Wealthy Maryland Enclave Goes to War Over a Swing Set

Justin Wm. Moyer recounts the tale of a $1,500 custom-designed swing set, erected by Bill Maloni in his backyard in Chevy Chase Village, Maryland. "Months after the swing set went up last spring, Maloni was cited for a code violation, which triggered three hearings, a vote by the village’s Board of Managers and, now, possible litigation," reports Moyer.

In the end, the seven-member board elected to govern the tiny enclave voted that the swing set violates the covenant for the property, and should be removed. The article includes a detailed account of the back and forth between Maloni, the Village board, and members of the community—many of whom support Maloni's position. The controversy still awaits resolution, however, as Maloni considers a lawsuit and the swing set still stands.