Why is CR Removing This?

There's a really cool mural on the side of the DowntownTire store in Cedar Rapids.  It's a depiction of the famous scene from the film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Maybe you've seen it. If you haven't, better get a look soon -- city code will require it be removed.

My question: WHY?

The mural looks cool, plus it's covering up graffiti and gang signs that had been on the building.

My message to CR: If you want people to stop thinking this city is shortsighted and lame, stop acting shortsighted and lame.