Guilford County commissioners voted six to two against placing the phrase "In God We Trust" on county buildings Thursday.
Commissioner James Upchurch, R-6, made the proposal and was joined by Commissioner Pat Tillman, R-3, in voting for it. The measure was estimated to cost $40,000 to implement.
Board Chair Skip Alston, D-8, says he opposed the proposal after comments made by Upchurch in a local outlet. He says Upchurch was not being transparent about his true intent.
"I support the national motto but I do not support someone trying to use this issue in order to further any political agenda," he said.
Several residents also spoke out against the proposal. Lawrence Cormier says religion has been weaponized to oppress and harass specific groups.
The phrase would have been placed on ten buildings including the county courthouse.