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Neighbor urges New Albany to remove reflective boundary signs at Taylor Farm Park and step up enforcement
Summary
A resident who lives adjacent to Taylor Farm Park told council reflective boundary markers installed by the city are unsightly, insufficient and ineffective at preventing trespass and encroachment; staff said signs were approved by the planning commission and described enforcement steps.
Courtney Lynch, a long-time New Albany resident whose property backs to Taylor Farm Park, told council on June 16 that recent reflective boundary markers placed at the ends of driveways are unattractive and have unintended consequences for neighbors.
"A reflective street sign had been placed at the end of my driveway at the property line...this is not in line with New Albany aesthetics," Lynch said, adding that the signs are not distributed widely (she said nine signs were placed while about 33 properties border the park) and that people now walk through unlit yard areas to reach the park.
City staff and multiple council members responded that the signs were intended as a permanent delineation of the park boundary after repeated temporary stakes had been moved. Planning staff said the signs followed a placement pattern discussed with the planning commission and that, given the extent of encroachments, a durable marker was selected to improve clarity before enforcement action. Staff also noted many adjacent property owners have mowed well beyond the official boundary and that enforcement follow-up would be required to address encroachments.
Council discussed alternatives including different signage, partial fencing or other physical measures, and emphasized the need to combine clearer delineation with active enforcement. Staff advised residents to contact the city's property services team to escalate specific cases so that legal remedies can be pursued where violations exist.
What happened next: Council did not vote on a policy change during the meeting. Staff said signage was approved previously by the planning commission and presented the signs as a step to clarify boundaries ahead of enforcement. Residents and council said they would continue to pursue collaborative, more aesthetic solutions.
Why it matters: The dispute highlights tensions between preserving parkland, enforcing property lines and local neighborhood aesthetics. The city's approach to boundary marking and enforcement affects property values, perceptions of safety and neighbor relations.
Speakers (attributed quotes): Courtney Lynch (resident), city staff identified as Ryan (property services/planning staff), council members who discussed enforcement.
