In a perplexing turn of events in a South Dakota neighborhood, a couple found themselves embroiled in a legal battle with their next-door neighbors over their newly constructed dream home. Josh and Sarah Thompson thought they were adhering to city zoning laws when they built a large four-bedroom residence just seven feet away from the McKinley family’s property. However, their neighbors, Linda and Mark McKinley, were not pleased, claiming the new house obstructed their natural light and violated historical standards in the McKennan Park Historic District.
A judge recently ruled that the Thompsons must either “reconstruct or relocate” their home, which has been deemed non-compliant with the historic requirements of the area. According to USA Today, the McKinleys argued that the proximity of the Thompsons’ house has diminished their property’s value and aesthetic appeal. Judge Richard Anderson concurred, stating that the home disrupts the neighborhood’s character and does not meet size and space regulations.
The legal saga commenced even before construction was completed, as the McKinleys had issued a cease and desist letter to the Thompsons, warning them of potential legal repercussions if they proceeded without addressing their concerns—a warning that went unheeded. “They just moved forward with construction without considering anyone else’s rights,” remarked the McKinleys’ attorney, whose clients are relieved by the judge’s ruling.
Interestingly, while the city of Sioux Falls had approved the Thompsons’ building plans, it overlooked federal guidelines pertaining to historic districts, which raises questions about the city’s accountability. Testimonies from members of the Sioux Falls Board of Historic Preservation revealed that they were unaware of the applicable regulations.
The Thompsons are now weighing their options, which include appealing the ruling or making significant modifications to their home. In the meantime, they live just seven feet away from their disgruntled neighbors, amidst this ongoing dispute.
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Conclusion
In summary, the legal battle between the Thompsons and the McKinleys underscores the complexities of building in historic neighborhoods, revealing the potential for conflict even when city approvals are obtained. As the Thompsons face tough decisions about their home, they must navigate both the legal implications and their relationship with their neighbors.