Politics & Government

Controversial Crosses Near Julian May Move

A local pastor offers his church property for the crosses, which Caltrans determined were erected without permits on public property decades ago.

Three controversial crosses may be moved off public property near Julian and onto church property.

Caltrans has been looking for ways to remove the crosses near the entrance to a viewing point a few yards from state Route 79 near Julian. The crosses have stood there for decades and residents gather around them for Easter services. Caltrans announced Wednesday that there may be a solution.

Pastor Rick Hill has offered to have the crosses relocated to his Hillside Community Church property.

"We are grateful that Pastor Hill stepped forward and made the
offer,'' Catherine Bruce-Johnson of Caltrans said. "The next step will be for the pastor and his congregation to select the site and take ownership within the next month.''

After receiving a citizen's complaint that the crosses were on public
property, Caltrans determined they were erected without permits and planned to remove them. That led to objections by people who wanted the crosses to stay. They are located off Inspiration Point Road, just south of Julian, where visitors can see panoramic views of the Borrego Valley.

Caltrans has been in communication with area churches and the Julian Chamber of Commerce in recent weeks to find an alternative location.

The issue of crosses on public property has been under public debate for years in San Diego County. Despite numerous lawsuits and court rulings, large and highly visible crosses remain standing on Mount Soledad in La Jolla and Mount Helix near La Mesa.

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City News Service contributed to this story.

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