Community Development District 8 supervisors were split on a request for more time from a disabled Vietnam veteran with an out-of-compliance driveway.
Kevin McCabe served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967 and was seriously injured when he stepped on a land mine. He was awarded the Purple Heart.
He and other aging and physically challenged residents of the Hallandale Villas ran afoul of Community Standards after they extended their driveways without approval from the Architectural Review Committee. They were ordered last month to bring their driveways into compliance.
Three homeowners appealed Friday to the CDD 8 board, seeking more time to deal with their driveway dilemma.
Hallandale Villas homeowners Harold and June Huff and Rebecca Billups were granted 60 additional days to bring their driveways into compliance.
Kevin and Jean McCabe also asked for a 60-day extension, but their request presented a thornier decision for the board.
The couple indicated they are exploring the pursuit of a discrimination claim through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, based on Kevin McCabe’s disabilities which are a result of his military service.
District officials suggested that the McCabes would not use the additional time to bring their property into compliance.
“They are lining up their lawsuit against you. That is why they are asking for an extension,” warned District Counsel Valerie Fuchs.
Jean McCabe, who at times became emotional as she spoke to the board, said they were trying to gather medical information to pursue their case.
Three supervisors – Duane Johnson, Sal Torname and Larry McMurry – voted to the give the McCabes 60 more days. Two supervisors, Phil Walker and Dennis Hayes, voted against the 60-day extension.
