Lafayette County Property Owner Given 30 Days to Clean Up Tires, Vehicles

The Lafayette County Board of Supervisors has set a deadline for a local property owner to clear their land of various discarded items, including inoperative vehicles and tires. The owner has been given 30 days to accomplish this task or face legal repercussions. This decision came after a public hearing, where the Board unanimously agreed that the unclean conditions at the property located at 37 CR 427 pose a threat to public health, safety, and welfare.

Disturbing History of the Issue

Director of Planning Services Joel Hollowell revealed that the local authorities have had past engagement with the owners of the property. The initial contact dates back to 2020, when a sewage problem was rectified. Hollowell also recalled seeing discarded tires at the property during the investigation.

The property is currently occupied by Willard Denham’s daughter, Connie Denham, and her boyfriend, Dean Edwards. Neighbor complaints in 2021 and 2022 about the presence of inoperative cars, tires, and other debris led to increased scrutiny. Initially, it seemed that the property was cleaned up well by February 2022. However, fresh complaints arose in April this year when a neighbor reported the excessive return of the discarded items.

Recent Developments and Actions Taken

In response to the complaint, Hollowell visited the site in early April and served Edwards with a citation requiring the removal of tires within seven days. However, things took a turn when Edwards allegedly got aggressive during the visit. Later in May, Hollowell noted slight improvement, but not sufficient enough for a two-week duration.

Hollowell expressed concern about standing water and mosquito larvae in the tires, indicating a possible public health concern. He further disclosed the visible operations of a car and tire repair business, which is a violation of county regulations for rural zoned properties.

A Question of Fairness and Compliance with County Laws

In an interesting turn, Connie accused Hollowell of unfairly singling them out due to his relationship with the neighbor lodging the complaints. However, Supervisor Brent Larson reminded her that the intent was to ensure adherence to county laws rather than placating Hollowell.

Edwards requested information about licensing a scrap yard, which Hollowell declined, stating that such businesses aren’t allowed in their zoned area. Specific regulations prohibit open storage of inoperative vehicles on A1-zoned property; such vehicles must be kept inside of a shed or garage. Additionally, scrap metal and tires can be stored as long as they are in neat stacks without standing water.

Future Implications

The Board has now given a 30-day deadline to remove the debris, inoperative vehicles, and tires from the property. Failure to comply could lead to fines and additional costs incurred by the property owner if a county clean-up crew is dispatched.