Lake Charles latest city to adopt "In God We Trust" decals

LAKE CHARLES, LA (KPLC) - A new year comes with a new look for city vehicles in the Lake Area.

Lake Charles is the latest city in Southwest Louisiana to adopt the "In God We Trust" decals and some residents say it's about time.

"I think it's a positive influence," Denise Lamb said. "I think that it is one of the best things that we can do. Sulphur already has it, Vinton has it and now Lake Charles."

The city council cleared the way for the decals in a unanimous vote back on November 4, 2015 and within the next two weeks they'll be rolled out on more than 200 city vehicles.

Councilman Rodney Geyen sponsored the measure.

"I think when the citizens of Lake Charles see such stickers displayed on our vehicles they have a feel of trust in the elected officials," Geyen said.

It's a feeling of trust some residents say is more about patriotism than religion.

"Whenever we first got here we were running from oppression," Lamb said. "We need to come back together as a community. If it's by faith, it doesn't matter by what faith but we need to stay there."

Patricia White said she's proud of city leadership for approving the plan.

"I always think there's room for improvement and so if it helps the moral climate of the city then it's a great, great thing for anybody who takes part in it," White said.

While critics slammed the plan for promoting Christianity over other religions, Geyen said people come across the same motto everyday on their money so adding it to city vehicles is no different.

"We all have our own individual choices to make when it comes down to religion. We are not trying to promote a religion as such. We are simply promoting the national motto," Geyen said.

No taxpayer money will be used to fund the program. The decals will be paid for through donations only.

After the decals are issued for all city vehicles they will made available to the public- free of charge on a first come, first served basis.