We have received several complaints about the children playing in our neighborhood. Most of these children are residents here. We want them to play and enjoy themselves. However, this cannot be at the expense of the other residents.
I spoke with Deputy Gillespie of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. She is the Community Region 7 Deputy. Her phone number is 803-977-9866 if you have any questions. She offered the following guidance.
1. The streets are public property. Children can utilize them just like anyone else. However, they should not obstruct traffic or leave debris of any kind in the roadway.
2. Resident’s yards are private property. Children should not enter other resident’s yards without permission.
3. If you feel the children are trespassing or are causing a hazard, rather than confronting the children or their parents, call 911 and ask for assistance. That’s correct, 911. I asked about the non-emergency number and the Deputy said there is one. But she said the same operators answer both numbers, that there is a shortage of dispatchers, and the best thing to do is call 911. The dispatchers will prioritize the calls.
The HOA does not have the authority to adjudicate or intercede in this matter. We cannot instruct the children to not play in the street or stay out of other residents yard. That is the responsibility of law enforcement. The Deputy was very clear in that if you have a complaint or issue, call law enforcement. They will intercede and resolve any complaints.
Hopefully this post has clarified the issue and will help resolve any problems going forward.