Homeowners' Rights

The Tribune is shocked, shocked that some realtors on the north shore are fighting back against the nanny-state mentality that is eroding our freedom as homeowners:

The wealthy North Shore has become ground zero for a well-funded Realtors group that has launched campaigns to fight everything from the creation of historic districts to sprinkler requirements for new homes.

Using techniques normally associated with well-heeled political campaigns, the North Shore-Barrington Association of Realtors (NSBAR) has launched Web sites, sent out slick mailings, placed automated telephone calls, conducted opinion polls and used other tools to rally support for the group's position on issues loosely grouped under the umbrella of homeowners' rights.

If the Trib reporter thinks the proponents of the nanny state aren't slick or politically connected, think again. And again. My friend earlier here. Wilmette Life here. More here.

And who was being political here? Who initially went national? I remember when the national group took over the Kenilworth train station with signs and flashy media coverage--in an attempt to intimidate and preempt debate.

I live in an old house, and it's on a street that's on the preservation list. But we homeowners all agreed to it after careful consideration we would not be bound in any way. Making the whole village a district seems dictatorial.