Statesville business will keep massive American flag after city council vote
The Statesville City Council has reached an agreement with Gander RV that will allow them to fly their large American Flag.
The debate over the massive flag has been going on for over a year. The 40 by 80-foot flag can be seen from Interstate 77 as you enter the city.
The mayor first announced the settlement agreement, which includes Gander RV paying $14,350 for their violation and $2,000 for legal costs. The city will amend the ordinance so the massive flag is in compliance.
Council approved the first reading of the request to amend the ordinance to allow the flag Monday evening. The vote was unanimous. The second reading will be on Oct. 21.
People living in the area have told NBC Charlotte they love the flag, but city officials said the issue has nothing to do with patriotism, claiming the size of the flag goes against the permit agreement between Camping World and the council.
In May, Camping World posted to Facebook claiming the city filed a lawsuit against them and is fining them $50 a day dating back to October 2018, which totals more than $10,000.
The Facebook post read, "This is about more than just the flag. This is about our veterans, military, and the men and women that have sacrificed for this great country. They are the reason we fly the flag and they are the reason we will NOT take it down!"
