My HOA banned children’s play and bike riding when a sign appeared overnight: “We don’t want to move, but kids need to play.”
A homeowners association has introduced new neighborhood guidelines that regulate popular children’s activities.
Residents of the Ohio suburb are fighting against the controversial ban on cycling, rollerblading, playing ball and skateboarding.
4
4
In mid-August, residents noticed a new sign that read, “No bicycling, no skateboarding, no playing ball or rollerblading.”
Around the same time, the Great Oaks Condominium Association released a statement.
“The safety of all members of the Great Oaks community is of the utmost importance,” the message began.
The HOA suggested the new policy was aimed at preventing unnecessary accidents, local ABC affiliate WEWS reported.
“Condominiums have smaller, private streets and therefore there are rules in place to ensure the safety of everyone,” the statement continued.
Many were surprised to learn of the new policy, and some began to speak out.
Kristie Haude is one of the mothers who expressed her frustration.
“He loves being outside, riding his bike and playing basketball,” she said of her young son.
“You know, we’re not allowed to have baskets here, but he still bounces the ball and does things kids should do these days,” she explained.
Residents were even more shocked when they saw the new sign suddenly removed.
“We were driving and thought, ‘Oh my God, the sign is no longer there,'” said Megan Montgomery, a resident of Great Oaks Condominium.
Montgomery tried to understand why the sign was removed.
“So we don’t know if they took it down or maybe someone else came and took it down. But they didn’t say anything about the sign missing, so we assume they took it down,” she concluded.
The issue was discussed during Tuesday night’s HOA meeting, and many are optimistic that a resolution will be reached.
“I feel like both sides can share their concerns and opinions and express what they want,” Montgomery said.
“The main issue is compromise. Both sides need to compromise and I hope they find that,” she added.
A board member present at the deliberations said the rules could be changed permanently with a majority vote from all residents in the neighborhood.
The next opportunity to vote is in May.
In the meantime, Montgomery plans to give her children the opportunity to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities.
“We love living here and we want to continue living here and we just want the kids to be able to be outside and be kids and have fun,” she said.
4
4