REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BRADENTON - A Florida man who feels he is being unfairly treated by local code enforcement officials has mounted an unusual protest - he painted his house like the American flag.
"It's just total government abuse. This is still America," said Brent Greer, who lives in Bradenton, Florida.
Greer was upset that city code enforcement officers inspected his home in February after an anonymous complaint that a 15-foot(4.5-metre)-tall Christmas tree on his front porch had fallen over, he said.
A code enforcement officer came to inspect, and Greer said, "My wife gladly took it down."
The officer went on to cite Greer for a list of violations including lack of screens on some windows, peeling house paint, yard debris, and some rotted and loose wood, according to a copy of the complaint provided by Greer.
City officials could not be reached for comment. Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A code enforcement hearing is set for June 17 at which Greer said he could be fined 250 USD a day.
Greer, who runs a landscaping business and acknowledges the 110-year-old home is not in perfect repair, said he made some corrections but disputes other parts of the citation.
"There are no safety issues at my house. None. Zero," Greer said.
The Bradenton Herald described the house as one of the few old residences along the Manatee River built before a boom in multi-million homes. Greer said his wife Catherine, who holds an art degree, and their seven children repainted the house in red, white and blue, complete with stars.
He said the family has received an outpouring of support, particularly among veterans. He said they intend to further decorate the house with a painted plywood Liberty Bell which they will place where the Christmas tree had stood.
"It's in compliance," Greer said.
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