City Orders Restaurant To Remove Flags Honoring ‘Fallen Heroes’, Owner Refuses

Johnny Brann, a restaurant owner in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is standing his ground in a dispute with the city over a memorial display that honors police officers and military personnel who have died in the line of duty. The city contends that the display violates local zoning ordinances by exceeding the permitted amount of signage. However, Brann views the display as an important tribute to law enforcement and military service members, and he has vowed not to take it down, even if his appeal is denied.

While Brann plans to apply for a zoning variance, which involves a $1,349 fee, a public hearing, and a recommendation from the Zoning Appeals Board before a final decision by the City Commission, he remains firm in his commitment to keeping the memorial intact. He did, however, agree to remove two banners after receiving complaints that they were politically charged and offensive to some individuals.

Despite the challenges, Brann is optimistic that the city will make an exception for his display, which he believes serves a vital purpose in honoring fallen service members and officers.