Confrontations between the DeSantis Administration and local municipalities over painted street art continue to escalate.<\/p>\n
Cities like Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Key West and Miami Beach have all pushed back on the state’s order to remove the painted displays, including LGBTQ+ Pride symbols.<\/p>\n
In Fort Lauderdale, four sites \u2014 none of them on state roads \u2014 were singled out by the state.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe do believe in home rule, and to what extent is a superior government going to try to interfere with the comings and goings of what goes on locally,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis.<\/p>\n
The Fort Lauderdale commission recently voted to appeal the state\u2019s order and explore potential legal action.<\/p>\n
Florida officials claim that painted displays are a safety issue that distracts drivers. They\u2019ve threatened to withhold transportation funding if cities refuse to comply.<\/p>\n
\u201c\u200aIf they’re worried about pedestrian safety, if they’re worried about vehicular safety, wouldn’t they want to apply more money rather than take it away?” Trantalis said.<\/p>\n
The city of Fort Lauderdale has until Sept. 4 to comply.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: Battle over rainbow crossings, street art: Share what\u2019s happening in your community<\/a><\/p>\n