Ashvegas reader: Beaver Lake patrol upsets dog-walker

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Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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Story submitted by loyal reader Hazel

Take your dog for a walk on a beautiful summer day at Beaver Lake, and you might meet this guy.

At first I was excited because at first sight I was sure we were on the set of Reno 911.  

“Ma’am, do you have your dog-walking permit?” he asked as he approached me from his post on an old wooden chair overlooking the lake.  

“Excuse me?” I responded, dumbfounded.  

“If you’re walking a dog in this park, you have to have a dog-walking permit.”  

At this point you’re probably thinking, great, so this is like on Candid Camera where they mess with people… but this guy was no comedian. He took his job very seriously.  

“So what do I have to do, walk on the other side of the road?”  

“Yep, or on the other side of those white posts” he indicated the park boundary, leaving about 3 feet for walking between the posts and road.  

As I walked over there, he said, “Just remember if you do want one, you can buy them here for 15 dollars.”

Nope. I walked sheepishly on the other side of the white posts, amused by the thought that passing cars could be thinking look at that moron walking her dog in the shoulder of the road when there’s a whole pathway! But they don’t know the Rules. Meanwhile, Rent-A-Cop jumped on an ATV and took off around the lake, patrolling for other low-down, no-good dog-walkers.  

Fighting the urge to throw Winston’s poo back in the park after being rejected we obeyed the rule and walked outside the white posts. When we eventually reached my car in the gravel lot at the edge of the lake, I was surprised to see Reno roll up. He parked near the vehicles and appeared to be shuffling through some paperwork. I stood near my car without yet showing ownership of it, curious as to what he was doing. When it appeared that he was waiting for me to make a move, I started taking pictures of him. Through the viewfinder of my camera I noticed him approaching.  

“Ma,am,” he said shaking his head as though I had really done it this time, “You need a dog permit to walk in this park.”  

“I’m not in the park”, I retorted like a bad child, angry now. “Your car  is parked on Lakeview Park property,” he stated patronizingly.  

“So you mean to tell me that although I walked outside the white posts and I’m not even in my car I need a dog permit while my car (currently dogless; Winston’s not even my dog if you want to get really technical about it) sits here?”  

It seemed so. Looking around I asked, “How do I know whose property this is? Where are the signs that say this is Lakeview Park?”  

Here’s where it gets really confusing. “We don’t need signs, because this is private property,” he said. Uh, right. That makes complete sense.  

“Do you see that sign right there? The sign says no trespassing.”  He failed to mention the sign actually said “no trespassing after dark” (it was nearing 3:15 p.m.) and did not even note whose property it was.  

“We can do this the easy, nice way, or we can do this…”  I didn’t even listen to the last part before interrupting, “Oh my god, I would love a ride on the back of that thing; that looks like a lot of fun!”  

“It wouldn’t be this thing, it would be in the back of an APD car.  I don’t like having to do this…blah blah…they would give you a ticket for trespassing just like anyone else…blah blah” he went on, fondling his radio threateningly.  

“I’m sure it’s a tough job,” I noted, opening my car door.  Thoroughly incensed, at this point I mumbled something about him being a Rent-A-Cop APD reject, so this is where he tried unsuccessfully to block my car from exiting the parking lot.

… It’s not that I don’t have respect for people’s jobs – it’s just that when did weekend enjoyment become so monitored? Asheville would be much better served with someone regulating activities that are actually harmful rather than good, clean fun. 

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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118 Comments

  1. One-more-Jenkins-fan. August 28, 2016

    Billy Jenkins treated both myself an my wife with disrespect and condescension.

    Our first try at boating on Beaver lake was met with a confusing array of rules on the board, and no one at the locked ranger station to answer questions, so we filled out the form we though appropriate and put our boat in the water.

    At take out, Jenkins noted we didn’t have a sticker on our boat, berated both of us, demanded our driver’s licenses and threatened to have us arrested for trespassing.

    At the same while loading our boat to leave after purchasing the correct permit, Jenkins watched another party load a canoe into the water with no sticker, and watched two other canoes put in at the other side of the lake, again, without stickers, yet he did nothing.

    So if you want to boat at beaver lake, just put in on the other side and don’t worry about paying for a permit. That’s what I learned from my experience with this Jackass.

    Reply
  2. zbb_06 September 3, 2014

    I had a scary run-in with this guy in May 2014. I was jogging by myself with my 2 dogs on the gravel path, coming from the small parking area, when he blocked my way and asked if I had a permit. I replied that I didn’t and would just jog in the street. He started to recite the rules to me, but I repeated that I would just jog outside the park boundary. He then made a move to call someone on his radio, asking me where I was parked. I indicated the small parking area and he told me it’s private property and he would have me towed if I didn’t return and remove my car immediately. He then drove his truck to the parking area to wait for me to return. This happened about 6:30am. He was up in my face and there was no reason for him to behave as angry, loud, and intimidating as he did. This guy is a lawsuit waiting to happen and hopefully no one is harmed by him. Good job, Mr. Jenkins. I hope you’re proud of all the lives you’ve touched and what a stellar legacy you’ve created.

    Reply
    1. Anon September 30, 2014

      His blocking your use of the right-of-way is against the law.

      Reply
  3. dresden black August 5, 2014

    I have plenty of Antifreeze to drink as a refreshment for your dog and you. This person at the Lake has a job which you obviously do not. Please go whine with your head in the toilet of the closest nastiest place.

    Reply
    1. roo September 3, 2014

      Super-nasty evil person thing to type into the computer.

      Reply
    2. nice September 4, 2014

      Nice online threat there.

      Reply
  4. Foothills Dweller July 13, 2014

    Holy shit, Asheville is fucking whack. Glad I moved down the mountain.

    Reply
  5. mg massey June 16, 2014

    Actually .. the woman who wrote the article is quite right.The man running that park does have a Napoleon complex and is definitively harassing of women.. He’s a bully and I got that from a family member. It’s also obvious that in Trasheville.. no one ever speaks about the issues so going after dogwalkers funds the public clean up.. and keeps us from speaking of deeper corruption such as Ron Moore.. fluff is how I describe all ASheville media which has been on the down swing as far as courage goes since Cecil Bothwell left the Mountain Xpress.. EGos matter more in Trasheville than truth and my Cherokee ancestors know it . Insularity and snarkyness is an art form in ASheville that ends all real civil debate or is a way to get APD rejects a job..A civil rights attorney couyld clean up in this town but don’t expect one for anything other than a dog walker cause this town is as shallow as a mud puddle in a drought. How many millions promote this tourist town while leaving the locals to try and enjoy what they were born here to enjoy.. Catering to come heres is as bad as catering to the Insular ruling class of this deceptively pretty town that resembles that painting of Dorian Gray in the attic when you scratch the surface.. you want to make Trasheville better.. get rid of do nothing Yellow dog DEms and facist Rethugs.. stop catering to the elites, and it should be a better place.. OH you may need ketchup.. they are not very palatable.. After all Yelton pretty much embrassed the whole darn county. Seems to me truly caring locals could be the change.. but insularity such as exists in North Trasheville makes this impossible

    Reply
    1. Anon September 2, 2014

      Saw the loser driving around my neighborhood… wonder what he’s up to.

      Reply
  6. women February 11, 2014

    Great delivery. Solid arguments. Keep up the amazing spirit.

    Reply
  7. DeadBody October 13, 2013

    I’ve heard this is a great place to dispose of dead bodies. Is this still the case? Do you have to pay a fee to do this? Can anyone drop off dead bodies here? What’s the deal?

    Reply
  8. bmwloco August 22, 2013

    Are there a lot of mouth breathers here, or do people simply do not read?

    It is a PRIVATE park. It has nothing to do with the city of Asheville. As it is PRIVATE, they can do what they wish on PRIVATE property.

    You can whine to the city, park system, whoever. They do not care as it is NOT their domain.

    Yeesh.

    There are lots of places to walk you pooch. Beaver Lake is just low hanging fruit. Keep looking, you’ll find better places.

    Reply
    1. RedneckTurd August 28, 2013

      You can’t “do what you wish” by assaulting innocent civilians, even if it is your own property.
      Mouth breather or not, there are serious issues that are being overlooked and swept under the rug because of a shiny fake badge on this guy’s chest.
      This man belongs in jail. Apparently Asheville doesn’t care about its own police chief being a turdball and breaking the law, either. But that doesn’t make it right.

      Reply
  9. Radar August 7, 2013

    This is one of the main reasons that Asheville is no longer the the “All American City” that it use to be.
    If you had or did grow up here like me, you would realize how it’s all changed, and mainly not for the good. It use to be a wonderful and friendly city. No longer and how very sad it is.

    Reply
  10. ScreamingAhole July 30, 2013

    It doesn’t cost $10,000 to sit on your ass all day and scream at people.

    Reply
  11. Greg July 27, 2013

    The person who wrote this article is absolutely ridiculous. The warden at Beaver Lake has a really tough job. Not only does he have to do patrols to make sure people are properly permitted for dog walking and fishing, but he’s also the trash man, and the maintenance man. He also cuts the grass, and rents boats. He even has to use his personal cell phone to take calls for the Beaver Lake office, because he’s constantly on the move working. He happens to a very kind, and generous man. Which the author of this article probably didn’t realize because they just assume that everyone owes them something. In reality, the only reason you have to have a permit to walk your dog there now is because careless dog owners a few years ago refused to clean up after their pets or themselves. It cost the Beaver Lake Communitty 10 thousand + dollars to clean dog shit and trash from all areas of the park. And to maintain that beautiful lake and the adjoining Bird Sanctuary, something not found anywhere else in Asheville.

    Reply
    1. ShavedBeaver September 11, 2013

      > clean dog shit

      His job is top pick it up, not produce more of it.

      Reply
  12. Glen July 20, 2013

    My family and I have been here dozens of times and always appreciate how clean and quiet this park is. Billie has always been courteous and nothing but friendly. He has to deal with a holes all day long like this poster. It’s private property and if anything Billie is an advocate for us non residents being able to use the land. It’s a shame but a few snobby residents would love nothing more than to keep us common folk out and use it for themselves. It is after all their land and they are being very gracious to let us use it. I wish the city would take it over and put a walking path all the way around it but we don’t live in a perfect world. Good thing – your self righteous ass would probably leave your dogs excrement right where it landed… Go some place else if you can’t see it for the privilege that it is.

    Reply
  13. M42 May 22, 2013

    I believe many of the posters are missing the point of the story and that is it is the attitude of Barny Fife, Jr. that is the topic of the story. We all realize it is a private park and respect that and even respect the need to have competent security. But this guy is Barny Fife on steroids. I too have had a very unpleasant encounter with him, which he started and wouldn’t let go of. He obviously has some issues that need to be addressed and the park commission needs to pay attention before this clown brings a lawsuit on their doorstep.

    Reply
  14. Hungry May 3, 2013

    > about 8:30

    Another “accidental drowning”, lol.

    Reply
  15. Freya May 2, 2013

    I passed beaver lake this morning about 8:30 and saw an ambulance and 2 firetrucks by the lake. someone was on a stretcher with lots of EMT around. anyone know what happened?

    Reply
  16. Paul April 17, 2013

    I’ve lived near Beaver Lake for 20 years and had boating/fishing permits there for several years. It is a great community resource and I am grateful to the residents of Lakeview Park for making it available to the public.

    I can understand that Hazel felt like a victim, but it’s clear that she was in the wrong. I would recommend that Lakeview Park put up signage at the most used entracnces and parking areas letting folks know that they on private property to avoid disappointment and hurt feelings when they are asked to buy permits or leave. This would also make the ranger’s job easier.

    Reply
  17. My_thoughts_exactly March 17, 2013

    > an “accidental drowning” one cant help but wonder.

    I was beginning to make that connection, too…

    Reply
  18. MAD March 11, 2013

    Game Warden LOL I really LOL everytime I hear BILLY JENKINS called that! What a joke. For those of you who want to take up for him go right ahead. This JERK is a monster! He pushes around anyone he can, especially women. He has threatened me before too! In the past few months, he had threatened to “kill” a certain individual. On OCT 22, 2012, this “certain individual” was found dead in another LOCAL lake. Although his death was ruled an “accidental drowning” one cant help but wonder. I do not udnerstand why the good folks of Lakeview would continue to let him work there with all the complaints. He has NEVER been nice to me, he has ALWAYS been a bully and a jerk and he respects NO person. I for one am not surprised to see all the negative comments. SMH.

    Reply
  19. Adrienne Crowther February 26, 2013

    There are countless tales of his inflated sense of power. I had been a dog walker there for 3 years. When my tag was no longer current, he hunted me down on his ATV and banished me from the park for TWO YEARS!!!!! I had offered to pay the $50 respectfully, as I had for the 3 years prior to that. I even took this up with the president of the Lakeview Park Association, who defended him. When my late husband went there to try to help, he was called an asshole by the friends of the lake warden, who waste their days hanging out there. So for all of the lakeview residents who think we’re disrespectful, I’d like to ask them to re-consider who the real disrespectful ones are in this situation.

    Reply
  20. Funneh December 12, 2012

    > Game Warden

    BUWAHAHAHAHAHA! That’s funny. No. A shiny badge does not an upstanding citizen make.

    Reply
  21. FarAway October 18, 2012

    Small sidewalk or not, physically attacking the people who visit the park is *illegal*.

    Reply
  22. LaRue Probst September 25, 2012

    I understand the feelings of the members of Beaver Lake. This is a private lake, they pay dues and they don’t want anyone taking advantage of their nice place. I get that.
    I think the real issue is that the trail/sidewalk that parallels Merrimon Ave within PRIVATE Beaver Lake is the same PUBLIC sidewalk that parallels Merrimon Ave for miles, starting far south beyond Biltmore Village and going north through Woodfin. This is a safe public right-of-way UNTIL you get to Beaver Lake. Then,you take your life- and the lives of your dog and your children- in your hands because you now must,(a) walk in the weeds on the east side of Merrimon or (b)in the 3 foot space between the road and the guardrail on the west side. Handicapped people with animal companions, parents of young children, the elderly, i.e. vulnerable people, are not only put at physical risk by having to take the very dangerous options, but also are likely to ill afford the $50 dog fee. ($50 might seem like nothing to many of you, but to those on fixed incomes, it makes a difference) I can already hear the suggestions that if you cannot afford the $50 fee, you can’t afford a dog, but many handicapped and elderly people need their dog to navigate the world, and in fact, cannot easily live without them.
    In addition, you have a very rude and aggressive person treating you like dirt and relishing the idea that perhaps you or your dog will be hit by a car because you do not have the $50.
    Would the Beaver Lake members suggest the city of Asheville pay for an additional sidewalk to continue along Merrimon for the non-members who cannot afford the fee?
    Finally, Beaver Lake is not the same as a gated community and any suggestions to the contrary are ridiculous. This sidewalk does not suddenly appear out of nowhere to follow the lake. It continues an existing, safe avenue of travel for pedestrians from Asheville to Woodfin. Pedestrians do not have other safe options, and the insistence of Beaver Lake members to relegate them to the fringe is imperious and arrogant.

    Reply
    1. Eric November 30, 2012

      That would be a great point, if there weren’t miles and miles of road in Asheville with no sidewalks at all. Try going north of Beaver Lake along Merrimon. You are in grass, parking lots, and mud pits.

      The absence of other sidewalks doesn’t give you the implicit right to tromp through private property, regardless of how inviting it might look.

      It’s a lovely place to go and spend time. Just follow the rules like you would at anyone else’s house. Or, petition the city to buy the park and implement their own rules.

      Reply
      1. LaRue Probst February 19, 2013

        Eric, People are not, “tromping through private property because of how inviting it looks”, they are walking on the only existing sidewalk to stay safe. This lake is not someone’s front yard, which is what comprises the east side of Merrimon. If they are not on this sidewalk, they are in danger. There is no acceptable alternative. Many of them are not looking at the “inviting” lake, nor are they going there to spend time. They are thinking about how far they have to walk to get to the Ingles.
        Sure there are miles of roads in Asheville without sidewalks, but they are not along a highway with the traffic load of Merrimon Ave. and there IS a sidewalk along Merrimon!
        Your response is devoid of logic and compassion. “Screw the old people and the handicapped with their dogs!” I feel sorry for you.

        Reply
  23. s215 September 1, 2012

    Don’t know, but he sure harasses people with his yellow lab dog.

    Reply
  24. FarAway August 25, 2012

    The man’s name is Billy Jenkins. Don’t know what this creep’s problem is; but I’ve happily spent my $50 elsewhere.

    Does anybody know what the name of his fat obnoxious ex-LEO buddy is who drives the yellow Brian Easler Toyota with the license plate S215 LE?

    Reply
    1. LimeyBastard July 10, 2013

      This loser is David Barnes, and he’s got a shop on Merrimon.

      Reply
  25. M August 25, 2012

    I went to the warden’s office once to ask about getting a permit for boating on the lake. He was eating lunch with two teenaged kids, a boy and a girl. I said “Hi.” The three of them looked up and just stared at me as though I was going to come in and take their food or something. There was no response. I said, “Hi, is boating allowed here?” He said “No.” I didn’t ask why there were tens of kayaks and canoes along the side of the lake if that was the case. Instead I told him that I’d heard that boating was allowed here. He took another bite as I spoke and then looked back up and said, “No.” I said “Ok then… So there’s no way to get a permit for it or something? (this is what I had heard.)” He said “No.” I said, “Well, thank you.” The three of them just stared at me silently. I said, “have a nice day.” They kept staring. I walked away. It’s hard to convey in words, but the demeanor of this man was just intimidating, and his manner was anything but courteous or helpful. Extremely, unnecessarily rude.

    That said, it is a private park and they can hire anyone they like, and can have any rules they like, so the bottom line is, don’t go unless you’re okay with that.

    Reply
  26. Eric July 20, 2012

    All of these gripes on this page would be perfectly legitimate… IF the city or county owned the space. As it is private land, I can’t imagine what anyone’s issues are.

    If you wanted to walk around on the golf course across the street at the Asheville Country Club do you think you would be welcomed with open arms? How about if you went up the hill to Reynolds Mountain?

    Just because the property owners are welcoming of letting people enjoy the beauty of the lake and surrounding areas for walking, running, picnics, etc. doesn’t mean that you have the right to belittle the security guard for doing his job.

    Reply
  27. Southernista February 10, 2012

    I, too, have had encounters with the Warden of Beaver Lake, and although I haven’t always liked the message–that you have to buy a $50 permit to walk your dog there–the messenger has always been courteous. There was never anything threatening or officious in his manner. In fact, I thought he seemed like a nice man doing a part of his job that he may not even particularly enjoy. I have a hard time imagining him being as aggressive as the woman who posted her complaint describes him. There are always two sides to a story.

    I’ve always had the impression that the Warden was just doing his job, and informing people that Beaver Lake is a private piece of land maintained not by tax dollars but the private contributions of local landowners is just part of it. When you think about that, it makes complete sense that those who don’t pay for the park’s expensive upkeep should be willing to pay a small annual charge to use it as a place to walk their dogs.

    Beaver Lake is a beautiful park–the lake is luminous in every light and every season and the grounds are kept perfectly, with well maintained walks, perfectly mown grass, and no trash on the ground. I love the sight of the colorful canoes by the lake’s side. The view of this lake from Merrimon Road was one of the first sights that endeared Asheville to me. I am grateful to the people who pay to keep it so beautifully. And I’m grateful to the Warden for the large part he pays in its maintenance and protection.

    There are many places in this city and the surrounding countryside where people can take their dogs on long, lovely walks for free. If you wish to enjoy a walk in this particular park, then don’t abuse the messenger for telling you that it’s private property (as shown on the signs) and that you need a permit to walk your dog (as shown on the signs). Either pay it graciously or go somewhere else.

    I thank the Warden for doing his job well. Let’s give the man some respect, and maybe even some gratitude.

    Reply
  28. Jilliebeans4 February 3, 2012

    ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!! …..I can’t wait to run into this guy myself while I’m out walking on the path………

    Reply
  29. Anon February 1, 2012

    Now that “Billy” has turned away the upstanding citizens (and even the residents!) of the community, gang members have started coming to the park and spray-painting the surrounding area. Really smooth. As if hypodermic needles and car-breakins weren’t enough. Ugh, this man needs to be fired.

    Reply
  30. Llel11 February 1, 2012

    um, excuse me, but you need to wake up. women here have repeatedly said they have been harassed in a way that goes beyond just enforcing the rules of the park. these rules can be enforced by anyone the park chooses to employ. two fathers of women harassed in the park have posted that they confronted this man on behalf of their daughters. these are two separate issues: a) the rules of the park and b) someone who is making women uncomfortable and making them feel threatened. it does not take *b* to enforce *a*. This behavior tends to escalate, and the Lakeview people would be wise to confront it before this happens. I imagine the Lakeview people do not gate the park because of the expense, and I imagine that rather than front the expense that would empty the park, they chose to close the park to people other than those who would pay a fee to walk dogs. So instead of shelling out cash, they decided to go ahead and make a profit. That is in no way a heroic decision or act, that is just pure capitalism.

    Reply
  31. Llel11 February 1, 2012

    It’s only a matter of time….

    I am so sad these people are turning a blind eye to what is going on, because it sounds like they are going to end up with a nice little lawsuit on their hands eventually, since women are being leered at and harassed by this creep. Since there are so many witnesses to the behavior it’s clear there will be plenty of evidence once something actionable has been done by this guy, and they won’t be able to back themselves out of the hole they have made for themselves by not listening to the complainst of the women and their fathers, two of which have commented here.

    Residents of Asheville should be very sensitive to this kind of situation since it was in Bent Creek that Karen Styles disappeared and was found murdered. This behavior should not be tolerated, and the Lakeview organization should heed the signs that this person ‘s behavior is offensive and threatening to women

    Reply
  32. Llel11 February 1, 2012

    I am sad that this has happened at Beaver Lake, I used to frequent it when i lived there. I am also sad that despite many complaints the people there have decided to employ someone who enjoys harassing women. Because whatever organization that employes him is legally liable if he does anything actionable after they have been notified by people that his behavior is harassing and intimidating (and sounds a bit like stalking). How very sad, that they choose to keep someone like this in employ. The rules can be enforced by anyone…too bad they have had to hire a ‘cop’ to ruin this experience and give the once hallowed location a terrible reputation.

    Reply
  33. Gaylord Brown October 1, 2011

    I have had the uniformed enforcement personal their scold me for stupid s@#% or for not picking S!#% to the point that it seemed that they were somewhat bored underpaid and not so bright so take all confrontations with a grain of salt and remember the source . If you have to judge do it by a person to person ratio and own your own Shite .

    Reply
  34. MissTexas September 7, 2011

    I visited what I thought was the public park "beaver lake" today. I was approached by this guy who told me I have to pay $50 to walk my dog in a park "in the city of Asheville" at the same time his buddy pulled a rifle out if the bed of the truck. This "park" even has the typical dog bags and signs like carrier park. I am new to town, this gave a VERY bad impression of Asheville to a new girl and her dog.

    I will be taking this matter up with authorities. Mark the land, and taking guns out and trying to extort money at what looks like a public park is wrong. I respect private land, but who would know? Guns? Really?

    Reply
  35. Bdam June 27, 2011

    Last time I checked this was "supposed" to be a free country, I guess not. Now, what would make more sense, is fining the people who don't clean up after their animals. Not requiring a permit to walk a dog.

    Reply
  36. asheville gal June 23, 2011

    I had an awful run in with this douchebag about a year ago, My boyfriend was renting a house on lakeview and i had parked my car at the bottom of the hill. I wanted to lay out on the side of the lake where the old swimming pool used to be, behind the old rock wall i. i had on shorts and a bathing suit, reading a book minding my business and he pulls up in his atv..demanding that i move my car right away, i ask him to hold on because i wanted to put a shirt on and he immediately calls the police. I was so polite to him, asking for just a minute to put a shirt on, he then "banned" me from beaver lake. I have not been back since. My father went and had some words with him, but clearly this guy is on some kind of horrendous power trip, i felt harassed by him for no reason. should a young woman, minding her own business be treated in such a way? I think not, Hazel this guy has his coming, he is a bastard for sure.

    Reply
  37. Ria June 19, 2011

    Hazel needs new glasses so she can read the many signs at Beaver Lake – Private Property, Need to Have a dog walking Permit, clean up after your pet (plastic bags furnished), Parking only for those with fishing or boat permits and a bulletin board at boathouse with fees listed and other restrictions or guidance.

    Did Hazel ask Billy if she could take his photo or put photo online? Would Hazel like her photo online?

    Billy keeps the grass cut and shrubs trimed, watches for safety of children -pulling a few from lake or not allowing adults to take their children on thin ice in the winter, making sure boaters have safety vests and that children are wearing them, dealing with drunks and drug activities. In his spare time he has to issue fishing, boating and dog walking permits. And then there are the nasty ill informed people demanding use of a "Public Park" (it is not) since they pay taxes.

    I'll take Billy on my team any day!

    Ria

    Reply
  38. Reina June 19, 2011

    Several years ago I too had an uncomfortable run in with this "warden" while actually purchasing a $50 dog waking permit as required. After handing him the check which I assumed would cover the fee for a full year, the warden informed.me the pass would expire the end of the year (I believe this was late summer!) He would not pro-rate the fee and did not notify me of the terms prior to making this significant purchase! I understand this warden is not a public employee but is employed by private citizens to enforce the rules of their property, but I would think the association would prefer a more professional person to represent them.

    Reply
  39. Reina June 19, 2011

    Several years ago I too had an uncomfortable run in with this "warden" while actually purchasing a $50 dog waking permit as required. After handing him the check which I assumed would cover the fee for a full year, the warden informed.me the pass would expire the end of the year (I believe this was late summer!) He would not pro-rate the fee and did not notify me of the terms prior to making this significant purchase! I understand this warden is not a public employee but is employed by private citizens to enforce the rules of their property, but I would think the association would prefer a more professional person to represent them.

    Reply
  40. Hazel June 17, 2011

    @White Lightnin': There is a special place in my heart for hypocrites, so I'm pointing out your blindness in labeling me a "hater". If we met on the street, you might think differently. And if not, that negative energy is most likely coming from you, not me.

    Reply
  41. White Lightnin' June 17, 2011

    Hazel,

    Thanks for proving my point.

    Zing.

    -=WL=-

    Reply
  42. Hazel June 17, 2011

    @White Lightnin': Weird, all but two letters of "I eat shit" are in the name White Lightnin'. Just saying. Come to think of it, so are all but one letter of the word "hate"!! Wow! And so are the words "I lie" and "Lenin" and I'm pretty sure "hit me baby one more time" is in there if you look close enough. 😉

    Reply
  43. White Lightnin' June 16, 2011

    Hater's gon hate. And all but one letter in the word 'hate,' is in the name 'Hazel.'

    Jus' sayin'. -=WL=-

    Reply
  44. ED June 16, 2011

    007: great response. I lived in another state with great mountain biking trails. I rode there for twenty years. As the area built up so did the use of the park. More trash, more trail erosion, and more parking needed. They started charging a three dollar parking fee per day. I was more then ready to pay. Why? because I loved the convenience of the park to my home, and I thought it would help sustain it.

    I hate the people that think everything should be free. If you don't like it go to another park, or is this one close to your home therefore more convenient.

    Reply
  45. E June 15, 2011

    Wait wait.. is this guy "hard working" now for some reason? This does not sound like hard work.

    Reply
  46. Beaverlakenc June 15, 2011

    Hey is enka/Bitlmore lake open to the public ?

    Hey what about the rude Kenilworth asking for taxpayer money to dredge their lake, do you walk there?

    I love seeing people out using the greens, it's great. . . but sometimes rules/manners have to be followed (that's a both sides statement)

    Beaverlake has been maintained by its residents for a long time, you should thank them for keeping open to the public – Hey if we didn't update our damn, maybe there wouldn't be a lake for you to walk around.

    I have not seen the results, but LP home owners did send a questionaire around regarding fencing (one was a poll on an item mentioned in the comments). . . maybe your beef is with the LP Board . . but reactions like what's going on may make the next home owners assoc meeting very interesting. . . considering the questions on that survey . . .

    Reply
  47. mike June 15, 2011

    just to the guy up top who said hazel is a typical liberal. i'm a typical asheville liberal also…i rarely shave, or put on deodorant…i'm pretty much ready to lead the red army. i've never been to bear lake because it has a private sign. see how that works? this isn't a liberal/conservative issue. it is more of a private property thing. the lake belongs to those residents…like at an apartment complex you can't use the pool, but i certainly won't write anyone a letter about how some lady yelled at me for using a pool in an apartment complex i don't live at. do what real liberals do, and sneak in after he leaves…

    Reply
  48. This guy accosts Beaver Lake residents as well as non-residents with the same enthusiasm. When I lived there and had a dog I quit walking her around the lake because the rambo cop was so obnoxious. It is one thing to do your job – but he enjoys bullying perfeclty law abiding people……especially women.

    Reply
  49. Luke June 15, 2011

    I think it is kind of ridiculous that there are some people on this forum that call Hazel an elitist. She did what the officer said even though he was being harsh. Then as she was leaving the park (probably to never come back) she was then harassed AGAIN. Obviously you nay-sayers need to re-read this post because she is not disputing walking her dog or the cost of the permit; she is disputing the officer and his rudeness (and lack of knowing what the sign said.) She sounds like a person that was just fighting off someone who was harassing her, not just being an elitist jerk.

    Reply
  50. 007 June 15, 2011

    What part of private property doesn't anyone understand!

    Would you just show up at the Biltmore Estate to walk your dog? No because it is private property. If you were really wanting to walk your dog there you would PAY the admission price. Just like paying to walk your dog at Beaver Lake.

    Would you show up to Richmond Hill Park to walk your dog? Yes, because it is public property.

    See the difference.

    Whatever happened to the Golden Rule??

    Reply
  51. ashehole June 15, 2011

    North A$heville yuppie$: we can have everything and you can't have anything! Walk your dog around a lake? NOT IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD MOTHERF**KER (without paying your precious $15-50 first!). Give me a break…if someone tried to tell me I couldn't walk my dog in certain area, I'd laugh at them and continue walking. What a joke.

    Reply
  52. CB June 15, 2011

    Let me start this post by stating that I am a former resident of Lakeview and payer of the parks upkeep. While I agree that our "Ranger" friend does a spectacular job on the maintenance, his methods used in policing and enforcing can be quite crude, even offensive. I have personally had words with him in the past concerning his treatment, borderline harassment, of our teenage daughter and her friend. I am sure they may not have been perfect angels but we received several reports from our daughter that led me to believe this was intentional on his part. A few things the girls said seemed a little creepy so I decided to find out the whole story. When I approached the subject with him to get his version, he became defensive and threatening toward me. Only after I disclosed my address to him did he back down and apologize. We never had an issue with him after that but I can say he is certainly capable of that stereotypical rent-a-cop-power-trip attitude. Especially to non-residents. Why the residents continue to keep Jim, I will never understand. He is not a good ambassador.

    Reply
  53. luther blissett June 15, 2011

    "While you are at it, loose your elitist attitude"

    Top tip: Beaver Lake holier-than-thou-ery works better if you're literate.

    Time for the lakesters to put up a big ol' fence with ticket booths and employ a few more Billys to check IDs, frisk suspicious pooches and issue citations for farting in the direction of the local gentry.

    Reply
  54. DogWalker June 15, 2011

    I live in North Asheville but just outside the "Beaver Lake" limits, so have to pay the $50 to walk my dog, which I did because I really enjoy the park and walking my dog there-except for when I have to see the game warden. I think Billy can often be rude (and have witnessed him being so to many park enthusiasts) and very creepy. He looks/stares at women running by and say comments to his other redneck buddies hanging around with them. I think Lake View residents think he's doing a good job b/c he probably gets his job done and no one has really brought attention to his behavior before. I hope Mr. Lamb will consider these numerous complaints and figure out a better way to support the park-perhaps have an annual fundraiser instead? I love the argument "they could put up a gate if they wanted" um, its not like the park is off the beaten path-its on a main road and its 2011-pretty sure the giant gate idea is about as antiquated as they come. Maybe everyone here frustrated with the current reality of the park could come together and find a better solution that the sometimes creepy but always polite to residents security guard? I think its time for a change.

    Reply
  55. craggybender June 15, 2011

    Ash, You haven't stirred up this much debate since the Asheville 11 posts! Good show sir…

    Reply
  56. Bob June 14, 2011

    Hazel is just like the rest of the liberals in this town. They think they're entitled, and that everything should be free.

    Reply
  57. mike June 14, 2011

    Ive driven past beaver lake 2000 times and never stopped because it's clearly marked private. i think ma'am, that you are very rude…picking on a guy who probably makes 20,000 grand a year doing a job no one wants to do. if you want to attack anyone, attack the residents who won't let your dog shit all over their rich people only park

    Reply
  58. AA-1 June 14, 2011

    Lakeview should just charge people $5 to get into their neighborhood, like those a-holes in Sea Pines do in Hilton Head, SC.

    Reply
  59. Jameson99 June 14, 2011

    I am not a dues-paying resident of Lakeview Park, but everybody knows that Beaver Lake Park is a private park, supported by annual dues paid by residents of Lakeview Park. Don't seem so incredulous and get so sarcastic. You're the one who is apparently ignorant of the fact that the property owners have to pay this guy's salary and for the upkeep of the park, and so they try to defray costs through dog walking, fishing and boating licenses. The alternative would be to ban everybody except for Lakeview Park residents, which is their right. How does that sound to you? But thankfully, they let everyone come and enjoy the park. Either pay some respect or buy the permit.

    Reply
  60. Siegel June 14, 2011

    This situation is outrageous. This man is no police officer, not a security guard, and certainly not a game warden. He's a contracted worker who makes about $8 per hour to walk around in a tan uniform and look like somebody official.

    If Lakeview Park wants to enforce dog walking and access to Beaver Lake, they should clearly mark the entire area with plenty of signs stating the rules and regulations. It's very understandable that people would think this is a public park.

    If this was done right, he would have a printed statement about the Lake, its ownership, the rules, regulations and contact info available to anyone enters. This is being handled in a very hostile and unprofessional manner by Lakeview Park homeowners association

    Reply
  61. Euclid Pkwy June 14, 2011

    As one might tell from my name here, I live in Lakeview Park. As a resident, I am totally opposed to this "patrolman" at Beaver Lake. This nice, beautiful park should be taken over by the city and open to all.

    Many of us have opposed this situation for years now, to no avail. Certain Lakeview Park residents like it this way and want to create a hostile and threatening environment to everyone, including certain LP neighbors.

    This "patrolman" has no credentials, has been reported as rude many times before, but the Lakeview Park association turns a blind eye to his antics. I am embarrassed to have this in my neighborhood. Please, please…..won't the City of Asheville take over this park.

    Reply
  62. Michelle June 14, 2011

    I too have been told by this officer that it would be $50 per dog to walk in the park. Sounds to me like he is trying to suplement his income by any means necessary.

    Reply
  63. Melissa June 14, 2011

    There are plenty of signs that explain the rules about the dog permit (and how to get one) on all sides of the lake. The people who say they didn't see them actually just ignored them . . . just like they ignore the signs in Asheville city parks requiring dogs to be on leashes at all times according to our city's leash law. Please take your dog to a dog park for free, off-leash recreation–that's why the city built the dog parks.

    Reply
  64. Isle of Man June 14, 2011

    It seems the differing opinions on the security officer can be clearly divided between residents and non-residents of the Beaver Lake area, or rather paying and non-paying.

    Of course the guard is going to be friendly to anyone he knows living in the area. You guys are paying his salary. You're the reason he has a job. But did you ever consider that maybe his demeanor comes off differently to other passer-bys, dog walkers and the like, who are not aware of the private property situation? I've lived in Asheville for years and never knew that area was off-limits to the public without paying a permit fee. I'm glad I never tried to walk my dog there, because I would've been just as surprised as the original poster.

    Yes, if it's private property, you have every right to enforce the rules, but that doesn't mean this guard has to be a dick about it, as it seems he clearly has been to several others who DON'T live there. And comparing your yard to a giant lake-park directly beside a major road is not a very good analogy. It's completely understandable that a lot of people would assume this place was free and open to the public. And just because the guard puts on a smiling face for you residents doesn't mean it's not within his capacity to be a complete jackass to others.

    I'm generalizing here, but private security guards often power trip on what little power they do have. It's what helps them cope with being where they are in their life and career. We've all come across these individuals.

    Reply
  65. Pam June 14, 2011

    I had an experience with this guy a few weeks ago. He was rude and arrogant, bordering on hostile. No a good representative of Lakeview Park, or any neighborhood. I'm sure he has his favorites from the subdivision, but he was extremely rude and not polite or nice.

    Reply
  66. ED June 14, 2011

    Buy a permit people! If you like the park and love walking your dog there then why not contribute to keeping the park nice. Just buy a permit, knowing it goes to a good thing that you and your dog will enjoy.

    If you don't like it go to Prichard Park and walk your dog with all the transients and drug dealers.

    Last thing, how would you like it if I walked my dog in your yard every day.

    Reply
  67. Hazel June 14, 2011

    @North Asheville Resident, I've lived here 10 years. I don't own a dog, was just taking my friend's dog walking there because it's my favorite place to walk. Whether or not I've lived here my whole life, I still think if the park does not want commoners using it then there needs to be some note of that since paying a guy to tell all those people to leave seems harder than just putting up signs saying, "No one is truly welcome here but residents of Beaver Lake, especially those who pay $50 to walk their dogs."
    @CaptainSpiffo, I think I've seen you hanging around the canoes. Want to get together sometime? I'll be the one with the half roll of toilet paper I scrounged from the ranger's cabin.

    Reply
  68. Hazel June 14, 2011

    @$50 Paying Beaver Lake Dog Walker, that's wonderful that you appreciate Billy in his role at the park. I'm very glad to hear that he is a nice guy. However, I was in no way bothering him or being impolite when he approached me to tell me to leave the park. When I did what he asked, I felt it was discourteous and unprofessional of him to follow me! No, you may not need signage to display that an area is private property but if you don't want people parking there you certainly should! Every time I come to walk or run I park in that lot since it is in the shade and out of the way of lots of traffic. Given that I took my own bags to the park for the dog's excrement and also picked up litter there, I am not part of the crowd who would seek to destroy nature or not pick up after myself. I simply did not see a need for him to follow me and act like I had committed some sort of heinous crime. I'm not belittling his job, just how he went about it. He didn't have to be overly friendly, but considering I did what he asked he could have left me alone.

    Reply
  69. plastic paddy June 14, 2011

    @$50 Paying Beaver Lake Dog Walker, I had decided yesterday to stay out of a flame war and not put the effort in to another reply, you have summed up my thought exactly and I would like to thank you for your post.

    Reply
  70. josh June 14, 2011

    Look…this response goes to the internet tough guys who had to resort to.insults instead of just stating your points. You all just seemed to attack the author without paying attention. She did precisely as she was asked. He told her to walk next to the road. She did it. Then he staked out her car…sounds sorts wannabe cop doesn't it and continued to harass her. Blocking her from leaving? Making her leave her dog while she got the car? No signs identifying property?
    Id have done just as she.did and if the rentacop would've.explained the reasoning perhaps she may have bought a pass. I would buy one but I will not after seeing this jerks behavior. There are plenty other beautiful free places to.take my dogs

    Reply
  71. artsyfart June 14, 2011

    I too. Have been harrassed by this guy. I have lived in Asheville for years & they used to allow people to walk their dogs there without permits. I went there a couple years ago to walk around the lake with my dog. He was on me like stink on shit all in my space & being quite aggresive & intimidating. I did nothing but cooperate & suggested that perhaps their signs could be more apparent or clear. I was not there to tresspass but was unaware of the changes to their rules. I left the premises willingly but was made to feel like a criminal. At first encounter, he acted so cocky that I thought he was pulling my leg. That really pissed him off. At least now I know the new rules. There are plenty of other places to walk my dog so no biggie. He just kinda rubbed me the wrong way. If he had been on a segway, I think he would have had me arrested for laughing histerically at him. I wouldn't want his job.

    Reply
  72. artsyfart June 14, 2011

    I too. Have been harrassed by this guy. I have lived in Asheville for years & they used to allow people to walk their dogs there without permits. I went there a couple years ago to walk around the lake with my dog. He was on me like stink on shit all in my space & being quite aggresive & intimidating. I did nothing but cooperate & suggested that perhaps their signs could be more apparent or clear. I was not there to tresspass but was unaware of the changes to their rules. I left the premises willingly but was made to feel like a criminal. At first encounter, he acted so cocky that I thought he was pulling my leg. That really pissed him off. At least now I know the new rules. There are plenty of other places to walk my dog so no biggie. He just kinda rubbed me the wrong way. If he had been on a segway, I think he would have had me arrested for laughing histerically at him. I wouldn't want his job.

    Reply
  73. North Asheville Resident June 14, 2011

    Would you really prefer lots of signage telling you that it's private property?

    Signage or not, it isn't a public park. If they wanted to erect a huge fence, it would be their right. They can make the rules and you can follow them or not. I don't see what the big deal is. I don't let dogs poop in my yard either, if I can help it.

    Reply
  74. I think Hazel’s comments are quite unfair and unfounded.

    Billy is not a “Rent-A-Cop.” He is the park warden at Beaver Lake. That is his job. He is paid by the Lake View Park landowners. They own the lake and the surrounding park. They set the rules and they pay Billy to enforce them. They employ Billy to protect the land that they so gracious share with all. They could make the park a gated area, but luckily choose not to do that. He is doing the job he is paid to do and does it very well. He treats visitors to Beaver Lake with professionalism and courtesy.

    Throughout her article, Hazel tries to belittle Billy but again her comments are unfounded.

    “Here’s where it gets really confusing. ‘We don’t need signs, because this is private property,’ he said. Uh, right. That makes complete sense.”

    I do not understand why Billy’s statement is “confusing” to Hazel. His statement is absolutely correct and makes “complete sense.” Beaver Lake is private property that is owned by the landowners of Lake View Park. They are the ones who actually pay for the park. The park is private property just like someone’s yard or house. While they do have signs posted that Beaver Lake is in fact privately owned and maintained, it is private property and signs are not needed. I, like most property owners in the City of Asheville, do not have any signs posting that my yard is in fact private property.

    Throughout her article, Hazel shows that Billy acted with nothing but courtesy and professionalism while the same cannot be said for Hazel. Billy even used polite terms such as “Ma’am.” By Hazel’s own account, Billy asked politely about a dog permit. He explained the park was private property and that she could obtain a dog permit. It was Hazel’s behavior that appeared inappropriate and by her own admission… childish. She was the one “Fighting the urge to throw Winston’s poo back in the park after being rejected…” She was the one that “started taking pictures of him.” Him being the man simply doing his job. It was Hazel that “retorted like a bad child, angry, I’m not in the park,” when in fact she was in the park and on private property. It was Hazel that “didn’t even listen to the last part before interrupting, “Oh my god, I would love a ride on the back of that thing; that looks like a lot of fun!” And it was Hazel, who was so “thoroughly incensed,” that she “mumbled something about him being a Rent-A-Cop APD reject.” So it was Hazel who was rudely and unjustly insulting someone who was just doing his job and trying to make a living!

    Reply
  75. Captain Spiffo June 14, 2011

    Beaver Lake is a wonderful, beautiful private park and I have left many a pile of man poop for the residents to pick up. There are no signs saying I cannot poop there and I have taken advantage of the serene bird-filled environment to squeeze one out on the walking path. Quite refreshing actually, chatting it up as people walk by, communing with nature and cleaning myself off in the crisp clear waters of Beaver Lake. Thank you residents who pay the bills, without your money I'd have to poop and then clean myself off at Splashville. I look forward to meeting your security guard. He sounds like a super-nice guy and I love meeting new exciting people like all you folks out there with your super neat park. It's rare to find a wooded area surrounding a lake in this part of the state. You certainly have a gem of a park. Let's keep it up! On a side note, would it kill you guys to have some toilet paper out there, maybe by the canoes?

    Reply
  76. WNCRod June 14, 2011

    How long have you lived here, Hazel? It's not new or news that one needs a permit to walk a dog around Beaver Lake. It's been that way at least four years now in an effort to cut down on the number of dog walkers who don't pick up after their dogs. I guess the thought being that if you're willing to pay (I think it's $50 and not $15), then you're probably responsible enough to pick up after your pet.

    Reply
  77. N. AVL Resident June 14, 2011

    Treat others as you would want them to treat you.

    I moved to North Asheville last year, and own a dog. When I first walked to the lake, with my husband, we were both stopped by Billy. He politely asked if we have a dog walking pass. We answered, "no, how do we go about getting one?" Billy informed us it was $50.00 per dog (NOT, $15).

    Now, in the grand scheme of things, $50.00 sounds like a lot, but when you own a dog, that's roughly 14 CENTS a day over a one year period. For a dog owner, that is truly NOTHING. Also with the dog walking pass, you get to use the bags to pick up after your dog. Those things need to be paid for somehow, right?!

    Now, everyday we see Billy, he waves at us, says hello, and asks how we are doing. He is part of the community and is the smiling face we see each day when we walk by the beautiful lake.

    People who think it is a public space and feel entitled to walk there and act rude to Billy should be "kicked out." He is doing exactly what he is paid to do by the people who actually own the park. He happens to do it VERY WELL! Imagine if he just let anyone with a dog walk around the lake, and he didn't inform them of the permit… it would make everyone think they could walk their dog without paying the annual fee which goes towards the maintenance of that beautiful lake and park! There are multiple signs around the lake, at EVERY entrance. The fact that people don't pay attention is no one else's fault.

    By the way, for Lake View Park residents, the assessment currently is $1.20 per foot of road frontage.

    Reply
  78. Orton June 13, 2011

    The Guy in the picture seems to spend a good deal of time on that hair in the morning. I'm sure he probably think he's badass driving around on that ATV.

    Reply
  79. Out of Towner June 13, 2011

    I had a very similar experience this spring. My husband grew up in that neighborhood and I've always enjoyed visiting the in-laws and taking walks/runs in the park. I brought our dog for a walk a few weeks ago and this same man approached me. Without saying hello, he just walked up and asked if he could see my permit. I had no clue what he was talking about, I hadn't heard that this beautiful park we loved now required us to pay money to use it. The guy then said without a permit I needed to leave. I asked what I needed to do to get a permit and he said I had to pay $50. It was obvious I wasn't carrying my checkbook on a walk with my dog so he said I needed to leave. I did have my cell phone so I walked over to a bench to call my husband to see if he'd bring down some money. The guy follows me to the bench and I tried explaining what I was doing but he said I needed to leave the park immediately. I couldn't believe how rude he was. My husband and I as well as his family refuse to ever go back. It's sad that the public park where my husband played growing up has turned into such a place.

    Reply
  80. E June 13, 2011

    Put him right up there with the Woodfin police. They're not providing a service….they're generating revenue. Let's be honest here. 39 mph in a 35 and dog walking permits?

    I'm tempted to go walk my dog there permit-less just so the APD does come down. ATV ranger blocks in my car when I'm trying to leave and I sue his ass for unlawful detainment, all of which I'll document on the flip camera.

    Reply
  81. beaverlakenc June 13, 2011

    He does a good job, he does answer to someone. And those people he answers to like for him to enforce the rules. . . and yes city residents are free to use this public park as long as rules are follow. Has the city offered to buy this property?

    Reply
  82. bhs June 13, 2011

    Some of you should do your research. Billy is an incredibly nice person and NOT a $7 per hour rent a cop but a Game Warden. If you have an issue with Billy doing the job he is paid and respected to do, you should contact Mr. Hugh Lamb, chairman of the association which employs him. Billy is an upstanding citizen who cares about those he is paid to serve and protect. Hazel, it is beyond insulting that you consider someone doing their job (and not even asking what their job is or who they work for or what their position is) to be a "rent-a-cop" as if whatever it is YOU do for income is so much more worthy of not being made fun of. Do you know what times we are living in? people do what they have to do to support their families…and they need to do it well without slack from people like you in order to keep their jobs. Hoenstly, you shoudl be ashamed of yourself.

    Reply
    1. Old Asheville Man January 13, 2013

      Billy is not a Game Warden nor is he in anyway affiliated with any North Carolina State agency. He is a jerk that only feels powerful when he can run up and push some one around. The APD makes jokes about him because they have so many complaints about his threatening personality. He is careful to stop just shy of assault if there are any witnesses around.

      Reply
      1. Funneh February 3, 2013

        “Stop short”? “Stop short”? No, but assault is assault. I don’t get where this jerk is “stopping short” of assault.

        Reply
  83. Tom June 13, 2011

    I know the city is strapped for cash and everything, but is there any way the city of asheville could buy this park? I, too, used to to love walking my dog out there, but was completely turned off by the idea of having to license her just to walk her around the lake.

    Reply
  84. 007 June 13, 2011

    You have passed judgement on someone that you don't even know. I am sure that you think "the guy" is an uneducated redneck and that you can push him around. You should be ashame for boasting your confrontation with a man that was just doing his job.
    "Asheville would be much better served with someone regulating activities that are actually harmful rather than good, clean fun" The someone that regulates these actitivies…….are called the Police.

    Reply
    1. Old Asheville Man January 13, 2013

      Billy is an asshole there is no excuse for his behavior under any circumstances. Since he is works for lake view park you can be sure that too many rich assholes have moved here and brought there poor manners and lack of upbringing along with their new money here to north asheville and hired and endorsed his behavior because it is a reflection of their need to feel superior.

      Reply
  85. Julie June 13, 2011

    It may sound strange, but apparently this scheme was endorsed by the Asheville Chamber of Commerce as a way to develop entrepreneurial job development in Asheville.

    The Board and residents of Lakeview Park should be ashamed to have such regulations, etc. They are succeeding in making many enemies in North Asheville. I've heard from several that this $7 per hour "rent-a-cop" was rude and unhelpful. Perhaps he's trying to raise enough money writing tickets to cover his salary.

    Shame, shame, shame.

    Reply
  86. Jeff June 13, 2011

    I do not respect someone who's only job is to be an arse. There is not signage around telling the general public that they and their cars and their dogs are not welcome. General dickishness, no question of that.

    Reply
  87. Sue June 13, 2011

    I love Beaver Lake and am appreciate that it is open to the public. I especially enjoy the bird sanctuary. The person in the photo is always friendly and kind. It takes a lot of work to mow and maintain the park and bird sanctuary. I am grateful to have access to such a nice place to walk in North Asheville. I do not have a dog but donate to the park–donations can be left in a pole container next to the parking lot by the bird sanctuary.

    Reply
  88. Agrees June 13, 2011

    I understand that this park is private property but I have to agree that the 'guards' that work there are out of line in the way they treat people!

    Reply
  89. chris gallaway June 13, 2011

    Hazel: I'm sorry to hear that you had that experience–that's really unfortunate. Of course we can understand the need for a private park to raise funds to maintain itself, and Beaver Lake is a nice place to visit. But there's no need for the guard to treat you so rudely. Why not notify you of the park rules and then let you pass safely back to your car and leave, rather than forcing you onto the road, following you, and threatening arrest? It sounds like he's become far over-zealous in the administration of his duties, and judging by some of the snippy comments above, this may be a reflection of a certain segment of the neighborhood. That stinks, and I hope his behavior won't prevent you from purchasing a permit and returning to enjoy the park again in the future.
    And by the way, does the ATV he zooms around on fall under items the community needs to raise money for in care of the park? Seriously? This is a neighborhood park, not a police state.

    Reply
  90. Christy June 13, 2011

    "The Guy" works hard to keep Beaver Lake park clean, cares for the lawns, paths and trees and he enforces the rules of park. Hazel should respect a person for trying to do the job he is paid to do. I am at the park several times a week and I have never seen "the Guy" be anything but polite, friendly and conscientious – maybe because I have always been polite and friendly to him.

    Reply
  91. Hazel,

    Actually, the guy (his name is Billy, btw) can be quite friendly, but please remember that he's not taking a walk in the park enjoying the day at leisure but rather, he is working.

    And just like most of us, (me right now, on the computer at work, not "working") he has some down time and so he sits on his chair until it's time to do something that looks to us more like "work", such as asking for dog permits and making sure people pick up their dog's poop. And then he has to take crap from people who don't know or don't like that it's actually a private park. After those encounters I think he's entitled to sit in his uncomfortable chair and watch the ducks in the lake. Because surely as the custodian of the lake he makes a lot of money, right?

    It's true that the area might have better signage that would help people – but there is signage that says it's a private park. There's also signage that says something about restricted parking in the lot connected to the boathouse thing, I'm pretty certain.

    Reply
    1. Doug June 16, 2012

      It is not what he is saying but it is how he says it, in such a rude, provoking manner. Why can’t he politely tell folks what the rule is and let them go on their way, let them finish their walk on that day but reinforce not doing it again without the license? It is just a question of politeness and mutual respect.

      Reply
  92. pbnj June 13, 2011

    @North Ashevillian, actually you have quite a strong odor, and it is not self-entitlement. While I recognize and respect what the residents around Beaver Lake have to do to upkeep the park, I agree with Hazel in that the warden's actions were a little over-the-top after she chose to walk outside park property. It was obvious she would need to return to her car, and he was apparently waiting for her to do so in order to further harass her.

    @Plastic Paddy, sorry you had to do the exact same thing you reprimand her for and post your unnecessary comment here.

    Reply
  93. Hazel June 13, 2011

    Plastic Paddy, consider again how my behavior is narcissistic when I thought to inform the community of an ongoing concern I know some people think is silly, whereas your comment has really no intent whatsoever other than to do me harm, and whom does that really affect but you?

    Reply
  94. ashevillain June 13, 2011

    I'm sure the APD would have loved to answer a call about failure to walk a dog with a permit and trespassing where there is no sign indicating such. [rolls eyes]….and I bet taxpayers would whole-heartedly endorse police responding to such calls as well!

    Shame on those who think it's ok to walk their pets around that great man-made pond!

    Reply
  95. Adam Shields June 13, 2011

    You have to pay a fee to walk your dog on that stretch of private property. It is not the Dog Park. You should feel lucky that there is public access to the area at all. The park is a true jewel within the city limits. Respect it! While you are at it, loose your elitist attitude and understand that no one is below you. Respect others and others property.

    Reply
  96. Nancy McDaniel June 13, 2011

    When I moved to Asheville two years ago, I wondered why that beautiful setting around Beaver Lake was not packed with people, families, dogs, kites and picnics. I too, got kicked out when I was walking my puppy there. I felt bad for the ranger or whatever he is. I hope the good citizens of Lakeview Park pay him well to enforce their utmost need for privacy.

    Reply
  97. Hazel June 13, 2011

    Anytime I've seen that guard approach someone it has not been to say "thank you for picking up litter" but instead some variation of "where are your credentials"? Imagine if I could have walked my friend's dog in peace, but instead it was turned into a big deal by this creep following me around. The rest of the day he sits there on his chair and does what exactly, I'm not sure. Maybe I'd have a different perspective if I'd ever seen the guy do anything remotely friendly or helpful.

    Reply
    1. Doug June 16, 2012

      Hazel, I am reading this one year later. I had almost the identical experience as you about 3 years ago but my ended by standing in the road by the parking area and we both yelling and cursing at each other (this was after me being polite and appropriate for 15 minutes). So I can relate. He banned me from the park for life. gradually I have returned (without my dog) and he glares at me but hasn’t said anything. I have a friend who was approached by “Billie” while lying on a blanket with her boyfriend. She was reading a book with her head resting in her boyfriends lap. He advised her that there was elderly people that walk in the park and ordered her not to be touching on the blanket. Another confrontation began. What a piece of work this guy is.

      Reply
  98. Hazel June 13, 2011

    Sure I understand, and I love being able to walk in that park and appreciate its beauty. I just had a problem with his general demeanor in following me around the park especially after I obeyed his first orders. And if my car was trespassing even while a dog was nowhere near it, the sign needs to indicate that. How do I know I'm in the wrong place if I have no way of seeing that dictated through private property signage?

    Reply
  99. dogwalker June 13, 2011

    I have come in contact with this gentleman as well, except he told me it was $50 per dog (I have two dogs) to walk at Beaver Lake. Needless to say, I haven't been back.

    Reply
    1. Dan Jackson June 13, 2013

      Exactly. She is lucky they let her walk on the property. She should apologize to the officer. He is paid very little, yet works hard at his job.

      Reply
  100. plastic paddy June 13, 2011

    Hazel, sorry your sense of entitlement was so threatened you had to insult the security officer and then post your story to a blog to garner approval for your narcissistic behavior.

    Reply
  101. Matt June 13, 2011

    I can empathize for sure with the plight of this ordeal, but their is a flipside. Residents in the "Lakeview Park" area pay extra for the maintenance and upkeep of the park. The park, as we know, is widely used by others that do not live in the area. In an effort to help in its self sustainability. they have decided to get money where they can, by having "dog walking permits" or "boat passes/licenses." Yes it sounds dumb, BUT do keep in mind that the city does not pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the park, the surrounding residents do. I don't think they are trying to be bad guys about this, but to maintain the park it costs money. Stupid stuff like "dog walking licenses" sounds about as dumb as can be, but it's one of the only things that can be done to bring in revenue to help with the upkeep. Unless you want it gated with paid entry.

    Reply
  102. North Ashevillian June 13, 2011

    Doesn't your reader understand that Beaver Lake is a privately-owned, privately-maintained park and not a City-owned park? Her complaint has a strong odor of self-entitlement.

    Reply

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