The City of Salina is ending its legal fight over the Cozy Inn’s mural – and turning its attention to changes in the city’s sign code. Staff will now be tasked with crafting amendments to the city code that mirror the court’s decision.
Mayor Mike Hoppock says the City Commission has reviewed the appellate court’s decision and will not pursue further legal action in the case.
The court ruling leaves the city facing changes to how it regulates murals and signs painted on exterior walls.
City officials say the original district court ruling went beyond simply approving the Cozy Inn display. The city now plans to have staff review and revise its sign regulations to address the court’s decision.
The move brings the legal battle over the popular downtown landmark to a close, while opening the door to changes affecting other signs and murals in Salina.
The battle dates back to November of 2023, when the city ordered Cozy Inn owner Steve Howard to stop work on a hamburger-flying saucer mural on the north side of his restaurant.
