For many who may not be aware there were two sections of Cedar Crest. Sadly the older section mostly student rentals was almost totally destroyed and has now been cleared. Located on the other side of Edward Hilliard Blvd (6th Avenue) is the newer section of Cedar Crest established sometime in the late or early 60’s.

I am concerned for the long time residences of Cedar Crest who settled into and raised their families here. Centrally located Cedar Crest can be marketed among realtors as an ideal location for permanent residents such as hospital or University of Alabama professors and employees. Many retired and older residences live in this quite community. Sadly over the years many homes were sold to investors who have no interest in maintaining the appearance of their homes, yards or the community. The carefully maintained shrubbery of the original home owners was often cut down to reduce lawn care expenses. Many of the homes were over crowed with occupants forcing them to park in the yards or on the street.

The city has let the rental property companies rule the city. Rental companies should not be allowed to destroy a neighborhood. I am asking for our elected officials and the citizens of this city to stand up for all communities especially Cedar Crest and say enough is enough. Rental properties and their yards should be maintained as if the home owner lived in them. Overnight parking should not be allowed on city streets or in the front yard. Landlords should not be allowed to rent a three bedroom home to five or six individuals when there is only ample parking for two or three vehicles. In many cities the law limiting the number of unrelated individuals living in a single home is enforced. Landlords and the city must be held accountable.