Re: architectural review, exterior decor | <– Date –> <– Thread –> |
From: Lynn Nadeau (welcomeolympus.net) | |
Date: Fri, 28 Jan 2005 09:11:07 -0800 (PST) |
>Do people have architectural review policies that regulate what people >can do outside their units -- neon signs, dog kennels, hammocks, >attached sun shades, etc.... >We now have hanging on various porches and overhangs, Buddhist flags, >American flags, macrame hangings, wire bumblebees, sun blinds, extra >locks on doors, planters, political signs in windows (perpetually), and >signs on doors (mottos), etc. Various of these things bother some >residents more than others but each of them is objectionable to >someone. Omigosh! At RoseWind it would be unthinkable to rule out any of that sort of stuff. Self expression is a major item. We are lot development, detached homes, so you mostly see what's around the houses closest to you, though I think I can see about 16 homes from mine, to some degree, and our paths go by all the houses. OUR battles are about whether such stuff can go on the COMMONS! In general, first look to what you do have in place, in terms of city/town ordinances (which probably cover threats to public health, barking dogs, loud music), your own rules (unshielded exterior lighting that shines in others' eyes), and your own mediation and facilitation techniques. What we'd do here, if my neighbor had a chartreuse barbeque on my property line or a plant with berries toxic to my kids, would be to follow general conflict resolution guidelines, trying direct talk w the neighbor, or third party mediation, or meeting with a few of our facilitation team, to try to find a solution all could agree to. We say we value diversity, and offer both common and private space, so to me that says we negotiate what's in common space, or affects others' health and safety, but what color my window blinds are, or whether my Earth flag is OK, is my own business, and we'll just work it out individually if something is really offensive. (I'm trying to think what would cross my lines - racist, homophobic, hate stuff, I guess.) What next, bumper sticker patrol?! My newest says "No, you can't have my rights: I'm still using them!" Lynn Nadeau, RoseWind Cohousing Port Townsend Washington (Victorian seaport, music, art, nature) http://www.rosewind.org http://www.ptguide.com http://www.ptforpeace.info (very active peace movement here- see our photo)
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