LAUDERHILL, Fla. – After months and months of trying to figure out what she did wrong, it’s now case closed for a South Florida homeowner following a Local 10 News investigation.
As we reported on Friday, a Lauderhill resident was facing a possible lien and fines for simply replacing dead grass with pavers and rocks on her property.
After several months of trying to make her neighbor happy and deal with the city, Loretta Bayliss says she was informed she is now in full compliance: No lien on her house, no fines.
Bayliss’ neighbor didn’t — and still doesn’t — like the grass, rocks, and potted plants that Bayliss placed on her property.
That neighbor, Arlene Edwards, went to code enforcement claiming the rocks got in the tires of her Mercedes and caused rainwater to drain into her driveway.
Originally, Bayliss had put down pavers and rocks to replace dead grass.
A day after Local 10 News went to Lauderhill City Hall to get some answers, a code officer went out and approved the latest change.
City officials said Bayliss did the work without a permit and violated a 3-foot setback from her neighbor’s property. That’s why she was facing penalties.
Bayliss says it’s harassment, as others have done the same around the city.
“It’s only over because you are here,” she said. “Someone else knows about it, but I feel that it is just temporary.”
“You think (Edwards) will find something else?” Local 10 News reporter Jeff Weinsier asked.
“Yes. I really believe that,” Bayliss replied.
The city of Lauderhill claims when there is a complaint, they are obligated to investigate, despite any bad blood between neighbors.