Erin and TJ Bouda are baby boomers who live in a 55-plus Clearwater, Florida, ho

Question

Erin and TJ Bouda are baby boomers who live in a 55-plus Clearwater, Florida, housing development run by WaterBlue Homeowners Association. They have lived in their current house for five years and plan to live the rest of their lives in this home.

A few months ago, the Boudas started raising their three-year-old grandson, Riley, because his mother has a substance abuse problem and his father is deceased. Unfortunately, WaterBlue Homeowners Association has a policy that prohibits children less than 18 years of age as permanent residents.  Two neighbors of the Boudas have already complained about Riley.

Take on the role of the homeowners association and write to the Boudas, telling them that their grandson has to leave (which is not an option) or that they have to give up their home. As you write, be sure to consider the audience and the effect your letter will have on them.

Hints:
What reasons besides “policy” can you offer the Boudas to help them understand the situation?
What help can you offer them?
Are there any alternatives that you can offer?

Explanation / Answer

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Bouda,

Hope you are doing good.

This is regarding your recent adoption of your grandson to live along with you in your residence. As you know, this is against the policy of the Homeowners Association and we have already received a couple of complaints regarding the same. As it is a firm policy, allowing one family to deviate from the rule might encourage others to follow suit thus resulting in a complete disregard to the policies. Hence request you to consider the same and leave the housing colony if you consider living with your grandson. However, you can come back to the colony once your grandson is 18 years old as per the policy.

As an alternative, we can discuss your case as a special case among the association and consider their voting to decide on the next course of action as a last resort. Thanks for understanding and apologies for the painful request.

Regards,

Homeowners Association.

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