Glasgow residents receive ordinance violation warning letters

GLASGOW, WV (WOWK) – A rule on the books in one eastern Kanawha County community says people need to keep their yards free of eyesores, but a request for people to follow the rules is being met with mixed reaction.

Donald Fannin, the mayor of Glasgow, issued letters to 19 Glasgow homeowners who he says were breaking a local ordinance regarding inoperable vehicles being parked in yards.

Homeowners were notified of their alleged violations, and the letter stated that if they don’t take action soon, an official violation notice will be sent to them. These alleged violations could lead to a penalty of up to a $500 fine, and/or 30 days of jail time.

The letter homeowners received stated, “We believe that our town residents are good neighbors and we wish to encourage compliance, not to punish anyone or generate revenue.”

The letter also notified residents that the town of Glasgow is beginning a beautification process, in an effort to make the town as clean and presentable as possible.

Residents have had mixed reactions to these notices. One resident 13 News spoke with said that she received one of these letters and that she wishes the city of Glasgow could assist her in complying with the codes, as she is disabled.

“It’s like a parent is telling me, ‘You’re going to do this.’ Why don’t we have access to help to beautify our vehicles, yards, and communities?” said Collette Pinkard, a Glasgow resident of two years.

Another Glasgow resident who spoke with 13 News is in full support of the beautification project.

“I think it’s really important. I like seeing clean yards, I like seeing clean porches. I don’t like people that just lay stuff around and make it trashy looking,” said Rebecca Wilcox.

Multiple homes in Glasgow posted signs in their yards that read, “NO HOA.” There is no Homeowners Association in these neighborhoods, but a resident told 13 News that the signs were put up to express the idea that homeowners should be able to use their property however they see fit.

A town hall meeting will be held at Glasgow City Hall on Monday, May 6 at 7 p.m., to allow for Glasgow residents to have an open conversation with city officials about the beautification project, as well as the notices that have been sent around.

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