THETFORD, Vt. — A former Vermont gubernatorial candidate says she had a 60-foot by 24-foot “screen” built so she wouldn’t have to see her neighbour’s home.
Ruth Dwyer tells WPTZ she’s lived on her farm in rural Thetford for over 40 years. Two years ago, a new home was built across the street.
Dwyer says one of her horses was startled by a child on the neighbour’s driveway, prompting her to plant cedar trees to block her view of the home. She had a temporary “screen” installed while they grow.
Zoning officials have since fined her $200 each day she doesn’t have a permit for the structure, adding up to more than $15,000.
Dwyer, denied a permit in February, says her screen doesn’t violate any rules.
“It’s not a wall, it’s not a fence. It’s a screen for livestock control,” said Dwyer.
But Dwyer’s neighbour Patrick Perry says the structure is “unwelcoming.”
Dwyer insists that she requires the privacy the screen provides.
“I just want to continue with my life and be left alone,” she said.
Dwyer unsuccessfully ran for governor in 1998 and 2000.
– with files from Jenny Sung
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