Upset Neighbors Refuse Demand from HOA to Keep Garage Open or $200 Fine
A California community is upset after their homeowners association sent out letters with a ridiculous demand.
Homeowners were asked to leave their garage doors open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. If they refused, they would receive a hefty $200 fine.
Many residents of the neighborhood are concerned, as they may have valuables in their garages they don’t wish to put on display for potential thieves.
One resident, 9-year-old Jason, is worried about leaving his bike and other possessions in the garage from now on.
“I’m still worried a little. I’m still a little worried because I just think it’s all going to get stolen, you know?” he said.
“I don’t think it’s a good idea because they are going to steal my bike,” he continued. “I’ve got an electric scooter, I’ve got an electric wheelchair, I’ve got all kinds of stuff. So, I just don’t think it’s very good to have it open.”
This sudden demand comes after one resident was found with someone living in their garage, an apparent violation.
But another resident, Shally la, says that one resident’s mistake shouldn’t mean such drastic measures for others.
“I have nothing to hide. I understand somebody had people living in the garage. I don’t. I am following the rules,” Ia said.
“All I am asking is a reasonable way to get around this. If you want to do a monthly, bi-monthly inspection of my garage, I have nothing to hide.
“If I have something that’s being stored in there and you don’t like it I’ll remove it.”
Residents like la have decided not to follow the HOA demand by keeping their garage doors shut.
“Fine, let me give you the $200 fine right now,” Ia said. “Give me a month so I can get my stuff out, and I might as well clear everything out and leave the garage door open permanently because there is no point of having a garage door then.”
When asked if the request should be changed, Jason said “I hope it does change. I hope it does.”
For now, some residents seem to be following the rule, while others are pushing the boundaries of what “open” means by propping the door open just a few inches.
Either way, most residents are upset by the demand and hope to overrule it at their HOA meeting in two weeks.
Truth and Accuracy
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.
