Wealthy Maryland Enclave Goes to War Over a Swing Set

Some code violation controversies must be reported by The Washington Post to be believed.

1 minute read

May 12, 2016, 5:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Child's swing made out of a tire and rope hanging from a tree in

Don LaVange / Flickr

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.

Friday, May 6, 2016 in The Washington Post

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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