Disabled veteran faces HOA lawsuit over flagpole for American flag
- A disabled veteran in Volusia County, Florida, is facing a lawsuit from his HOA over a flagpole installed to display the American flag.
- The HOA claims the veteran did not seek the required approval before building the flagpole, which has led to fines and legal action.
- Community members have expressed strong support for the veteran, viewing the HOA's actions as harassment and unjust treatment of a service member.
In Volusia County, Florida, a disabled veteran is embroiled in a legal battle with his homeowners association (HOA) over a flagpole he installed to display the American flag. The Countryside Villas PUD-3 HOA sued the veteran, claiming he did not obtain the necessary approval before erecting the structure. The dispute began when the HOA sent warning letters regarding fines the veteran accrued for not complying with their rules. The situation escalated after the veteran decided to keep the flagpole up despite the HOA's pressure, accumulating fines totaling $1,000 and resulting in the HOA seeking $8,000 in damages. Residents of the community have rallied around the veteran, arguing that the HOA's actions are unfair and demonstrate harassment, particularly given his service to the country. Statements from the HOA emphasize their focus on procedural compliance, asserting that their actions are not about the flag itself but rather the failure of the veteran to submit an application for the flagpole as required by their rules established since 1990. This public outcry has sparked discussions among HOA members and surrounding residents, some of whom are calling for a recall election for the HOA board members responsible for the lawsuit. With the legal framework in Florida allowing flagpoles under 20 feet despite HOA restrictions, legal experts believe the HOA's position may not hold up in court, highlighting a significant clash between residents’ rights and HOA governance.