Business covers sign to avoid city fine

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - In order to avoid a hefty fine from the City of Norfolk, the owner of Central Radio Company has covered a sign protesting eminent domain.

Owner Bob Wilson co-owns the 78-year-old business and is in the middle of a legal battle against the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority over the property.

"It makes me awfully upset with my country," Wilson said. "I've got a legal right, and I have an obligation to protest when I think my country is wrong. That is part of being an American. They are taking that right away from me, plain and simple."

The City's sign ordinance controls the size of signs posted throughout the city. Wilson's sign is too large, so in order to avoid a fine of up to $1,000 a day, it must be covered. City of Norfolk spokesperson Lori Crouch says so far the blue tarp covering the sign appears "good enough."

"That is not on the table right now because we have not moved forward with the prosecution of that," Crouch said.

Additionally, United States District Judge Arenda L. Wright Allen ruled that:"the First Amendment does not guarantee the right to express oneself at all times and places and in any manner that a person may wish."

The City says Wilson will be fairly compensated and that he can relocate the business to another site. The 100 employees Wilson mentions on the protest sign will simply work at another site if Wilson chooses to keep the business open.

Central Radio Company is located in a redevelopment area near Old Dominion University at the corner of Hampton Boulevard and 39th Street.