A tense Santa Barbara City Council meeting over rent stabilization took a sharper turn Tuesday night when a protester displayed a provocative sign that appeared to suggest violence against elected officials.
The poster declared, “Your term ends when we say so!” and showed an image of a guillotine next to elephant and donkey icons, widely recognized as symbols of the Republican and Democratic parties.
The packed meeting, which drew a large number of tenant rights supporters, was also filled with hours of shouting, heckling and criticism aimed at councilmembers, City Administrator Kelly McAdoo and other Santa Barbara officials, according to Edhat Santa Barbara.
In the aftermath, Santa Barbara City Council members addressed the controversial “off with their heads” imagery in comments to local media.
The Santa Barbara City Council is made up of seven officials, including the mayor and six district representatives. Councilmember Eric Friedman, who is currently running for mayor, said the sign crossed a line and was “not acceptable.”
“In a time when elected officials have faced threats, violence and even been killed, everyone should take time to think about the potential ramifications of their actions,” Friedman said.
Mayor Randy Rowse, who appeared to receive much of the hostility during the heated public meeting, said he “100 percent” condemns the sign.
“That kind of directed violent imagery tests the boundaries of free speech,” Rowse said. “I assume the elephants on the picture indicate Republicans and perhaps it was directed at me. Too bad I’ve never been a Republican.”
Meanwhile, Meagan Harmon also said the menacing sign was “clearly unacceptable.” “I guess the First Amendment says it’s okay, but like, does anyone say it’s a good thing?” she said.
Mike Jordan said he regretted not speaking out against the sign during the meeting.
“I’m extremely sorry, looking back, that I didn’t just pop off about that, and the loud personal verbal attack on [McAdoo] and staff. … I’m pretty much done politely dealing with immature [people] who think part of advocacy or discussion is jeering, attempting to intimidate, and generally acting like spoiled toddlers,” he said.
Oscar Gutierrez also said the sign was unacceptable, calling it “rage bait,” but defended free speech rights.
He said he plans to “voice my disapproval” to those behind it and “ask the city attorney if we can limit signs at the public comment podium.”
Meanwhile, Councilmember Wendy Santamaria, who supports rent control, did not respond to questions about the offensive sign. Councilmember Kristen Sneddon also did not respond to requests for comment.
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