reunion, or another event in the City of Chesapeake. Endorsement letters are issued to individuals and organizations. Restrictions apply. Please allow approximately two-weeks turnaround excluding sympathy letters. Letters are usually delivered via email as a high-resolution PDF on digital stationery.

Contact the Office of the City Clerk. Sandy Madison, MMC City Clerk, smadison@cityofchesapeake.net. Regenna Burden, Executive Admin II, rburden@cityofchesapeake.net.

The Office of the Mayor reserves the right to modify or deny any requests.

• Every request must have official approval before issuance.
• Allow up to 14 business days for consideration and processing of your request.
• Proclamations must not be partisan in matters of political controversy nor address personal convictions.
• The Office of the Mayor reserves the right to modify or deny any proclamation request.
• Proclamations promote a worthy cause and increases awareness on matters that promote good order and quality of life for all Chesapeake citizens. Proclamations are NOT written to honor individuals unless approved by the Mayor.

Below we are asking for 4 - 6 "WHEREAS" clauses. View a sample proclamation.

• Every request must have official approval before issuance.
• Requests must be made 2 weeks prior to the date needed, excluding condolences.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are requesting multiple certificates for the same event, do not submit separate requests for each one. Instead, please upload a list of all honorees below, along with their reason for recognition.