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So I plan on opening a private in-home daycare this Spring with a capacity of 4 students. I'm not actively advertising yet, but I have started building my own website, created a facebook page as well as obtained any free listings available on directories.
Already, before officially launching, an upset neighbor (that does not even live on my street) is trying to shut it down. My neighborhood is zoned as an 'Established Neighborhood' and our homes and gardens are showcased yearly. I've made it clear that I will do nothing to detract from the neighborhood and do not intend to have any signage around my home and only want to improve my property with landscaping, etc. as I have already done with rocks and mulch since being a resident.
I've already agreed not to become licensed because it is against our HOA covenant to operate a commercial business but a family daycare is not considered commercial and is not required to become licensed in my state until there are more than 4 non-relative children in care. She argues that she does not believe I am trying to run a small operation but will try to blindside the neighborhood by expanding after getting everyone's approval. After speaking at an HOA meeting, I received the approval of the board to operate so long as I do not get licensed to care for more than four children. Fine, that is adequate to financially support my family and live out the dream I have to impact the lives of children.
After it is all over and I've addressed the concerns of parking, noise, traffic, etc. (bitter) she tells me that she doesn't buy my story and that my website clearly contradicts this small environment I discussed in the meeting. She argues that because I am using "expensive curriculum approved by the State" and have a "fancy website that is too professional" she knows there is more to it. I created the website on wordpress on my own and why would I want any less than the best curriculum for the children in my care? Please note that TWO of the children are MY OWN. I'm in the process of creating a newsletter sharing with my neighbors some of the policies I am including in my handbook to be considerate of those around me such as prohibiting double parking and requiring parents not to turn around in my neighbors' driveways as well as provisions to keep quiet and indoors at certain hours and to remove all toys from the backyard daily and my commitment to keep the capacity at four.
I'm not sure what else to do at this point. I really want to be a good neighbor and I'm in love with the house so moving is not an option. Does anyone have any experience in handling this? Also, the website is http://highhopesknox.com and I would love your feedback on what I can do or say to reiterate my intentions. I already have a section that outlines WHY I have four children. HELP!!
Already, before officially launching, an upset neighbor (that does not even live on my street) is trying to shut it down. My neighborhood is zoned as an 'Established Neighborhood' and our homes and gardens are showcased yearly. I've made it clear that I will do nothing to detract from the neighborhood and do not intend to have any signage around my home and only want to improve my property with landscaping, etc. as I have already done with rocks and mulch since being a resident.
I've already agreed not to become licensed because it is against our HOA covenant to operate a commercial business but a family daycare is not considered commercial and is not required to become licensed in my state until there are more than 4 non-relative children in care. She argues that she does not believe I am trying to run a small operation but will try to blindside the neighborhood by expanding after getting everyone's approval. After speaking at an HOA meeting, I received the approval of the board to operate so long as I do not get licensed to care for more than four children. Fine, that is adequate to financially support my family and live out the dream I have to impact the lives of children.
After it is all over and I've addressed the concerns of parking, noise, traffic, etc. (bitter) she tells me that she doesn't buy my story and that my website clearly contradicts this small environment I discussed in the meeting. She argues that because I am using "expensive curriculum approved by the State" and have a "fancy website that is too professional" she knows there is more to it. I created the website on wordpress on my own and why would I want any less than the best curriculum for the children in my care? Please note that TWO of the children are MY OWN. I'm in the process of creating a newsletter sharing with my neighbors some of the policies I am including in my handbook to be considerate of those around me such as prohibiting double parking and requiring parents not to turn around in my neighbors' driveways as well as provisions to keep quiet and indoors at certain hours and to remove all toys from the backyard daily and my commitment to keep the capacity at four.
I'm not sure what else to do at this point. I really want to be a good neighbor and I'm in love with the house so moving is not an option. Does anyone have any experience in handling this? Also, the website is http://highhopesknox.com and I would love your feedback on what I can do or say to reiterate my intentions. I already have a section that outlines WHY I have four children. HELP!!
There is always that "one" neighbor!
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