Retailer Wins Fight to Keep Flag Design

After two years of fighting the city, the owner of a sporting goods store has won City Council approval to keep the large painting of a U.S. flag on his storefront.

On Tuesday, the council unanimously agreed that James T. LaFave, owner of Galaxy Sports Inc., will not have to remove the 40-by-8-foot painting.

The city’s Design Review Board had concluded that the sign was out of character with the city and had recommended to the council that it be removed.

“I was somewhat embarrassed that this thing has gone on as long as it has,” said Councilman Steve Dicterow, adding that “it was a different council” considering the issue this time. “It’s a very sad day when people consider the American flag to be garish.”

In 1993, LaFave had the flag painted for the Fourth of July, then decided to leave it up after business increased. The city’s Design Review Board objected in April 1994. Since then, LaFave has bounced between the board and the council, trying to win approval to keep his painting.

Then last month, the city filed a criminal complaint against LaFave for “continuing violations” of the city code. But now that LaFave has won approval from the council, the complaint will be dropped, Dicterow said.

“It’s a little glimmer of hope for the small-business man in town who wants to find a way to be visible,” LaFave said. “America stands strong in Laguna Beach.”