Miami Lakes Residents Faced with Fines for Supporting Trump with Flags
Some Miami Lakes residents are up in arms over letters asking them to remove flags supporting President-elect Donald Trump from the front of their homes – or face fines. Resident Julio Gil, who has flown his flags proudly since 2016, is one of the affected individuals.
A Flag with a Message
Gil’s current flag is an American flag with the words "Trump 2024" and "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN." He has never received any complaints about the flag until now. "It’s outrageous, it’s out of the ordinary," he said. "I think I can put whatever I want outside my house, whether it’s this flag or any other, whatever I want."
A Letter from Code Compliance Officer
Gil received a letter dated January 9, signed by Code Compliance Officer Carlos Medio, requesting that he remove the flag. The letter reads: "In order to maintain the aesthetics of our community, your assistance is required in correcting the following conditions on your property which are currently in violation of the Town’s Code. We realize this may have been an oversight, but your prompt attention to this matter would be greatly appreciated." The letter also demands in all capital letters: "PLEAE REMOVE ALL POLITICAL SIGNS/FLAGS FROM THE PROPERTY."
A Fine or Consequences
Gil has seven days to remove the flag or face a fine of $500 daily. Rafael Perez, another affected resident, received a similar letter. "I’ve been living here 34 years, and I’ve never had a problem related to a flag in front of someone’s property," he said. "I feel like they’re violating our rights."
A Town Manager’s Defense
In an email to the Miami Lakes Town Council, Town Manager Edward "Eddy" Pidermann pointed to article IX of the town’s code about temporary political signage. He initiated a sweep with the Director of Building and Code Compliance, starting on December 20, 2024, to ensure compliance with the code. The code defines what a "Temporary Sign" is and regulates the timeline for erection and removal of temporary (political) signs.
A Resident’s Response
Gil is resolute in his decision to keep the flag. "No, I’m not going to take my flag down," he said. "I’ll add 10 more flags. In fact, if my neighbors want, I’ll buy one for each of them on Amazon and I’ll hang it on their walls. It’s what I think. We’re in a free country."
Conclusion
The controversy has sparked a heated debate about freedom of expression and the limits of community regulations. While some residents feel that the code enforcement is excessive, others believe that it is necessary to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the community.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the code enforcement?
The purpose is to maintain the aesthetics of the community by regulating temporary political signage. - What is the penalty for non-compliance?
Residents who fail to remove the flags may face a fine of $500 daily. - How long do residents have to comply with the code?
Residents have seven days to remove the flags. - Will the code enforcement target specific political parties or candidates?
No, the code enforcement will target all political parties and candidates, equally.
