By DAVE HAMRICK
dhamrick@thecitizennews.com

Proposed restrictions on the number of American flags a business can fly will be on the Fayetteville City Council's agenda tonight and again Monday.

Council will discuss agenda items in a work session tonight with plans to vote on the items in its business meeting Monday. Both meetings are at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

A proposed new sign ordinance would limit the number of government flags to two — one for any one government — to prevent use of multiple flags as advertisement. The proposal has drawn fire from local businesses, and at least three council members have said they won't vote for the new sign law unless the provision is removed.

Proponents say that improper use of the American flag as advertisement is disrespectful, while opponents say they should be free to display their patriotism.

The ordinance also would prohibit internally lighted signs and place additional restrictions on sizes and types of signs in the city.

Also on the agenda will be the much-discussed Village development plan proposed by developer Bob Rolader. The plan includes 203 homes, plus a retail square, office complex, hotel/conference center, day care center and parks on 110 acres on Ga. Highway 54 just west of downtown.

Council will act on the proposal only if lawyers for the city and the developer have completed a detailed development agreement that will bind Rolader to the plan as presented. Otherwise, if the past is any indication, the group will table the matter.

Council also will consider proposed new speed limits on three city streets, a rezoning request for an accountant's office on Grady Avenue across from Bradford Square, and bids for improvements to local sidewalks and the city's wastewater plant.