Good Neighbors

I wrote the previous entry on animals due to the growing number of complaints I had received and the suggestion that I note that this is becoming a problem in Lakeland.

After the entry appeared, I received a comment that roaming cats are as much of a problem as dogs.

I think the issue really is “being a good neighbor”. A good neighbor doesn’t let their cats, dogs or other animals roam the neighborhood tearing up gardens, frightening walkers etc. A good neighbor shows respect for other residents in a lot of ways, including noise, trash, yard/house maintenance etc. (If I try to enumerate all of the ways, I will leave something out!)

I believe most Lakeland residents do try to “be a good neighbor”. I personally am lucky in that I have wonderful neighbors and it is easy to forget just how disruptive to daily life and “BAD” a “bad” neighbor can be.

If talking with your neighbor about a problem doesn’t help, or you don’t know the person responsible the City does have a Code Enforcement program to remind residents of violations of City Ordinances and resolve problems. Violations may be reported by using the Action Request form at www.Lakelandtn.gov, calling City Hall at 867-2717 or e-mail CityHall@Lakelandtn.org. We are required to provide notice of the possible violation and provide time to correct the problem, so it does take time to resolve the problem. In most cases we are required to provide at least 10 days notice of a violation.