City provides statement regarding Camping World flagpole

Posted 02-06-25.

We are aware of the recent concerns shared online regarding one of our City ordinances and its enforcement by our staff. Due to the nature of comments, emails and phone calls directed toward City staff we feel it necessary to say that while we respect and value the right to free expression, we believe that targeting a city employee who is simply carrying out their job is neither patriotic nor productive. The situation is a publicity stunt used for advertising and marketing aimed at drawing attention to the business rather than fostering meaningful change.

Let us be clear: the City of Sevierville is not, and never will be, against patriotism. True patriotism embodies respect for the values that unite our community—freedom of expression, responsibility, and civil discourse. Publicly attacking an employee for enforcing regulations is not a reflection of patriotism but a failure of basic human decency. Our employees do not create ordinances; they implement policies established by the organization. They deserve our protection and respect.

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