New American Flag Design On Laguna Beach Police Patrol Cars Creates Controversy
LAGUNA BEACH (CBSLA) – Decals emblazoned with the American flag that have been placed on the side of Laguna Beach police patrol vehicles are sparking some discussion in the Orange County oceanside town.
The large new decals, which began appearing on patrol vehicles in late February, have prompted debate over their whether they are patriotic or too aggressive.
The design which ended up on the vehicles had a much bolder look than the one which the Laguna Beach City Council chose in February, according to the Los Angeles Times.
But for City Councilman Peter Blake and others, there is nothing to debate.
"This is a government vehicle driven by government workers in the United States of America," said Black. "Come on..we can talk about this all day long, it's still a joke."
One resident said he's fine with the design, but questioned why the word "police" was placed on the side doors of the cars.
"The badge on the side of the car..that's all we really need to see," said Craig Everhart. "You don't need to be billboarding that you are police. We already know that. Honestly you could save money by not putting that big giant decal."
On Tuesday night, the city council is expected to vote on whether to keep the design or choose an alternative.
In a statement to CBSLA, the Laguna Beach Police Employees Association said the officers love the new design: "We feel that having the American Flag displayed on our police vehicles symbolizes all of the good things that this city, county, state and country not only stand for but strive to achieve."
