HARLINGEN -- The Harlingen business owner who was cited for using a costumed person to wave outside his tax preparation office plead ‘not guilty’ in court Thursday afternoon.

David Perez from Liberty Income Tax received four citations from the City of Harlingen.

Code enforcement claimed a man dressed as the Statue of Liberty was considered an illegal sign.

Lady Liberty would wave to motorists outside Perez’ tax preparation office on 810 North 13th Street.

A judge ordered Perez to meet with the city’s attorney to try and work on an agreement before a potential trial by jury.

Perez told Action 4 News he plans to fight the city, no matter what the cost in the end.