So, I guess I’m on the blacklist now
Posted by Brian February 06, 2008
Recently, the Hillcrest Residents’ Association made me feel annoyed and guilty all at once.
A while ago, they left a letter in my mailbox. Basically, it said that they had some money and were going to plant some trees in the neighborhood. If I didn’t want a tree in my front yard (in the “public right of way” in between the road and the sidewalk), then I should give them a call and tell them. Otherwise, “enjoy your new tree!”
Well, I forgot to call them. So I walk out of my house on Saturday, and there are TWO trees out there.
I didn’t really want them. In my opinion, their placement did not add to the beauty of my house. So (with encouragement from David), I called the dude up.
He was not pleased. At all. But at least he didn’t fight me on it. He just sighed and said it would take a few days before they could come and get them.
Ugh. This whole episode made me feel icky inside. First of all, it is very annoying that they did this in an “opt-out” manner, instead of “opt-in”. Isn’t it their own fault for planting stuff in my yard without getting my permission first? On the other hand, I felt guilty for not calling them before they planted the trees, thus causing them the extra effort of coming back to get them out. Also, I feel guilty in another way: Am I wrong for not wanting those trees? Maybe I should want them.
Blah.
Anyway, I’m sure I’ve made an enemy of the HRA now. But the trees are gone. 
NO you should not feel guilty. I totally agree with you. It should have been an opt-in offer. That is totally ridiculous the way they handled it. I would be annoyed too. You did the right thing.
By the way, we should have dinner some time!
Yes, I think I agree with Joan. You should not feel guilty.
Excellent.
Yes, Joan, dinner.
brian , guilty! guilty! guilty! on all three accounts!!! [just kidding]