Town Inspector and Zoning Help!!

[lacysea]

What is the name of your state? New York

Hi all,

Over a year ago I rented a stand-alone cottage (not attached to my house and about 10 feet behind my house) to a guy, he lived there for a total of 6 weeks. Even though I checked his references, he turned out to be unstable. He threatened me with a knife and I got arrested because I moved his stuff out and changed the lock because I was scared for my life.

Anyway, he reported the cottage to my town and ever since, the town has been after me to either make the cottage legal or rip it down. I am disabled and live alone and that was my source of income to keep my house. He also stated that I gave him a lease which I never did (I guess that's another problem).

Now I have a new problem: I was supposed to show up at a Town Hearing and due to my illness, I didn't go as I have problems walking. I have chronic lyme disease and some days my legs will not work. I called the town to let them know I couldn't come that day.

Anyway, they want a Valid Letter stating why I didn't show up and if the reason is "not" valid enough, they will fine me $5,000.00.

What is a good valid reason? Will they accept that I was too sick to show up? I don't know.

I would appreciate any advice. Thanks.

[HomeGuru]

duplicate post.