The Silverstein outlines elements of the new lease as follows:
–“Trampolines and swing sets are not permitted in the community“
— “Washing of any vehicle (car, truck, boat, trailer etc,) within the community“
–“Repairs of automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, boats or trailers“
— “No more than three (3) potted plants will be permitted; all must be uniform in size, shape and color.”
— “Nothing shall be propped up against the home which includes but is not limited to ladders“
Texas Tenant’s Union advocacy group told the Silverstein that fine letters included,”a $75 fine for “Mow high grass and weeds.” One resident received a $50 “immediate fine” for “playhouse & trampoline.”
Eliot Barnett, co-founder of Harvest Partners Ltd, had “no comment” Silverstein said.
A news media that tends towards attention-getting ”bad news,’ may have overlooked that such changes could have improved the property and living conditions for residents. The very point that Silverstein made, that these new rules looked like HOA (Home Owners Association) guidelines, is telling. Why do HOA have such rules for middle and upper class neighborhoods, if not to maintain the quality of living there?
Further, what incentive does a potentially negative-slanted news media give a property owner for making on-the-record statements?
On the other hand, did management carefully explain to residents the goals and possible benefits of implementing such guidelines for living and reasons for lease changes? The Observer’s account is silent on such topics and potentially useful insights. ##
(Image credit: Dallas Observer)
