By Marilyn Miller
In an effort to beautify and increase safety in their Village, Dixie Inn officials are reminding residents of existing ordinances that aim to control vehicle fix-it shops, over-grown weeds and at-large animals.
Dixie Inn Chief of Police Jeffrey McNeill pointed out that some information on the Village’s Facebook page was misunderstood.
“We are not saying that residents cannot work on their own vehicles,” Chief McNeill said. “Our goal is to address the issue of individuals operating mechanic shops from residential properties. If a vehicle belongs to the property owner or renter, there is absolutely nothing wrong with changing the oil, replacing brakes, or performing normal maintenance on your own vehicle.”
“However, we have experienced an increase in complaints about people operating mechanic businesses from their homes. According to our local ordinance, this creates issues that we are obligated to address,” McNeill continued.
“Regarding yard maintenance, we are not expecting residents to mow their yards during periods of severe or inclement weather like we’ve recently experienced. We understand that weather can delay yard work.”
The chief pointed out that when grass has grown to an excessive height—such as waist high or higher—it becomes a violation of an ordinance and must be addressed.
“The mayor, the board of aldermen and I are working together to make Dixie Inn a cleaner, safer and more beautiful community. We respectfully ask every resident to do their part in helping us achieve that goal.”
Chief McNeill also addressed the issue of animals running at-large.
“We have been working diligently to locate these animals and identify their owners. This is a significant challenge, especially since the Village does not currently have its own animal control officer. I would like to thank Sheriff Jason Parker for allowing the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division to assist us in capturing loose animals. Their partnership has been greatly appreciated as we continue working to get this situation under control.”
Residents who have questions, concerns, suggestions, even criticisms – Chief McNeill’s door is always open. He is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“I welcome the opportunity to speak to you,” he said.
“We have a role to play in making Dixie Inn the community we know it can be. By working together, we can continue making our town a place we all are proud to call home.”
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