Camping World’s CEO, Marcus Lemonis, is currently involved in a legal conflict in North Carolina concerning the large American flags displayed at his stores. Lemonis recently closed one of his two RV dealerships in Greenville, citing efforts by council members to criticize his business for not removing the oversized flags.
In March, Greenville city officials initiated legal proceedings against the flags, which breach city regulations, leading to $15,000 in fines for Lemonis. The flags measure nearly the size of a basketball court at 3,200 square feet, with a pole almost double the allowed height.
Lemonis argued on local radio that the ordinance is incorrect and that council members are unjustly targeting his business, resulting in the consolidation of his dealerships in Greenville. Camping World, known for its large displays of the American flag, operates over 200 locations nationwide and has faced similar lawsuits in other areas, including Sevierville, Tennessee.
Lemonis remains firm in his decision to keep the flags up, claiming city regulations conflict with state laws. He has expressed his stance that the flags symbolize gratitude towards the United States, which provided him opportunities after immigrating from Beirut, Lebanon.
Greenville’s Communications Manager, Brock Letchworth, stated that the focus is on compliance with city code, not the removal of an American flag. He expressed hope for a resolution that maintains the flag display without breaking local laws.
Lemonis proposed a $50,000 donation to Maynard Children’s Hospital in Greenville as a gesture, without it being a condition for ordinance changes. He emphasized the value of supporting organizations that contribute positively to the community.
