Banned from backyard due to blight

WALLINGFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Banned from their own backyard; that's how a Wallingford family has been feeling for years. They say the town has been avoiding an eyesore and they want something done.

It used to be someone's home when the Parmelee's first moved to the Wallingford neighborhood. For the last four years, they haven't been able to stomach the sight of it.

"Today's my daughters 9th birthday and she has no fond memories of playing in the yard," said David Parmalee. "It disgusts me."

Parmelee says he and his wife don't feel like the town is taking this seriously.

"You've been calling the building department for how many years," asked News 8's Erin Logan.

"Four," Parmalee replied.

They've lived there for 12 years and it wasn't until this summer that they noticed a red garage. That's because it was covered in brush.

News 8 went to town hall and looked at documents showing the owner was issued a citation in April.

"She wants to meet requirements so no fine will be levied on her home."

The owner did what she was told, but that was simply for cleaning up the outside. Parmelee says neighbors want the old structures with squirrels and raccoons running in and out gone. He says one neighbor offered to buy the property.

"She said it was family property," Parmalee said.

News 8 went to talk to the owner, but she didn't answer the door

"I'm hoping there's some aid there to just remove the structure," said Parmalee.

Parmelee says the town needs to take another look at this.

"I really thought they'd have a lot more respect for the town they live in," Parmalee said.