A colossal political statement ignites a legal battle in a small upstate New York community.
According to Breitbart News, local officials in Amsterdam, New York, have initiated legal proceedings against a massive "Vote for Trump" sign erected atop a former glove factory.
The sign, installed by Anthony Constantino, CEO of Sticker Mule, has sparked controversy and raised questions about local zoning laws and political expression.
The sign, measuring 100 feet in width, was placed on the roof of the old Fownes glove factory. Constantino, whose company is known for custom sticker production, intended the sign to celebrate American manufacturing and resilience in the face of adversity. However, city officials have had issues with the installation, citing multiple code violations.
According to a complaint obtained by the Post Millennial, the city alleges that Sticker Mule's pro-Trump Sticker PAC failed to obtain the necessary permit for the sign.
Additionally, officials claim the sign exceeds the maximum height allowed in the light zoning district. The city has demanded the removal of the sign within 48 hours to avoid potential fines of up to $1,000 per day, starting 30 days after the citation.
The city of Amsterdam has not stopped issuing a citation. Officials have sought an injunction from the New York State Supreme Court to force the removal of the sign. Court documents reveal that the city considers the illuminated sign a "dangerous distraction" that could impact traffic flow.
Representing Sticker Mule as their attorney, Sal Ferlazzo expressed concern over the city's actions. He noted that the court granted a preliminary injunction and restraining order based solely on the city's presentation without allowing him an opportunity to respond. This order prohibits the display or illumination of any sign on the roof of 26 Elk Street until the upcoming court date on Tuesday.
Mayor Mike Cinquanti, a Democrat, defended the city's actions, stating that the issue is not political but rather a matter of public safety and code compliance. He emphasized that any sign potentially distracting drivers on the freeway would be subject to similar scrutiny.
Constantino has been vocal about his disagreement with the city's stance. He argues that the sign is meant to be a positive and unifying event for the community. The CEO highlighted his company's contribution to the local economy, bringing nearly a thousand jobs to Amsterdam, which had been economically devastated when companies like Fownes left.
In response to the legal challenges, Sticker Mule has temporarily covered the sign to comply with the court order. However, Constantino remains determined to proceed with unveiling the sign, inviting Democrats and Republicans to attend the event. Considering his efforts to revitalize the community, he views the city's actions as disturbing.
Constantino expressed his views on social media, asserting that opposition to the matter in question would only come from politicians with extreme bias and a lack of foresight.
The conflict over the "Vote for Trump" sign in Amsterdam, New York, has evolved into a complex legal and political issue. Local officials have taken legal action against the sign, citing code violations and safety concerns. The CEO of Sticker Mule, Anthony Constantino, maintains that the sign is a positive statement about American manufacturing and community unity, setting the stage for an ongoing debate about the intersection of political expression, local regulations, and community development.
