Soldier's wife fights condo group's flag ban

[samosetguy]

I own at Samoset. Unfortunately, I don't know the Farnell's.

I have an American flag on my condo and I've never been told to take it down. As the article points out, there are flags everywhere in the complex on units. At least four units in my building alone also have flags. Personally, I don't believe there is any rule against flags. I think (speculation alert!) this is a misunderstanding that accidently originated by the management company. The rule that was approved in Dec 2010 is (I believe) an affirmation of the same rule that has existed for years (i.e. nothing new to prohibit flags).

I think the only issue is who should pay for the broken flag. I totally agree with Mrs. Franell's frustration. I would feel the same way. However, I would also point out that it appears both times the flag was broken it was while the association was trying to preserve the structure of her specific unit (i.e. new roof and removing excess snow). So, I think it's a little unfair of the Union Leader to paint the association and Board as this evil group of people. I think their intentions are in the right place. To me it sounds like the contractor performing the work should pay for the flag.

At this point, if I were on the Board, I would remiburse her the cost of the flag because an $80 flag will probably avoid $8k in legal fees.

In my opinion, Samoset is a great community of people. I hope the Franell's are not turned off too badly and I look forward to thanking them for their service to our country when I meet them.