On September 10, the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Town Commission voted 3–2 to co-name Sea Grape Drive as “President Donald J. Trump Drive.”

This decision came despite overwhelming opposition from residents who spoke at the public meeting. One after another, community members voiced concerns about division, property values, and the future reputation of our small town. Many asked: “Why invite this problem?” Yet commissioners ignored those voices and moved ahead.

This is not just about a sign. Symbols matter. They tell the world what a community values. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has long been known for its motto, “Relax, you’re here,” and for its welcoming, nonpartisan charm. Naming a street after one of the most divisive presidents in American history sends the opposite message; one of partisanship and exclusion.

We believe this co-naming is wrong for several reasons:

• Ignored residents: The majority of speakers at the public meeting opposed the change. The commission ignored local voices and pushed ahead.
• Premature honor: Presidents are usually recognized long after history has judged their legacy. Donald Trump’s presidency remains polarizing, and honoring him now is reckless.
• Community values: Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is known for its motto, “Relax, you’re here,” and its welcoming, nonpartisan vibe. A Trump street sign divides neighbors and damages our town’s reputation.
• Symbols matter: This isn’t “just a sign.” It sends a message that partisanship and autocracy deserve civic honors in our community.
  Lauderdale-by-the-Sea belongs to its residents, not to political operatives. We urge the Town Commission to repeal this decision and keep Sea Grape Drive free from partisan branding.

We, the undersigned, call on the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Town Commission to reverse this co-naming immediately.

Sea Grape Drive belongs to its residents and to the whole community, not to partisan politics. We urge the commission to listen to the people, respect the town’s character, and repeal this divisive and unnecessary change.

Together, we can keep Lauderdale-by-the-Sea the welcoming town it has always been.