AVON, Colorado — State Senate candidate Ken Brenner removed his campaign signs this week from property of a developer tied to a metro district being sued by the town of Avon, Colorado for not paying taxes.

Brenner said he thought It was inappropriate for the signs to be there.

“Those of us running for public office must strive to uphold the highest standards,” he said. “I think it sends a mixed message for any candidate to receive campaign help from someone who apparently has not been willing to pay their fair share for the government services we all rely on.”

Avon filed a lawsuit Tuesday that claims the Traer Creek Metropolitan district which manages the Wal-Mart shopping center owes the town around $650,000. Mangus Lindholm — who owns the property where Brenner’s signs were displayed — developed the shopping center and signed an agreement with Avon requiring the district pay the town.

Brenner, a Steamboat Springs Democrat, said he was unaware of the district’s tax problems, but pulled the signs immediately after he found out.

“Once I became aware of this, I wanted to have an arms length distance from this developer,” Brenner said. “And until he clears this up, I think my opponent and other candidates should as well.”

Republican state Senate candidate Al White was not immediately available for comment.