Thursday, April 5, 2018
"One of my long-time tenants has been using this rooftop billboard for several years as part of an art installation. They recently posted a message based on the work of local artist Alisha Wormsley. In response to the installation, we were contacted by a number of people in the local community who said that they found the message offensive and divisive.
We asked the tenant to remove the message because they didn't follow the lease agreement that states the billboard cannot be used for items 'that are distasteful, offensive, erotic, political...' and the lessee must have lessor’s approval in writing before installing the sign. Almost always, whether a building is public or private, there is an approval process that needs to be followed.
The tenant has posted messages in the past without seeking approval, but there has never been a community response about them being distasteful, offensive or political. Our objection is not with the message, but with the fact that people are offended as the result of a message we never saw and approved before-hand.
We are strong supporters of the arts, diversity, inclusion and conducting discussions to resolve conflicts. We suggested to the tenant that they sponsor and conduct a community discussion where all parties are invited, and we’ve been told there is now a public meeting scheduled for April 18. We will support whatever the community decides is in its best interests, as long as there is a clear direction coming from that meeting."
Update: On April 6, CP received another email from Eve Picker, stating that the original sign can be reinstated. Full statement below.
Over the last 24 hours, we’ve received a number of emails from people who said they are not offended by the sign and are saddened by its removal. They far outnumber the people who originally approached us about being offended.
We truly appreciate the comments from people who reached out to us in a respectful, thoughtful manner and believe the public has spoken. We are giving the tenant full approval to reinstate the original sign. In the future, we will follow the approval process outlined in the lease the tenant signed, so that we are all informed and on board for all future signs.
Tags: Last Billboard , Jon Rubin , Alisha Wormsley , We Do Property , Eve Picker , Image