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HOA Makes Decision On "Cooper's Playhouse"

Posted: Feb 7, 2012 11:32 PM
Updated: Feb 8, 2012 7:31 AM


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The Andover Forest Homeowner's Association has made its decision on "Cooper's Playhouse" and it's not in the family's favor.

After months of meetings and public outcry, board members won't back down - they say the playhouse is against neighborhood rules.

The ruling was made Friday and Tuesday, it was detailed in an e-mail sent to the some 500 homeowners in the Anderson Forest subdivision, including Tiffiney and George Veloudis. They built what they say is a therapy-related structure for their young son who has cerebral palsey and despite the latest decision, don't plan to stop fighting for "Cooper's Playhouse".

"They've chose to make this a personal battle against a disabled child," said George Veloudis.

The couple have spoke out about the board's decision Tuesday, just like they have since the playhouse first made headlines two months ago.

So, did neighbor Anna Lueker.

"I think it's time for our neighborhood to question whether this board really represents our interests and whether or not they should resign," said Lueker.

Strong recommendations from a mother of three who suggested the neighborhood, not the board, vote on whether the house stays or goes.

"George and Tiff are very considerate people and I think if everyone in the neighborhood said we can't abide by this that they would respect that decision," said Lueker.

The board's current decision was outlined in a document from their lawyer. It read, not only did the Veloudis family fail to apply for the struction but they didn't prove "the Playhouse structure, as opposed to the alleged specially-installed, therapy-related "steps, ladders and essential" inside, was "necessary" in April 2011 when it was constructed, or even now".

"We provided a 37-page supplement with opinions from therapists, physicians, but these people don't need detailed records and MRIs, that's inappropriate and that's actually not going to happen," said George.

The board suggested the two sides down in mediation to try and work this out, but if they can't agree, a court will be the next to decide the fate of "Cooper's Playhouse".

Until the case is settled, the HOA Board has granted a temporary exemption, meaning the structure can stay for now and members won't fine the family.

Phone messages left with some board members were not returned Tuesday night.

On Wednesday, "Cooper's Law", which would allow such structures for therapy purposes, will be brought up again in a House Committee. The bill's sponsor says he's confident he has enough votes to pass it out of Committee and put it before the full House for a vote.

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