Letters to the Editor
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Wicked intolerance
I have battled the intolerance of gentrifiers for many years. They have rigid aesthetic views and, once they get hold of power, they can't let go.
It's an excellent lesson in politics, that. Right in your face.
The neighbor overstepped her bounds, absolutely. She illegally trespassed.
But calling the police is not going to help. For one, the police are not likely to take this very seriously. "She conspired to plant oleanders? Mmmhmm." Can you picture Sgt. Friday?
And, if your town is anything like most towns these days, the authorities are more likely to take a look at the old lady's house and start writing citations if it's really in bad shape. I have seen people lose their homes over situations like this because they couldn't afford the repairs to bring the place up to code.
There are 2 things you can do.
First, if there is a civic association, homeowner's association, whatever it may be called, become active in it. If your neighborhood has a reputation for tolerance, that means that the majority of people are tolerant and the NIMBYs are a minority (they often are). But most people don't want to get involved with neighborhood associations or they don't know what's going on. Make sure they do know. Do not get into shouting matches, but form alliances to block the enactment/enforcement of rigid rules. If there are rules, make sure they're reasonable and as far from aesthetic judgments as possible. There's lots of stuff on the internet about this.
Second, do something to really help your elderly neighbor. Research elder care resources. There are organizations that do modest repairs on homes, provide check-in services, home care, what-have-you that she may be eligible for. Your neighbor may be more amenable to help from strangers than from neighbors. Organize a neighborhood "Help Day." If a group of neighbors is willing to pitch in with time and materials on a Saturday, just leave your elderly neighbor a note and ask her what work she needs done, a wish list. Write that you won't take no for an answer, that people feel good about helping others and she'd be providing the neighbors a chance to get closer to each other. She'd be giving them more than they give her. Be sure and invite the NIMBY. She's a go-getter.
And replant those oleanders if the elderly neighbor says it's OK.