HOA's arbitrary rules put Tennessee man's 'daily produce' garden in jeopardy. His wife hit back with a lethal response
Jason and Christy Veal got the HOA's approval to install the raised garden beds, before a new rule scrapped that plan
Most of us assume that homeownership would bring us the freedom to use our own land as we please. However, that hasn't been true for Jason and Christy Veal of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, who, only a few days ago, got into a dispute with the HOA over a new policy regarding the size of their garden. It started after the couple installed 10 raised garden beds (3-by-7 in size) beside their home in the Kimbro Woods subdivision at the start of March, soon after which the HOA issued them a notice, NewsChannel 5 reported on April 25.
The HOA moved the goalpost
Last year, the family got approval from the HOA to install these raised garden beds, which allowed the garden as long as it was not in the front yard. However, on the notice they received on March 26, the new rule limited the lots to either two 4-by-8 beds or four 2-by-6 beds, meaning the Veal family's garden didn't meet the policies, which left them pretty confused.
"We want to follow the rules; it's just [that] the rules keep changing. How are you compliant if you keep moving the bar?" Christy said. When asked about the same, Timmons Properties, which manages the association, stated that while the Veal family did get an approval last year, the change in the rule was made after they received more than one complaint about the Veals' garden. They added that the raised beds are considered a built improvement and require approval, which they didn't get this year.
The delay puts the family’s plans on hold
Since Timmons Properties only advises the HOA and cannot make rules, it all comes down to the HOA to give its verdict on the matter. As for now, the HOA president has yet to speak up on this matter. Meanwhile, the Veal family has been left stranded, as they revealed that this has been their way to keep themselves busy, but most importantly, healthy. It helps both of them get some physical exercise, as Jason has had multiple spinal surgeries.
Last year, they grew around 40 ears of corn and were hoping to grow watermelon, onions, cucumber, squash, and green beans. But now, they'll have to wait for a decision, as both attorneys from both sides will engage in talks to resolve this dispute.
HOAs cause daily stress
Although the homeowners' association (HOA) was initially designed to protect property value and maintain property standards, it has turned into something else entirely. A new survey from Platinum Home Builders & Design, Inc. finds that nearly two-thirds of homeowners living in HOA-governed communities (64%) say their HOA causes day-to-day stress, including 17% who report frequent, high, or extreme stress that affects their mood or mental well-being. At the same time, more than 37% of homeowners say that they regret buying into an HOA.
People lashed out at the HOA for its rule and for restricting the family from growing food. "THIS is why HOAs are despised. Damn shame. How beautiful are his gardens! They should be asking him HOW to share his knowledge instead of demonizing his accomplishments, especially in THIS economy," @tigerlilly9038 wrote. Meanwhile, @lindablujean stated, "If you buy your property and pay your taxes... HOA is unconstitutional and should be illegal. I'll be boycotting these folks. Shame on the HOA. OUTLAW HOA!!!"
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