Parents in a South Carolina community are voicing their concerns because their HOA prohibits any sports-related activities on public grasslands. They even planted trees in the middle of the largest common area where kids play sports like soccer.
The HOA claimed that any “organized” activities in common areas could become a burden, while parents said they would prevent children from playing outside. The Creekhaven community has five public grass areas, the largest of which is located near Wind Whisper Circle.
“It was just a bunch of kids from 5 to 9 years old coming to play,” resident Camila Denshuick told WMBF News. “It’s all unorganized. There’s no sponsorship.
One resident said the common areas are spaces for community and conversation, where neighbors can chat, get to know each other and let their children play together in the fresh air.
“The whole environment is like a nurturing community for your kids to grow up in. The parents all get along, and honestly, it’s what you always dream about when you think about community,” said resident Marty Whitten.
Parents told the outlet the frustration began after some HOA members and residents banded together to ban children from using the space for sports-related activities. Some parents received cease-and-desist letters; others found out while passing by and watching the trees being planted.
“I think this is a serious use of power,” Denschuk said. “The fact is that the community board can come out and say, ‘You’re not using this land, you’re not using this property.'”
While no one from the HOA has commented on the issue, HOA President Jimmy Walsh sent a letter to residents, which residents shared with News13.
The letter claimed that common areas were used for activities that were not “designed” for children and their parents, such as sports competitions with music and food.
After four failed attempts to speak with parents, the board decided to regulate the district, which it had the power to do, Walsh said.
“Outside, in the common areas, we’re paying for common area maintenance,” said resident Karl Eversmeyer. “We have as much right to be here as anyone else.”
Parents said the best solution would be to reach a compromise with the board or hold a vote. Many said they would continue to let their children play even if there were trees.
“[It] It’s very frustrating for us because if we can’t play here it’s like we’re not welcome,” said young resident Charlotte Messer.
What are parents supposed to do when society tells them to take their kids out, but no, no, not like that! Damned if we do, damned if we don’t!
