We’ve reported on the continual back-and-forth between Camping World and the Greenville, North Carolina, city fathers. Back in January, we noted that in its typical, “do it without permission, seek forgiveness later” fashion, Camping World raised a giant flag. When Greenville officials called them on it, the big RV company sought to get a change in zoning rules. The Camping World flag flies, but the fine meter is running.
Despite city council ruling, the Camping World flag flies
Greenville city council members voted to deny Camping World’s request, essentially shooting down the 3,200-square-foot banner that still flies above the dealership. In a vote of 4-2 against allowing the big flag, Camping World still stands in violation of city ordinances and is racking up fines to the tune of $250 per day.
The defiant Camping World CEO, Marcus Lemonis, has said he won’t bring down the flag. Is it patriotism, or marketing? One RVtravel.com reader observed, “Marcus Lemonis is a marketing genius, in addition to being a grifter. He’ll spin it as being forced to take down the flag rather than just have an appropriately-sized flag. That’ll attract every patriotic-signaling American to his store and he’ll be happy to fleece them. If the U.S. Capitol doesn’t need a flag that big then Camping World certainly doesn’t. (FYI the permanent Capitol flag is garrison-sized at 20×36 feet).” The Greenville Camping World flag is nearly four-and-a-half times that size.
And about those fines…
As to those fines, according to local media, last week Camping World’s fine tally had reached a total of $8,500. Some wonder if Marcus will put his money where his mouth is. So far, the company has only paid $650. The Camping World flag flies, and the next move is anyone’s guess.
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##RVT1201b
So what is really happening as in other reports the city council agreed to allow the large flag?
If I remember correctly, it was approved once. Then it was contested by zoning and the decision was reversed and the fines were reinstated.
The biggest problem is that the flag and pole were considered a safety issue because of the location being close to the parking area and local road.
CW signed off on the original zoning specifications and then did what they wanted anyway.
Lemonis is like a lot of the other millionaire business owners and thinks he is above the law.
It has nothing to do with Patriotism. It’s an EGO trip.
Thank you for the news, Russ and Tina! Seems the city can put a lien on the local CW and effectively “seize” the fined amount. Also, in that the flag is illegal in Greenville, why not seize the flag as well? Thanks again, have a great day and safe travels!
Apparently with the junk they sell the entire dealership would have to be seized.
Good. He needs jail time for disobeying the law.
He’s pulling this same thing in Sevierville, TN, only this time it’s gotten much worse. The code enforcement officer for the city, after advising CW that no, they can’t get an exemption to the zoning codes, received death threats by email and phone. So-called patriots were angry thinking the objection is to the flag itself, not the size or placement. People aren’t real bright in these parts.
Camping World obviously finds it cost-effective to play this game. Under the guise of patriotism, they willfully and flagrantly violate the law by putting up these flags. I wish every one of these places would allow the flags but charge a HUGE fee for it. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
To all the Anti-Americans in the USA – mind your own f–king business. The flag of any size can be flown as long as Federal laws are followed. If you don’t like the flying of the American flag, LEAVE!
Smile Mr. Cranky Pants!
Wow…tell us what you really think.
It’s not about the size, it’s about the local ordinances. Lemonis refuses to follow the local law.
The building permit his company signed, stated the regulations that needed to be followed.
Apparently, he thinks he’s above the law.
The town should have refused to give him an occupancy permit. The town should revoke his occupancy permit.