Fairport Harbor Village residents are being encouraged to vote during the month of February, but this time around it doesn’t involve candidates for elected office or levy issues. Instead, people can answer a survey question that’s intended to help designate an official Village Flower. This onlin e poll is being conducted by the Fairport Harbor Opportunity Development Corporation as part of its Village Flower Initiative. The nonprofit group described this endeavor as “a community-focused effort to select an official flower that reflects the character, values and shared identity of Fairport Harbor.” Residents can access the survey through links that are posted on the corporation’s website — www.fhodc.org; and Facebook page. The poll was launched on Feb. 1 and will remain active through Feb. 28. People who take the survey will get the chance to vote for one of four  “native or well-adapted perennial options” that they feel best represents the village. Survey respondents will see photos of each flower, which are accompanied by descriptive capsule summaries. The nominees are: • Echinacea (coneflower) — “This native perennial is known for its distinctive cone-shaped center,” the summary states. “With flowers coming in an array of colorful choices, these bountiful bloomers provide long-lasting color from July through October.” • Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan) — “A drought tolerant native selection once established,” according to the summary. “Produces easily recognizable flowers that have bright, deep yellow petals surrounding a dark center. Bloom generously mid-to-late summer.” • Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly weed) — “A vibrant orange native wildflower that plays a critical role in supporting monarch butterflies,” the summary states.  “Typically flowers from June through August. Attracts pollinators of all types.” • Liatris spicata (Gayfeather/Blazing star) — “Unique native perennial that features tall purple, pink or white flower spikes that bloom from top to bottom, July through September,” according to the summary. “Adds vertical interest to landscapes and makes a great cut flower.” Fairport Harbor Opportunity Development Corporation is “dedicated to driving economic growth, supporting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike,” according to the group’s website. The organization stated that Fairport Harbor’s Village Flower, once it’s designated, can be used to: • Build a stronger community identity with a unifying symbol that everyone can share. • Enhance village beautification efforts in gardens, public spaces and future projects. • Strengthen local pride and tourism by giving visitors a charming visual connection to Fairport Harbor. • Support environmental stewardship by encouraging pollinator-friendly plantings. • Create new opportunities for community involvement, such as planting days and seasonal displays. ...read more read less