San Joaquin officials have clarified that they did not instruct Camping World to take down the American flag from their location. The company faced controversy after reports surfaced suggesting local authorities had mandated the flag’s removal.
San Joaquin County Officials Deny Ordering Removal of American Flag at Camping World
San Joaquin County officials have stated they did not instruct Camping World in French Camp to take down their American flag, which had been missing from its usual location for several months. The RV and camping gear retailer, known for its large American flags, faced media reports suggesting that the county had ordered the flag’s removal. In response, Camping World’s CEO, Marcus Lemonis, directed employees to raise the flag again, earning praise from social media for his actions.
County officials clarified that they had not issued any removal order. However, they noted that the flagpole, standing at 130 feet, requires a permit under the 2022 California Building Code, which mandates permits for poles taller than 30 feet. Camping World has not yet responded to requests for comment.
San Joaquin County Clarifies Flagpole Issue, Faces Harassment; Marcus Lemonis Defies Local Ordinances Again
Jennifer Jolley, San Joaquin County’s Director of Community Development, clarified that the controversy surrounding Camping World’s American flagpole was a matter of building permits, not the flag itself. The county received a complaint in June 2023 about the flagpole’s lack of a building permit. Code enforcement investigated and determined the pole was erected without the necessary permit. Camping World submitted plans in December 2023 but initially failed to include a required site plan. After multiple follow-ups and a consultation with CalTrans for safety concerns, the permit was issued on Thursday.
The situation has led to harassment and threats against county staff, according to Miguel Villapudua, Chairman of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors. Villapudua emphasized the board’s commitment to supporting the American flag and asked the public to engage respectfully with county employees.
This incident is not the first time Camping World’s CEO, Marcus Lemonis, has clashed with local regulations. In 2019, Lemonis faced legal action in Statesville, North Carolina, for violating a city ordinance with an oversized American flag, resulting in $14,350 in fines.