Bay Crest Park Civic Assn.

I read in the recent newsletter a question about ''neighbors'' calling Code Enforcement rather than addressing an issue directly with their neighbor. In the response from the Civic Association, it was suggested that calling Code Enforcement is the recommend course of action. I recently had a visit from a code inspector who had received a complaint about my boat trailer overhanging the sidewalk. Keep in mind that my boat/trailer is in my driveway typically 2 - 3 weeks out of an entire year, and that the trailer only stuck into the walk by a few inches. Nonetheless, I was forced to move it. Fortunately, one of my true neighbors agreed to allow me to keep the trailer in his driveway until I was done with it and could return it to storage. If we want to truly be neighbors and have a friendly neighborhood, I would suggest we talk to each other to understand the situation (whether it's a trailer, long grass, etc.). If it can not be resolved amicably, then get the authorities involved.

By Brian

Dealing with Code Violations

Brian's case was one of the unfortunate exceptions that occur and a case of a resident being overzealous. My personal experience in trying to talk to people about infractions has been less than satisfactory and never resolved anything, so I don't do it any more. There are people living here who haven't spoken to each other in years because of disputes arising from the deed restrictions we used to have, which pitted neighbor against neighbor. Allowing Code Enforcement to handle matters avoids this, although it does give license to nitpickers and chronic complainers.