The Man Who Refused to Pay Fines for Handing Out Water
David Martin, a resident of Goodyear, Arizona, has been defying his HOA by refusing to pay fines for his act of kindness – providing free water to his neighborhood. Despite facing hundreds of dollars in penalties, Martin remains steadfast in his resolve to continue offering this essential service to the community.
For the past four years, a cooler filled with free water has been a staple outside Martin’s home. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that the HOA began taking issue with his gesture of goodwill.
Speaking out against the fines, Martin expressed his frustration, stating, “It baffles my brain and makes it work too hard to figure it out. I don’t feel like I’m doing a disservice to the HOA, to the community, or my family.”
Despite receiving a warning from the HOA in 2022, Martin continued to provide free water until the fines began in May 2024. The penalties, imposed by FS Residential, started at $50 and have since escalated to $100 per month, with the potential for further increases.
Refusing to back down, Martin declared, “They won’t be paid.”
In response to the situation, the HOA issued a statement clarifying their stance: “The Association does not object to a resident providing free water bottles to the community; however, the community’s rules do not allow a resident to advertise water bottle distribution from a portable ice chest visible from neighboring property.”
Despite the ongoing conflict, Martin remains unwavering in his commitment to providing free water to those in need. He has even received offers of financial assistance from concerned individuals, but he insists that donations should go towards the purchase of water instead.
As Martin continues his act of kindness, he leaves a message for the HOA and the community at large: “Come get some free water and chill.”
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