BALTIMORE — At first glance one backyard in the 3400 block of Lyndale Avenue look lush and serene. However, neighbors say don't let the greenery fool you.
"There are rats," said Helen Alexis. "I don't want people thinking the house is abandoned because of the way it looks."
Neighbors say because of the lack upkeep the property line has become a dumping ground for trash by others.
WMAR-2 News checked public records and found the home is owned and the permanent residence for John R. Welborn.
"I want him to cut the grass," said Alexis.
This isn't the first time she's had to deal with this issue.
In the past DPW crews had to come out and cut back the greenery.
"We all need to do our part," said Alexis. "This is not DPW fault."
Mr. Welborn was home but didn't come to the door when WMAR-2 News talked.
We've since learned an inspection with Baltimore City's Department of Housing and Community Development came out on September 17th and has since had contact with Mr. Welborn.
"He called our office and asked for an extension," said DHCD's deputy commissioner Ed Booker. "The new deadline is November 16th. Once that notice expires, we will choose to either issue a $250 citation or we will request a work order from our sister agency the department of public works to remedy the situation."
Neighbors are hoping their neighbor takes action sooner than November. One even said he's be happy to cut the grass free of charge.
"I would ask him if he wanted me to cut it," said Anthony Williams. "If he said yes, I'd do it. If not, I wouldn't but he's got to ask. I don't want a trespassing charge."
