To the Editor:
Thanks for the article – “Avalon High Dunes Homeowner Facing Sanctions for Lawn Installation” – on the lawn/dune situation in Avalon.
Think about it, to level the ground, prepare the ground, lay sod, install irrigation, all takes time. Where were the Avalon inspectors? Did nobody notice what was going on? Inspectors and code enforcement should be checking on the house for different inspections on a regular basis. Do they work with blinders on?
Additionally, who was the landscaper? Did they not know the value of the dunes? Is the landscaper saying that he/she did not realize the importance of the dunes? Hmm. My guess is the Gureghians left a lot of the “details” on how to build their dream house out when talking to the contractor. Why? The contractor knows the rules; they guide the owner.
My experiences in general with code enforcement is that the inspector does “his job” and doesn’t look beyond it. For example, “I check electrical.” However, there should be an overall site or building inspector. Where was that person? How did all this go on and now, many months later, suddenly a lawn is discovered! It reminds me of the famous scene from the film “Casablanca” when Capt. Louis Renault had orders to shut down Rick’s.
“How can you close me up? On what grounds?” Rick Blaine, the owner, asked him.
“I’m shocked! Shocked that gambling is going on in here!” Renault replied, straight-faced.
“Your winnings, sir,” an employee of Blaine’s said as he entered the frame, handing Renault his gambling earnings.
“Oh, thank you very much,” Captain Renault replied.
JACK RIEHL
Cape May
